In this episode, Samantha Catanzano, PharmD, BCPP, and Andrew Friedman, MD, host a discussion of 2 patients who are receiving opioid therapy. The first case details a patient with restless legs syndrome who was prescribed tramadol by his previous provider; he now presents with complaints of constipation and headache. Dr Catanzano provides valuable insights on how to approach a taper for this patient and trial a more appropriate medication. The second case details a patient with “failed back surgery syndrome” and continuous low back pain that is managed poorly with hydromorphone; he now presents with feelings of fatigue, aches, and depression. Dr Friedman takes us through how he evaluated this patient to determine the best course of action and optimize pain management and overall health.  

Presenters:  

Samantha Catanzano, PharmD, BCPP
Clinical Assistant Professor
Division of Pharmacy Practice
The University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy
Board-Certified Psychiatric Pharmacist
Integrated Behavioral Health Department
Austin, Texas

Andrew Friedman, MD
Medical Director, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Virginia Mason Franciscan Health
Director, Spine Clinic and Services
Virginia Mason Health Center
Clinical Associate Professor
University of Washington
Seattle, Washington

This activity is supported by an independent educational grant from the Opioid Analgesic REMS Program Companies. Please see
https://bit.ly/3mgrfb9
for a listing of REMS Program Companies. This activity is intended to be fully compliant with the Opioid Analgesic REMS education requirements issued by the FDA.

Provided by Clinical Care Options, LLC, and in partnership with the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Practicing Clinicians Exchange, and ProCE.

Link to full program:
https://bit.ly/3mcDHsi