5 notes from Novus Medical Detox Center's NFL's fight against drug abuse

Orthopedic Sports Medicine

New Port Richey, Fla.-based Novus Medical Detox Center hopes the NFL establishes clear guidelines for team physicians to follow so that players' long-term health may improve.

Here's what you need to know:

 

1. On average, NFL teams prescribe nearly 5,777 doses of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and 2,213 doses of controlled medications during the year.

 

2. Medications of concern include Toradol thanks to its addictive nature, ability to numb pain and association with renal toxicity and concussion risk.

 

3. Novus Medical Detox Center CFO Bryn Wesch said, "Without clear guidelines or league-supported best practices in place, these athletes must endure enormous pressure and difficult decisions — do they protect their health at the risk of their career, or do they prioritize the team’s short-term success over their long-term health and safety?"

 

4. Team physicians are often forced to balance a team's success with players' well-being; Novus hopes the NFL defines and implements new drug prescription and administration standards.

 

5. Novus provides alcohol and drug treatment programs based on medical protocols and prioritizing less discomfort or withdrawal.

 

More articles on sports medicine:
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Dr. Pat Connor operates on Carolina Panthers' Cam Newton — 4 takeaways

Physicians treating women's Final Four basketball teams

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