Oct. 10, 2024 — Have you heard the latest? A new study suggests that Ozempic, a popular drug for weight loss and diabetes, might also help reduce the risk of opioid overdose. This finding could be especially important for people with diabetes.
Research shows that individuals with type 2 diabetes are twice as likely to be prescribed opioids compared to those without the condition, putting them at greater risk for misuse and addiction.
“To develop a problem with opioids, you have to take them first,” says Dr. Scott G. Weiner, director of the Brigham Comprehensive Opioid Approach and Education Program in Boston.
He notes that the long-term use of these medications carries significant risks, with anyone taking opioids vulnerable to developing an opioid use disorder.
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Statistics are concerning: up to 1 in 4 long-term opioid users may develop an opioid use disorder. From 1999 to 2022, more than 300,000 people in the U.S. died from prescription opioid overdoses, according to the CDC.
People with diabetes often deal with painful conditions like arthritis, back pain, ulcers, and peripheral neuropathy, which can lead them to seek pain relief.
Dr. Michelle Krichbaum, a clinical manager at Baptist Health South Florida, explains that Medicare beneficiaries with diabetes are more likely to be prescribed opioids if they have complications like neuropathy or a history of amputation.
“The most important thing is managing your diabetes effectively,” says Krichbaum. “This can lower your risk of other painful conditions and, in turn, reduce your need for pain medications, including opioids.”
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If you have diabetes and are concerned about opioid use, here are some expert tips:
- Explore Other Pain Relief Options: Opioids should be a last resort, according to Dr. Weiner. Discuss alternatives with your doctor, such as anti-inflammatories for arthritis or medications for nerve pain.
- Consider Nondrug Approaches: Ask for a referral to a pain management psychologist. Mental factors can influence pain perception, and a psychologist can help you cope better. Other options, like acupuncture, tai chi, physical therapy, or yoga, may also help manage pain.
- Ask Questions: Before starting an opioid, be sure to discuss with your doctor why it’s necessary, how to use it safely, and what the plan is to monitor your use and avoid potential misuse.
- Talk About Ozempic: A recent study suggests that Ozempic may dull the pleasure response to opioids. While more research is needed, if you’re considering Ozempic for diabetes or weight loss, discuss this potential benefit with your doctor.
- Plan for Pain Relief Post-Surgery: Research shows that diabetics who take opioids after surgery are more likely to continue using them three months later. Discuss the risks and benefits of opioids versus other pain relief methods with your doctor.
- Mention Other Health Issues: Conditions like sleep apnea can increase the dangers of opioid use. If you have a history of alcohol use or trauma, be sure to inform your doctor, as these factors can raise the risk of developing an opioid use disorder.
- Take Precautions: Consider asking for a prescription for naloxone (Narcan), a medication that can reverse an opioid overdose. It’s also available over the counter at pharmacies.
- Recognize Warning Signs: Use opioids exactly as prescribed and stay alert for signs of withdrawal or increased tolerance. If you find yourself seeking prescriptions from multiple doctors or using opioids for emotional pain, it’s time to talk to your doctor.
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If you or someone you know is experiencing issues with opioid use, consider these questions:
- Have you ever felt the need to cut down on your opioids?
- Do you feel annoyed by others commenting on your drug use?
- Do you ever feel guilty about your drug use?
- Have you ever used drugs first thing in the morning?
“If you answer yes to two or more of these, or even one but are concerned, it’s a good idea to speak to your physician,” advises Krichbaum. They can evaluate for opioid use disorder.
One treatment for opioid use disorder is buprenorphine, which can also relieve pain. Interestingly, treating opioid use disorder often improves blood sugar control in people with diabetes, as they tend to take better care of their health overall.
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“If you have both conditions, managing your opioid use disorder can greatly benefit your diabetes and overall well-being,” says Dr. Devon Tilbrook, a family doctor in Ontario, Canada. “Similarly, getting your diabetes under control can help with opioid use disorder.”