Zynrelef and the Quest to Eliminate Opioid Prescriptions Following Outpatient Surgery

Abstract

Postoperative outpatient opioid prescribing is a major contributor to the opioid epidemic. An estimated 61% to 75% of opioids prescribed to surgical patients at discharge go unused.1-3 This creates an opportunity for opioid tablet stockpiling that is exacerbated by poor adherence to proper opioid disposal. Retained and often insecurely stored opioids facilitate opioid diversion into communities and present an opportunity for individual misuse which includes dependence, abuse, and overdose.