The Opioid Contract

Opioid contracts are widely used but not well studied. Despite the widespread use of the opioid contract or agreement, there is no standard approach. Some studies have found both considerable variability between opioid contracts as well as consistent core themes. While an opioid contract may be an appealing tool for obtaining informed consent, providing education, or otherwise overcoming some of the problems associated with chronic opioid therapy for noncancer pain, its efficacy is not well established. This article will consider many of the significant factors that impact clinicians and patients using a contract or agreement for chronic opioid therapy.