Ordering and interpretation of urine toxicology specimens in patients treated with opioids

We come from the perspective that opioids are efficacious in the management of nonterminal chronic pain. Responsible care within such a model requires that pain management physicians are adequately familiar with the broad ordering and interpretation of urine toxicology specimens, and especially with interpretation specific to issues of opiate use, addiction, and diversion as commonly seen in the course of clinical care, including risk assessment. This article provides an overview of these and related concerns.