Clinical Resource Guide for Opioid Alternatives

This document is a clinical resource guide that outlines alternatives to Oxycontin® and Xtampza® for managing pain in hospice settings. It addresses the increased therapy costs associated with these medications without significant differences in efficacy or tolerability compared to other long-acting opioids. The guide presents a five-step process for transitioning patients from extended-release oxycodone to more cost-effective alternatives such as methadone and extended-release morphine. It emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive pain assessment, calculating total daily opioid usage, and individualizing the new opioid regimen based on patient-specific factors. The document also discusses the common misconceptions surrounding opioid allergies and the comparable effectiveness of different opioids in pain management. Additionally, it provides a detailed example of calculating opioid conversions to ensure safe and effective transitions in therapy. Overall, the guide serves as a valuable resource for hospice clinicians and administrators.