The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has released its newest clinical practice guideline addressing opioid prescribing for children and adolescents in outpatient settings.

Led in part by Dr. Rita Agarwal, the new guideline emphasizes a multimodal approach to pain management — prioritizing nonpharmacologic therapies and nonopioid medications, and prescribing opioids only when necessary and appropriate. The recommendations aim to improve safety, minimize risks, and address longstanding disparities in pediatric pain care.

The full guideline, Opioid Prescribing for Acute Pain Management in Children and Adolescents in Outpatient Settings, is available here: Read the Full Guideline