True or False: Opioids are considered first-line therapy for chronic pain.

Opioids are not considered first-line therapy for chronic pain due to the potential for addiction, tolerance, and various side effects associated with their long-term use. Current guidelines suggest that non-opioid analgesics, such as acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), along with adjunctive treatments like physical therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy, are preferred initial options for managing chronic pain.

Opioids may be considered in specific circumstances, particularly for patients with severe pain or those who have not responded to other therapeutic interventions. However, they are typically reserved for more serious cases where the benefits outweigh the risks. Therefore, the assertion that opioids are first-line therapy for chronic pain does not align with contemporary pain management practices, making the correct answer accurate in identifying that opioids should not be the primary choice for chronic pain treatment.