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Amram O, Rosenkrantz L, DDes SA, Schuurman N, Panwala VJ, Joudrey PJ. Availability of timely methadone treatment in the United States and Canada during COVID-19: A census tract-level analysis. Drug Alcohol Depend 2023; 245:109801. [PMID: 36801707 PMCID: PMC9908565 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2023.109801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We sought to compare timely access to methadone treatment in the United States (US) and Canada during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional study of census tracts and aggregated dissemination areas (used for rural Canada) within 14 US and 3 Canadian jurisdictions in 2020. We excluded census tracts or areas with a population density of less than one person per square km. Data from a 2020 audit of timely medication access was used to determine clinics accepting new patients within 48 h. Unadjusted and adjusted linear regressions were performed to examine the relationship between area population density and sociodemographic covariates and three outcome variables: 1) driving distance to the nearest methadone clinic accepting new patients, 2) driving distance to the nearest methadone clinic accepting new patients for medication initiation within 48 h, and 3) the difference in the driving distance between the first and second outcome. RESULTS We included 17,611 census tracts and areas with a population density greater than one person per square kilometer. After adjusting for area covariates, US jurisdictions were a median of 11.6 miles (p value <0.001) further from a methadone clinic accepting new patients and 25.1 miles (p value <0.001) further from a clinic accepting new patients within 48 h than Canadian jurisdictions. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that the more flexible Canadian regulatory approach to methadone treatment is associated with a greater availability of timely methadone treatment and reduced urban-rural disparity in availability, compared to the US.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ofer Amram
- Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, Spokane, WA, USA; Paul G. Allen School for Global Animal Health, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA.
| | - Leah Rosenkrantz
- Department of Geography, Simon Fraser University, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Solmaz Amiri DDes
- Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, Spokane, WA, USA
| | - Nadine Schuurman
- Department of Geography, Simon Fraser University, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Victoria J Panwala
- Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, Spokane, WA, USA
| | - Paul J Joudrey
- Division of General Internal Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, USA
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2
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Blair A, Siddiqi A. The social determinants of substance use associated with deaths of despair: Individual risks and population impacts. Prev Med 2022; 164:107327. [PMID: 36334684 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2022.107327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
As the incidence of deaths from external causes including poisonings, suicide, and alcohol-related liver disease, increases in countries such as the United States and Canada, a better understanding of the fundamental social determinants of the substance use underlying these so-called "deaths of despair", at the population level, is needed. Using data from the nationally representative data from the Canadian Community Health Survey (2003, 2015-2016, 2018 cycles) (N = 30,729), the independent associations between age, sex, marital status, immigrant status, race/ethnicity, education, income, rurality, affective health and the use of illicit substances, opioids (without distinction for prescription status), problematic levels of alcohol, and combined past-year use (≥2) of substances, were explored using multivariate logistic regression, marginal risk, and population attributable fraction estimation, with propensity score-adjusted sensitivity analyses. Males, those who were under 29 years, without a partner, born in Canada, White, or had an affective disorder reported both higher use of individual substances and multiple substances in the past year. Social determinants appear to explain a substantial proportion of substance use patterns overall. Between 10% and 45% of illicit substance, problematic alcohol, and polysubstance use prevalence was attributable to non-partnered marital status, non-immigrant status, and White race/ethnicity. Of opioid use prevalence, 25% was attributable to White race/ethnicity, 13% to affective disorder status and 4% to lower-income. Though not all substance use will result in substance-related morbidity or mortality, these findings highlight the role of social determinants in shaping the intermediary behavioural outcomes that shape population-level risk of "deaths of despair".
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Blair
- University of Toronto Dalla Lana School of Public Health, 155 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 3M7, Canada.
| | - Arjumand Siddiqi
- University of Toronto Dalla Lana School of Public Health, 155 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 3M7, Canada; Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, USA
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3
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Blair A, Siddiqi A. Social determinants of ethno-racial inequalities in substance use: a decomposition of national survey data. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2022; 57:2013-2022. [PMID: 35482051 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-022-02281-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Similar to the US, mortality due to suicide and the use of opioids, alcohol, and other substances (so-called "Deaths of Despair"), is rising in Canada and has been disproportionately observed among Whites compared to other racial and ethnic groups. This study aimed to assess the determinants of the ethno-racial differences in the use of substances that underlie these deaths. METHODS Using nationally representative data from the Canadian Community Health Survey (2003, 2015-2016, 2018 cycles), a decomposition analysis was performed to estimate the contribution of psychosocial determinants, including age, sex, marital status, immigration, education, income, rurality, and affective health on inequalities between White and non-White populations in illicit substance, opioid, and problematic alcohol use and combined use (≥ 2) of substances. RESULTS Overall, White respondents reported higher levels (by 5% to 10%) of substance use than non-White peers. Over 30% of the ethno-racial inequalities in illicit substance, problematic alcohol, and polysubstance use are explained by the protective role of immigration among those who are not White, whose low levels of substance use lower the prevalence in the non-White population overall. Among those born in Canada, no ethno-racial differences in substance use were observed. CONCLUSION Social determinants, particularly immigrant status, explain a substantial proportion of ethno-racial inequalities in substance use in Canada. The jump in substance use between racialized populations who immigrated to Canada and those Canadian-born highlights the importance of exploring within-group variability in deaths of despair risk and considering how intersecting forces including systemic racism shape substance use patterns across generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Blair
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 155 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5T 3M7, Canada.
| | - Arjumand Siddiqi
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 155 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5T 3M7, Canada.,Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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4
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Moriarty F, Bennett K, Fahey T. Opioid and analgesic utilization in Ireland in 2000 and 2015: A repeated cross-sectional study. Pharmacol Res Perspect 2021; 10:e00899. [PMID: 34913613 PMCID: PMC8675152 DOI: 10.1002/prp2.899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent decades, opioid use has increased internationally and is a major public health concern. This study aims to characterize changes in opioid and other analgesic prescribing in Ireland over a 15‐year period (2000–2015). This is a repeated cross‐sectional study of administrative pharmacy claims data in 2000 and 2015. Individuals of all ages in Ireland's Eastern Health Board region who were eligible for the General Medical Services (GMS) scheme were included. This scheme covers 40% of the population, mostly those on lower incomes and older people. The primary outcome was dispensing of opioids, both prevalence of any use and rate per 1000 GMS eligible population (standardized to the 2015 population). Logistic regression was used to assess odds of opioid dispensing in 2015 versus 2000, controlling for demographic differences. The eligible study population was 364 436 in 2000 and 523 653 in 2015. In 2000, 19.4% of the eligible population had at least one opioid dispensing compared to 20.8% in 2015. The rate increased from 671 to 1098 dispensings per 1000 population. The increase was highest in the dispensing rates of codeine, tramadol, oxycodone, buprenorphine, and fentanyl. Compared to 2000, there was higher odds in 2015 of being dispensed a strong opioid (adjusted odds ratio 2.0, 95%CI 1.97–2.04) or long‐acting formulation (3.75, 95%CI 3.58–3.92). Increased prescribing of opioids, particularly strong opioids, between 2000 and 2015 is evident in Ireland. This is concerning due to the potential for misuse, and opioid‐related morbidity/mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Moriarty
- HRB Centre for Primary Care Research, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland.,School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Kathleen Bennett
- Data Science Centre, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Tom Fahey
- HRB Centre for Primary Care Research, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
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Enns B, Krebs E, Thomson T, Dale LM, Min JE, Nosyk B. Opioid analgesic prescribing for opioid-naïve individuals prior to identification of opioid use disorder in British Columbia, Canada. Addiction 2021; 116:3422-3432. [PMID: 33861882 DOI: 10.1111/add.15515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Prescription opioid analgesics have contributed to the development of opioid use disorder (OUD) in many individuals. We aimed to characterize non-cancer opioid prescribing for opioid-naive individuals prior to OUD identification. DESIGN Population-based retrospective cohort study using six linked health administrative databases. SETTING British Columbia (BC), Canada. PARTICIPANTS People with OUD between 1 January 2001 and 30 September 2018 who initiated opioid analgesic therapy for non-cancer pain prior to OUD identification. MEASUREMENTS Dose (morphine milligram equivalent per day), days prescribed and clinical guideline non-concordance for initial opioid prescriptions (dose ≥ 90 morphine milligram equivalent per day; ≥ 7 days prescribed; concomitant sedative prescription). We estimated the probability of non-concordant initial prescriptions by source (inpatient post-discharge, non-inpatient acute, non-acute) using logistic regression, adjusting for individual characteristics and comorbidities. FINDINGS Among 66 372 individuals identified with OUD from 2001 to 2018, 21 331 (32.1%) received opioid analgesics prior to OUD identification. This proportion increased from 3.0% in 2001 to 41.0% in 2011, before decreasing to 34.2% in 2017. Roughly half of opioid prescriptions were attributed to non-acute care visits, peaking at 56.8% in 2007, while the proportion from inpatient visits increased from 19.7% in 2001 to 28.5% in 2017. The predicted probability of receiving non-guideline concordant prescriptions declined over time-periods across all three measures for inpatient and non-inpatient acute care, while remaining stable for non-acute care. In particular, the predicted probability of receiving ≥ 7-day prescriptions following inpatient visits decreased from 53.3% [95% confidence interval (CI) = 50.9, 55.8%] in 2001-06 to 37.2% (95% CI = 33.9, 40.5%) in 2013-18. CONCLUSIONS Among the 66 372 individuals in British Columbia, Canada diagnosed with opioid use disorder between 2001 and 2018, more than 32% were earlier prescribed non-cancer opioid analgesics. The proportion who had received an opioid analgesic prescription prior to OUD identification peaked at more than 40% in 2011, before stabilizing between 2011 and 2016 and declining thereafter. Guideline concordance improved over time for high-dose and concomitant sedative prescribing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Enns
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Emanuel Krebs
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Trevor Thomson
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Laura M Dale
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Jeong Eun Min
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Bohdan Nosyk
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
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Kaboré JL, Pagé MG, Martel MO, Dassieu L, Hudspith M, Moor G, Sutton K, Roy JS, Williamson OD, Choinière M. Impact of the Opioid Epidemic and Associated Prescribing Restrictions on People Who Live With Chronic Noncancer Pain in Canada. Clin J Pain 2021; 37:607-615. [PMID: 34054062 DOI: 10.1097/ajp.0000000000000951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Little is known about the consequences of the opioid epidemic on people living with chronic noncancer pain (CNCP). This study examined this issue in people who lived in the most impacted province by opioid overdoses in Canada (British Columbia [BC]) or one of the least impacted (Quebec [QC]), and examined the factors associated with opioid use. MATERIALS AND METHODS This cross-sectional study was carried out in adults living in BC (N=304) and QC (N=1071) who reported CNCP (≥3 months) and completed an online questionnaire that was tailored to their opioid status. RESULTS Almost twice as many participants in BC as in QC were proposed to cease their opioid medication in the past year (P<0.001). The proportion who reported having hoarded opioids in fear of not being able to get more in the future was also significantly higher in BC (P<0.001) compared with QC. In addition, they were significantly more likely to have had their opioid dose decreased than those in QC (P=0.001). No significant association was found between opioid discontinuation and province of residence. Two-thirds of the BC participants felt that the media coverage of the opioid crisis was very to extremely detrimental to CNCP patients in general, this percentage being significantly higher than in QC (P<0.001). DISCUSSION The opioid epidemic and associated prescribing restrictions have had harmful effects on Canadians with CNCP. The clinical community, the general public, and the media need to be aware of these negative consequences to decrease patients' stigmatization and minimize inadequate treatment of CNCP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Luc Kaboré
- Departments of Pharmacology and Physiology
- Research Centre of the University of Montreal Hospital Centre (CRCHUM)
| | - M Gabrielle Pagé
- Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal
- Research Centre of the University of Montreal Hospital Centre (CRCHUM)
| | - Marc O Martel
- Department of Anesthesia, Faculty of Medicine, Faculty of Dentistry
- Alan Edwards Center for Research on Pain, McGill University, Montreal
| | - Lise Dassieu
- Research Centre of the University of Montreal Hospital Centre (CRCHUM)
| | | | | | | | - Jean-Sébastien Roy
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation and Social Integration (CIRRIS)
- Department of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec, QC
| | - Owen D Williamson
- JPOCSC Pain Management Clinic, Fraser Health Authority, Surrey, BC, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Vic., Australia
| | - Manon Choinière
- Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal
- Research Centre of the University of Montreal Hospital Centre (CRCHUM)
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7
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Nowakowska M, Zghebi SS, Perisi R, Chen LC, Ashcroft DM, Kontopantelis E. Association of socioeconomic deprivation with opioid prescribing in primary care in England: a spatial analysis. J Epidemiol Community Health 2020; 75:128-136. [PMID: 33318133 DOI: 10.1136/jech-2020-214676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The increasing trends in opioid prescribing and opioid-related deaths in England are concerning. A greater understanding of the association of deprivation with opioid prescribing is needed to guide policy responses and interventions. METHODS The 2018/2019 English national primary care prescribing data were analysed spatially. Prescribing of opioids in general practice was quantified by defined daily doses (DDD) and attributed to 32 844 lower layer super output areas (LSOAs), the geographical units representing ~1500 people. Linear regression was used to model the effect of socioeconomic deprivation (quintiles) on opioid prescribing while accounting for population demographics and the prevalence of specific health conditions. Adjusted DDD estimates were compared at each deprivation level within higher organisational areas (Clinical Commissioning Groups, CCGs). RESULTS In total, 624 411 164 DDDs of opioids were prescribed. LSOA-level prescribing varied between 1.7 and 121.04 DDD/1000 population/day. Prescribing in the most deprived areas in the North of England was 1.2 times higher than the national average for areas with similar deprivation levels and 3.3 times higher than the most deprived areas in London. Prescribing in the most deprived areas was on average 9.70 DDD/1000 people/day (95% CI 9.41 to 10.00) higher than the least deprived areas. Deprivation-driven disparities varied between individual CCGs. In the most unequal CCG, prescribing in the most deprived areas was twice that in the least deprived areas. CONCLUSION Opioid prescribing varied substantially across England and deprivation was strongly associated with prescribing. This paper provides evidence for guiding policy interventions and allocation of resources to areas with the highest levels of opioid prescribing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Nowakowska
- NIHR School for Primary Care Research; Centre for Primary Care and Health Services Research; Manchester Academic Health Science Centre (MAHSC), The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK .,Division of Informatics, Imaging and Data Sciences; School of Health Sciences; Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health; Manchester Academic Health Science Centre (MAHSC), The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Translational Research Centre, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Salwa S Zghebi
- NIHR School for Primary Care Research; Centre for Primary Care and Health Services Research; Manchester Academic Health Science Centre (MAHSC), The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,Division of Population Health, Health Services Research and Primary Care; School of Health Sciences; Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health; Manchester Academic Health Science Centre (MAHSC), The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Rosa Perisi
- NIHR School for Primary Care Research; Centre for Primary Care and Health Services Research; Manchester Academic Health Science Centre (MAHSC), The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,Division of Informatics, Imaging and Data Sciences; School of Health Sciences; Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health; Manchester Academic Health Science Centre (MAHSC), The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Li-Chia Chen
- Centre for Pharmacoepidemiology and Drug Safety; Division of Pharmacy and Optometry; School of Health Sciences; Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre (MAHSC), The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Darren M Ashcroft
- NIHR School for Primary Care Research; Centre for Primary Care and Health Services Research; Manchester Academic Health Science Centre (MAHSC), The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Translational Research Centre, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,Centre for Pharmacoepidemiology and Drug Safety; Division of Pharmacy and Optometry; School of Health Sciences; Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre (MAHSC), The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Evangelos Kontopantelis
- NIHR School for Primary Care Research; Centre for Primary Care and Health Services Research; Manchester Academic Health Science Centre (MAHSC), The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,Division of Informatics, Imaging and Data Sciences; School of Health Sciences; Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health; Manchester Academic Health Science Centre (MAHSC), The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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8
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Qian ZJ, Alyono JC, Jin MC, Cooperman SP, Cheng AG, Balakrishnan K. Opioid Prescribing Patterns Following Pediatric Tonsillectomy in the United States, 2009-2017. Laryngoscope 2020; 131:E1722-E1729. [PMID: 33026683 DOI: 10.1002/lary.29159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Revised: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Assess national trends in opioid prescription following pediatric tonsillectomy: 1) overall percentage receiving opioids and mean quantity, 2) changes during 2009-2017, and 3) determinants of prescription patterns. METHODS Cross-sectional analysis using 2009-2017 Optum claims data to identify opioid-naïve children aged 1-18 with claims codes for tonsillectomy (n = 82,842). Quantities of opioids filled in outpatient pharmacies during the perioperative period were extracted and converted into milligram morphine equivalents (MMEs) for statistical comparison. Demographic, clinical, and socioeconomic predictors of opioid fill rate and quantity were determined using regression analyses. RESULTS In 2009, 83.3% of children received opioids, decreasing to 58.3% by 2017. Rates of all-cause readmissions and post-tonsillectomy hemorrhages were similar over time. Mean quantity received was 153.47MME (95% confidence intervals [95%CI]: 151.19, 155.76) and did not significantly change during 2009-2017. Opioids were more likely in older children and those with higher household income, but less likely in children with obstructive sleep apnea, other comorbidities, and Hispanic race. Higher quantities of opioids were more likely in older children, while lower quantities were associated with female sex, Hispanic race, and higher household income. Outpatient steroids were prescribed to 8.04% of patients, who were less likely to receive opioids. CONCLUSION While the percentage of children receiving post-tonsillectomy opioids decreased during 2009-2017, prescribed quantities remain high and have not decreased over time. Prescription practices were also influenced by clinical and sociodemographic factors. These results highlight the need for guidance, particularly with regard to opioid quantity, in children after tonsillectomy. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE N/A Laryngoscope, 131:E1722-E1729, 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z Jason Qian
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, U.S.A
| | - Jennifer C Alyono
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, U.S.A
| | - Michael C Jin
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, U.S.A
| | - Shayna P Cooperman
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, U.S.A
| | - Alan G Cheng
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, U.S.A
| | - Karthik Balakrishnan
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, U.S.A
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9
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Jani M, Birlie Yimer B, Sheppard T, Lunt M, Dixon WG. Time trends and prescribing patterns of opioid drugs in UK primary care patients with non-cancer pain: A retrospective cohort study. PLoS Med 2020; 17:e1003270. [PMID: 33057368 PMCID: PMC7561110 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1003270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The US opioid epidemic has led to similar concerns about prescribed opioids in the UK. In new users, initiation of or escalation to more potent and high dose opioids may contribute to long-term use. Additionally, physician prescribing behaviour has been described as a key driver of rising opioid prescriptions and long-term opioid use. No studies to our knowledge have investigated the extent to which regions, practices, and prescribers vary in opioid prescribing whilst accounting for case mix. This study sought to (i) describe prescribing trends between 2006 and 2017, (ii) evaluate the transition of opioid dose and potency in the first 2 years from initial prescription, (iii) quantify and identify risk factors for long-term opioid use, and (iv) quantify the variation of long-term use attributed to region, practice, and prescriber, accounting for case mix and chance variation. METHODS AND FINDINGS A retrospective cohort study using UK primary care electronic health records from the Clinical Practice Research Datalink was performed. Adult patients without cancer with a new prescription of an opioid were included; 1,968,742 new users of opioids were identified. Mean age was 51 ± 19 years, and 57% were female. Codeine was the most commonly prescribed opioid, with use increasing 5-fold from 2006 to 2017, reaching 2,456 prescriptions/10,000 people/year. Morphine, buprenorphine, and oxycodone prescribing rates continued to rise steadily throughout the study period. Of those who started on high dose (120-199 morphine milligram equivalents [MME]/day) or very high dose opioids (≥200 MME/day), 10.3% and 18.7% remained in the same MME/day category or higher at 2 years, respectively. Following opioid initiation, 14.6% became long-term opioid users in the first year. In the fully adjusted model, the following were associated with the highest adjusted odds ratios (aORs) for long-term use: older age (≥75 years, aOR 4.59, 95% CI 4.48-4.70, p < 0.001; 65-74 years, aOR 3.77, 95% CI 3.68-3.85, p < 0.001, compared to <35 years), social deprivation (Townsend score quintile 5/most deprived, aOR 1.56, 95% CI 1.52-1.59, p < 0.001, compared to quintile 1/least deprived), fibromyalgia (aOR 1.81, 95% CI 1.49-2.19, p < 0.001), substance abuse (aOR 1.72, 95% CI 1.65-1.79, p < 0.001), suicide/self-harm (aOR 1.56, 95% CI 1.52-1.61, p < 0.001), rheumatological conditions (aOR 1.53, 95% CI 1.48-1.58, p < 0.001), gabapentinoid use (aOR 2.52, 95% CI 2.43-2.61, p < 0.001), and MME/day at initiation (aOR 1.08, 95% CI 1.07-1.08, p < 0.001). After adjustment for case mix, 3 of the 10 UK regions (North West [16%], Yorkshire and the Humber [15%], and South West [15%]), 103 practices (25.6%), and 540 prescribers (3.5%) had a higher proportion of patients with long-term use compared to the population average. This study was limited to patients prescribed opioids in primary care and does not include opioids available over the counter or prescribed in hospitals or drug treatment centres. CONCLUSIONS Of patients commencing opioids on very high MME/day (≥200), a high proportion stayed in the same category for a subsequent 2 years. Age, deprivation, prescribing factors, comorbidities such as fibromyalgia, rheumatological conditions, recent major surgery, and history of substance abuse, alcohol abuse, and self-harm/suicide were associated with long-term opioid use. Despite adjustment for case mix, variation across regions and especially practices and prescribers in high-risk prescribing was observed. Our findings support greater calls for action for reduction in practice and prescriber variation by promoting safe practice in opioid prescribing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghna Jani
- Centre for Epidemiology Versus Arthritis, Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Department of Rheumatology, Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, Salford, United Kingdom
| | - Belay Birlie Yimer
- Centre for Epidemiology Versus Arthritis, Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Therese Sheppard
- Centre for Epidemiology Versus Arthritis, Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Lunt
- Centre for Epidemiology Versus Arthritis, Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - William G. Dixon
- Centre for Epidemiology Versus Arthritis, Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Department of Rheumatology, Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, Salford, United Kingdom
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10
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A decade of extreme oscillations in opioid control and availability: implications for public health in a Canadian setting. J Public Health Policy 2020; 41:214-220. [PMID: 32054979 DOI: 10.1057/s41271-019-00214-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
We comment on developments in and impacts of medical opioid control and availability in the province of British Columbia (Canada). Population-level dispensing of (strong) prescription opioids doubled in 2005-2011, yet subsequently declined by half 2011-2018 following implementation of various opioid control measures. Notwithstanding this inversion, BC has featured the highest population rates of opioid-related mortality and morbidity in Canada. The erratic opioid availability patterns presumably facilitated major increases in opioid misuse, morbidity, and mortality. Tangible benefits for pain care from increased medical opioid availability remain un-evidenced. Rather, recent decreases in medical opioid dispensing have not been matched by equivalent reductions in demand for (non-)medical use yet have coincided with widespread proliferation of toxic, illicit opioid supply and related major increases in opioid-related mortality. These developments appear to have undermined rather than benefitted public health and offer a poignant case study in ineffective psychotropic drug control and public health policy towards preventing similar experiences elsewhere.
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Prescription Dispensing Patterns Before and After a Workers' Compensation Claim: An Historical Cohort Study of Workers With Low Back Pain Injuries in British Columbia. J Occup Environ Med 2019; 60:644-655. [PMID: 29465511 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000001311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Compare prescription dispensing before and after a work-related low back injury. METHODS Descriptive analyses were used to describe opioid, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), and skeletal muscle relaxant (SMR) dispensing 1 year pre- and post-injury among 97,124 workers in British Columbia with new workers' compensation low back claims from 1998 to 2009. RESULTS Before injury, 19.7%, 21.2%, and 6.3% were dispensed opioids, NSAIDs, and SMRs, respectively, increasing to 39.0%, 50.2%, and 28.4% after. Median time to first post-injury prescription was less than a week. Dispensing was stable pre-injury, followed by a sharp increase within 8 weeks post-injury. Dispensing dropped thereafter, but remained elevated nearly a year post-injury, an increase attributable to less than 2% of claimants. CONCLUSION These drug classes are commonly dispensed, particularly shortly after injury and dispensing is of short duration for most, though a small subgroup receives prolonged courses.
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Patterns of pain medication use associated with reported pain interference in older adults with and without cancer. Support Care Cancer 2019; 28:3061-3072. [PMID: 31637515 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-019-05074-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Concerns about the adequacy of pain management among older adults are increasing, particularly with restrictions on opioid prescribing. OBJECTIVES To examine associations between prescription pain medication receipt and patient-reported pain interference in older adults with and without cancer. METHODS Using the 2007-2012 Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results (SEER)-Medicare Health Outcomes Survey (MHOS) database linked to Medicare Part D prescription claims, we selected MHOS respondents (N = 15,624) aged ≥ 66 years, ≤ 5 years of a cancer diagnosis (N = 9105), or without cancer (N = 6519). We measured receipt of opioids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and antiepileptics, and selected antidepressants within 30 days prior to survey. Patient-reported activity limitation due to pain (pain interference) within the past 30 days was summarized as severe, moderate, or mild/none. Logistic regression using predictive margins estimated associations between pain interference, cancer history, and pain medication receipt, adjusting for socio-demographics, chronic conditions, and Part D low-income subsidy. RESULTS Severe or moderate pain interference was reported by 21.3% and 46.1%, respectively. Pain medication was received by 21.5%, with 11.6% receiving opioids. Among adults reporting severe pain interference, opioid prescriptions were filled by 27.0% versus 23.8% (p = 0.040) with and without cancer, respectively. Over half (56%) of adults reporting severe pain in both groups failed to receive any prescription pain medication. CONCLUSIONS Older adults with cancer were more likely to receive prescription pain medications compared with adults without cancer; however, many older adults reporting severe pain interference did not receive medications. Improved assessment and management of pain among older adults with and without cancer is urgently needed.
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Impact of Adverse Events Associated With Medications in the Treatment and Prevention of Rheumatoid Arthritis. Clin Ther 2019; 41:1376-1396. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2019.04.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2019] [Revised: 03/28/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Shaw LV, Moe J, Purssell R, Buxton JA, Godwin J, Doyle-Waters MM, Brasher PMA, Hau JP, Curran J, Hohl CM. Naloxone interventions in opioid overdoses: a systematic review protocol. Syst Rev 2019; 8:138. [PMID: 31186071 PMCID: PMC6560883 DOI: 10.1186/s13643-019-1048-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2018] [Accepted: 05/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND North America is in the midst of an unabated opioid overdose epidemic due to the increasing non-medical use of fentanyl and ultra-potent opioids. Naloxone is an effective antidote to opioid toxicity, yet its optimal dosing in the context of fentanyl and ultra-potent opioid overdoses remains unknown. This review aims to determine the relationship between the first empiric dose of naloxone and reversal of toxicity, adverse events, and the total cumulative dose required among patients with undifferentiated opioid overdoses and those with suspected toxicity from ultra-potent opioids. Secondary objectives include evaluating the relationship between the cumulative naloxone dose and toxicity reversal and adverse events, among patients with undifferentiated opioid overdoses and those with suspected toxicity from ultra-potent opioids. METHODS To identify studies, we will search MEDLINE, Embase, CENTRAL, DARE, CDAG, CINAHL, Science Citation Index, multiple trial registries, and the gray literature. Included studies will evaluate patients with suspected or confirmed opioid toxicity from undifferentiated opioids and ultra-potent opioids, who received an empiric and possibly additional doses of naloxone. The main outcomes of interest are the relationship between naloxone dose and toxicity reversal and adverse events. We will include controlled and non-controlled interventional studies, observational studies, case reports/series, and reports from poison control centers. We will extract data and assess study quality in duplicate with discrepancies resolved by consensus or a third party. We will use the Downs and Black and Cochrane risk of bias tools for observational and randomized controlled studies. If we find sufficient variation in dose, we will fit a random effects one-stage model to estimate a dose-response relationship. We will conduct multiple subgroup analyses, including by type of opioid used and by suspected high and low prevalence of ultra-potent opioid use based on geographic location and time of the original studies. DISCUSSION Our review will include the most up-to-date available data including ultra-potent opioids to inform the current response to the opioid epidemic, addressing the limitations of recent reviews. We anticipate limitations relating to study heterogeneity. We will disseminate study results widely to update overdose treatment guidelines and naloxone dosing in Take Home Naloxone programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay Victoria Shaw
- School of Social Dimensions of Health, University of Victoria, 3800 Finnerty Road, Victoria, BC V8P 5C2 Canada
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, 2300 McKenzie Ave, Victoria, BC V8P 5C2 Canada
| | - Jessica Moe
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of British Columbia, 855 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9 Canada
- Vancouver General Hospital, 855 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9 Canada
| | - Roy Purssell
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of British Columbia, 855 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9 Canada
- Vancouver General Hospital, 855 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9 Canada
- BC Centre for Disease Control, 655 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4R4 Canada
| | - Jane A. Buxton
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of British Columbia, 855 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9 Canada
- BC Centre for Disease Control, 655 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4R4 Canada
- School of Population and Public Health, 2329 West Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4 Canada
| | - Jesse Godwin
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of British Columbia, 855 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9 Canada
- Vancouver General Hospital, 855 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9 Canada
| | - Mary M. Doyle-Waters
- Centre for Clinical Epidemiology and Evaluation, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, 828 West 10th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9 Canada
| | - Penelope M. A. Brasher
- Centre for Clinical Epidemiology and Evaluation, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, 828 West 10th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9 Canada
| | - Jeffrey P. Hau
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of British Columbia, 855 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9 Canada
| | - Jason Curran
- BC Centre for Disease Control, 655 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4R4 Canada
- School of Population and Public Health, 2329 West Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4 Canada
| | - Corinne M. Hohl
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of British Columbia, 855 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9 Canada
- Vancouver General Hospital, 855 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9 Canada
- Centre for Clinical Epidemiology and Evaluation, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, 828 West 10th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9 Canada
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Morrow RL, Bassett K, Maclure M, Dormuth CR. Outcomes associated with hospital admissions for accidental opioid overdose in British Columbia: a retrospective cohort study. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e025567. [PMID: 31061028 PMCID: PMC6502019 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-025567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To study the association between accidental opioid overdose and neurological, respiratory, cardiac and other serious adverse events and whether risk of these adverse events was elevated during hospital readmissions compared with initial admissions. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. SETTING Population-based study using linked administrative data in British Columbia, Canada. PARTICIPANTS The primary analysis included 2433 patients with 2554 admissions for accidental opioid overdose between 2006 and 2015, including 121 readmissions within 1 year of initial admission. The secondary analysis included 538 patients discharged following a total of 552 accidental opioid overdose hospitalizations and 11 040 matched controls from a cohort of patients with ≥180 days of prescription opioid use. OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcome was encephalopathy; secondary outcomes were adult respiratory distress syndrome, respiratory failure, pulmonary haemorrhage, aspiration pneumonia, cardiac arrest, ventricular arrhythmia, heart failure, rhabdomyolysis, paraplegia or tetraplegia, acute renal failure, death, a composite outcome of encephalopathy or any secondary outcome and total serious adverse events (all-cause hospitalisation or death). We analysed these outcomes using generalised linear models with a logistic link function. RESULTS 3% of accidental opioid overdose admissions included encephalopathy and 25% included one or more adverse events (composite outcome). We found no evidence of increased risk of encephalopathy (OR 0.57; 95% CI 0.13 to 2.49) or other outcomes during readmissions versus initial admissions. In the secondary analysis, <5 patients in each cohort experienced encephalopathy. Risk of the composite outcome (OR 2.15; 95% CI 1.48 to 3.12) and all-cause mortality (OR 2.13; 95% CI 1.18 to 3.86) were higher for patients in the year following overdose relative to controls. CONCLUSIONS We found no evidence that risk of encephalopathy or other adverse events was higher in readmissions compared with initial admissions for accidental opioid overdose. Risk of serious morbidity and mortality may be elevated in the year following an accidental opioid overdose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard L Morrow
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Ken Bassett
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Family Practice, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Malcolm Maclure
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Colin R Dormuth
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Webster F, Rice K, Katz J, Bhattacharyya O, Dale C, Upshur R. An ethnography of chronic pain management in primary care: The social organization of physicians' work in the midst of the opioid crisis. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0215148. [PMID: 31042733 PMCID: PMC6493733 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0215148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2018] [Accepted: 03/27/2019] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study reports on physicians' experiences with chronic pain management. For over a decade prescription opioids have been a primary treatment for chronic pain in North America. However, the current opioid epidemic has complicated long-standing practices for chronic pain management which historically involved prescribing pain medication. Caring for patients with chronic pain occurs within a context in which a growing proportion of patients suffer from chronic rather than acute conditions alongside rising social inequities. METHODS Our team undertook an ethnographic approach known as institutional ethnography in the province of Ontario, Canada in order to explore the social organization of chronic pain management from the standpoint of primary care physicians. This paper reports on a subset of this study data, specifically interviews with 19 primary care clinicians and 8 nurses supplemented by 40 hours of observations. The clinicians in our sample were largely primary care physicians and nurses working in urban, rural and Northern settings. FINDINGS In their reflections on providing care for patients with chronic pain, many providers describe being most challenged by the work involved in helping patients who also struggled with poverty, mental health and addiction. These frustrations were often complicated by concerns that they could lose their license for inappropriate prescribing, thus shifting their work from providing treatment and care to policing their patients for malingering and opioid abuse. INTERPRETATION Our findings show that care providers find the treatment of patients with chronic pain-especially those patients also experiencing poverty-to be challenging at best, and at worst frustrating and overwhelming. In many instances, their narratives suggested experiences of depersonalization, loss of job satisfaction and emotional exhaustion in relation to providing care for these patients, key dimensions of burnout. In essence, the work that they performed in relation to their patients' social rather than medical needs seems to contribute to these experiences. Their experiences were further exacerbated by the fact that restricting and reducing opioid dosing in patients with chronic pain has become a major focus of care provision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Webster
- Arthur and Sonia Labatt Family School of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Kathleen Rice
- Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Joel Katz
- Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Anesthesia and Pain Management, Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Onil Bhattacharyya
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Women’s College Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Craig Dale
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ross Upshur
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Clinical Public Health, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Larney S, Hickman M, Fiellin DA, Dobbins T, Nielsen S, Jones NR, Mattick RP, Ali R, Degenhardt L. Using routinely collected data to understand and predict adverse outcomes in opioid agonist treatment: Protocol for the Opioid Agonist Treatment Safety (OATS) Study. BMJ Open 2018; 8:e025204. [PMID: 30082370 PMCID: PMC6078240 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-025204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2018] [Revised: 07/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION North America is amid an opioid use epidemic. Opioid agonist treatment (OAT) effectively reduces extramedical opioid use and related harms. As with all pharmacological treatments, there are risks associated with OAT, including fatal overdose. There is a need to better understand risk for adverse outcomes during and after OAT, and for innovative approaches to identifying people at greatest risk of adverse outcomes. The Opioid Agonist Treatment and Safety study aims to address these questions so as to inform the expansion of OAT in the USA. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This is a retrospective cohort study using linked, routinely collected health data for all people seeking OAT in New South Wales, Australia, between 2001 and 2017. Linked data include hospitalisation, emergency department presentation, mental health diagnoses, incarceration and mortality. We will use standard regression techniques to model the magnitude and risk factors for adverse outcomes (eg, mortality, unplanned hospitalisation and emergency department presentation, and unplanned treatment cessation) during and after OAT, and machine learning approaches to develop a risk-prediction model. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study has been approved by the Population and Health Services Research Ethics Committee (2018HRE0205). Results will be reported in accordance with the REporting of studies Conducted using Observational Routinely-collected health Data statement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Larney
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Matthew Hickman
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - David A Fiellin
- Schools of Medicine and Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Timothy Dobbins
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Suzanne Nielsen
- Monash Addiction Research Centre, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nicola R Jones
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Richard P Mattick
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Robert Ali
- Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Louisa Degenhardt
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Discontinuation of a randomised controlled trial in general practice due to unsuccessful patient recruitment. BJGP Open 2017; 1:bjgpopen17X101085. [PMID: 30564680 PMCID: PMC6169930 DOI: 10.3399/bjgpopen17x101085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background A randomised controlled trial (RCT) in general practice, recruiting incident patients with (sub)acute sciatica, was discontinued because of insufficient recruitment. Aim To describe factors that influenced the recruitment process and ultimately led to discontinuation of this trial, and to enable others to learn from this experience. Design & setting A pragmatic RCT was designed to compare two pain medication prescription strategies for treatment of (sub)acute sciatica in general practice. After 1 year of patient recruitment, the trial was prematurely terminated. Method To analyse the underperforming recruitment, patient information systems of 20 general practices were screened twice a month to search for eligible patients and identify reasons for non-eligibility. Secondly, after study termination, an open question was distributed to the participating GPs for their views on the recruitment process. Results A total of 116 GPs from 37 general practices collaborated in the trial. Only eight of 234 patients were included after 12 months. The 22 GPs who offered their opinion on the main reasons for unsuccessful recruitment considered that these were the low incidence rate and strict eligibility criteria, a strong patient and/or GP preference, and time constraints. Conclusion For this RCT, multiple factors were related to recruitment problems but it remains unknown which determinants prevailed. As the research question is unanswered but remains relevant, it is recommended that GPs' daily practice is taken into account when designing an RCT, a pilot study should be performed for feasibility of recruitment, and GP assistants should be involved at an early stage.
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Moeller J, Farmer J, Quiñonez C. Patterns of analgesic use to relieve tooth pain among residents in British Columbia, Canada. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0176125. [PMID: 28459825 PMCID: PMC5411044 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0176125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2016] [Accepted: 04/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of prescription opioids has increased dramatically in Canada in recent decades. This rise in opioid prescriptions has been accompanied by increasing rates of opioid-related abuse and addiction, creating serious public health challenges in British Columbia (BC), one of Canada's most populated provinces. Our study explores the relationship between dental pain and prescription opioid use among residents in BC. We used data from the 2003 Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS), which asked respondents about their use of specific analgesic medications, including opioids, and their history of tooth pain in the past month. We used logistic regression, controlling for potential confounding variables, to identify the predictive value of socioeconomic factors, oral health-related variables, and dental care utilization indicators. The Relative Index of Inequality (RII) was calculated to assess the magnitude of socioeconomic inequalities in the use of particular analgesics by incorporating income-derived ridit values into a binary logistic regression model. Our results showed that conventional non-opioid based analgesics (such as aspirin or Tylenol) and opioids were more likely to be used by those who had experienced a toothache in the past month than those who did not report experiencing a toothache. The use of non-opioid painkillers to relieve tooth pain was associated with more recent and more frequent dental visits, better self-reported oral health, and a greater income. Conversely, a lower household income was associated with a preference for opioid use to relieve tooth pain. The RII for recent opioid use and conventional painkiller use were 2.06 (95% CI: 1.75-2.37) and 0.62 (95% CI: 0.35-0.91), respectively, among those who experienced recent tooth pain, suggesting that adverse socioeconomic conditions may influence the need for opioid analgesics to relieve dental pain. We conclude that programs and policies targeted at improving the dental health of the poor may help to reduce the use of prescription opioids, thereby narrowing health inequalities within the broader society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie Moeller
- Discipline of Dental Public Health, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Julie Farmer
- Discipline of Dental Public Health, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Carlos Quiñonez
- Discipline of Dental Public Health, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Machado-Alba JE, Gaviria-Mendoza A, Vargas-Mosquera CA, Gil-Restrepo AF, Romero-Zapata LC. Opioid Prescribing Patterns and Costs in a Large Group of Patients in Colombia. J Pain Palliat Care Pharmacother 2017; 31:57-65. [PMID: 28287359 DOI: 10.1080/15360288.2016.1276504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The potential for development of tolerance and dependence and the risk of side effects of opioids make it necessary to monitor their prescribing patterns in order to decrease the morbidity and mortality associated with their continued use. The objective of this study was to determine prescription patterns of opioid medication in a group of patients through a cross-sectional study on a population database of 3.5 million people. Patients with three months of continuous opioid use were identified. Pharmacological, co-medication and cost variables were analyzed. We conducted a multivariate analysis. A total of 7,457 patients were included; 72.1% were women, the mean age was 65.1 years, and 3.8% had a diagnosis of cancer. 10.2% of the patients received opioids in combination therapy. The most prescribed opioids were codeine (57.7%), tramadol (30.9%), and hydrocodone (10.4%). The great majority of patients (91.8%) received pharmacological co-medication with antihypertensive agents (54.4%), statins (38.2%) and acetaminophen (35.4%). The use of other analgesics such as acetaminophen (OR: 1.45, 95% CI: 1.22 -1.75) or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (OR: 1.98, 95% CI: 1.60 -2.44) was associated with increased risk of receiving opioids in combination therapy. Prescribing habits of weak agonists and short-acting opioids predominate, mainly in monotherapy and at lower than recommended doses.
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Gisev N, Pearson SA, Blanch B, Larance B, Dobbins T, Larney S, Degenhardt L. Initiation of strong prescription opioids in Australia: cohort characteristics and factors associated with the type of opioid initiated. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2016; 82:1123-33. [PMID: 27260937 PMCID: PMC5137837 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.13026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2016] [Revised: 05/11/2016] [Accepted: 05/31/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS To describe the characteristics of Australians initiating strong opioids and examine the factors associated with the type of opioid initiated. METHODS Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme dispensing records were extracted for a 10% sample of people who initiated a strong opioid treatment episode (buprenorphine, fentanyl, hydromorphone, morphine, oxycodone) between 29 September 2009 and 31 December 2013, as evidenced by the absence of a strong opioid dispensing for at least 90 days. The cohort was restricted to people with complete medicines ascertainment. Socio-demographic characteristics, previous dispensing histories and index opioid use were examined. Multinomial logistic regression was used to calculate adjusted relative risk ratios (aRRRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) to determine the factors associated with the type of opioid medicine initiated, relative to oxycodone. RESULTS The cohort consisted of 125 335 people: 58.3% were female and 63.7% were aged ≥65 years. The most commonly initiated strong opioid was oxycodone (72.8%), usually 5 mg immediate-release tablets (76.1%). Compared to people aged 18-44 years, those ≥85 years were 14.18 times as likely (95% CI 12.67-15.87) to initiate morphine than oxycodone. Compared to people without a cancer treatment history, those with a cancer treatment history were 2.34 times as likely (95% CI 2.11-2.60) to initiate morphine than oxycodone. CONCLUSIONS The most commonly initiated strong opioid was oxycodone, usually at lower strengths. Those who initiated oxycodone were more likely to be younger with no previous cancer treatment history. As these are high-risk characteristics for potential harms, a judicious approach when initiating strong opioids for this group is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasa Gisev
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
| | - Sallie-Anne Pearson
- Centre for Big Data Research in Health, UNSW Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Bianca Blanch
- Faculty of Pharmacy, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Briony Larance
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Timothy Dobbins
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sarah Larney
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Louisa Degenhardt
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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