APF expands PainSafe educational initiative with new information, resources

BALTIMORE — The American Pain Foundation on Wednesday launched new information and resources on pain medication safety for acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs as part of its PainSafe educational initiative.

The new information will be launched with a national public service announcement emphasizing the safe use of pain treatment options, particularly medications containing NSAIDs (aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen) and acetaminophen (Tylenol and APAP).

“Patient safety is one of the nation’s most pressing healthcare challenges, directly affecting people living with a variety of acute and chronic pain conditions,” stated Will Rowe, APF CEO. “Knowledge of how to safely use treatments among providers and people with pain will result in better treatment choices [and] safer use of these therapies, and, in turn, [will] help improve access to pain care for all.”

“People who live with pain are particularly vulnerable to NSAID and acetaminophen overdose because they may take a number of medications to help keep their pain under control,” added Lynn Webster, an adviser for PainSafe. “However, consumers need to understand that, even though a medication is available without prescription, it still carries risk and can cause side effects. While pain medication is safe when taken as directed, it’s not hard to overdose on NSAIDs or acetaminophen, which may occur when people aren’t really aware of what’s included in their prescription and over-the-counter medication.”

The American Pain Foundation PainSafe broadcast PSA is available for viewing at PainFoundation.org.