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Jairam V. Increased pain in veterans with cancer-time to re-evaluate opioid prescribing practices? JNCI Cancer Spectr 2024; 8:pkae024. [PMID: 38605595 PMCID: PMC11009462 DOI: 10.1093/jncics/pkae024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Vikram Jairam
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sutter Medical Group, Sacramento, CA, USA
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Baum LVM, Kc M, Soulos PR, Jeffery MM, Ruddy KJ, Lerro CC, Lee H, Graham DJ, Rivera DR, Leapman MS, Jairam V, Dinan MA, Gross CP, Park HS. Trends in new and persistent opioid use in older adults with and without cancer. J Natl Cancer Inst 2024; 116:316-323. [PMID: 37802882 DOI: 10.1093/jnci/djad206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The impact of ongoing efforts to decrease opioid use on patients with cancer remains undefined. Our objective was to determine trends in new and additional opioid use in patients with and without cancer. METHODS This retrospective cohort study used data from Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results program-Medicare for opioid-naive patients with solid tumor malignancies diagnosed from 2012 through 2017 and a random sample of patients without cancer. We identified 238 470 eligible patients with cancer and further focused on 4 clinical strata: patients without cancer, patients with metastatic cancer, patients with nonmetastatic cancer treated with surgery alone ("surgery alone"), and patients with nonmetastatic cancer treated with surgery plus chemotherapy or radiation therapy ("surgery+"). We identified new, early additional, and long-term additional opioid use and calculated the change in predicted probability of these outcomes from 2012 to 2017. RESULTS New opioid use was higher in patients with cancer (46.4%) than in those without (6.9%) (P < .001). From 2012 to 2017, the predicted probability of new opioid use was more stable in the cancer strata (relative declines: 0.1% surgery alone; 2.4% surgery+; 8.8% metastatic cancer), than in the noncancer stratum (20.0%) (P < .001 for each cancer to noncancer comparison). Early additional use declined among surgery patients (‒14.9% and ‒17.5% for surgery alone and surgery+, respectively) but was stable among patients with metastatic disease (‒2.8%, P = .50). CONCLUSIONS Opioid prescribing declined over time at a slower rate in patients with cancer than in patients without cancer. Our study suggests important but tempered effects of the changing opioid climate on patients with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Van Metre Baum
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Cancer Outcomes, Public Policy and Effectiveness Research Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Madhav Kc
- Cancer Outcomes, Public Policy and Effectiveness Research Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Pamela R Soulos
- Cancer Outcomes, Public Policy and Effectiveness Research Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Molly M Jeffery
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Division of Health Care Delivery Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | | | - Catherine C Lerro
- Oncology Center of Excellence, US Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Hana Lee
- Office of Biostatistics, Office of Translational Sciences, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, US Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - David J Graham
- Office of Surveillance and Epidemiology, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, US Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Donna R Rivera
- Oncology Center of Excellence, US Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Michael S Leapman
- Cancer Outcomes, Public Policy and Effectiveness Research Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Urology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Vikram Jairam
- Cancer Outcomes, Public Policy and Effectiveness Research Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Therapeutic Radiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Michaela A Dinan
- Cancer Outcomes, Public Policy and Effectiveness Research Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Chronic Disease Epidemiology, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Cary P Gross
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Cancer Outcomes, Public Policy and Effectiveness Research Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Henry S Park
- Cancer Outcomes, Public Policy and Effectiveness Research Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Therapeutic Radiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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Arthur J, Edwards T, Lu Z, Amoateng MD, Koom-Dadzie K, Zhu H, Long J, Do KA, Bruera E. Healthcare provider perceptions and reported practices regarding opioid prescription for patients with chronic cancer pain. Support Care Cancer 2024; 32:121. [PMID: 38252311 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-024-08323-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Data indicates that clinicians might be under-prescribing opioids for patients with chronic cancer pain, and this could impact adequate pain management. Few studies have sought to understand healthcare provider (HCP) perceptions and practices regarding the prescription of opioids for chronic cancer pain. We assessed HCP perceptions and practices regarding opioid prescription for patients with chronic cancer pain since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS An anonymous cross-sectional survey was conducted among 186 HCPs who attended an opioid educational event in April 2021 and 2022. RESULTS Sixty-one out of 143 (44%) opioid prescribers reported reluctance to prescribe opioids for chronic cancer pain. In a multivariate logistic model, younger participants (log OR - 0.04, 95% CI - 0.085, - 0.004; p = 0.033) and pain medicine clinicians (log OR - 1.89, CI - 3.931, - 0.286; p = 0.034) were less reluctant, whereas providers who worry about non-medical opioid use were more reluctant to prescribe opioids (log OR 1.58 95% CI 0.77-2.43; p < 0.001). Fifty-three out of 143 (37%) prescribers had experienced increased challenges regarding opioid dispensing at pharmacies, and 84/179 (47%) of all respondents reported similar experience by their patients. Fifty-four out of 178(30%) were aware of opioid-related harmful incidents to patients or their families, including incidents attributed to opioid misuse by a household or family member. CONCLUSION A considerable number of opioid prescribers were reluctant to prescribe opioids for patients with chronic cancer pain. Many reported challenges regarding dispensing of opioids at the pharmacies. These may be unintended consequences of policies to address the opioid crisis. Future measures should focus on addressing regulatory barriers without undermining the gains already made to combat the opioid crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Arthur
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Tonya Edwards
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Zhanni Lu
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Magdelene Doris Amoateng
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Kwame Koom-Dadzie
- Department of Hospital Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Hongxu Zhu
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, Houston, TX, USA
| | - James Long
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Kim-Anh Do
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Eduardo Bruera
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
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Arthur J, Edwards T, Lu Z, Amoateng DM, Koom-Dadzie K, Zhu H, Long J, Do KA, Bruera E. Healthcare provider perceptions and reported practices regarding opioid prescription for patients with chronic pain. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-3367358. [PMID: 37841840 PMCID: PMC10571602 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3367358/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Data indicates that clinicians might be under-prescribing opioids for patients with chronic cancer pain, and this could impact adequate chronic pain management. Few studies have sought to understand healthcare provider (HCP) perceptions and practices regarding the prescription of opioids for chronic pain. We assessed HCP perceptions and practices regarding opioid prescription for patients with chronic pain since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS An anonymous cross-sectional survey was conducted among 186 HCPs who attended an opioid educational event in April 2021 and 2022. RESULTS 61/143(44%) opioid prescribers reported reluctance to prescribe opioids for chronic pain. In a multivariate logistic model, younger participants (log OR -0.04, 95% CI: -0.085, -0.004; p = 0.033) and pain medicine clinicians (log OR -1.89, CI: -3.931, -0.286; p = 0.034) were less reluctant, whereas providers who worry about non-medical opioid use (NMOU) were more reluctant to prescribe opioids (log OR 1.58 95% CI: 0.77-2.43; p < 0.001). 53/143(37%) respondents had experienced increased challenges regarding opioid dispensing at pharmacies, and 84/179(47%) reported similar experience by their patients. 54/178(30%) HCPs were aware of opioid-related harmful incidents to patients or their families, including incidents attributed to opioid misuse by a household or family member. CONCLUSION A significant number of opioid prescribers were reluctant to prescribe opioids for patients with chronic pain. Many reported challenges regarding dispensing of opioids at the pharmacies. These may be unintended consequences of policies to address the opioid crisis. Future measures should focus on addressing regulatory barriers without undermining the gains already made to combat the opioid crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Zhanni Lu
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer
| | | | | | - Hongxu Zhu
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer
| | - James Long
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer
| | - Kim-Anh Do
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer
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Amaram-Davila J, Kim MJ, Reddy A, Edwards T, Dai J, Urbauer D, Shelal Z, Ross Y, Hosain M, Bruera E, Arthur J. Health Care Provider Attitudes and Beliefs Toward Nonmedical Opioid Use in Patients with Cancer Pain. J Palliat Med 2023; 26:248-252. [PMID: 36476019 PMCID: PMC9894589 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2022.0293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Data on health care providers' (HCPs') perceptions about patients with cancer pain and nonmedical opioid use (NMOU) are lacking. We examined the perceptions and attitudes of HCPs and assessed the usefulness of an interdisciplinary opioid stewardship program (OSP) while caring for these patients. Methods: An anonymous cross-sectional survey was conducted among the supportive care HCPs between September and November 2021. Results: Of 85 HCPs, 64 responded (75%) to the survey. Participants perceived that NMOU is underdiagnosed (42/64; 67%), and caring for such patients is difficult (58/64, 91%) and time consuming (54/64, 87%). A majority (50/51, 98%) were aware of the OSP, and (48/51; 94%) found it helpful. Conclusion: HCPs reported that NMOU is underdiagnosed and is challenging to manage. They endorsed the utility of an OSP in managing patients with concurrent cancer pain and NMOU. Future research should identify ways to standardize care and integrate OSP in routine supportive oncology practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaya Amaram-Davila
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation, and Integrative Medicine and The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Min Ji Kim
- Department of Supportive and Palliative Care, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Akhila Reddy
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation, and Integrative Medicine and The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Tonya Edwards
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation, and Integrative Medicine and The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jianliang Dai
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Diana Urbauer
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Zeena Shelal
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation, and Integrative Medicine and The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Yvette Ross
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation, and Integrative Medicine and The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Monawar Hosain
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation, and Integrative Medicine and The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Eduardo Bruera
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation, and Integrative Medicine and The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Joseph Arthur
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation, and Integrative Medicine and The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, Houston, Texas, USA
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Paice JA, Bohlke K, Barton D, Craig DS, El-Jawahri A, Hershman DL, Kong LR, Kurita GP, LeBlanc TW, Mercadante S, Novick KLM, Sedhom R, Seigel C, Stimmel J, Bruera E. Use of Opioids for Adults With Pain From Cancer or Cancer Treatment: ASCO Guideline. J Clin Oncol 2023; 41:914-930. [PMID: 36469839 DOI: 10.1200/jco.22.02198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 62.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To provide guidance on the use of opioids to manage pain from cancer or cancer treatment in adults. METHODS A systematic review of the literature identified systematic reviews and randomized controlled trials of the efficacy and safety of opioid analgesics in people with cancer, approaches to opioid initiation and titration, and the prevention and management of opioid adverse events. PubMed and the Cochrane Library were searched from January 1, 2010, to February 17, 2022. American Society of Clinical Oncology convened an Expert Panel to review the evidence and formulate recommendations. RESULTS The evidence base consisted of 31 systematic reviews and 16 randomized controlled trials. Opioids have primarily been evaluated in patients with moderate-to-severe cancer pain, and they effectively reduce pain in this population, with well-characterized adverse effects. Evidence was limited for several of the questions of interest, and the Expert Panel relied on consensus for these recommendations or noted that no recommendation could be made at this time. RECOMMENDATIONS Opioids should be offered to patients with moderate-to-severe pain related to cancer or active cancer treatment unless contraindicated. Opioids should be initiated PRN (as needed) at the lowest possible dose to achieve acceptable analgesia and patient goals, with early assessment and frequent titration. For patients with a substance use disorder, clinicians should collaborate with a palliative care, pain, and/or substance use disorder specialist to determine the optimal approach to pain management. Opioid adverse effects should be monitored, and strategies are provided for prevention and management.Additional information is available at www.asco.org/supportive-care-guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith A Paice
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Kari Bohlke
- American Society of Clinical Oncology, Alexandria, VA
| | - Debra Barton
- University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - David S Craig
- H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL
| | | | - Dawn L Hershman
- Mailman School of Public Health and Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY
| | - Lynn R Kong
- Ventura County Hematology Oncology Specialists, Oxnard, CA
| | - Geana P Kurita
- Rigshospitalet Copenhagen University Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | | | - Kristina L M Novick
- Penn Radiation Oncology Chester County, Chester County Hospital, West Chester, PA
| | - Ramy Sedhom
- Penn Center for Cancer Care Innovation, Abramson Cancer Center, Penn Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
| | | | | | - Eduardo Bruera
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
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Dalal S, Bruera E. Management of pain in the cancer patient. FRONTIERS IN PAIN RESEARCH 2022; 3:926712. [PMID: 36003830 PMCID: PMC9393289 DOI: 10.3389/fpain.2022.926712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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