Full Breakdown
Decline in Long-Term Opioid Prescriptions Signals Progress in U.S. Opioid Crisis
4/14/2026, 10:56:14 PM
Overview of the Decline in Long-Term Opioid Use
A recent study published in the *Journal of the American Medical Association* indicates a significant decline in long-term opioid prescriptions in the United States, reflecting progress in addressing the opioid epidemic. Between 2015 and 2023, the number of patients on long-term opioid treatment—defined as those receiving prescriptions for 90 days or longer—fell by approximately 24%, from about 5.6 million to 4.2 million. In 2023, these patients represented just under 12% of all individuals prescribed opioids.
Key Findings and Trends
The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Michigan School of Public Health, utilized a database that captures 92% of all retail pharmacy prescriptions in the U.S. It revealed that the average age of patients receiving long-term opioid therapy increased from nearly 53 years in 2015 to almost 61 years in 2023. Additionally, the proportion of long-term opioid prescriptions covered by Medicare rose significantly, from 39% to 49% during the same period.
Moreover, the average daily dosage of long-term opioids decreased from approximately 48 morphine milligram equivalents in 2015 to just under 39 in 2023. The study also highlighted a reduction in co-prescriptions of long-term opioids with benzodiazepines, which are known to increase overdose risk. This combination fell from 44% in 2015 to 34% in 2023. Conversely, co-prescriptions with gabapentinoids, which are used for nerve pain and carry a lower overdose risk, increased from 47% to 59%.
Implications for Pain Management
The findings underscore the ongoing need for improved pain management strategies. Lead researcher Thuy Nguyen emphasized the importance of developing evidence-based guidelines for chronic pain management, given that over 4 million Americans remain on long-term opioid prescriptions, which continue to pose a risk of overdose.
Criticism and Opposition
Despite the positive trends, experts caution that the decline in long-term opioid prescriptions does not eliminate the risks associated with opioid use. Critics argue that while the reduction in prescriptions is a step forward, it is crucial to ensure that patients still have access to effective pain management options without the associated risks of long-term opioid use.
Official Statements
Dr. Pooja Lagisetty, an associate professor of internal medicine at the University of Michigan Medical School, noted the importance of these findings in the context of the broader opioid crisis. She stated that the data reflects a shift in prescribing practices that could lead to better patient outcomes.
Verbatim Quotes
“Nearly 1 in 9 patients receiving prescription opioids were still chronic opioid users in 2023, highlighting the importance of developing and implementing evidence-based guidelines for chronic pain management,” — Thuy Nguyen, Lead Researcher
“These results show there’s a pressing need to develop better ways to treat pain, said senior researcherDr.” — Dr. Pooja Lagisetty, Associate Professor of Internal Medicine
Conclusion
The decline in long-term opioid prescriptions in the United States marks a significant development in the fight against the opioid epidemic. However, the persistence of over 4 million Americans on long-term opioid therapy indicates that continued efforts are necessary to ensure safe and effective pain management practices.
