OPIOID SWITCHING AND TAPERING.



Long term opioid use results in physical (and potentially psychological) dependence. Opioids should be discontinued whenever possible by a slow taper to avoid withdrawal symptoms.



Opioid withdrawal symptoms include: chills, fever, body aches, diarrhea, insomnia, muscle pain, dilated pupils, sweating, anxiety, nausea and more.



NOTE: switching to and from fentanyl patches follows a different protocol



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