An evaluation of hepatic enzyme elevations among HIV-infected released prisoners enrolled in two randomized placebo-controlled trials of extended release naltrexone

Extended-release pharmacotherapies for substance use disorders in incarcerated populations: A systematic review

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Substance use (SU) is prevalent among individuals in the criminal justice system (CJS). However, there is often poor access to treatment. We aimed to assess the effectiveness of two medications, extended-release naltrexone (XR-NTX) and extended-release buprenorphine (XR-BUP) for the prison population.

METHODS

We searched Scopus, OVID/Embase, PubMed/Medline, ProQuest, EBSCO, Cochrane Library and Australian Criminology Database for original articles published from 1 January 2002 to 31 December 2022.

INCLUSION CRITERIA

18+, substance use disorder; XR treatment; recent incarceration. We extracted study, participants, treatment characteristics and outcome variables. We conducted risk of bias assessments using the RoB-2, ROBINS-I, JBI tools and Evers et al. RESULTS: We identified 25 papers (16 studies) examining 3403 participants. Sixteen papers (9 studies) focused on XR-NTX, eight (7 studies) on XR-BUP and one on both. Eighteen papers (11 studies) were from the US, with the remainder from Norway, Australia, UK, Canada and Germany. There were eight RCTs (10 papers), four secondary observational analyses, four cohort studies, four economic analyses, two case series and one qualitative paper. Most studies had small-moderate samples, with varying retention and follow-up periods. Among RCTs, two XR-NTX studies for opioid use found no difference in retention vs treatment as usual and placebo, while one reported improved retention for XR-NTX implant vs methadone. One RCT showed mixed retention results for XR-NTX vs placebo in alcohol use. One XR-BUP study showed improved or equivalent treatment retention (depending on measures) vs sublingual buprenorphine. There was no difference in overdoses. SU for XR-NTX was challenging to assess due to differing definitions, measures and comparators. XR-BUP yielded mixed SU results, with one indicating a greater effect and another no difference from comparators.

CONCLUSIONS

There is no clear evidence for the effectiveness of extended release naltrexone and buprenorphine among individuals in the criminal justice system compared with shorter acting formulations. But there is growing evidence for the effectiveness of extended release buprenorphine in reducing opioid use and improving treatment retention in that population, with potential cost offsets from initial medication expenses.

Medication treatment for alcohol use disorder in special populations

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a significant public health concern, with underutilized effective treatments, particularly in special populations. This article summarizes the current evidence and guidelines for treating AUD in special populations.

METHODS

This article is a literature review that synthesizes the latest research on AUD treatment for special populations. We screened 242 articles and included 57 in our final review.

RESULTS

There are four food and Drug Administration-approved medications for AUD (MAUD): disulfiram, oral naltrexone, extended-release injectable naltrexone (XR-NTX), and acamprosate. Naltrexone and disulfiram have the potential to cause liver toxicity, and acamprosate should be avoided in patients with severe kidney disease. Psychosocial treatments should be considered first-line for pregnant and nursing patients. Naltrexone is contraindicated in patients on opioids, as it may precipitate acute withdrawal. For patients experiencing homelessness, nonabstinent treatment goals may be more practical, and XR-NTX should be considered to improve adherence. Limited evidence suggests medication can improve AUD treatment outcomes in adolescents and young adults. For patients with poor treatment response despite adequate medication adherence, switching to a different medication and augmentation with psychosocial treatments should be considered.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

Understanding the unique considerations for special populations with AUD is crucial, and addressing their special needs may improve their treatment outcomes.

SCIENTIFIC SIGNIFICANCE

Our study significantly contributes to the existing literature by summarizing crucial information for the treatment of AUD in special populations, highlighting distinct challenges, and emphasizing tailored approaches to improve overall health and well-being.

Demographic and Clinical Characteristics of 907 Cases with Naltrexone Intoxication; a 14-Year Cross-Sectional Study

INTRODUCTION

Opioids have been the leading cause of death from poisoning in Iran for several years. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical and para-clinical presentations of naltrexone intoxication, its toxic dose, and its epidemiological properties.

METHODS

This retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted on medical records of patients presenting to Toxicology Department of Loghman Hakim Hospital, Tehran, Iran, following naltrexone intoxication, from 2002 to 2016. Patients' demographic and laboratory data, clinical signs, supposed ingested dose, and intent of naltrexone consumption were collected, analyzed, and then interpreted.

RESULTS

907 patients with the mean age of 36.6 ±11.7 years were evaluated (94.3% male). The mean amount of naltrexone consumed by the intoxicated patients reported in the medical records was 105.8 ± 267.8 mg. One hundred thirty patients (14.3%) used naltrexone to treat substance use disorder. Two hundred eighty-seven poisoned patients (31.6%) were current opium users who intentionally or unintentionally used naltrexone concomitantly. The most common symptoms observed in these patients were agitation (41.8%), vomiting (16.4%), and nausea (14.8%). Among patients with naltrexone poisoning, 25 patients were intubated (2.8%), and three passed away. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels were significantly higher in patients intoxicated with naltrexone who needed intubation (p = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

The probability of intubation of cases with naltrexone intoxication was associated with AST elevation. It seems that, the number of intensive care unit (ICU) admissions and mortality rates are not high among these patients.

Opioid-specific medication-assisted therapy and its impact on criminal justice and overdose outcomes

Background

The overlap between justice system involvement and drug use is well-documented. Justice-involved people who misuse opioids are at high risk for relapse and criminal recidivism. Criminal justice policymakers consider opioid-specific medication-assisted therapies (MATs) one approach for improving outcomes for this population. More research is needed that explores the impacts of opioid-specific MATs for justice-involved people.

Objectives

This study sought to assess the effects of opioid-specific MAT for reducing the frequency and likelihood of criminal justice and overdose outcomes for current or formerly justice-involved individuals.

Search Methods

Records were searched between May 7, 2021 and June 23, 2021. We searched a total of sixteen proprietary and open access databases that included access to gray literature and conference proceedings. The bibliographies of included studies and relevant reviews were also searched.

Selection Criteria

Studies were eligible for inclusion in the review if they: (a) assessed the effects of opioid-specific MATs on individual-level criminal justice or overdose outcomes; included (b) a current or formerly justice-involved sample; and (c) a randomized or strong quasi-experimental design; and c) were published in English between January 1, 1960 and October 31, 2020.

Data Collection and Analysis

We used the standard methodological procedures as expected by The Campbell Collaboration.

Main Results

Twenty studies were included, representing 30,119 participants. The overall risk of bias for the experimental studies ranged from "some" to "high" and for quasi-experimental studies ranged from "moderate" to "serious." As such, findings must be interpreted against the backdrop of less-than-ideal methodological contexts. Of the 20 included studies, 16 included outcomes that were meta-analyzed using mean log odds ratios (which were reported as mean odds ratios). Mean effects were nonsignificant for reincarceration (odds ratio [OR] = 0.93 [0.68, 1.26], SE = .16), rearrest (OR = 1.47 [0.70, 3.07], SE = 0.38), and fatal overdose (OR = 0.82 [0.56, 1.21], SE = 0.20). For nonfatal overdose, the average effect was significant (OR = 0.41 [0.18, 0.91], SE = 0.41, p < 0.05), suggesting that those receiving MAT had nearly 60% reduced odds of a nonfatal overdose.

Implications for Policy Practice and Research

The current review supports some utility for adopting MAT for the treatment of justice-involved people with opioid addiction, however, more studies that employ rigorous methodologies are needed. Researchers should work with agencies to improve adherence to medication regimens, study design, and collect more detailed information on participants, their criminal and substance use histories, onset, and severity. This would help clarify whether treatment and control groups are indeed comparable and provide better insight into the potential reasons for participant dropout, treatment failure, and the occurrence of recidivism or overdose. Outcomes should be assessed in multiple ways, if possible (e.g., self-report and official record), as reliance on official data alone may undercount participants' degree of criminal involvement.

Pharmacological interventions for alcohol misuse in correctional settings: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of alcohol use disorder (AUD) is estimated to be 10 times higher amongst individuals in the criminal justice system than the general population. Alcohol use is also one of the strongest modifiable risk factors for recidivism. One intervention that has been shown to be effective in reducing alcohol consumption in the general population is medication-assisted treatment (MAT), and this systematic review synthesized the existing evidence on MAT for AUD in correctional settings.

METHODS

Empirical, peer-reviewed studies on approved medications for AUD in correctional populations were searched in major databases. One hundred sixty-two articles were initially screened and 14 eligible articles were included in the final review. Four articles examined disulfiram, and 10 articles examined naltrexone.

RESULTS

The studies on disulfiram were considerably older than those on naltrexone, predating contemporary scientific standards. Disulfiram in combination with substantial contingencies in a supervised setting significantly reduced alcohol-related measures of consumption and recidivism and had acceptable safety and tolerability. All naltrexone studies showed significant reductions in alcohol-related measures, but effects on recidivism were mixed. The naltrexone studies indicated that it was highly acceptable and well tolerated. In addition, offenders receiving naltrexone had significantly greater medication adherence, treatment attendance, and treatment duration than with placebo.

CONCLUSIONS

A small number of studies on pharmacological interventions for AUD in the correctional population suggest that MAT is effective in reducing alcohol consumption, although results on recidivism are mixed. On balance, the evidence was more supportive of naltrexone in reducing alcohol-related outcomes than disulfiram and it may also be a more feasible intervention in correctional settings. Further research on MAT to address AUD in correctional populations with larger sample sizes, longer duration, and in combination with behavioral interventions is warranted.

Impact of Pharmacological Treatments for Opioid Use Disorder on Mortality

The use of pharmacological treatments for opioid use disorders, including methadone, buprenorphine and naltrexone has been associated with a reduction in mortality compared with illicit opioid use. However, these treatments can also contribute significantly to the risk of death. The opioid agonists methadone and buprenorphine achieve clinical efficacy in patients with an opioid use disorder through suppressing craving and diminishing the effectiveness of illicit opioid doses, while the antagonist naltrexone blocks the action of opioids. Pharmacological differences between opioid pharmacotherapies then create different temporal patterns of protection and mortality risk, different risks of relapse to illicit opioid use, and variations in direct and indirect toxicity, which are revealed in clinical and epidemiological studies. Induction onto methadone and the cessation of oral naltrexone treatment are associated with an elevated risk of opioid poisoning, which is not apparent in patients treated with buprenorphine or sustained-release naltrexone. Beyond drug-related mortality, these pharmacotherapies can impact a participant's risk of death. Buprenorphine may also have some advantages over methadone in patients with depressive disorders or cardiovascular abnormalities. Naltrexone, which is also commonly prescribed to manage problem alcohol use, may reduce deaths in chronic co-alcohol users. Understanding these pharmacologically driven patterns then guides the judicious choice of drug and dosing schedule and the proactive risk management that is crucial to minimising the risk of death in treatment.

Safety of oral naltrexone in HIV-positive men who have sex with men and transgender women with alcohol use disorder and initiating antiretroviral therapy

HIV disproportionately affects men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TW). These populations use alcohol more heavily than the general population, and alcohol use disorders (AUDs) are more prevalent among them. Naltrexone (NTX) has documented efficacy and safety as a medication-assisted therapy for AUD. Its use has not been well-examined in persons with HIV (PWH) newly initiating antiretroviral therapy (ART) where the possibility of hepatotoxicity may be increased when initating multiple new medications. This study assessed the safety of oral NTX treatment (50 mg daily) initiated concomitantly with antiretroviral therapy (ART) in a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial of NTX in MSM/TW in Lima, Peru among MSM and TW with AUD (AUDIT score ≥ 8). We analyzed adverse event data from ART-naïve participants (N = 155) who were randomized (2:1) to initiate ART plus NTX (N = 103) or ART plus placebo (N = 52). Participants were monitored for 24 weeks while taking ART plus NTX/placebo, followed by 24 weeks receiving ART alone. Over 48 weeks, 135 grade 2 or 3 adverse events were reported, resulting in 1.3 clinical adverse events per participant equally represented in both treatment and placebo arms. Two serious adverse events occurred among two participants receiving NTX; neither was attributed to the study medication. No significant differences were found in the proportion of subjects reporting any adverse events between treatment arms across all time-points. These results suggest NTX is safe in MSM/TW PWH with AUD newly initiating ART, as no excess of clinical adverse events or transaminase elevation was associated with NTX use.

Extended-release Naltrexone Improves Viral Suppression Among Incarcerated Persons Living with HIV and Alcohol use Disorders Transitioning to the Community: Results From a Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether extended-release naltrexone (XR-NTX) would improve or maintain viral suppression (VS) among incarcerated individuals with HIV and alcohol use disorders (AUDs) transitioning to the community.

DESIGN

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted among incarcerated individuals with HIV and AUDs transitioning to the community from 2010 through 2016.

METHODS

Eligible participants (N = 100) were randomized 2:1 to receive 6 monthly injections of XR-NTX (n = 67) or placebo (n = 33) starting at release and continued for 6 months. The primary and secondary outcomes were the proportion that maintained or improved VS at <200 and <50 copies per milliliter from baseline to 6 months, respectively, using an intention-to-treat analysis.

RESULTS

Participants allocated to XR-NTX improved VS from baseline to 6 months for <200 copies per milliliter (48.0%-64.2%, P = 0.024) and for <50 copies per milliliter (31.0%-56.7%, P = 0.001), whereas the placebo group did not (<200 copies/mL: 64%-42.4%, P = 0.070; <50 copies/mL: 42.0%-30.3%, P = 0.292). XR-NTX participants were more likely to achieve VS than the placebo group at 6 months (<200 copies/mL: 64.2% vs. 42.4%; P = 0.041; <50 copies/mL: 56.7% vs. 30.3%; P = 0.015). XR-NTX independently predicted VS [<200 copies/mL: adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 2.68, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.01 to 7.09, P = 0.047; <50 copies/mL: aOR = 4.54; 95% CI = 1.43 to 14.43, P = 0.009] as did receipt of ≥3 injections (<200 copies/mL: aOR = 3.26; 95% CI = 1.26 to 8.47, P = 0.010; <50 copies/mL: aOR = 6.34; 95% CI = 2.08 to 19.29, P = 0.001). Reductions in alcohol consumption (aOR = 1.43, 95% CI = 1.03 to 1.98, P = 0.033) and white race (aOR = 5.37, 95% CI = 1.08 to 27.72, P = 0.040) also predicted VS at <50 copies per milliliter.

CONCLUSIONS

XR-NTX improves or maintains VS after release to the community for incarcerated people living with HIV and AUDs.

Treating opioid dependence with extended-release naltrexone (XR-NTX) in Ukraine: Feasibility and three-month outcomes

BACKGROUND

Although opioid agonist treatments (OAT) with methadone or buprenorphine are available to treat opioid use disorders (OUD) in Ukraine, OAT acceptability and coverage remains low. Extended-release naltrexone (XR-NTX) that recently became available as another treatment option provides new opportunities for treating OUDs in this region and we aimed to test its feasibility.

METHODS

Patients with OUD (N=135) and interested in treatment with XR-NTX were initiated on monthly XR-NTX injections and monitored for three months. Correlates of 3-month retention on XR-NTX and drug use at each time-point using self-reports and urine drug testing (UDT) were assessed.

RESULTS

Of the 134 participants initiated XR-NTX, 101 (75%) completed three months, defined as 4 consecutive XR-NTX injections. Independent factors negatively associated with retention in XR-NTX treatment included previous maintenance with OAT (aOR=0.3; 95%CI=0.1-0.9) and extrinsic help-seeking treatment motivation (aOR=0.7; 95%CI=0.5-0.9). Of these 101 participants completing three months of treatment, opioid use markedly reduced using self-report (67%% to 22%; p>0.001) and UDT (77% to 24%; p<0.001) outcomes over time. Alcohol, marijuana and stimulant use, however, remained unchanged. Craving for opioids and symptoms of depression also significantly decreased, while health-related quality of life scores improved over time. No adverse side effects were reported during the period of observation.

CONCLUSION

The first introduction of XR-NTX in Ukraine among persons with OUD resulted in high levels of retention, marked reductions in opioid use and improved quality of life. These descriptive results suggest that XR-NTX treatment is feasible and well-tolerated over a 3-month period in Ukraine.

Addressing unhealthy alcohol use among people living with HIV: recent advances and research directions

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Unhealthy alcohol use is prevalent among people living with HIV (PLWH). We sought to identify the most current literature examining the impact of unhealthy alcohol on health outcomes and latest developments on how to best intervene.

RECENT FINDINGS

New research shows that PLWH have heightened morbidity and mortality at lower levels of alcohol consumption compared with HIV-uninfected persons. Studies published since 2016 have further elucidated the effects of persistent unhealthy alcohol use on HIV treatment outcomes over time. Screening and brief interventions, as well as pharmacologic treatment, can reduce unhealthy alcohol use among PLWH.

SUMMARY

Unhealthy alcohol use is an important and modifiable risk factor for poor health and HIV treatment outcomes among PLWH. More research is needed to encourage and maintain engagement in alcohol-related interventions and improve implementation.

Extended-Release Naltrexone Improves Viral Suppression Among Incarcerated Persons Living With HIV With Opioid Use Disorders Transitioning to the Community: Results of a Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Randomized Trial

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether extended-release naltrexone (XR-NTX) would improve or maintain viral suppression (VS) among prisoners or jail detainees with HIV and opioid use disorder (OUD) transitioning to the community.

DESIGN

A 4-site, prospective randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted among prison and jail inmates with HIV and OUD transitioning to the community from September 2010 through March 2016.

METHODS

Eligible participants (N = 93) were randomized 2:1 to receive 6 monthly injections of XR-NTX (n = 66) or placebo (n = 27) starting at release and observed for 6 months. The primary outcome was the proportion that maintained or improved VS (<50 copies/mL) from baseline to 6 months.

RESULTS

Participants allocated to XR-NTX significantly improved to VS (<50 copies/mL) from baseline (37.9%) to 6 months (60.6%) (P = 0.002), whereas the placebo group did not (55.6% at baseline to 40.7% at 6 months P = 0.294). There was, however, no statistical significant difference in VS levels at 6 months between XR-NTX (60.6%) vs. placebo (40.7%) (P = 0.087). After controlling for other factors, only allocation to XR-NTX (adjusted odds ratio = 2.90; 95% confidence interval = 1.04 to 8.14, P = 0.043) was associated with the primary outcome. Trajectories in VS from baseline to 6 months differed significantly (P = 0.017) between treatment groups, and the differences in the discordant values were significantly different as well (P = 0.041): the XR-NTX group was more likely than the placebo group to improve VS (30.3% vs. 18.5%), maintain VS (30.3% vs. 27.3), and less likely to lose VS (7.6% vs. 33.3%) by 6 months.

CONCLUSIONS

XR-NTX improves or maintains VS after release to the community for incarcerated people living with HIV with OUD.

Medications for Treatment of Opioid Use Disorder among Persons Living with HIV

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Recent HIV outbreaks have occurred as a result of the current US opioid epidemic. Providing medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) with methadone, buprenorphine, and extended-release naltrexone is essential to achieving optimal HIV treatment outcomes including viral suppression and retention in treatment. This review describes the pharmacology of MOUD with specific attention to interactions with antiretroviral therapy, and to the effect of MOUD on HIV treatment outcomes.

RECENT FINDINGS

Methadone and buprenorphine both improve HIV viral suppression, adherence to antiretroviral therapy, and overall mortality for persons with opioid use disorder (OUD). Extended-release naltrexone has been most extensively studied in persons with HIV leaving incarcerated settings, and improves HIV viral suppression in that context. Strategies that integrate MOUD and HIV treatment are crucial to optimize viral suppression. The differing pharmacokinetic and delivery characteristics of these MOUD offer diverse options. Given the chronic and relapsing nature of both HIV and OUD, long-term approaches are required.

Efficacy of Extended-Release Naltrexone on HIV-Related and Drinking Outcomes Among HIV-Positive Patients: A Randomized-Controlled Trial

We sought to test the efficacy of extended-release naltrexone (XR-NTX) on HIV-related and drinking outcomes. From April 2011-February 2015, we conducted a 4-site randomized double-blind placebo controlled clinical trial involving 51 HIV-positive patients with heavy drinking and < 95% antiretroviral (ART) adherence. All participants received counseling. The primary outcome was proportion with ≥ 95% ART adherence. Secondary outcomes included HIV biomarkers, VACS Index score, and past 30-day heavy drinking days. Based on receipt of ≥ 5 injections, 23 participants were retained at 24 weeks. We did not detect an effect of XR-NTX on ART adherence (p = 0.38); undetectable HIV viral load (p = 0.26); CD4 cell count (p = 0.75) or VACS Index score (p = 0.70). XR-NTX was associated with fewer heavy drinking days (p = 0.03). While XR-NTX decreases heavy drinking days, we did not detect improvements in ART adherence or HIV outcomes. Strategies to improve retention in alcohol treatment and HIV-related outcomes among heavy drinking HIV-positive patients are needed.

Office-Based Addiction Treatment in Primary Care: Approaches That Work

Primary care is an important setting for delivering evidence-based treatment to address substance use disorders. To date, effective approaches to treat, care largely incorporate pharmacotherapy with counseling-based interventions and rely on multidisciplinary teams. There is strong support for primary care-based approaches to address alcohol and opioid use disorder with growing data focused on people living with human immunodeficiency virus and those experiencing incarceration. Future work should focus on the implementation of these effective approaches to decrease health disparities among people with substance use and to identify optimal approaches to address substance use in primary care and specialty settings.

Extended-release naltrexone reduces alcohol consumption among released prisoners with HIV disease as they transition to the community

BACKGROUND

Alcohol use disorders (AUDs) are highly prevalent among persons living with HIV (PLH) within the criminal justice system (CJS). Extended-release naltrexone (XR-NTX) has not been previously evaluated among CJS-involved PLH with AUDs.

METHODS

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted among 100 HIV+ prisoners with AUDs. Participants were randomized 2:1 to receive 6 monthly injections of XR-NTX or placebo starting one week prior to release. Using multiple imputation strategies for data missing completely at random, data were analyzed for the 6-month post-incarceration period. Main outcomes included: time to first heavy drinking day; number of standardized drinks/drinking day; percent of heavy drinking days; pre- to post-incarceration change in average drinks/day; total number of drinking days; and a composite alcohol improvement score comprised of all 5 parameters.

RESULTS

There was no statistically significant difference overall between treatment arms for time-to-heavy-drinking day. However, participants aged 20-29 years who received XR-NTX had a longer time to first heavy drinking day compared to the placebo group (24.1 vs. 9.5days; p<0.001). There were no statistically significant differences between groups for other individual drinking outcomes. A sub-analysis, however, found participants who received ≥4 XR-NTX were more likely (p<0.005) to have improved composite alcohol scores than the placebo group. Post-hoc power analysis revealed that despite the study being powered for HIV outcomes, sufficient power (0.94) was available to distinguish the observed differences.

CONCLUSIONS

Among CJS-involved PLH with AUDs transitioning to the community, XR-NTX lengthens the time to heavy drinking day for younger persons; reduces alcohol consumption when using a composite alcohol consumption score; and is not associated with any serious adverse events.

Update on pharmacotherapy for treatment of opioid use disorder

INTRODUCTION

Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) is a significant public health concern, negatively impacting the medical, psychological, and social domains of an individual's life as well as creating substantial burdens for society. Effective treatment interventions are necessary for reduction of OUD and its consequences. Pharmacotherapy represents a central component of management. Areas covered: This review focuses on pharmacologic strategies for OUD treatment, discussing both primary as well as adjunctive therapy modalities. We will discuss both medications used during detoxification to treat withdrawal, as well as those used as maintenance therapy. Detox medications include alpha-2 adrenergic agonists, such as clonidine, as well as the μ-opioid agonist, methadone, and the μ-opioid partial agonist, buprenorphine. Opioid maintenance treatment (OMT) is also discussed, focusing on those medications meant to substitute abused opioids and includes the agonists, methadone and buprenorphine, as well as supervised intravenous heroin, and opioid antagonist, naltrexone. Expert opinion: Medication therapy for treatment of OUD has demonstrated efficacy and is of great clinical benefit. While agonist treatment with methadone or buprenorphine remains the gold standard, there is an important place for use of long-acting antagonist therapy with naltrexone. Continued investigation into treatment paradigms and behavioral platforms which optimize medication therapy is most needed.

Endogenous opiates and behavior: 2014

This paper is the thirty-seventh consecutive installment of the annual review of research concerning the endogenous opioid system. It summarizes papers published during 2014 that studied the behavioral effects of molecular, pharmacological and genetic manipulation of opioid peptides, opioid receptors, opioid agonists and opioid antagonists. The particular topics that continue to be covered include the molecular-biochemical effects and neurochemical localization studies of endogenous opioids and their receptors related to behavior (endogenous opioids and receptors), and the roles of these opioid peptides and receptors in pain and analgesia (pain and analgesia); stress and social status (human studies); tolerance and dependence (opioid mediation of other analgesic responses); learning and memory (stress and social status); eating and drinking (stress-induced analgesia); alcohol and drugs of abuse (emotional responses in opioid-mediated behaviors); sexual activity and hormones, pregnancy, development and endocrinology (opioid involvement in stress response regulation); mental illness and mood (tolerance and dependence); seizures and neurologic disorders (learning and memory); electrical-related activity and neurophysiology (opiates and conditioned place preferences (CPP)); general activity and locomotion (eating and drinking); gastrointestinal, renal and hepatic functions (alcohol and drugs of abuse); cardiovascular responses (opiates and ethanol); respiration and thermoregulation (opiates and THC); and immunological responses (opiates and stimulants). This paper is the thirty-seventh consecutive installment of the annual review of research concerning the endogenous opioid system. It summarizes papers published during 2014 that studied the behavioral effects of molecular, pharmacological and genetic manipulation of opioid peptides, opioid receptors, opioid agonists and opioid antagonists. The particular topics that continue to be covered include the molecular-biochemical effects and neurochemical localization studies of endogenous opioids and their receptors related to behavior (endogenous opioids and receptors), and the roles of these opioid peptides and receptors in pain and analgesia (pain and analgesia); stress and social status (human studies); tolerance and dependence (opioid mediation of other analgesic responses); learning and memory (stress and social status); eating and drinking (stress-induced analgesia); alcohol and drugs of abuse (emotional responses in opioid-mediated behaviors); sexual activity and hormones, pregnancy, development and endocrinology (opioid involvement in stress response regulation); mental illness and mood (tolerance and dependence); seizures and neurologic disorders (learning and memory); electrical-related activity and neurophysiology (opiates and conditioned place preferences (CPP)); general activity and locomotion (eating and drinking); gastrointestinal, renal and hepatic functions (alcohol and drugs of abuse); cardiovascular responses (opiates and ethanol); respiration and thermoregulation (opiates and THC); and immunological responses (opiates and stimulants).

Pharmacological interventions for drug-using offenders

BACKGROUND

The review represents one in a family of four reviews focusing on a range of different interventions for drug-using offenders. This specific review considers pharmacological interventions aimed at reducing drug use or criminal activity, or both, for illicit drug-using offenders.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectiveness of pharmacological interventions for drug-using offenders in reducing criminal activity or drug use, or both.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched Fourteen electronic bibliographic databases up to May 2014 and five additional Web resources (between 2004 and November 2011). We contacted experts in the field for further information.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials assessing the efficacy of any pharmacological intervention a component of which is designed to reduce, eliminate or prevent relapse of drug use or criminal activity, or both, in drug-using offenders. We also report data on the cost and cost-effectiveness of interventions.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We used standard methodological procedures as expected by Cochrane.

MAIN RESULTS

Fourteen trials with 2647 participants met the inclusion criteria. The interventions included in this review report on agonistic pharmacological interventions (buprenorphine, methadone and naltrexone) compared to no intervention, other non-pharmacological treatments (e.g. counselling) and other pharmacological drugs. The methodological trial quality was poorly described, and most studies were rated as 'unclear' by the reviewers. The biggest threats to risk of bias were generated through blinding (performance and detection bias) and incomplete outcome data (attrition bias). Studies could not be combined all together because the comparisons were too different. Only subgroup analysis for type of pharmacological treatment were done. When compared to non-pharmacological, we found low quality evidence that agonist treatments are not effective in reducing drug use or criminal activity, objective results (biological) (two studies, 237 participants (RR 0.72 (95% CI 0.51 to 1.00); subjective (self-report), (three studies, 317 participants (RR 0.61 95% CI 0.31 to 1.18); self-report drug use (three studies, 510 participants (SMD: -0.62 (95% CI -0.85 to -0.39). We found low quality of evidence that antagonist treatment was not effective in reducing drug use (one study, 63 participants (RR 0.69, 95% CI 0.28 to 1.70) but we found moderate quality of evidence that they significantly reduced criminal activity (two studies, 114 participants, (RR 0.40, 95% CI 0.21 to 0.74).Findings on the effects of individual pharmacological interventions on drug use and criminal activity showed mixed results. In the comparison of methadone to buprenorphine, diamorphine and naltrexone, no significant differences were displayed for either treatment for self report dichotomous drug use (two studies, 370 participants (RR 1.04, 95% CI 0.69 to 1.55), continuous measures of drug use (one study, 81 participants, (mean difference (MD) 0.70, 95% CI -5.33 to 6.73); or criminal activity (one study, 116 participants, (RR 1.25, 95% CI 0.83 to 1.88) between methadone and buprenorphine. Similar results were found for comparisons with diamorphine with no significant differences between the drugs for self report dichotomous drug use for arrest (one study, 825 participants, (RR 1.25, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.51) or naltrexone for dichotomous measures of reincarceration (one study, 44 participants, (RR 1.10, 95% CI 0.37 to 3.26), and continuous outcome measure of crime, (MD -0.50, 95% CI -8.04 to 7.04) or self report drug use (MD 4.60, 95% CI -3.54 to 12.74).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

When compared to non-pharmacological treatment, agonist treatments did not seem effective in reducing drug use or criminal activity. Antagonist treatments were not effective in reducing drug use but significantly reduced criminal activity. When comparing the drugs to one another we found no significant differences between the drug comparisons (methadone versus buprenorphine, diamorphine and naltrexone) on any of the outcome measures. Caution should be taken when interpreting these findings, as the conclusions are based on a small number of trials, and generalisation of these study findings should be limited mainly to male adult offenders. Additionally, many studies were rated at high risk of bias.

Interventions for drug-using offenders with co-occurring mental illness

BACKGROUND

This is an updated version of an original Cochrane review published in Issue 3 2006 (Perry 2006). The review represents one from a family of four reviews focusing on interventions for drug-using offenders. This specific review considers interventions aimed at reducing drug use or criminal activity, or both for drug-using offenders with co-occurring mental illness.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectiveness of interventions for drug-using offenders with co-occurring mental illness in reducing criminal activity or drug use, or both.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched 14 electronic bibliographic databases up to May 2014 and 5 Internet resources (searched between 2004 and 11 November 2009). We contacted experts in the field for further information.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials designed to reduce, eliminate, or prevent relapse of drug use and criminal activity, or both in drug-using offenders with co-occurring mental illness. We also reported data on the cost and cost-effectiveness of interventions.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We used standard methodological procedures expected by The Cochrane Collaboration.

MAIN RESULTS

Eight trials with 2058 participants met the inclusion criteria. The methodological quality of the trials was generally difficult to rate due to a lack of clear reporting. On most 'Risk of bias' items, we rated the majority of studies as unclear. Overall, we could not statistically combine the results due to the heterogenous nature of the different study interventions and comparison groups. A narrative summary of the findings identified that the interventions reported limited success with reducing self report drug use, but did have some impact on re-incarceration rates, but not re-arrest. In the single comparisons, we found moderate-quality evidence that therapeutic communities determine a reduction in re-incarceration but reported less success for outcomes of re-arrest, moderate quality of evidence and self report drug use. Three single studies evaluating case management via a mental health drug court (very low quality of evidence), motivational interviewing and cognitive skills (low and very low quality of evidence) and interpersonal psychotherapy (very low quality of evidence) did not report significant reductions in criminal activity and self report drug use respectively. Quality of evidence for these three types of interventions was low to very low. The trials reported some cost information, but it was not sufficient to be able to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of the interventions.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Two of the five trials showed some promising results for the use of therapeutic communities and aftercare, but only in relation to reducing subsequent re-incarceration. Overall, the studies showed a high degree of variation, warranting a degree of caution in the interpretation of the magnitude of effect and direction of benefit for treatment outcomes. More evaluations are required to assess the effectiveness of interventions for drug-using offenders with co-occurring mental health problems.

Interventions for female drug-using offenders

BACKGROUND

This is an updated version of a Cochrane review first published in Issue 3, 2006 (Perry 2006). The review represents one in a family of four reviews focusing on the effectiveness of interventions in reducing drug use and criminal activity for offenders. This specific review considers interventions for female drug-using offenders.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectiveness of interventions for female drug-using offenders in reducing criminal activity, or drug use, or both.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched 14 electronic bibliographic databases up to May 2014 and five additional Website resources (between 2004 and November 2011). We contacted experts in the field for further information.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) designed to reduce, eliminate or prevent relapse of drug use or criminal activity in female drug-using offenders. We also reported data on the cost and cost-effectiveness of interventions.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We used standard methodological procedures expected by The Cochrane Collaboration.

MAIN RESULTS

Nine trials with 1792 participants met the inclusion criteria. Trial quality and risks of bias varied across each study. We rated the majority of studies as being at 'unclear' risk of bias due to a lack of descriptive information. We divided the studies into different categories for the purpose of meta-analyses: for any psychosocial treatments in comparison to treatment as usual we found low quality evidence that there were no significant differences in arrest rates, (two studies; 489 participants; risk ratio (RR) 0.82, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.45 to 1.52) or drug use (one study; 77 participants; RR 0.65, 95% CI 0.20 to 2.12), but we found moderate quality evidence that there was a significant reduction in reincarceration, (three studies; 630 participants; RR 0.46, 95% CI 0.34 to 0.64). Pharmacological intervention using buprenorphine in comparison to a placebo did not significantly reduce self reported drug use (one study; 36 participants; RR 0.58, 95% CI 0.25 to 1.35). No cost or cost-effectiveness evidence was reported in the studies.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Three of the nine trials show a positive trend towards the use of any psychosocial treatment in comparison to treatment as usual showing an overall significant reduction in subsequent reincarceration, but not arrest rates or drug use. Pharmacological interventions in comparison to a placebo did not significantly reduce drug use and did not measure criminal activity. Four different treatment comparisons showed varying results and were not combined due to differences in the intervention and comparison groups. The studies overall showed a high degree of heterogeneity for types of comparisons and outcome measures assessed, which limited the possibility to pool the data. Descriptions of treatment modalities are required to identify the important elements for treatment success in drug-using female offenders. More trials are required to increase the precision of confidence with which we can draw conclusions about the effectiveness of treatments for female drug-using offenders.

Opioid treatment at release from jail using extended-release naltrexone: a pilot proof-of-concept randomized effectiveness trial

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Relapse to addiction following incarceration is common. We estimated the feasibility and effectiveness of extended-release naltrexone (XR-NTX) as relapse prevention among opioid-dependent male adults leaving a large urban jail.

DESIGN

Eight-week, proof-of-concept, open-label, non-blinded randomized effectiveness trial.

SETTING

New York City jails and Bellevue Hospital Center Adult Primary Care clinics, USA.

PARTICIPANTS

From January 2010 to July 2013, 34 opioid-dependent adult males with no stated interest in agonist treatments (methadone, buprenorphine) received a counseling and referral intervention and were randomized to XR-NTX (n = 17) versus no medication (n = 17) within one week prior to jail release.

INTERVENTION

XR-NTX (Vivitrol(®) ; Alkermes Inc.), a long-acting injectable mu opioid receptor antagonist.

MEASURES

The primary intent-to-treat outcome was post-release opioid relapse at week 4, defined as ≥10 days of opioid misuse by self-report and urine toxicologies. Secondary outcomes were proportion of urine samples negative for opioids and rates of opioid abstinence, intravenous drug use (IVDU), cocaine use, community treatment participation, re-incarceration and overdose.

FINDINGS

Acceptance of XR-NTX was high; 15 of 17 initiated treatment. Rates of the primary outcome of week 4 opioid relapse were lower among XR-NTX participants: 38 versus 88% [P<0.004; odds ratio (OR) = 0.08, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.01-0.48]; more XR-NTX urine samples were negative for opioids, 59 versus 29% (P<0.009; OR = 3.5, 95% CI = 1.4-8.5). There were no significant differences in the remaining secondary outcomes, including rates of IVDU, cocaine use, re-incarceration and overdose.

CONCLUSION

Extended-release naltrexone is associated with significantly lower rates of opioid relapse among men in the United States following release from jail when compared with a no medication treatment-as-usual condition.

Alcohol use disorders negatively influence antiretroviral medication adherence among men who have sex with men in Peru

As international guidelines increase access to antiretroviral therapy (ART) globally, ART adherence becomes increasingly important to achieve HIV treatment as prevention (TasP) goals. In the concentrated HIV epidemic among men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgendered women (TGW) in Lima, Peru, the independent correlates of ART nonadherence were examined to inform treatment intervention priorities. Cross sectional survey of HIV-infected MSM and TGW who are engaged in clinical care in Lima, Peru. From June to August 2012, 302 HIV-infected Peruvian MSM/TGW from three clinical care sites were recruited using convenience sampling to participate in a cross-sectional computer-assisted adherence survey. Several standardized screening measures associated with ART nonadherence were examined in order to determine the independent correlates of optimal (≥90%) and perfect (100%) adherence, which were assessed using logistic regression. Of the 302 participants recruited, 263 (87.1%) were prescribed ART. Among those prescribed ART, 229 (87.1%) reported optimal and 146 (55.5%) reported perfect adherence. The prevalence of alcohol use disorders (AUD; 43.2%), alcohol dependence (5.3%), recent drug use (6.0%), and depression (44.5%) was high, and most participants had some evidence of neurocognitive impairment. Meeting criteria for having an AUD and depression were collinear (p < 0.001). On multivariate analysis, having an AUD was inversely related and the only independent correlate of optimal (AOR = 0.427; 95% CI = 0.187-0.976) and perfect (AOR = 0.552; 95% CI = 0.327-0.930) ART adherence. AUDs are highly prevalent among Peruvian HIV-infected MSM and contribute significantly to ART nonadherence. These findings support the need for screening and treating underlying AUDs. In order to meet HIV TasP goals, evidence-based strategies targeting AUDs are likely to directly improve ART adherence and indirectly improve overall individual health, HIV treatment engagement, and reduce transmission to sexual partners among this vulnerable and disproportionally affected population.

Design and methods of a double blind randomized placebo-controlled trial of extended-release naltrexone for HIV-infected, opioid dependent prisoners and jail detainees who are transitioning to the community

BACKGROUND

People with opioid dependence and HIV are concentrated within criminal justice settings (CJS). Upon release, however, drug relapse is common and contributes to poor HIV treatment outcomes, increased HIV transmission risk, reincarceration and mortality. Extended-release naltrexone (XR-NTX) is an evidence-based treatment for opioid dependence, yet is not routinely available for CJS populations.

METHODS

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of XR-NTX for HIV-infected inmates transitioning from correctional to community settings is underway to assess its impact on HIV and opioid-relapse outcomes.

RESULTS

We describe the methods and early acceptability of this trial. In addition we provide protocol details to safely administer XR-NTX near community release and describe logistical implementation issues identified. Study acceptability was modest, with 132 (66%) persons who consented to participate from 199 total referrals. Overall, 79% of the participants had previously received opioid agonist treatment before this incarceration. Thus far, 65 (49%) of those agreeing to participate in the trial have initiated XR-NTX or placebo. Of the 134 referred patients who ultimately did not receive a first injection, the main reasons included a preference for an alternative opioid agonist treatment (37%), being ineligible (32%), not yet released (10%), and lost upon release before receiving their injection (14%).

CONCLUSIONS

Study findings should provide high internal validity about HIV and opioid treatment outcomes for HIV-infected prisoners transitioning to the community. The large number of patients who ultimately did not receive the study medication may raise external validity concerns due to XR-NTX acceptability and interest in opioid agonist treatments.

CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER

NCT01246401.