Discontinuing opioids: Do’s and don’ts
| Do | Don’t |
|---|---|
| Frame the discussion in terms of safety and efficacy, consistent with the treatment agreement Present your reasoning in a considered manner Focus on the treatment and the patient’s response to it Emphasize your commitment to the patient’s well-being and details of the new treatment plan (ie, nonabandonment) Respond to emotional distress with empathy | Debate your decision with the patient Use accusatory or blaming language Focus on the patient’s character or use labels (eg, “drug addict”) Abandon the patient Allow empathy to change your decision on discontinuation |