Opioid use in Spain

Opioid use in Spain

Pain as a human experience

Pain is a universal experience that affects quality of life, emotions and the way we relate to our environment. In the search for relief, opioids, drugs used to treat moderate to severe pain, have become a fundamental tool in medical practice.

Beyond cancer

For many patients, the word opioid is directly associated with cancer. While it is true that they are used in the treatment of oncologic pain, proper use allows their application in chronic non-oncologic pain that does not respond to other therapeutic alternatives.

Increase in consumption in Spain

In recent years, the use of opioids in Spain has grown significantly, which invites reflection on how to ensure effective and, at the same time, safe treatment.
According to data from the Ministry of Health and the Spanish Agency of Medicines and Health Products (AEMPS), opioid consumption has doubled in the last decade. Drugs such as tramadol, oxycodone or fentanyl are increasingly prescribed, especially in patients with chronic non-cancer pain.

This increase reflects a greater concern for the well-being of those living with persistent pain, but also poses a challenge: to ensure rational and controlled use that avoids dependence and adverse effects.

The importance of a comprehensive approach

The healthcare system tends to resort to drugs as the first option, when in fact, according to pain experts, treatment, especially of degenerative pain associated with aging, should be based on a comprehensive strategy.
This strategy should address patient self-care from different areas:

  • Dietary habits

  • Physical exercise

  • Physiotherapy

  • Psychological support

  • Responsible pharmacological approach

Risks and need for vigilance

Prolonged or unsupervised use of opioids can lead to tolerance, dependence or withdrawal symptoms.
Although the situation in Spain is far from the crisis experienced in other countries, professionals insist on the importance of maintaining strict vigilance and promoting health education among patients and professionals.

Commitment to responsible treatment

At MIVI Salud we believe that treating pain does not only mean eliminating a symptom, but accompanying the patient in a comprehensive recovery process.
That is why we advocate an approach based on scientific evidence, empathy and coordination between professionals.

Continuous training, individualized follow-up and access to complementary therapies are key elements to ensure safe use of opioids and improve the quality of life of those who need them.

Caring for the pain, caring for the person

Pain relief is a right, but also a shared responsibility.
As a company specializing in pain management, at MIVI Salud we work to promote more humane, balanced and responsible care.
Because taking care of pain is, above all, taking care of the person.

Dr. Patricia Magalló