Comparison of opioid-sparing approach with standard care shows no difference in patient satisfaction, but less pain among those counseled to use opioids only as backup.

Minority experience worsening of symptoms over time, especially younger people.

Though non-opioid painkillers can be just as effective, patients having dental procedures just before weekends and holidays are more likely to fill prescriptions for opioids.

A new study of tooth extraction patients shows no benefit to opioids over other painkillers, either in pain control or patient satisfaction.

Despite naloxone recommendations for people who take high-dose opioids, or who have a history of opioid problems, study finds those at risk aren’t getting the overdose rescue drug.

Patients used fewer opioid tablets when surgeons cut back prescriptions, but there is more work to be done on safe medication disposal.