Feasibility of a social media/online community support group intervention among chronic pain patients on opioid therapy.

AIMS: Assess whether the Harnessing Online Peer Education (HOPE) social media-based support group can engage patients on opioids at risk for misuse/overdose to discuss risk reduction strategies.

METHODS: Fifty-one patients on chronic opioid therapy and risk factors for aberrant medication-taking behaviors were randomized to a HOPE intervention or control (Facebook) group.

RESULTS: Compared to control group participants, intervention participants had almost 10 times higher posting engagement (n = 411 posts versus 45; 73% versus 52% of participants). Participants discussed coping, pain, medication and non-medication treatments, and other opioid and addiction-related topics.

DISCUSSION: Results suggest that a HOPE online community might serve as an effective behavioral intervention tool among chronic pain patients on opioid therapy.