Section 20-2-VIII - Tapering of OpioidsA. Clinicians should evaluate the benefits and harms of continued therapy on a routine basis. If documented benefits do not outweigh harms, opioids should be tapered and discontinued.B. Patients who fail a trial of opioid medications but do not have an issue with addiction will not need to see an addictionologist. These patients can be tapered safely off their medications by their treating physicians. Weaning protocols vary. Conservative approach recommends a 10% reduction in the original dose per week. Other sources state that a 25% reduction every four days should avoid withdrawal syndrome. If drug diversion is suspected, then prescribing additional opiates is not indicated. The prescription of additional opiates in this situation will constitute a greater risk to the patient or the community than the potential for withdrawal syndrome.20 Miss. Code. R. § 2-VIII