AN EXAMINATION OF THE ETHICAL IMPLICATIONS OF PRESCRIBING OPIOIDS TO PATIENTS IN RECOVERY

The opioid crisis is a critical problem in the United States. Therefore, the ethicality of prescribing opioids to those recovering from drug addiction must be considered. Opioids may be prescribed to treat postoperative pain, which poses an ethical dilemma as the prescription of these drugs to recovering addicts can lead to relapse. While addiction can impair one’s ability to make rational decisions, there are cases in which those in recovery are autonomous and are therefore capable of self-determination which should not be denied. This paper aims to assess the concepts of autonomy and drug addiction to propose treatment follow-up options for clinicians and patients which may prevent relapse from occurring in postoperative settings where opioid prescription is indicated for the patient’s well-being. It is argued that opioids can be prescribed to former drug users in an ethical way under specific parameters including the implementation of patient-specific treatment plans.