American Society for Reproductive Medicine Recognized at Night of Hope

American Society for Reproductive Medicine

 

As the current vice president for Heron Therapeutics, Erol Onel has also held the position of assistant professor of urology at Tufts University and New England Medical Center. Erol Onel has been involved with many different medical associations, including the American Society for Reproductive Medicine.

The American Society for Reproductive Medicine began in 1944. There are presently members in all 50 states and over 100 countries. These individuals include not only OB/GYNs, but also professionals in urology, the mental health field, nurses, and even veterinarians.

In November of 2016, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) was recognized at the Resolve Night of Hope. Resolve assists those who have been diagnosed with infertility and provides support and resources, including advocating for patients who do not have access to treatment for infertility due to the high cost. The Night of Hope celebration brought together those in the ASRM as well as other medical professionals and leaders who want to help provide couples and individuals with the assistance they deserve for infertility treatment.

The Risks of Opioid Use for Chronic Pain Management

opioids

 

Dr. Erol Onel serves Heron Therapeutics in La Jolla, California, as company president. In this position Dr. Erol Onel leads a team working toward the FDA approval for a non-opioid pain management drug.

There are a number of risks when it comes to using opioids as a medical solution for chronic pain management. The most significant risk involves patients becoming completely dependent on an opioid to manage pain levels, both physically and psychologically. This dependency has the potential to quickly evolve into drug addiction. Studies have indicated that individuals with past histories of substance abuse are at a higher risk for opioid dependency and addiction, pressing the need for non-opioid alternatives.

Controlled studies have found the rate of dependency and substance abuse among opioid-using populations to be as high as 12 percent. Considering more than 38 percent of Americans take prescribed painkillers on a regular basis, more than the number of Americans using tobacco products, this rate of addiction could translate to 14 million individuals. Additional risks associated with prolonged opioid use for pain management include difficulty focusing, hormonal changes, and opioid induced hyperalgesia.