A recent study conducted by scientists at St George’s, University of London, and the University of Liverpool highlights a potential long-term consequence of frequent pain relief medication started in childhood. The findings, published in Lancet Regional Health Europe, suggest that heavy use of analgesics from a young age may be connected to poorer mental health in adulthood.
Researchers analyzed anonymous electronic health records from a large population, examining health data for 853,625 individuals aged 2 to 24. Among them, 115,101 had chronic pain diagnoses, and 20,298 received repeated prescriptions for analgesics. The study aimed to uncover how early pain experiences and ongoing pain treatment could relate to later health outcomes, both mental and behavioral.
The analysis revealed that chronic pain during adolescence and early adulthood is associated with a higher risk of future mental health disorders. Specifically, the presence of chronic pain was linked to about a one-in-three increase in the likelihood of developing a mental health condition later on. When long-term analgesic use was added into the picture, the combined risk rose further, indicating a substantially greater chance of mental health challenges as well as a marked increase in the probability of substance use disorders in later years. These associations were observed after accounting for various other factors that could influence health outcomes.
Commenting on the implications of these results, the study’s co-author, Professor Richa Sofat, highlighted the concern that younger people appear to be particularly vulnerable. The pattern of regular analgesic use to manage ongoing pain raises questions about potential unintentional overuse and the best timing for referrals to specialist pain services. The researchers emphasized that determining when to involve targeted pain management professionals will be a crucial element in refining care strategies for young patients facing persistent pain.
Experts note that the findings do not imply that analgesics should never be used in young people, but they do suggest a need for careful assessment, monitoring, and early integration of nonpharmacologic approaches when appropriate. Pain management plans may benefit from closer collaboration among primary care providers, pediatric specialists, and mental health professionals to reduce long-term risk while maintaining effective symptom relief. In light of these results, clinicians are encouraged to review prescription patterns for young patients with chronic pain and consider proactive steps to minimize potential downstream harms.
Overall, the study adds to a growing body of evidence calling for a balanced approach to pediatric pain care. By prioritizing accurate diagnosis, comprehensive treatment plans, and timely referrals to pain and mental health services, health systems can work toward protecting the long-term well-being of children and adolescents who experience chronic pain. The Lancet Regional Health Europe publication serves as a reminder of the ongoing need to align pain relief strategies with the broader goal of durable, holistic health outcomes for young people, as reported by researchers from the United Kingdom.
Additional context from clinicians and researchers indicates that balancing immediate relief with long-term safety will require ongoing research and thoughtful clinical guidelines. Improving patient education about risks and alternatives, monitoring outcomes, and ensuring access to multidisciplinary care will be essential steps in shaping safer pain management practices for the younger population.