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Benassayag Kaduri N, Dressler R, Abu Ahmad W, Rotshild V. Trends in Pregabalin Use and Prescribing Patterns in the Adult Population: A 10-Year Pharmacoepidemiologic Study. CNS Drugs 2024; 38:153-162. [PMID: 38273137 PMCID: PMC10881619 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-024-01064-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Pregabalin is steadily gaining popularity worldwide, with epidemiological studies indicating an increase in labeled, off-labeled, and recreational uses. In Israel, pregabalin prescriptions are not regulated by the controlled substances legislations, prompting a need to examine its usage trends for potential policy adjustments. The objective of this study was to assess trends in pregabalin prescribing during a 10-year period, to characterize demographic and clinical characteristics of individuals prescribed pregabalin, and to identify risk factors associated with high-intensity pregabalin use. METHODS This retrospective, longitudinal study examined trends in pregabalin prescribing from 2010 to 2019 based on data extracted from the Clalit Health Services (CHS) electronic database. Annual pregabalin prescribing rate was calculated individually for each reporting year. A univariable analysis was conducted to compare the demographic and clinical characteristics of pregabalin users in 2019 with those in 2010. Multivariable regression analysis was performed to assess dose-related patterns by specific demographic and clinical characteristics. RESULTS Pregabalin prescription rate more than doubled over 10 years [odds ratio (OR) 2.3, p = 0.001], reaching 7.2 [95% confidence interval (CI) 7.18-7.28] prescriptions per 100 CHS members in 2019. The highest prescription rates were observed among the elderly population (13.2 and 24.1 prescriptions per 100 CHS members for those aged 55-74 and over 75 years old, respectively). Same-year administration of pregabalin with opioids, benzodiazepines, and Z-drugs was common; however, the percentage of patients using these drugs together declined in 2019 compared with 2010 (p < 0.001). Males, patients with low socioeconomic status, patients aged 35-54 years, and those who consumed opioids, benzodiazepines, and Z-drugs received higher pregabalin doses. CONCLUSION Pregabalin use has increased significantly in the Israeli adult-based CHS population, consistent with worldwide data. A growing use over time may indicate overprescription. More studies are needed on misuse patterns to identify populations most susceptible to high-dose and high-intensity pregabalin use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nofar Benassayag Kaduri
- Division of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Institute for Drug Research, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel.
| | - Reuven Dressler
- Jerusalem District, Clalit Health Services, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Wiessam Abu Ahmad
- School of Public Health, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Victoria Rotshild
- Division of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Institute for Drug Research, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
- Jerusalem District, Clalit Health Services, Jerusalem, Israel
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2
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Polat CS, Konak HE, Akıncı MG, Onat SS, Altas EU. Misuse of gabapentinoids (pregabalin and gabapentin) in patients with neuropathic pain related to spinal cord injury. J Spinal Cord Med 2023; 46:859-864. [PMID: 35108174 PMCID: PMC10446779 DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2021.2024709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the misuse of gabapentinoids (pregabalin and gabapentin) in patients with neuropathic pain related to spinal cord injury. STUDY DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING Outpatient clinic in a physical therapy and rehabilitation hospital. PARTICIPANTS 127 patients, aged 18-70 years, who had neuropathic pain related to spinal cord injury (SCI) and disease duration of at least 12 months. OUTCOME MEASURES Gabapentinoid use disorder of the patients was determined based on the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for substance-related disorders. Patients were divided into 2 groups as those with drug misuse and those without drug misuse. Demographic and clinical information of the patients were compared between the groups. Factors associated with drug misuse were analyzed. RESULTS The misuse rate was 81.9% in patients using pregabalin and 69.69% in patients using gabapentin. Duration of disease and the Leeds assessment of neuropathic symptoms and signs (LANSS) score were statistically significantly higher in the drug misuse group. A statistically significant difference was found between the groups in terms of marital status, education and income level, and smoking and alcohol use. A statistically significant relationship was observed between drug misuse and duration of disease and LANSS score. CONCLUSION Misuse of gabapentinoids is prevalent in patients with neuropathic pain related to spinal cord injury. The duration of disease and the severity of NP are associated with misuse. Clinicians should exercise caution when prescribing gabapentinoids to patients with SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cemile Sevgi Polat
- Ankara Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Hatice Ecem Konak
- Ankara Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Meltem Günes Akıncı
- Ankara Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Sule Sahin Onat
- Ankara Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Elif Umay Altas
- Ankara Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
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Servais L, Huberland V, Richelle L. Misuse of Pregabalin: a qualitative study from a patient's perspective. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:1339. [PMID: 37438829 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16051-6] [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: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The misuse of Pregabalin has been the subject of growing concern for several years. The effects sought are multiple and it is rarely taken as a single drug. It is most frequently used together with opioids, which may increase the risk of fatal overdose. In response to this emerging phenomenon, we seek to better understand the situation of misuse in Belgium and identify the people involved in it. METHODOLOGY A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews with 20 participants who misuse Pregabalin was conducted throughout the French-speaking region of Belgium between August 2021 and January 2022. Recruitment mostly took place in addictions centers, shelters for migrants and homeless persons and primary care centers. We then conducted a thematic analysis with the help of Nvivo software. RESULTS A profile emerged, of young male users, immigrants, mainly first generation immigrants coming from North Africa. They had in common a challenging or even traumatic migration pathway and precarious living conditions in Belgian territory. Most of them had no stable income. They saw Pregabalin as enabling them to cope with their daily situation. All had psychiatric and/or somatic comorbidities for which they had apparently not recieved adequate medical care. This seemed to lead many of them to use Pregabalin as self-medication, for anxiety-depressive disorders and chronic pain, and it was sometimes initiated in their home country. Pregabalin was never used alone. CONCLUSION This study has highlighted a rare and insufficient documented profile of Pregabalin misuse: self-medication among a group of first generation immigrants, most of whom have no previous history of opioid-related disorders. Measures should be taken to improve access to health and social care for this population, considering all their biopsychosocial vulnerabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise Servais
- Unité de Recherche en Soins Primaires ULB, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Route de Lennik 808, Brussels, CP 612 1070, Belgium.
- Département de Médecine Générale, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Route de Lennik 808, Brussels, CP 612 1070, Belgium.
| | - Vincent Huberland
- Unité de Recherche en Soins Primaires ULB, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Route de Lennik 808, Brussels, CP 612 1070, Belgium
- Département de Médecine Générale, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Route de Lennik 808, Brussels, CP 612 1070, Belgium
| | - Lou Richelle
- Unité de Recherche en Soins Primaires ULB, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Route de Lennik 808, Brussels, CP 612 1070, Belgium
- Département de Médecine Générale, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Route de Lennik 808, Brussels, CP 612 1070, Belgium
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Flemming R. Patterns of pregabalin prescribing in four German federal states: analysis of routine data to investigate potential misuse of pregabalin. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e060104. [PMID: 35879005 PMCID: PMC9328100 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-060104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [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] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study were to investigate the utilisation patterns of pregabalin, to identify users potentially misusing pregabalin and to compare this group of patients to patients prescribed recommended doses of pregabalin concerning their personal characteristics and the coordination among their prescribers. Unintended coprescription of drugs with addictive potential might occur when care is insufficiently coordinated. DESIGN Secondary data analysis of linked data from three regional sickness funds in Germany (AOK) for the years 2014-2016. SETTING Ambulatory and hospital care sector in four German federal states. METHODS On the basis of routine data, patients who received at least three prescriptions of pregabalin were identified and classified into patients prescribed pregabalin as recommended and those dispensed with a higher than recommended dose (>600 mg/day). Social network analysis was applied to identify prescription networks and to analyse cooperation among the prescribers. With descriptive statistics and univariate statistical tests, typical characteristics of the group of patients potentially misusing pregabalin were compared with the others. RESULTS Among the 53 049 patients prescribed pregabalin, about 2% (877) were classified as potentially misusing pregabalin. The majority of this group was male and aged between 30 and 60 years. Of the patients misusing pregabalin, 365 (42%) had a diagnosed history of substance use disorders and 359 (41%) had been prescribed another drug with addictive potential (opioids) before. The prescribers of those patients potentially misusing pregabalin were more loosely connected within networks compared with prescribers of patients prescribed pregabalin as recommended. CONCLUSION This study found that patients could exceed recommended doses of pregabalin by getting prescriptions from multiple physicians. Specific patients were at increased risk of potentially misusing pregabalin, and these patients sought to obtain their prescriptions from physicians who were as loosely connected as possible. Coordination and sharing a relevant number of patients seem to be levers to avoid these problems of unintended coprescribing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronja Flemming
- Chair of Health Economics, Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
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Aindow S, Crossin R, Toop L, Hudson B. Managing the misuse potential and risk of psychological harm from gabapentinoids in primary care in New Zealand. J Prim Health Care 2021; 13:302-307. [PMID: 34937640 DOI: 10.1071/hc21011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Gabapentinoid prescribing is increasing in New Zealand. International evidence suggests that this prescribing trend is followed by increasing harms, including misuse, dependence, overdose, and psychological harms including suicidal thoughts or behaviours. However, there is limited guidance for prescribers on how to manage these potential harms. Here, we summarise the current international literature and identify three main risk factors that can be used for screening purposes when considering prescribing a gabapentinoid, to identify patients that may be at greater risk of harm. Based on current knowledge of harms, we provide guidance to prescribers on monitoring patients taking gabapentinoids. Finally, we summarise the evidence regarding tapering, and highlight key knowledge gaps including other interventions, referral, and data from primary care populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaun Aindow
- University of Otago Medical School, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Rose Crossin
- Department of Population Health, University of Otago Medical School, 34 Gloucester St, Christchurch, New Zealand; and Corresponding author.
| | - Les Toop
- Department of General Practice, University of Otago Medical School, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Ben Hudson
- Department of General Practice, University of Otago Medical School, Christchurch, New Zealand
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Hofmann M, Besson M. Gabapentinoids: The rise of a new misuse epidemics? Psychiatry Res 2021; 305:114193. [PMID: 34534775 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2021.114193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Gabapentinoids and opioids have in common that they are used in medicine in the treatment of pain, and by addicts in recreational use. In recent years, in the context of the "opioid epidemics", gabapentinoids, which had a reputation for low risk of abuse, have been increasingly prescribed. This was accompanied by increasingly frequent abuses, the patients most at risk being those suffering from opiate addiction. However, gabapentinoids increase the risks associated with opioids or other sedatives, due to a synergy of central depressant effects. This leads to reconsider the framework of their prescription and the management of chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michel Hofmann
- Department of Psychiatry, Service of psychiatric specialties, Mood disorder unit, Geneva University Hospitals, Rue de Lausanne 20, CH-1201, Geneva, Switzerland; Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Anesthesiology, Psychopharmacology Unit, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Marie Besson
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Anesthesiology, Psychopharmacology Unit, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland; Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Anesthesiology, Intensive care and Pharmacology, Multidisciplinary Pain Center, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
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Abstract
This review summarizes current evidence on the abuse and misuse of the gabapentinoids pregabalin and gabapentin. Pharmacovigilance studies, register-based studies, surveys, clinical toxicology studies, and forensic toxicology studies were identified and scrutinized with the goal to define the problem, identify risk factors, and discuss possible methods to reduce the potential for abuse and misuse. Studies found that gabapentinoids are abused and misused and that individuals with a history of psychiatric disorders or substance use disorder seem to be at high risk. Moreover, some evidence supports the notion that patients with opioid use disorders may be at an increased risk of abusing gabapentinoids. Available evidence also suggests that abuse and misuse are more frequent in users of pregabalin compared with users of gabapentin. Health professionals and prescribers should be aware of the risk for misuse of pregabalin and gabapentin, which eventually could lead to abuse, substance dependence, and intoxications. Prescribing to patients belonging to risk populations such as those with psychiatric disorders or substance use disorder should be avoided if possible and, if prescribed, signs of misuse and abuse should be monitored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Staffan Hägg
- Futurum, Jönköping, Region Jönköping County and Department of Biomedicine and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Futurum, Hus B4, Ryhov Hospital, S-551 85, Jönköping, Sweden.
| | - Anna K Jönsson
- Division of Drug Research, Department of Biomedicine and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Forensic Genetics and Forensic Chemistry, National Board of Forensic Medicine, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Johan Ahlner
- Division of Drug Research, Department of Biomedicine and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Forensic Genetics and Forensic Chemistry, National Board of Forensic Medicine, Linköping, Sweden
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Goins A, Patel K, Alles SRA. The gabapentinoid drugs and their abuse potential. Pharmacol Ther 2021; 227:107926. [PMID: 34171338 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2021.107926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The gabapentinoid drugs, gabapentin and pregabalin, are first-line treatments for neuropathic pain. The epidemics of chronic pain and opioid misuse have given rise to the widespread use of non-opioid drugs such as the gabapentinoids for treatment. Unfortunately, the widespread use of gabapentinoid drugs has resulted in reports of misuse and abuse. Here we summarize the clinical reports of gabapentinoid abuse in different patient populations to help inform clinical practice of chronic pain management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleyah Goins
- Department of Anesthesiology & Critical Care Medicine, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Keisha Patel
- Department of Anesthesiology & Critical Care Medicine, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Sascha R A Alles
- Department of Anesthesiology & Critical Care Medicine, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, USA.
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Gu X, Chen TC, Su TL, Steinke D, Chen LC. Investigating the prescribing trajectory and geographical drug utilisation patterns of gabapentinoids in primary care in England: An ecological study. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2021; 87:4001-4012. [PMID: 33739542 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.14827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS This study aimed to investigate the prescribing trajectory, geographical variation and population factors, including socioeconomic status (SES), related to prescribing gabapentinoids in primary care in England. METHODS This ecological study applied practice-level dispensing data and statistics from the UK National Health Service Digital and Office for National Statistics from 2013 to 2019. The prescribing of gabapentinoids (in defined daily doses [DDDs]/1000 people) was measured annually and quarterly. General practices were categorised according to the quarterly prescribing in a group-based trajectory model. The one-year prescribing in 2018/19 was associated with practice-level covariates in a mixed-effects multilevel regression, adjusted for the cluster-effects of Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) and mapped geographically. RESULTS The annual national prescription rate increased by 70% from 2800 to 4773 DDDs/1000 people in the time period 2013/14 to 2018/19. General practices were stratified into six trajectory groups. Practices with the highest level and the greatest increase in prescribing (n = 789; 9.8%) are mainly located in the north of England and along the east and south coastline. Socioeconomic status, demographic characteristics and relevant disease conditions were significantly associated with the prescribing. For every decrease in the Index of Multiple Deprivation decile (becoming less affluent), prescribing of gabapentinoids increased significantly by 203 (95% CI: 183-222) DDDs/1000 registrants. CONCLUSIONS Gabapentinoid prescribing trajectories varied across geographical regions and are associated with socioeconomic status, CCG locality (geography) and other population characteristics. These factors should be considered in future studies investigating the determinants of gabapentinoid prescribing and the risk of harms associated with gabapentinoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinchun Gu
- Centre for Pharmacoepidemiology and Drug Safety, Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
| | - Teng-Chou Chen
- Centre for Pharmacoepidemiology and Drug Safety, Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
| | - Ting-Li Su
- Division of Dentistry, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
| | - Douglas Steinke
- Centre for Pharmacoepidemiology and Drug Safety, Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, M13 9PT, 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, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
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Kuhn D, Müller TJ, Mutschler J. [Pregabalin abuse and dependence in various European countries: Association with substitution policies]. FORTSCHRITTE DER NEUROLOGIE-PSYCHIATRIE 2021; 89:553-561. [PMID: 33440453 DOI: 10.1055/a-1324-3379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pregabalin was first approved in 2004 for the treatment of peripheral neuropathic pain and focal epileptic seizures, with or without secondary generalization. Prescription frequency has increased significantly since approval. In the early days, little attention was paid to the problem of misuse and dependence on pregabalin; in recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number of publications focusing on this problem. This review deals with these risk factors and risk groups of pregabalin abuse and dependence in different European countries and their drug policies. RESULTS Pregabalin abuse and dependence has increased significantly since its introduction to the market. It was shown that solo abuse of pregabalin is rare. In most cases, pregabalin was combined with other substances, which is also a predictor of pregabalin abuse. There were different reasons for the non-prescription use of pregabalin; it was used to increase the psychotropic effect, on the one hand, and to alleviate withdrawal symptoms, on the other hand. Furthermore, in Sweden, pregabalin was found in 28% of fatal intoxications among drug addicts. Young people were particularly affected. Abuse of pregabalin was detected in countries with restrictive substitution programmes, while in countries with liberal drug policies, no abuse was detected. However, the data situation in Switzerland with a liberal substitution programme is based on only one study, which is why pregabalin use in liberal substitution programmes cannot be conclusively clarified. CONCLUSIONS There seems to be a connection between a country's drug policy and the illegal use of pregabalin among persons in a substitution programme in that country. There are also risk factors and risk groups for pregabalin dependence and abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jochen Mutschler
- Zentrum für Translationale Psychiatrie, Universitätsklinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Universität Bern
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Tambon M, Ponté C, Jouanjus E, Fouilhé N, Micallef J, Lapeyre-Mestre M. Gabapentinoid Abuse in France: Evidence on Health Consequences and New Points of Vigilance. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:639780. [PMID: 33613345 PMCID: PMC7886797 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.639780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Gabapentinoid drugs (gabapentin and pregabalin) are widely used worldwide for epileptic and pain disorders. First signals of gabapentinoid abuse occurred in the last decade. This study aims to describe clinical characteristics of gabapentinoid use related disorders and health consequences in France. Materials and Methods: We designed a multisource investigation reviewing data reported to the French Addictovigilance Network (FAN) with pregabalin and gabapentin from 2010 to 2019. Information was obtained through the analysis of Spontaneous Reports (SRs) notified by health professionals and the pharmacoepidemiological surveys OSIAP (suspicious prescriptions forms indicators of potential abuse), OPPIDUM (observation of illicit drugs and misuse of psychotropic medications), DRAMES (death related to prescription drugs and other substances), and DTA (toxic deaths due to analgesics). Results: Over 2010-2019 period, were collected: (i) 265 SRs (258 pregabalin; 7 gabapentin); (ii) 816 forged prescription forms (805 pregabalin, 10 gabapentin, 1 involving both drugs); (iii) 145 cases of gabapentinoid use in people who use drugs (121 pregabalin; 24 gabapentin) and (iv) 31 cases of gabapentinoid-related deaths (25 pregabalin; 6 gabapentin). Risk factors of gabapentinoid abuse were opioid use disorders or psychiatric history, but cases of primary abuse in subjects without any substance abuse history were observed. Adverse outcomes concern almost exclusively pregabalin, with coma, dyspnea, convulsion, and conduction disorders. Treatment demands increased from 10.6% in 2018 to 23.1% in 2019, with pregabalin cited as the first substance leading to addictological care in the 2019 OPPIDUM survey. Gabapentinoid-related deaths increased over time. Pregabalin has become the first drug mentioned in forged prescriptions in 2019 (23.8% of OSIAP), while it ranked at the 15th position in 2017 (2.6%). Discussion: This study shows the importance of addictovigilance monitoring for gabapentinoids. Addictovigilance data helped to make visible the gabapentinoid-abuse related health harms (hospitalization for serious neurologic, psychiatric or cardiac effects, requests for addictological support and deaths) and to confirm the intrinsic abuse potential of pregabalin. These data highlight new points of vigilance considering observed primary abuse. At this point in France, the risk of abuse and related complications is very apparent with pregabalin. Still, it is identical to that observed elsewhere with gabapentin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marine Tambon
- Centre d'Evaluation et Information sur la Pharmacodépendance-Addictovigilance, Service de Pharmacologie Médicale et Clinique, CHU de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Camille Ponté
- Centre d'Evaluation et Information sur la Pharmacodépendance-Addictovigilance, Service de Pharmacologie Médicale et Clinique, CHU de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Emilie Jouanjus
- Centre d'Evaluation et Information sur la Pharmacodépendance-Addictovigilance, Service de Pharmacologie Médicale et Clinique, CHU de Toulouse, Toulouse, France.,Unité Mixte de Recherche, 1027 Inserm-Université, Pharmacoépidémiologie, Université de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Nathalie Fouilhé
- Centre d'Evaluation et Information sur la Pharmacodépendance-Addictovigilance, Service de Pharmacologie-Pharmacosurveillance, CHU Grenoble-Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Joelle Micallef
- Aix Marseille Univ, AP-HM, INSERM, Inst Neurosci Syst, Service de Pharmacologie Clinique et Pharmacovigilance, Marseille, France.,CEIP-Addictovigilance PACA Corse, Marseille, France
| | - Maryse Lapeyre-Mestre
- Centre d'Evaluation et Information sur la Pharmacodépendance-Addictovigilance, Service de Pharmacologie Médicale et Clinique, CHU de Toulouse, Toulouse, France.,Unité Mixte de Recherche, 1027 Inserm-Université, Pharmacoépidémiologie, Université de Toulouse, Toulouse, France.,Centre d'Investigation Clinique 1436, CHU de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
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12
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Peltokorpi J, Hakko H, Riipinen P, Riala K. Profile of Substance Misuse among Adolescent and Young Adult Gabapentinoid Users: A Register-Based Follow-up Study of Former Adolescent Psychiatric Inpatients. Subst Use Misuse 2021; 56:598-605. [PMID: 33663338 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2021.1883662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Our study examined characteristics of adolescent and young adult study participants using gabapentinoids (gabapentin, pregabalin), with previous history of adolescent psychiatric inpatient hospitalization. Particular focus was on temporal association of age, at first prescription for gabapentinoids, to age at tobacco smoking initiation, regular alcohol use, diagnosis of substance dependence and prescriptions for benzodiazepines and opioids. Methods: The initial study population contained 508 adolescents (300 females, 208 males) admitted to psychiatric inpatient care in Oulu University hospital between the ages 13-17 years. Register-based follow-up information on prescriptions for gabapentinoids, benzodiazepines and opioids, as well as ICD-10 diagnosis for hospital-treated substance dependence, was obtained from the Finnish national health care registers. Results: The users of gabapentinoids accounted for 9.1% of the initial study population. Of adolescence-related characteristics, suicidal ideation, suicide attempts and non-suicidal self-injury was emphasized in females using gabapentinoids. The majority of participants using gabapentinoids had benzodiazepines (80.4%) and opioids (71.7%) as comorbid drugs. Initiation of tobacco smoking and alcohol use and first prescriptions for of benzodiazepines and opioids, and a diagnosis of substance dependence commonly predated first prescriptions for gabapentinoids. Conclusions: In clinical practice, the decision to prescribe gabapentinoids to adolescents or young adults must be made with caution, particularly for those with substance use problems and/or without a clinically approved indication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juuso Peltokorpi
- Research Unit of Clinical Neuroscience, Psychiatry, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Helinä Hakko
- Department of Psychiatry, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | - Pirkko Riipinen
- Research Unit of Clinical Neuroscience, Psychiatry, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Kaisa Riala
- Department of Psychiatry, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
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13
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Roche S, Blaise M. [Pregabalin and risk of addiction: A new care issue?]. Encephale 2020; 46:372-381. [PMID: 32471706 DOI: 10.1016/j.encep.2020.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2019] [Revised: 02/09/2020] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Pregabalin (PRG) is a gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) analogue used for treatment of epilepsy, neuropathic pain, generalised anxiety disorder and currently being studied for other indications. Supported by the results of case studies and a limited number of studies, there is an ongoing debate about the addictive potential of PRG. However, evidence is scarce and no definitive assessment on the potential for abuse and dependence to PRG is available. The objective of our study was to identify the number of cases of abuse or dependence to PRG published and to study potential risk factors of addiction to PRG. METHODS We have identified on PubMed and ScienceDirect published case studies of PRG abuse or dependence and analysed these cases on the basis of several clinical parameters. RESULTS A total of 118 cases of PRG abuse or dependence were identified, including 21 isolated cases (mean age 33 years, 67 % men). The mean daily dose of PRG was 2,9 g. Current or past polydrug abuse was present in the majority of cases. Psychiatric diagnoses, other than substance-related disorders, were reported in as many patients, and almost all patients experienced withdrawal symptoms when PRG was discontinued. CONCLUSION Current literature suggests an important and growing concern for the abuse of PRG. Male sex, psychiatric and/or addiction history, including opioid addiction, may be potential risk factors for the development of addictive behaviours associated with PRG.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Roche
- Centre médical Marmottan, 17-19, rue d'Armaillé, 75017 Paris, France.
| | - M Blaise
- Centre médical Marmottan, 17-19, rue d'Armaillé, 75017 Paris, France
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Zheng Z, Taylor B, Rowlingson B, Lawson E. Spatiotemporal modelling of pregabalin prescribing in England with effect of deprivation. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e029624. [PMID: 32205369 PMCID: PMC7103846 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-029624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2019] [Revised: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This paper aims to understand spatial and temporal trends in pregabalin prescribing and the relationship with deprivation across England at both general practice and clinical commissioning group (CCG) levels. DESIGN A set of 207 independent generalised additive models are employed to model the spatiotemporal trend of pregabalin prescribed and dispensed per 1000 population, adjusting for deprivation. The response variable is pregabalin prescribed in milligrams, with weighted Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD), geographical location and time as predictors. The set of active prescribing facilities grouped within CCG is the unit of analysis. SETTING National Health Service open prescribing data; all general practices in England, UK between January 2015 and June 2017. POPULATION All patients registered to general practices in England, UK. RESULTS Adjusting for deprivation, a North-South divide is shown in terms of prescribing trends, with the North of England showing increasing prescribing rates during the study period on average, while in the South of England rates are on average decreasing. Approximately 60% of general practices showed increasing prescribing rate, with the highest being 4.03 (1.75 for the most decreasing). There were no apparent spatial patterns in baseline prescription rates at the CCG level. Weighted IMD score proved to be statistically significant in 138 of 207 CCGs. Two-thirds of CCGs showed more pregabalin prescribed in areas of greater deprivation. Whether the prescribing rate is high due to high baseline prescription rate or increasing rates needs to be specifically looked at. CONCLUSIONS The spatial temporal modelling demonstrated that the North of England has a significantly higher chance to see increase in pregablin prescriptions compared with the South, adjusted for weighted IMD. Weighted IMD has shown positive impact on pregabalin prescriptions for 138 CCGs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyu Zheng
- Lancaster Medical School, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - Benjamin Taylor
- Lancaster Medical School, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | | | - Euan Lawson
- Lancaster Medical School, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
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15
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Çıtak Ekici Ö, Şahiner V, Erzin G, Ocak D, Şahiner ŞY, Göka E. Pregabalin abuse among patients with opioid use disorders may increase the severity of withdrawal symptoms: a single-center, case-control study. PSYCHIAT CLIN PSYCH 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/24750573.2019.1673946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Özlem Çıtak Ekici
- Merzifon Kara Mustafa Paşa State Hospital, Psychiatry Department, Amasya, Turkey
- Present/permanent work address: Merzifon Kara Mustafa Paşa State Hospital, Psychiatry Department, Amasya, Turkey
| | - Volkan Şahiner
- Ankara Bilkent City Hospital, Psychiatry Department, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Gamze Erzin
- Dışkapı Yıldırım Beyazıt Training and Research Hospital, Psychiatry Department, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Davut Ocak
- Necip Fazıl City Hospital, Psychiatry Department, Kahramanmaraş, Turkey
| | | | - Erol Göka
- Ankara Bilkent City Hospital, Psychiatry Department, Ankara, Turkey
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16
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Cairns R, Schaffer AL, Ryan N, Pearson SA, Buckley NA. Rising pregabalin use and misuse in Australia: trends in utilization and intentional poisonings. Addiction 2019; 114:1026-1034. [PMID: 30098227 DOI: 10.1111/add.14412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2018] [Revised: 06/25/2018] [Accepted: 08/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Pregabalin is a gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) analogue, used to treat neuropathic pain and epilepsy. Pregabalin was registered in Australia in 2005, and subsidized publically in 2013. We aimed to describe Australian patterns of pregabalin use and intentional poisoning, and identify people potentially at high risk of misuse. DESIGN AND SETTING Population-based retrospective cohort study of dispensings in the 10% sample of Australian Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (July 2012-February 2017); intentional poisoning calls to New South Wales Poisons Information Centre (NSWPIC) (2004-2016); intentional poisonings in two Australian toxicology service databases; and poisoning fatalities in NSW coronial records (2005-2016). PARTICIPANTS A total of 122 572 people dispensed pregabalin, people with intentional pregabalin overdoses managed by NSWPIC and the toxicology services and pregabalin-associated deaths referred to the NSW coroner. MEASUREMENTS Trends in dispensing, poisoning, death; demographics and patient characteristics, proportion of users at high risk of misuse (latent class analysis, LCA) and characteristics of high-risk users. FINDINGS Pregabalin dispensing increased by 73 424 per year [95% confidence interval (CI) = 61726-85 121 P < 0.001] between 2013 and 2016. NSWPIC received 1158 reports of intentional pregabalin poisonings, with a 53.8% increase per year, 2005-2016 (95% CI = 44.0-64.2%, P < 0.001). We identified 88 pregabalin-associated deaths, 57.8% yearly increase (95% CI = 30.0-91.6%, P < 0.001). Patients overdosing on pregabalin commonly co-ingested opioids, benzodiazepines and illicit drugs, and had high rates of psychiatric and substance use comorbidities; 14.7% of pregabalin users were classed by the LCA as at high risk of misuse, and were more likely to be younger, male, co-prescribed benzodiazepines or opioids, have more individual prescribers and higher pregabalin strengths dispensed. CONCLUSIONS There has been a dramatic increase in pregabalin use, poisonings and deaths in Australia since it became subsidized publicly in 2013. One in seven Australians dispensed pregabalin appears to be at high risk of misuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rose Cairns
- New South Wales Poisons Information Centre, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, NSW, Australia.,Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology Research Group, Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Andrea L Schaffer
- Centre for Big Data Research in Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Nicole Ryan
- Clinical Toxicology Research Group, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Australia
| | - Sallie-Anne Pearson
- Centre for Big Data Research in Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Nicholas A Buckley
- New South Wales Poisons Information Centre, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, NSW, Australia.,Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology Research Group, Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
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17
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Driot D, Jouanjus E, Oustric S, Dupouy J, Lapeyre-Mestre M. Patterns of gabapentin and pregabalin use and misuse: Results of a population-based cohort study in France. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2019; 85:1260-1269. [PMID: 30737829 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.13892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2018] [Revised: 01/06/2019] [Accepted: 02/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS The aim of this study was to assess the use and factors associated with the misuse of gabapentin and pregabalin in the general French population, through a cohort study in the EGB (General Sample of Beneficiaries), a national representative sample of the French general population. METHODS New users of gabapentin and pregabalin were identified from June 2006 to December 2014, and new users of duloxetine served as control group. Misuse was defined as a use of higher daily doses than recommended. Cox proportional hazard regression models were performed to identify associated factors of misuse. RESULTS Misuse was more frequent in the 8692 new users of pregabalin (12.8%) than in the 1963 gabapentin (6.6%) or the 3214 duloxetine new users (9.7%) (P < 0.001). Factors associated with misuse were pregabalin (hazard ratio [HR] 1.48; 95% confidence interval [CI] [1.29-1.69]), age (HR[18-45] versus > 70 years 1.98 [1.70-2.31] and HR[58-70] versus > 70 years 1.25 [1.06-1.47]), multiple prescribers (HR2 or 3 versus 1 prescriber 1.29 [1.15-1.45]; HR4 or more versus 1 prescriber 1.54 [1.30-1.83]), cancer (1.28 [1.11-1.47]), multiple sclerosis (1.53 [1.07-2.18]), neuropathy (1.85 [1.19-2.89]), depression (1.26 [1.07-1.49]) and methadone (2.61 [1.16-5.84]). After this first episode of drug misuse, 11.6% of gabapentin and 10.7% of pregabalin misusers developed a primary addiction. CONCLUSION In a cohort of new users, misuse is more likely to occur in new users of pregabalin, with different associated factors of misuse compared to gabapentin and duloxetine. Health professionals and prescribers must be aware of this misuse potential, which could lead to abuse and dependence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damien Driot
- Département universitaire de médecine générale, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Toulouse, France.,Unité Mixte de Recherche, 1027 Inserm-Université, Pharmacoépidémiologie, Université de Toulouse, France
| | - Emilie Jouanjus
- Unité Mixte de Recherche, 1027 Inserm-Université, Pharmacoépidémiologie, Université de Toulouse, France.,Centre d'Evaluation et d'Information sur la Pharmacodépendance-Addictovigilance (CEIP), Service de Pharmacologie Médicale et Clinique, CHU de Toulouse, France
| | - Stéphane Oustric
- Département universitaire de médecine générale, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Toulouse, France.,Unité Mixte de Recherche, 1027 Inserm-Université, Pharmacoépidémiologie, Université de Toulouse, France
| | - Julie Dupouy
- Département universitaire de médecine générale, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Toulouse, France.,Unité Mixte de Recherche, 1027 Inserm-Université, Pharmacoépidémiologie, Université de Toulouse, France
| | - Maryse Lapeyre-Mestre
- Unité Mixte de Recherche, 1027 Inserm-Université, Pharmacoépidémiologie, Université de Toulouse, France.,Centre d'Evaluation et d'Information sur la Pharmacodépendance-Addictovigilance (CEIP), Service de Pharmacologie Médicale et Clinique, CHU de Toulouse, France.,Centre d'Investigation Clinique, 1436 Inserm CHU, CHU de Toulouse, France
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18
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Ivanova I, Elseviers M, Wettermark B, Schmidt Mende K, Vander Stichele R, Christiaens T. Electronic assessment of cardiovascular potentially inappropriate medications in an administrative population database. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2018; 124:62-73. [DOI: 10.1111/bcpt.13095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2018] [Accepted: 07/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Ivanova
- Clinical Pharmacology Research Unit; Heymans Institute of Pharmacology; Ghent University; Ghent Belgium
| | - Monique Elseviers
- Clinical Pharmacology Research Unit; Heymans Institute of Pharmacology; Ghent University; Ghent Belgium
- Centre For Research and Innovation in Care (CRIC); University of Antwerp; Wilrijk Belgium
| | - Bjorn Wettermark
- Public Healthcare Services Committee Administration; Stockholm County Council; Stockholm Sweden
- Department of Medicine; Unit for Clinical Epidemiology; Centre for Pharmacoepidemiology; Karolinska Institutet; Stockholm Sweden
| | - Katharina Schmidt Mende
- Academic Primary Health Care Center; Stockholm County Council; Huddinge Sweden
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society; Division of Family Medicine; Karolinska Institute; Huddinge Sweden
| | - Robert Vander Stichele
- Clinical Pharmacology Research Unit; Heymans Institute of Pharmacology; Ghent University; Ghent Belgium
| | - Thierry Christiaens
- Clinical Pharmacology Research Unit; Heymans Institute of Pharmacology; Ghent University; Ghent Belgium
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19
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Al-Husseini A, Van Hout MC, Wazaify M. Pregabalin Misuse and Abuse: A Scoping Review of Extant Literature. JOURNAL OF DRUG ISSUES 2018. [DOI: 10.1177/0022042618759487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Prescribing of pregabalin is increasing worldwide with public health concerns centering on misuse and abuse of prescribed and diverted pregabalin. To describe and map what is known about misuse and abuse of pregabalin, a scoping review of available published literature was undertaken. A scoping review methodology was used to identify and map available literature on misuse and abuse of prescribed and diverted pregabalin. Four themes emerged on the misuse and abuse of pregabalin: (a) abuse potential, (b) prevalence of abuse, (c) risk and predisposition, and (d) consequences of abuse. Fifty-four records were reviewed and charted. Of note was the dearth of research on the topic prior to 2005, with increased interest in pregabalin abuse potential from 2010 onward. Available literature supports concern around abuse potential of pregabalin, especially among patients with a history of substance abuse. Prescribers should adopt more rational prescribing.
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20
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Al-Husseini A, Abu-Farha R, Wazaify M, Van Hout MC. Pregabalin dispensing patterns in Amman-Jordan: An observational study from community pharmacies. Saudi Pharm J 2018; 26:306-310. [PMID: 29556121 PMCID: PMC5856951 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsps.2018.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2017] [Accepted: 01/29/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Pregabalin is currently approved for the treatment of epilepsy, generalized anxiety disorder, neuropathic pain and fibromyalgia. Rising attention to the abuse liability of pregabalin causing addictive behaviors is partially based on case reports and published literature of pregabalin used in dosages that override the approved therapeutic range. This study was conducted to provide background data regarding the abuse/misuse of pregabalin from community pharmacy in Jordan. Methods A prospective cross-sectional observational study design was used, which was conducted at different community pharmacies in Amman-Jordan. During the study period (November 2016-January 2017), a total 77 requests for pregabalin were observed from 14 pharmacies. A structured interview was conducted with all customers to gather information regarding their demographic and their request of pregabalin. Results A total of 77 pregabalin requests form 77 customers in a community pharmacy setting were observed in this study. Spinal disc herniation was the most common complaint for which the customer asked for the medication (n = 27, 35.1%). Self-medication was the most frequent method of requesting pregabalin (n = 44, 57.1%), while a total of 33 customers (42.9%) asked for the product using a prescription. During the observation period the number of customers suspected of abusing pregabalin for non-medical reason was 35 (45.5%). A total of 33 out of the 35 suspected customers (94.3%) asked for the product without a prescription, and 19/35 weren't sold due to suspicion of abuse (54.3%). Conclusion The study underscores the need for regulatory efforts to manage pregabalin abuse, through the addition of pregabalin containing products to the controlled drug list which can't be purchased without a prescription. Also, pharmacists and customers must be educated at a community pharmacy level regarding potential hazards of pregabalin abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amneh Al-Husseini
- Department of Biopharmaceutics and Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, The University of Jordan (UJ), Amman, Jordan
| | - Rana Abu-Farha
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Therpeutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan
- Corresponding author.
| | - Mayyada Wazaify
- Department of Biopharmaceutics and Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, The University of Jordan (UJ), Amman, Jordan
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21
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Bonnet U, Scherbaum N. How addictive are gabapentin and pregabalin? A systematic review. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2017; 27:1185-1215. [PMID: 28988943 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2017.08.430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 154] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2017] [Revised: 07/16/2017] [Accepted: 08/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
In the last ten years, gabapentin and pregabalin have been becoming dispensed broadly and sold on black markets, thereby, exposing millions to potential side-effects. Meanwhile, several pharmacovigilance-databases have warned for potential abuse liabilities and overdose fatalities in association with both gabapentinoids. To evaluate their addiction risk in more detail, we conducted a systematic review on PubMed/Scopus and included 106 studies. We did not find convincing evidence of a vigorous addictive power of gabapentinoids which is primarily suggested from their limited rewarding properties, marginal notes on relapses, and the very few cases with gabapentinoid-related behavioral dependence symptoms (ICD-10) in patients without a prior abuse history (N=4). In support, there was no publication about people who sought treatment for the use of gabapentinoids. Pregabalin appeared to be somewhat more addictive than gabapentin regarding the magnitude of behavioral dependence symptoms, transitions from prescription to self-administration, and the durability of the self-administrations. The principal population at risk for addiction of gabapentinoids consists of patients with other current or past substance use disorders (SUD), mostly opioid and multi-drug users, who preferred pregabalin. Pure overdoses of gabapentinoids appeared to be relative safe but can become lethal (pregabalin > gabapentin) in mixture with other psychoactive drugs, especially opioids again and sedatives. Based upon these results, we compared the addiction risks of gabapentin and pregabalin with those of traditional psychoactive substances and recommend that in patients with a history of SUD, gabapentinoids should be avoided or if indispensable, administered with caution by using a strict therapeutic and prescription monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- U Bonnet
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and Psychosomatic Medicine, Evangelisches Krankenhaus Castrop-Rauxel, Academic Teaching Hospital of the University of Duisburg-Essen, Grutholzallee 21, D-44577 Castrop-Rauxel, Germany; LVR-Hospital Essen, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Duisburg-Essen, D-45147 Essen, Germany.
| | - N Scherbaum
- LVR-Hospital Essen, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Duisburg-Essen, D-45147 Essen, Germany
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22
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Viñas-Bastart M, Oms-Arias M, Pedraza-Gutiérrez À, Lizano-Díez I, Modamio P, Mariño EL. Clinical Use of Pregabalin in General Practice in Catalonia, Spain: A Population-Based Cross-Sectional Study. PAIN MEDICINE 2017; 19:1639-1649. [DOI: 10.1093/pm/pnx159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Montserrat Viñas-Bastart
- Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacotherapy Unit, Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Míriam Oms-Arias
- Costa de Ponent Primary Care Directorate, Catalan Institute of Health, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Àfrica Pedraza-Gutiérrez
- Costa de Ponent Primary Care Directorate, Catalan Institute of Health, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Irene Lizano-Díez
- Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacotherapy Unit, Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pilar Modamio
- Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacotherapy Unit, Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eduardo L Mariño
- Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacotherapy Unit, Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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23
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24
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Morrison EE, Sandilands EA, Webb DJ. Gabapentin and pregabalin: do the benefits outweigh the harms? J R Coll Physicians Edinb 2017. [DOI: 10.4997/jrcpe.2017.402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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25
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Freynhagen R, Backonja M, Schug S, Lyndon G, Parsons B, Watt S, Behar R. Pregabalin for the Treatment of Drug and Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms: A Comprehensive Review. CNS Drugs 2016; 30:1191-1200. [PMID: 27848217 PMCID: PMC5124051 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-016-0390-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Treatments for physical dependence and associated withdrawal symptoms following the abrupt discontinuation of prescription drugs (such as opioids and benzodiazepines), nicotine, alcohol, and cannabinoids are available, but there is still a need for new and more effective therapies. This review examines evidence supporting the potential use of pregabalin, an α2δ voltage-gated calcium channel subunit ligand, for the treatment of physical dependence and associated withdrawal symptoms. A literature search of the MEDLINE and Cochrane Library databases up to and including 11 December 2015 was conducted. The search term used was '(dependence OR withdrawal) AND pregabalin'. No other date limits were set and no language restrictions were applied. Works cited in identified articles were cross-referenced and personal archives of references also searched. Articles were included based on the expert opinions of the authors. There is limited evidence supporting the role of pregabalin for the treatment of physical dependence and accompanying withdrawal symptoms associated with opioids, benzodiazepines, nicotine, cannabinoids, and alcohol, although data from randomized controlled studies are sparse. However, the current evidence is promising and provides a platform for future studies, including appropriate randomized, placebo- and/or comparator-controlled studies, to further explore the efficacy and safety of pregabalin for the treatment of withdrawal symptoms. Given the potential for pregabalin misuse or abuse, particularly in individuals with a previous history of substance abuse, clinicians should exercise caution when using pregabalin in this patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rainer Freynhagen
- Zentrum für Anästhesiologie, Intensivmedizin, Schmerzmedizin and Palliativmedizin, Benedictus Krankenhaus, Tutzing and Klinik für Anästhesiologie, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany.
| | - Miroslav Backonja
- University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
- WorldWide Clinical Trials, Morrisville, NC, USA
| | - Stephan Schug
- School of Medicine and Pharmacology, University of Western Australia, and Royal Perth Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia
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26
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Stannard C. Misuse of gabapentin and pregabalin: a marker for a more serious malaise? Addiction 2016; 111:1699-700. [PMID: 27454743 DOI: 10.1111/add.13408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2016] [Revised: 03/17/2016] [Accepted: 03/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Cathy Stannard
- Pain Clinic, Gloucester House, Southmead Hospital, Bristol, UK.
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27
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Pottegård A, Tjäderborn M, Schjerning O, Nielsen J, Damkier P, Bodén R. Re: Pregabalin prescriptions in the United Kingdom - a drug utilisation study of The Health Improvement Network (THIN) primary care database by Asomaning et al. Int J Clin Pract 2016; 70:696. [PMID: 27466015 DOI: 10.1111/ijcp.12836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- A Pottegård
- Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.
| | - M Tjäderborn
- Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Drug Research, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - O Schjerning
- Psychiatry, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - J Nielsen
- Psychiatry, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - P Damkier
- Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - R Bodén
- Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Medicine Solna, Centre for Pharmacoepidemiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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28
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Asomaning K, Abramsky S, Liu Q, Zhou X, Sobel RE, Watt S. Re: Letter written in reaction to "Pregabalin prescriptions in the United Kingdom: a drug utilisation study of The Health Improvement Network (THIN) primary care database", by Pottegård et al. - The authors (Asomaning et al.) respond. Int J Clin Pract 2016; 70:697-8. [PMID: 27466016 DOI: 10.1111/ijcp.12848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- K Asomaning
- Department of Epidemiology, Pfizer Inc, New York, NY, USA.
| | - S Abramsky
- Department of Epidemiology, Pfizer Inc, New York, NY, USA
| | - Q Liu
- Department of Epidemiology, Pfizer Inc, New York, NY, USA
| | - X Zhou
- Department of Epidemiology, Pfizer Inc, New York, NY, USA
| | - R E Sobel
- Department of Epidemiology, Pfizer Inc, New York, NY, USA
| | - S Watt
- Department of Medical Affairs, Pfizer Inc, New York, NY, USA
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Chiappini S, Schifano F. A Decade of Gabapentinoid Misuse: An Analysis of the European Medicines Agency's 'Suspected Adverse Drug Reactions' Database. CNS Drugs 2016; 30:647-54. [PMID: 27312320 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-016-0359-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The gabapentinoids pregabalin and gabapentin are being increasingly prescribed for a range of clinical conditions. Recently, although gabapentinoids at therapeutic dosages may present with low addictive liability levels, cases of misuse and rising numbers of related fatalities have been reported. OBJECTIVES The aim of the study was to identify and assess cases of gabapentinoid misuse or dependence as reported to the European Medicines Agency's EudraVigilance database, to identify the magnitude of this problem and the characteristics of these reactions. METHODS All spontaneous reports of both gabapentin- (2004-2015) and pregabalin- (2006-2015) related misuse/abuse/dependence were retrieved. A descriptive analysis by source, sex, age, and type of report was performed. RESULTS From the EudraVigilance database 7639 (6.6 % of a total of 115,616) and 4301 (4.8 % of 90,166) adverse drug reaction reports of misuse/abuse/dependence were, respectively, associated with pregabalin and gabapentin, with an overall reporting frequency increasing over time. For both molecules, subjects typically involved were female adults. A total of 27 and 86 fatalities, respectively, associated with pregabalin and gabapentin, and mostly in combination with opioids, were identified. Analysis of proportional reporting ratios for drug abuse/dependence/intentional product misuse values seem to indicate that these adverse drug reactions were more frequently reported for pregabalin (1.25, 1.39, and 1.58, respectively) compared with gabapentin. CONCLUSIONS Despite data collection/methodological approach limitations, the present data seem to suggest that gabapentinoid misuse may be a cause for concern, especially in patients with a history of substance misuse. Hence, healthcare professionals should be vigilant when prescribing these molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Chiappini
- Department of Psychiatry, Catholic University School of Medicine, Largo Agostino Gemelli 8, Rome, 00168, Italy.
| | - Fabrizio Schifano
- School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, UK
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Asomaning K, Abramsky S, Liu Q, Zhou X, Sobel RE, Watt S. Pregabalin prescriptions in the United Kingdom: a drug utilisation study of The Health Improvement Network (THIN) primary care database. Int J Clin Pract 2016; 70:380-8. [PMID: 27028939 DOI: 10.1111/ijcp.12791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM In Europe, pregabalin is approved for treatment of neuropathic pain, general anxiety disorder (GAD) and as adjunctive therapy for epilepsy. The purpose of this study was to assess utilisation of pregabalin in the UK, including patients with a recorded history of substance abuse, from a large general practice database. METHODS This observational drug utilisation study (DUS) analysed pregabalin prescription data from the UK Health Improvement Network primary care database between September 2004 and July 2009. Patient demographics, diagnoses (by READ codes) and pregabalin dosing data were collected. Diagnosis codes were used as proxy for approved indication for pregabalin. RESULT A cohort of 18,951 patients was prescribed pregabalin; dosing information was available for 13,480 (71.1%). Median age of patients was 58 years, and majority were female (60.1%). Median (interquartile range) prescribed average daily dose (ADD) of pregabalin for all patients was 150.0 (162.5) mg/day; this was highest in patients with epilepsy (191.9 mg/day), followed by neuropathic pain (158.0 mg/day) and GAD (150.0 mg/day). Only 1.0% (136/13,480) of patients were prescribed an ADD of pregabalin over the maximum approved dose of 600 mg/day. Of these, 18.4% (25/136) of patients had a history of substance abuse compared with 14.0% (1884/13,480) in the full population. CONCLUSION Data from this DUS indicated that the majority of pregabalin prescribing in the UK was consistent with product labelling. The proportion of patients with prescribed ADD > 600 mg/day was small and with a similar proportion with a history of substance abuse as in the full population.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Asomaning
- Department of Epidemiology, Pfizer Inc, New York, NY, USA
| | - S Abramsky
- Department of Epidemiology, Pfizer Inc, New York, NY, USA
| | - Q Liu
- Department of Epidemiology, Pfizer Inc, New York, NY, USA
| | - X Zhou
- Department of Epidemiology, Pfizer Inc, New York, NY, USA
| | - R E Sobel
- Department of Epidemiology, Pfizer Inc, New York, NY, USA
| | - S Watt
- Department of Medical Affairs, Pfizer Inc, New York, NY, USA
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Steinhoff BJ, Eckhardt K, Doty P, De Backer M, Brunnert M, Schulze-Bonhage A. A long-term noninterventional safety study of adjunctive lacosamide therapy in patients with epilepsy and uncontrolled partial-onset seizures. Epilepsy Behav 2016; 58:35-43. [PMID: 27054272 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2016.02.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2015] [Revised: 02/26/2016] [Accepted: 02/27/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
This noninterventional, observational, postauthorization safety study (SP0942, NCT00771927) evaluated the incidence of predefined cardiovascular- (CV) and psychiatric-related treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs), in patients with epilepsy and uncontrolled partial-onset seizures, when initiating adjunctive therapy with lacosamide or another approved antiepileptic drug (AED) according to standard medical practice. Active recording of predefined TEAEs of interest took place at three-monthly recommended visits for up to 12months. Of 1004 patients who received at least one dose of adjunctive AEDs, 511 initially added lacosamide therapy, 493 added another AED, 69 were ≥65years of age, and 72 took concomitant antiarrhythmic drugs. Patients in the lacosamide cohort had a higher median frequency of partial-onset seizures (6.0 versus 3.5 per 28days) despite taking more concomitant AEDs (84.9% versus 66.9% took ≥2) at baseline. Patients who added lacosamide took a modal dose of 200mg/day over the treatment period (n=501), and 50.1% (256/511) completed 12months of treatment. Fifty-one point nine percent (256/493) of patients who added another AED completed the study, with the most commonly added AED being levetiracetam (28.4%). Four patients (0.8%) in each cohort, all <65years of age, reported predefined CV-related TEAEs. None were considered serious or led to discontinuation. One event each of sinus bradycardia (lacosamide), atrioventricular block first degree (lacosamide), and syncope (other AED) were judged to be treatment-related. Another patient in the other AED cohort reported bradycardia while taking concomitant antiarrhythmic drugs. Predefined psychiatric-related TEAEs were reported by 21 patients (4.1%) in the lacosamide cohort and 27 patients (5.5%) in the other AED cohort. Depression was the most common to be treatment-related (7/11 and 12/18 of patients reporting treatment-related psychiatric TEAEs, respectively). Serious psychiatric-related TEAEs were reported by four patients who added lacosamide (two cases of depression, two of suicide attempt) and one who added another AED (depression). Seven deaths occurred, all of which were considered unrelated/unlikely related to study medication. This thorough evaluation revealed a low incidence of predefined CV- and psychiatric-related TEAEs in patients taking adjunctive AED therapy according to standard medical practice. No specific safety concerns related to adjunctive lacosamide therapy were noted.
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Tjäderborn M, Jönsson AK, Sandström TZ, Ahlner J, Hägg S. Non-prescribed use of psychoactive prescription drugs among drug-impaired drivers in Sweden. Drug Alcohol Depend 2016; 161:77-85. [PMID: 26875672 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2016.01.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2015] [Revised: 01/14/2016] [Accepted: 01/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To determine the prevalence of non-prescribed drug use among subjects suspected of drug-impaired driving with a psychoactive prescription drug, and to identify associated factors. METHODS Subjects investigated for drug-impaired driving in Sweden during 2006-2009 with a confirmed intake of diazepam, flunitrazepam, tramadol, zolpidem or zopiclone were identified using the Swedish Forensic Toxicology Database. Information on dispensed prescription drugs was retrieved from the Swedish Prescribed Drug Register. Non-prescribed use was our outcome, defined as a psychoactive prescription drug intake confirmed by toxicological analysis in a subject by whom it was not dispensed in the 12 months preceding the sampling. Prevalence proportions were calculated for each drug and logistic regression was used to identify associated factors. RESULTS In total, 2225 subjects were included. The median age (range) was 34 (15-80) years and 1864 (83.8%) subjects were male. Non-prescribed use was found in 1513 subjects (58.7%); for flunitrazepam 103 (76.3%), diazepam 1098 (74.1%), tramadol 192 (40.3%), zopiclone 60 (29.7%), and zolpidem 60 (21.2%) subjects, respectively. Younger age and multiple-substance use were associated with non-prescribed use, whereas ongoing treatment with other psychoactive drugs was negatively associated with non-prescribed use. CONCLUSIONS Non-prescribed use of psychoactive prescription drugs was common in subjects suspected of drug-impaired driving and was more frequent for benzodiazepines and tramadol compared to zolpidem and zopiclone. The young and multi-substance users were more likely, whereas subjects with ongoing prescribed treatment with other psychoactive drugs were less likely, to use non-prescribed drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Micaela Tjäderborn
- Division of Drug Research/Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.
| | - Anna K Jönsson
- Division of Drug Research/Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden; Department of Forensic Genetics and Forensic Toxicology, National Board of Forensic Medicine, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Tatiana Zverkova Sandström
- Institute of Medicine, Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Johan Ahlner
- Division of Drug Research/Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden; Department of Forensic Genetics and Forensic Toxicology, National Board of Forensic Medicine, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Staffan Hägg
- Division of Drug Research/Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden; Futurum, Academy for Health and Care, Region Jönköping County, Jönköping, Sweden
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Schjerning O, Rosenzweig M, Pottegård A, Damkier P, Nielsen J. Abuse Potential of Pregabalin: A Systematic Review. CNS Drugs 2016; 30:9-25. [PMID: 26767525 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-015-0303-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several case reports and epidemiological studies have raised concern about the abuse potential of pregabalin, the use of which has increased substantially over the last decade. Pregabalin is, in some cases, used for recreational purposes and it has incurred attention among drug abusers for causing euphoric and dissociative effects when taken in doses exceeding normal therapeutic dosages or used by alternative routes of administration, such as nasal insufflation or venous injection. The magnitude of the abuse potential and the mechanism behind it are not fully known. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to present a systematic review of the data concerning the abuse potential of pregabalin. METHODS We performed a systematic literature search and reviewed the preclinical, clinical and epidemiological data on the abuse potential of pregabalin. RESULTS We included preclinical (n = 17), clinical (n = 19) and epidemiological (n = 13) studies addressing the abuse potential of pregabalin. We also reviewed case reports (n = 9) concerning abuse of pregabalin. The preclinical studies indicated that pregabalin possesses modulatory effects on the GABA and glutamate systems, leaving room for an abuse potential. Further, clinical studies reported euphoria as a frequent side effect in patients treated with pregabalin. The majority of case reports concerning abuse of pregabalin involved patients with a history of substance abuse and, similarly, epidemiological studies found evidence of abuse, especially among opiate abusers. CONCLUSIONS Overall, the available literature suggests an important clinical abuse potential of pregabalin and prescribers should pay attention to signs of abuse, especially in patients with a history of substance abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ole Schjerning
- Department of Psychiatry, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark. .,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark. .,Centre for Schizophrenia, Brandevej 5, 9220, Aalborg, Denmark.
| | | | - Anton Pottegård
- Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Per Damkier
- Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Jimmi Nielsen
- Department of Psychiatry, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
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Lapeyre-Mestre M, Dupui M. Drug abuse monitoring: which pharmacoepidemiological resources at the European level? Therapie 2015; 70:147-65. [PMID: 25858571 DOI: 10.2515/therapie/2015010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2014] [Accepted: 10/09/2014] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Monitoring the potential for abuse and dependence of psychoactive substances falls within the scope of international conventions on narcotic drugs. At the European level, this monitoring is based on activities controlled by the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) for substance abuse in general and by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) for marketed drugs, in the context of pharmacovigilance. If France has set up in the early 1990s an original system to assess potential for abuse of psychoactive substances, with specific tools combining both the evaluation of the use of these substances (illicit substances or diverted drugs), and the consequences of that use in terms of morbidity and mortality, there is no equivalent in other European countries. Indeed, unlike the USA, who, for several decades, organized this type of surveillance, with a multisource approach (sentinel systems, databases, medical and administrative data, databases for seeking care in relation abuse), we have not found in other European countries integrated system for identifying a signal of drug abuse, or to assess the impact of measures for minimizing the risk of abuse. However, some recent examples show a growing concern about drug addiction, based on a pharmacoepidemiological approach using pharmacovigilance databases or medical administrative data. These examples illustrate the interest of these approaches in the field of drug of abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryse Lapeyre-Mestre
- CEIP-Addictovigilance de Toulouse, Service de Pharmacologie Médicale et Clinique, CHU de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Mathilde Dupui
- CEIP-Addictovigilance de Toulouse, Service de Pharmacologie Médicale et Clinique, CHU de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
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Lapeyre-Mestre M, Dupui M. Système de surveillance en addictovigilance : quelles données pharmacoépidémiologiques à l'échelle de l'Europe ? Therapie 2015. [DOI: 10.2515/therapie/2015006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Schjøtt J, Bergman J. Joint medicine-information and pharmacovigilance services could improve detection and communication about drug-safety problems. DRUG HEALTHCARE AND PATIENT SAFETY 2014; 6:89-92. [PMID: 25061339 PMCID: PMC4085319 DOI: 10.2147/dhps.s63680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Background RELIS is a Norwegian network of four regional medicine-information and pharmacovigilance centers where pharmacists and clinical pharmacologists provide feedback to health care professionals in spontaneous drug-related questions and adverse drug-reaction (ADR) reports published in a question–answer pair (QAP) database (the RELIS database) and the Norwegian ADR database, respectively. Objective To describe the potential of RELIS’s dual service to improve detection and communication of drug-safety problems. Materials and methods We searched the RELIS database for QAPs about ADRs with use of the Norwegian ADR database as a reference. We also searched the Norwegian ADR database for reports that used the RELIS database as a reference. Both searches were limited to the years 2003–2012. We then selected the example of pregabalin and drug abuse after the marketing of Lyrica in Norway in September 2004 to illustrate RELIS’s potential to detect new drug-safety information through a limited number of QAPs and ADR reports. Results A total of 5,427 (26%) of 21,071 QAPs in the RELIS database concerned ADRs. QAPs from this database were used as references in 791 (4%) of a total of 22,090 reports in the Norwegian ADR database. The Norwegian ADR database was used as a reference in 363 (7%) of 5,427 QAPs that concerned ADRs. Between September 2004 and September 2008, RELIS received eleven questions and 13 ADR reports about suspicion of Lyrica (pregabalin) and different aspects of abuse. Conclusion RELIS processes data through two databases that facilitate communication about ADRs. Our service also has the potential to detect new drug-safety problems with a limited number of questions and ADR reports.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Schjøtt
- Section of Clinical Pharmacology, Laboratory of Clinical Biochemistry, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway ; Institute of Clinical Science, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway ; Regional Medicines Information and Pharmacovigilance Centre (RELIS Vest), Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Jenny Bergman
- Regional Medicines Information and Pharmacovigilance Centre (RELIS Vest), Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
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Abstract
Gabapentinoids (e.g. pregabalin and gabapentin) are widely used in neurology, psychiatry and primary healthcare but are increasingly being reported as possessing a potential for misuse. In fact, increasing levels of both prescriptions and related fatalities, together with an anecdotally growing black market, have been reported from a range of countries. This article reviews the current evidence base of this potential, in an attempt to answer the question of whether there is cause for concern about these drugs. Potent binding of pregabalin/gabapentin at the calcium channel results in a reduction in the release of excitatory molecules. Furthermore, gabapentinoids are thought to possess GABA-mimetic properties whilst possibly presenting with direct/indirect effects on the dopaminergic 'reward' system. Overall, pregabalin is characterized by higher potency, quicker absorption rates and greater bioavailability levels than gabapentin. Although at therapeutic dosages gabapentinoids may present with low addictive liability levels, misusers' perceptions for these molecules to constitute a valid substitute for most common illicit drugs may be a reason of concern. Gabapentinoid experimenters are profiled here as individuals with a history of recreational polydrug misuse, who self-administer with dosages clearly in excess (e.g. up to 3-20 times) of those that are clinically advisable. Physicians considering prescribing gabapentinoids for neurological/psychiatric disorders should carefully evaluate a possible previous history of drug abuse, whilst being able to promptly identify signs of pregabalin/gabapentin misuse and provide possible assistance in tapering off the medication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrizio Schifano
- Chair in Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Hertfordshire, School of Life and Medical Sciences, College Lane Campus, Hatfield, AL10 9AB, UK,
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