Responding to the Prompts

(1)
Read https://asu.instructure.com/courses/176997/files/79015728/download?verifier=4pkYSWoSwmG1VNyddxKevbnZ9BARjsho5HWj28DX&wrap=1
Consider especially what the authors in the Leung et al. paper show through their analysis about the role of the 1980 letter from Porter and Jick in the literature about opioid addiction.
In at least 200 words, respond to the following prompt: What do you think is the role of evidence in medicine, especially in pharmaceuticals? Do you think that the 1980 letter was a good resource for opioid literature? Why or why not?
In at least 50 words each, comment on the posts of two of your peers. Be sure to note whether you agree with their analysis, and why. (2) Porter and Jick (1980) Addiction rare in patients treated with narcotics Read Volkow (2018). In at least 200 words answer the following prompt: Do you think that the focus on prescription practices of physicians is the best way to deal with the opioid epidemic? Why? If not, what would you suggest to address the opioid epidemic?
In at least 50 words each, comment on the posts of two of your peers. Be sure to note whether you agree or disagree with their conclusion, and why.
Note: Please be conscientious in your posts and responses about opioids. This is an ongoing and devastating problem which has affected many people, and you don’t know the life experiences of your peers.

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!

Step-by-Step Guide to Responding to the Prompts:

1. Read the Articles Carefully:
   • You’re tasked with analyzing the 1980 letter from Porter and Jick (which suggested that addiction was rare in patients treated with narcotics) and how it has shaped opioid addiction literature, as well as reviewing the article by Volkow (2018).
   • Focus on understanding the arguments presented by Leung et al. and the context surrounding the Porter and Jick letter. Pay attention to how this letter has influenced subsequent attitudes toward opioid prescribing practices.
2. First Response Prompt (200 Words):
   • Key Question: What do you think is the role of evidence in medicine, especially in pharmaceuticals? Was the 1980 letter a good resource for opioid literature?
   • Steps to Answer:
     • Discuss the Role of Evidence: Start by explaining why evidence-based medicine is critical in shaping medical practices and drug prescriptions. Discuss the importance of rigorous, peer-reviewed research in pharmaceutical decisions.
     • Evaluate the 1980 Letter: Assess the quality of the 1980 letter from Porter and Jick. Do you think it was based on sufficient evidence? Was it misleading in its suggestion that addiction is rare in patients treated with narcotics? Highlight how this letter might have influenced the opioid epidemic.
     • Your Opinion: Conclude by stating whether you think the letter should have been considered a reliable resource or not. Discuss the impact of limited or flawed evidence in shaping public health policies.
3. Second Response Prompt (200 Words):
   • Key Question: Is focusing on physician prescribing practices the best way to tackle the opioid epidemic? If not, what would you suggest?
   • Steps to Answer:
     • Evaluate Physician Prescribing Practices: Discuss the importance of responsible prescribing in curbing the opioid crisis. Do you think focusing solely on physician practices is enough?
     • Other Solutions: Offer additional suggestions to address the opioid epidemic. This could include broader public health approaches like improving addiction treatment, increasing access to naloxone, or addressing the root causes of addiction (e.g., mental health, social factors).
     • Your Opinion: Conclude by stating what you believe is the most effective strategy to combat the opioid epidemic, explaining why a multi-faceted approach might be necessary.
4. Commenting on Peer Posts (50 Words Each):
   • After you post your responses, read at least two of your peers’ posts.
   • For each comment, state whether you agree or disagree with their conclusion and briefly explain why. Offer any additional insights or perspectives that could enrich the discussion. Ensure your tone is respectful, especially considering the sensitive nature of the topic.
5. Final Review:
   • Review your responses for clarity, focus, and cohesion. Make sure your arguments are supported with thoughtful reasoning.
   • Ensure that you adhere to the word count (200 words for each post, 50 words for each comment).
   • Double-check your spelling, grammar, and formatting.

By following this guide, you’ll be able to construct well-supported, thoughtful responses that engage critically with the material while being mindful of the sensitive nature of the opioid epidemic. Best of