NHL must reconsider safer prescribing options
/While Robin Lehner’s malpractice accusations remain to be investigated, there is one thing I know for sure: I’ve treated and talked with a number of former NHL players who have expressed similar concerns about “benzos” and “ambos” being given and/or prescribed way too freely. Both Benzodiazepines and Ambien have a number of side-effects which can negatively affect players’ overall health and on-ice performance.
The NHL and NHLPA medical teams need to become more educated on safer alternatives, like cannabinoid-based medicines. Opiates & addiction are another concern amongst this group – especially amongst ex-players who have retired due to injury. I met with the NHLPA a couple years ago to try to build the case for a league-wide look at safer alternatives – but there was no appetite. Sadly, there is still a ton of bias against this safer alternative, despite the evidence.
I’d welcome the opportunity to resume these conversations & support however I can, if anyone at the NHL or NHLPA is willing to take another look at this.
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