NEW YORK, May 30, 2013 /PRNewswire-iReach/ — A World of Hurt, published by The New York Times and Vook, explores the untold part of the prescription painkiller story – growing evidence that these drugs, along with causing an epidemic of abuse, are often ineffective in treating long-term pain and are harming patients.
Written by Barry Meier , an award-winning reporter for The Times, the new e-book also examines an unfolding medical revolution that will change the thinking of patients and their families. A decade ago, drug companies and medical experts launched a “War on Pain” that promoted the widespread use of powerful narcotic painkillers for common conditions such as back pain, headaches and fibromyalgia. Specialists claimed that a “bright line” separated the drugs’ benefits for patients from their dangers when abused on the street by young people and others.
Today, Meier writes, experts – including some who once promoted the drugs – believe that the opioid boom “ranks among medicine’s biggest mistakes.” Recent studies have tied long-term use of these drugs, particularly at high doses, to addiction, dependence, reduced sexual drive, lethargy and other problems. Based on stories of researchers, patients and others, A World of Hurt highlights how treating pain differently can benefit both pain patients and the public’s health.
“The promise that high-powered drugs could provide a cure-all – the key to winning the “War on Pain” – was an empty one,” Meier writes.
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