Whilst opioids can be very effective in treating pain, prolonged and/or heavy use can cause hyperalgesia – a phenomenon in which people become hypersensitive to painful stimuli. This talk will explore the relationship between persistent pain and opioid use disorder, and the signs and symptoms that might indicate the best treatment pathway forward.

Dr Ian Thong is a Neuroscientist & Pain Medicine Specialist at Gold Coast University Hospital. He has experience managing complex chronic pain and drug dependence and is passionate that everyone gets good clinical care and this care is evidence supported. 

Anthony Hall is a Senior Clinical Pharmacist at the Gold Coast Hospital persistent pain service. In the UK he was a senior pharmacist for palliative care and pain. He is a QUT senior lecturer, sits on QHH advisory boards and is a recognised expert on medicinal cannabis.