1
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Ezell JM, Pho MT, Ajayi BP, Simek E, Shetty N, Goddard-Eckrich DA, Bluthenthal RN. Opioid use, prescribing and fatal overdose patterns among racial/ethnic minorities in the United States: A scoping review and conceptual risk environment model. Drug Alcohol Rev 2024. [PMID: 38646735 DOI: 10.1111/dar.13832] [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: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
ISSUES To date, there has been no synthesis of research addressing the scale and nuances of the opioid epidemic in racial/ethnic minority populations in the United States that considers the independent and joint impacts of dynamics such as structural disadvantage, provider bias, health literacy, cultural norms and various other risk factors. APPROACH Using the "risk environment" framework, we conducted a scoping review on PubMed, Embase and Google Scholar of peer-reviewed literature and governmental reports published between January 2000 and February 2024 on the nature and scale of opioid use, opioid prescribing patterns, and fatal overdoses among racial/ethnic minorities in the United States, while also examining macro, meso and individual-level risk factors. KEY FINDINGS Results from this review illuminate a growing, but fragmented, literature lacking standardisation in racial/ethnic classification and case reporting, specifically in regards to Indigenous and Asian subpopulations. This literature broadly illustrates racial/ethnic minorities' increasing nonmedical use of opioids, heightened burdens of fatal overdoses, specifically in relation to polydrug use and synthetic opioids, with notable elevations among Black/Latino subgroups, in addition uneven opioid prescribing patterns. Moreover, the literature implicates a variety of unique risk environments corresponding to dynamics such as residential segregation, provider bias, overpolicing, acculturative stress, patient distrust, and limited access to mental health care services and drug treatment resources, including medications for opioid use disorder. IMPLICATIONS There has been a lack of rigorous, targeted study on racial/ethnic minorities who use opioids, but evidence highlights burgeoning increases in usage, especially polydrug/synthetic opioid use, and disparities in prescriptions and fatal overdose risk-phenomena tied to multi-level forms of entrenched disenfranchisement. CONCLUSION There is a need for further research on the complex, overlapping risk environments of racial/ethnic minorities who use opioids, including deeper inclusion of Indigenous and Asian individuals, and efforts to generate greater methodological synergies in population classification and reporting guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerel M Ezell
- Community Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, USA
- Berkeley Center for Cultural Humility, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, USA
| | - Mai T Pho
- Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases and Global Health, University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, USA
| | - Babatunde P Ajayi
- Community Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, USA
| | - Elinor Simek
- Community Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, USA
- Berkeley Center for Cultural Humility, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, USA
| | - Netra Shetty
- University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, USA
| | | | - Ricky N Bluthenthal
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, USA
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2
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Daniulaityte R, Ruhter L, Katz C. Characteristics of Overdose Deaths Related to Illicitly Manufactured Fentanyl - Arizona, July 2019 - June 2020. J Psychoactive Drugs 2023:1-9. [PMID: 37994458 DOI: 10.1080/02791072.2023.2284341] [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: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Using the Arizona State Unintentional Drug Overdose Reporting System (AZ-SUDORS), the study aims to identify the social and drug characteristics of illicitly manufactured fentanyl (IMF)-related overdose deaths. The data include drug overdose deaths from July 1, 2019 to June 30, 2020. Decedents were categorized into four groups by types of opioids detected: (1) IMF-positive; (2) heroin-positive (negative for IMF); (3) pharmaceutical opioid-positive (negative for heroin or IMF); (4) nonopioid. Bivariate statistics were used to compare differences between IMF and other groups. Among 2,029 decedents, 77.8% tested positive for opioids. The IMF group included 57.9%, the heroin group included 9.5%, the pharmaceutical opioid group 10.5%, and the nonopioid group 22.2%. The IMF group was younger (mean age 35.0), more likely to be from a large urban area (78.2%), and with a greater proportion of ethnic/racial minorities (48.6%), compared to the other three groups. The IMF group was less likely to test positive for methamphetamine (24.9%), compared to heroin (63.7%) or pharmaceutical opioid groups (34.0%), but more likely to test positive for cannabis (31.3%), compared to the other three groups. Our data show disproportionate IMF impacts on younger persons and ethnic minorities. Interventions need to be tailored to account for distinct psychosocial profiles associated with IMF use.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lance Ruhter
- Graduate student, Bioinformatics, College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Charles Katz
- Center for Violence Prevention and Community Safety, School of Criminology & Criminal Justice, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ, USA
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3
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Yockey A, King K, Vidourek R. "Here's the 'kicker': School factors associated with opioid misuse among US African American Youth. J Ethn Subst Abuse 2023; 22:79-88. [PMID: 33522865 DOI: 10.1080/15332640.2021.1877231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Recent evidence has suggested that African Americans are at higher risk for opioid misuse, compared to their relative counterparts. However, school factors have largely been ignored. Given that the school is an environment for the development of risky behavior sequalae, more research is warranted on the relationship between opioid misuse and school factors. The present data used pooled 2015-2018 National Survey on Drug Use and Health data to investigate the relationship between opioid misuse and school factors among a national sample of African American adolescents ages 12-17 (n = 7,236). Results revealed that a sizeable percentage of adolescents (3.51%) misused opioids in the past year. Adolescents at highest risk were female, older, in high school, participated in violence, and did not like school. Moreover, a greater percentage (∼33%) revealed the lack of drug education in schools. We believe our findings can inform behavioral health messages and harm reduction efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Yockey
- University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio.,Center for Prevention Science, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Keith King
- University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio.,Center for Prevention Science, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Rebecca Vidourek
- University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio.,Center for Prevention Science, Cincinnati, Ohio
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4
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Deutsch-Link S, Belcher AM, Massey E, Cole TO, Wagner MA, Billing AS, Greenblatt AD, Weintraub E, Wish ED. Race-based differences in drug use prior to onset of opioid use disorder. J Ethn Subst Abuse 2023; 22:89-105. [PMID: 33554763 PMCID: PMC9573766 DOI: 10.1080/15332640.2021.1879702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Rates of opioid use disorder (OUD) have increased dramatically over the past two decades, a rise that has been accompanied by changing demographics of those affected. Early exposure to drugs is a known risk factor for later development of opioid use disorder; but how and whether this risk factor may differ between racial groups is unknown. Our study seeks to identify race differences in self-report of current and past substance use in OUD-diagnosed treatment-seeking individuals. Patients (n = 157) presenting for methadone maintenance treatment at a racially diverse urban opioid treatment program were approached and consented for study involvement. Participants were administered substance use history questionnaires and urine drug screening at intake. Chi-square, t-tests, and rank-sum were used to assess race differences in demographic variables. Logistic and linear regressions assessed the relationship between race and substance use for binary and continuous variables, respectively. 61% of the population identified as Black and 39% as White. Black participants were significantly older; age was thus included as a covariate. Logistic regressions demonstrated that despite similar urine toxicology at intake, White participants were significantly more likely to report having used prescription opioids and psychedelic, stimulant, and sedative substance classes prior to their first use of non-pharmaceutical opioids. Compared to Black participants, White treatment-seeking OUD-diagnosed individuals reported using a wider range of substances ever and prior to first use of non-pharmaceutical opioids. There were no differences, however, in presentation for OUD treatment, suggesting different pathways to OUD, which may carry important clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Thomas O. Cole
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | | | | | - Eric Weintraub
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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5
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Choi NG, DiNitto DM, Marti CN, Choi BY. Demographic and Clinical Correlates of Treatment Completion among Older Adults with Heroin and Prescription Opioid Use Disorders. J Psychoactive Drugs 2022; 54:440-451. [PMID: 34818983 PMCID: PMC9130343 DOI: 10.1080/02791072.2021.2009068] [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: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
In this study using 2015-2018 Treatment Episode Data Set-Discharge (TEDS-D) cases age 55+ for heroin (N = 101,524) or prescription opioids (PO; N = 25,510) as the primary substance, we examined treatment completion rates and correlates. We fit separate logistic regression models for heroin and PO cases with treatment completion status (completed vs. discontinued due to dropout/termination/other reasons) for each treatment setting (detoxification, residential rehabilitation, and outpatient) as the dependent variable. Results show that detoxification cases had the highest completion rates and outpatient cases had the lowest (14.8% for heroin and 24.0% for PO cases). A consistently significant correlate of treatment completion was legal system referral for heroin cases and having a bachelor's degree for PO cases. Medication-assisted therapy was associated with higher odds of completing residential treatment for both types of opioids but lower odds of completing detoxification and outpatient treatment. Treatment duration >30 days tended to have higher odds of completion. PO cases age 65+ had higher odds of completing residential treatment than cases age 55-64. Racial/ethnic minorities tended to have lower odds of outpatient treatment completion. Study findings underscore the importance of helping older adults complete treatment, especially those who are racial/ethnic minorities and receiving outpatient treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Namkee G. Choi
- Steve Hicks School of Social Work, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78702, USA
| | - Diana M. DiNitto
- Steve Hicks School of Social Work, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78702, USA
| | - C. Nathan Marti
- Steve Hicks School of Social Work, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78702, USA
| | - Bryan Y. Choi
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19131 & Bayhealth Medical Center, Dover, DE, 19901, USA
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6
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Rabinowitz JA, Reboussin BA, Thrul J, Drabick DAG, Kahn G, Green KM, Ialongo NS, Huhn AS, Maher BS. Early Childhood Behavioral and Academic Antecedents of Lifetime Opioid Misuse among Urban Youth. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL FOR THE SOCIETY OF CLINICAL CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY, AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION, DIVISION 53 2022; 51:864-876. [PMID: 33688771 PMCID: PMC8977050 DOI: 10.1080/15374416.2021.1875324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Opioid misuse has become an epidemic in the United States. In the present study, we examine potential malleable early childhood predictors of opioid misuse including whether childhood achievement, aggressive behavior, attention problems, and peer social preference/likability in first grade predicted opioid misuse and whether these relationships differed depending on participant sex. METHOD Data are drawn from three cohorts of participants (N = 1,585; 46.7% male) recruited in first grade as part of a series of elementary school-based, universal preventive interventions conducted in a Mid-Atlantic region of the US. In first grade, participants completed standardized achievement tests, teachers reported on attention problems, and peers nominated their classmates with respect to their aggressive behavior and social preference/likability. At approximately age 20, participants reported on their misuse of opioids defined as lifetime use of heroin or misuse of prescription opioids. RESULTS Higher levels of peer nominations for aggressive behavior in first grade predicted a greater likelihood of opioid misuse. An interaction between participant sex and attention problems was observed such that females higher in attention problems were more likely to misuse opioids, particularly prescription opioids, than females lower in attention problems. An interaction was also found between participant sex and peer likability such that males lower in peer-nominated likability were more likely to misuse opioids relative to males higher in likability. CONCLUSION Given the malleable nature of attention problems, aggression, and social skills in early childhood, prevention programs that target these behaviors during this developmental period may attenuate risk for opioid misuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill A Rabinowitz
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
| | - Beth A Reboussin
- Department of Biostatistics and Data Science, Wake Forest School of Medicine
| | - Johannes Thrul
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
| | | | - Geoffrey Kahn
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
| | | | - Nicholas S Ialongo
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
| | - Andrew S Huhn
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Services, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
| | - Brion S Maher
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
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7
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Pérez-Figueroa RE, Obonyo DJ, Santoscoy S, Surratt HL, Lekas HM, Lewis CF, Lyons JS, Amesty SC. Housing Instability, Structural Vulnerability, and Non-Fatal Opioid Overdoses Among People Who Use Heroin in Washington Heights, New York City. Behav Med 2022; 48:320-330. [PMID: 34086534 DOI: 10.1080/08964289.2021.1922347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Nationally, opioid overdose remains strikingly persistent among people experiencing homelessness and housing instability. Limited information is available about the characteristics of this phenomenon in economically disadvantaged communities of color. This study sought to evaluate the association between key contextual factors and experiencing a non-fatal opioid overdose among people who use heroin in Washington Heights, New York City. We conducted a cross-sectional survey (N = 101) among participants seeking harm reduction services who reported heroin use in the last three months. Binary logistic regression models examined the association between key social and structural factors and the likelihood of ever experiencing a non-fatal opioid overdose and recently experiencing a non-fatal opioid overdose. The majority of the sample reported housing instability and lived in poverty; almost 42% were homeless. After adjustment, participants who injected heroin were more likely to have ever experienced a non-fatal opioid overdose. Also, younger participants who reported hunger in the last six months were more likely to have experienced a non-fatal opioid overdose in the last three months. Findings suggest the role of structural vulnerability in shaping overdose risk among the participants. Overdose prevention strategies should consider factors of the social and economic environment to mitigate barriers to accessing health and social services within the context of the current opioid crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- R E Pérez-Figueroa
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, University of Kentucky College of Public Health.,Center for Innovation in Population Health, University of Kentucky College of Public Health
| | - D J Obonyo
- Department of Health Management and Policy, University of Kentucky College of Public Health
| | - S Santoscoy
- Research and Drug Education, Washington Heights Corner Project
| | - H L Surratt
- Department of Behavioral Science, University of Kentucky College of Medicine
| | - H M Lekas
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University School of Medicine.,Department of Social Solutions and Services Research, Nathan S. Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research
| | - C F Lewis
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University School of Medicine.,Department of Social Solutions and Services Research, Nathan S. Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research
| | - J S Lyons
- Center for Innovation in Population Health, University of Kentucky College of Public Health.,Department of Health Management and Policy, University of Kentucky College of Public Health
| | - S C Amesty
- Center for Family and Community Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons.,Heilbrunn Department of Population and Family Health, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health
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8
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Chan KTK, Zhou S, Marsack-Topolewski C. Race Differences in Opioid Misuse and Adolescent Suicidality. CHILD & ADOLESCENT SOCIAL WORK JOURNAL : C & A 2022; 39:167-181. [PMID: 35755966 PMCID: PMC9223481 DOI: 10.1007/s10560-020-00721-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The rise of the opioid epidemic coincided with the increased risk of suicide as the leading causes of death among adolescents in the United States. Past research has linked non-medical prescription opioid use (NMPOU) with adolescent suicide. Less focus has been placed on race and ethnic differences among adolescents impacted by the opioid epidemic. This study examined the relationship of adolescent NMPOU and suicidality, stratified by race. METHOD The 2016 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) was used for this study. Weighted multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted on a sample of 11,489 adolescent respondents to examine the effect of past-year NMPOU with the odds for serious thoughts of suicide, having a suicide plan, and making a suicide attempt. RESULTS Findings indicated a higher prevalence of suicidality among adolescents who engaged in NMPOU compared to non-users. Adolescent opioid misuse was associated with 68% higher odds for having a suicide plan in the past year (OR = 1.68, 95% CI: [1.07, 2.63], p < 0.05). Interaction analysis found that among Asian adolescents, NMPOU was associated with higher odds for having a suicide plan compared to other race groups (OR=1.53, 95% CI: [1.04, 2.23], p < 0.05). DISCUSSION Results indicated that adolescent opioid misuse is a risk factor for suicide, and Asians compared to other race groups were at greater risk. Social workers can serve as a nexus point in effectively engaging at-risk adolescents in substance use and mental health prevention and recovery services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keith Tsz-Kit Chan
- Silberman School of Social Work, Hunter College, CUNY, New York, NY, USA
| | - Shangyun Zhou
- Department of Counseling Psychology, University at Albany, SUNY, Albany, NY, USA
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9
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Hochheimer M, Unick GJ. Systematic review and meta-analysis of retention in treatment using medications for opioid use disorder by medication, race/ethnicity, and gender in the United States. Addict Behav 2022; 124:107113. [PMID: 34543869 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2021.107113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS There is mounting evidence that opioid use disorder is experienced differently by people of different genders and race/ethnicity groups. Similarly, in the US access to specific medications for opioid use is limited by gender and race/ethnicity. This study aims to evaluate if gender or race/ethnicity is associated with different rates of treatment retention in the US, for each of three medications used to treat opioid use disorder. METHODS A systematic search was conducted using PubMed, CINHAL, and PsychINFO, databases. All studies that provided a ratio of those retained in treatment at a specified time in terms of gender and/or race/ethnicity and medication were included. Variables were created to assess the effects of time in treatment, recruited sample, required attendance at concurrent psychosocial treatment, and adherence to strict rules of conduct for continuation in treatment on retention. Meta-analytical and meta-regression methods were used to compare studies on the ratio of those who completed a specific time in treatment by race/ethnicity group and by gender. RESULTS Nineteen articles that provided the outcome variable of interest were found (11 buprenorphine, six methadone, and two naltrexone). Meta-analyses found that treatment retention was similar for all gender and racial/ethnic groups for all three medications. Meta-regression found that those of the African American group who were recruited into buprenorphine treatment were retained significantly longer than African Americans in buprenorphine treatment who were studied retrospectively. Also, both genders had significantly lower retention in methadone treatment when there was the additional requirement of psychosocial therapy.
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10
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Jahn ZW, Lopez J, de la Salle S, Faber S, Williams MT. Racial/ethnic differences in prevalence of hallucinogen use by age cohort: Findings from the 2018 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. JOURNAL OF PSYCHEDELIC STUDIES 2021. [DOI: 10.1556/2054.2021.00166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Few studies have assessed the epidemiology of hallucinogenic substance use among racial and ethnic groups of varying age cohorts. Use of psychedelic substances may differ among people of color (POC), due to factors such as stigma and discriminatory drug enforcement practices against POC. The lack of inclusion of POC in psychedelic research further underscores the importance of identifying differences in use among racial/ethnic groups and age cohorts.
Methods
Data from the 2018 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) was used for this analysis (N = 56,313, unweighted), representative of the non-institutionalized U.S. population. Proportions of lifetime hallucinogen use by race/ethnicity were compared. Proportions of past year rates of use were compared to examine differences by race/ethnicity and age cohort.
Results
Approximately 15.9% of the U.S. population over 12 had used a hallucinogen at some point in their lifetime and 2.0% had used in the past year. Lifetime hallucinogen use was most prevalent among non-Hispanic White and multi-racial individuals, while Black/African Americans reported the lowest rates of use. White and multi-racial groups also reported the highest proportions of past year use among 12–34 year olds, and White individuals reported the highest proportions among 35–49 year olds. Hispanic individuals reported higher proportions of use among the 12–17 cohort, but lower proportions among the 26–49 year old cohorts. Black/African Americans reported the lowest rates of past year use among the 12–25 year old cohorts. 50+ and older cohorts reported the lowest rates of hallucinogen use in the past year.
Limitations
Data is cross-sectional and self-reported. “Race” is a social construction is subject to change over time, and NSDUH ethnoracial categories are limited. Institutionalized populations are not included in the study.
Conclusions
Significant differences in hallucinogen use among ethnoracial groups by substance and age cohorts were observed. Findings from this work may inform education, interventions, and therapeutic psychedelic research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoe W. Jahn
- 1 Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, USA
| | - Joel Lopez
- 2 Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Connecticut, USA
| | | | | | - Monnica T. Williams
- 3 School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- 5 Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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11
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Beck AS, Svirsky L, Howard D. 'First Do No Harm': physician discretion, racial disparities and opioid treatment agreements. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ETHICS 2021; 48:medethics-2020-107030. [PMID: 34330795 DOI: 10.1136/medethics-2020-107030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The increasing use of opioid treatment agreements (OTAs) has prompted debate within the medical community about ethical challenges with respect to their implementation. The focus of debate is usually on the efficacy of OTAs at reducing opioid misuse, how OTAs may undermine trust between physicians and patients and the potential coercive nature of requiring patients to sign such agreements as a condition for receiving pain care. An important consideration missing from these conversations is the potential for racial bias in the current way that OTAs are incorporated into clinical practice and in the amount of physician discretion that current opioid guidelines support. While the use of OTAs has become mandatory in some states for certain classes of patients, physicians are still afforded great leeway in how these OTAs are implemented in clinical practice and how their terms should be enforced. This paper uses the guidelines provided for OTA implementation by the states of Indiana and Pennsylvania as case studies in order to argue that giving physicians certain kinds of discretion may exacerbate racial health disparities. This problem cannot simply be addressed by minimising physician discretion in general, but rather by providing mechanisms to hold physicians accountable for how they treat patients on long-term opioid therapy to ensure that such treatment is equitable.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Larisa Svirsky
- Department of Philosophy, Brandeis University, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Dana Howard
- Center for Bioethics, The Ohio State University OSUMC, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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12
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review provides an update on recently published literature on the rise of illicit fentanyls, risks for overdose, combinations with other substances, e.g. stimulants, consequences, and treatment. RECENT FINDINGS Overdose due to illicit synthetic opioids (e.g. fentanyl and fentanyl analogs) continues to rise in the US both preceding and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Fentanyl-related overdose is rising in new geographic areas e.g. the western USA. Stimulant-related overdose is also increasing nationwide driven by methamphetamine and cocaine. Polysubstance use, e.g. the use of a stimulant along with an opioid is driving stimulant-related overdose. Other medical consequences of injection drug use are rising including HIV and hepatitis C infections. Medication approaches to treating opioid use disorder remain the standard of care and there are new promising pharmacological approaches to treating methamphetamine use disorder. SUMMARY A 'fourth wave' of high mortality involving methamphetamine and cocaine use has been gathering force in the USA. Availability and use of illicit fentanyls are still the major drivers of overdose deaths and the current rise in stimulant-related deaths appears entwined with the ongoing opioid epidemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Ciccarone
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
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13
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Rogers AH, Zvolensky MJ, Ditre JW, Buckner JD, Asmundson GJG. Association of opioid misuse with anxiety and depression: A systematic review of the literature. Clin Psychol Rev 2021; 84:101978. [PMID: 33515811 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2021.101978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The opioid epidemic is a public health problem associated with a host of negative outcomes. Although clinicians recognize covariation between opioid misuse with anxiety and depressive symptoms and disorders, research on this topic has only recently accumulated. Progress in this domain is impeded by the lack of systematic and integrative research to better understand and treat these co-occurring problems. This paper represents the first attempt to systematically review the empirical literature examining relations between opioid use and misuse, and anxiety and depression. In the first section, we define key terms and describe the article selection strategy. In the second section, we review the prevalence of anxiety and depressive symptoms among individuals who use and misuse prescription and illicit opioids. In the third section, we review the magnitude of associations between anxiety and depressive symptoms and disorders with opioid misuse, as well as highlight studies examining the longitudinal and temporal sequence of the relations between these variables. In the fourth section, we focus on experimental therapeutics, reviewing what is known about individual difference and transdiagnostic vulnerability factors for anxiety and depression that might contribute to opioid misuse and its symptoms. Finally, we discuss current knowledge gaps and present a heuristic model to guide future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew H Rogers
- Department of Psychology, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Michael J Zvolensky
- Department of Psychology, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States; Department of Behavioral Science, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States; HEALTH Institute, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States.
| | - Joseph W Ditre
- Department of Psychology, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, United States
| | - Julia D Buckner
- Department of Psychology, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, United States
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14
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Jordan A, Mathis M, Haeny A, Funaro M, Paltin D, Ransome Y. An Evaluation of Opioid Use in Black Communities: A Rapid Review of the Literature. Harv Rev Psychiatry 2021; 29:108-130. [PMID: 33666395 PMCID: PMC8335706 DOI: 10.1097/hrp.0000000000000285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are multiple aspects of the opioid crisis among Black people, who have been left out of the broader conversation. Despite evidence of increased opioid overdose deaths, less is known about opioid use among Black people. This review synthesizes research on Black people who use opioids; the goals are to advance knowledge, highlight research gaps, and inform clinical practice. METHODS This rapid review investigating opioid use among Black people utilized systematic review methods and was conducted according to a predefined protocol with clear inclusion criteria (PROSPERO ID: 177071). A comprehensive search strategy was used, including published and gray-literature sources (i.e., literature that has not been formally published). A narrative summary of the results is presented. RESULTS A total of 76 works were selected for inclusion and full text review. Sex, age, geographic location, and involvement in the carceral system were associated with the use of opioids among Black individuals. Non-epidemiologic factors included treatment-seeking patterns, disparate clinician prescribing, and social determinants. CONCLUSIONS Through this rapid review we suggest three main areas of focus: (1) including culturally informed collection methods in epidemiologic surveys to accurately reflect prevalences, (2) funding research that specifically addresses the importance of culture in accessing treatment, and (3) directly studying how social determinants can improve or exacerbate health outcomes. Focusing on the unique needs of Black people who use opioids is warranted to increase treatment initiation and adherence among a population less likely to engage with the traditional health care system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayana Jordan
- Yale University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, 300 George Street, New Haven, CT 06511
| | - Myra Mathis
- University of Rochester, Department of Psychiatry, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, NY 14642
| | - Angela Haeny
- Yale School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Division of Prevention and Community Research, and The Consultation Center 389 Whitney Avenue, New Haven, CT 06511
| | - Melissa Funaro
- Harvey Cushing/John Hay Whitney Medical Library, Yale University, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06520-8014
| | - Dafna Paltin
- Yale University, Department of Psychiatry, 300 George Street, New Haven, CT 06511
| | - Yusuf Ransome
- Yale School of Public Health, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Studies of Religion Ethnicity Technology and Contextual Influences on Health (STRETCH)-Lab, 60 College Street, New Haven, CT 06510
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15
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Nicholson HL, Wheeler PB. Prescription Drug Misuse among African Americans and Afro Caribbeans: Results from the National Survey of American Life. Subst Use Misuse 2021; 56:962-970. [PMID: 33769198 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2021.1901928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The misuse of prescription medications is an understudied topic among the non-Hispanic Black population in the U.S. Even less is known about the prevalence and correlates of misuse among African Americans and Afro-Caribbeans, despite documented differences in their substance use behaviors. OBJECTIVES We aimed to examine the prevalence and correlates of lifetime prescription drug misuse among African Americans and Afro Caribbeans using data from the National Survey of American Life. METHODS A national household probability sample of non-institutionalized African Americans and Afro Caribbeans from the Collaborative Psychiatric Epidemiology Surveys was used. Pooled and ethnicity-stratified logistic regressions were estimated. RESULTS Findings showed no significant differences between African Americans (6.36%) and Afro-Caribbeans (5.71%) in lifetime prescription drug misuse. Several correlates were found to be associated with misuse among only African American or Afro-Caribbean respondents. CONCLUSIONS While research has shown prescription drug misuse is an issue among Blacks overall, our results show that the role of ethnicity must not be overlooked, especially when tailoring prevention and intervention programs. Limitations of this study are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harvey L Nicholson
- Department of Sociology and Criminology & Law, University of Florida, Florida, USA
| | - Paris B Wheeler
- Department of Educational, School, and Counseling Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
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16
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Cobert J, Lantos PM, Janko MM, Williams DGA, Raghunathan K, Krishnamoorthy V, JohnBull EA, Barbeito A, Gulur P. Geospatial Variations and Neighborhood Deprivation in Drug-Related Admissions and Overdoses. J Urban Health 2020; 97:814-822. [PMID: 32367203 PMCID: PMC7704893 DOI: 10.1007/s11524-020-00436-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Drug overdoses are a national and global epidemic. However, while overdoses are inextricably linked to social, demographic, and geographical determinants, geospatial patterns of drug-related admissions and overdoses at the neighborhood level remain poorly studied. The objective of this paper is to investigate spatial distributions of patients admitted for drug-related admissions and overdoses from a large, urban, tertiary care center using electronic health record data. Additionally, these spatial distributions were adjusted for a validated socioeconomic index called the Area Deprivation Index (ADI). We showed spatial heterogeneity in patients admitted for opioid, amphetamine, and psychostimulant-related diagnoses and overdoses. While ADI was associated with drug-related admissions, it did not correct for spatial variations and could not account alone for this spatial heterogeneity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julien Cobert
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care Medicine division, University of California at San Francisco, 505 Parnassus Ave, Room M917, Box 0624, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA.
| | - Paul M Lantos
- Department of Internal Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
- Duke University Global Health Institute, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - Mark M Janko
- Duke University Global Health Institute, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - David G A Williams
- Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - Karthik Raghunathan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Durham Veterans Affairs Hospital, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - Vijay Krishnamoorthy
- Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - Eric A JohnBull
- Department of Anesthesiology, Durham Veterans Affairs Hospital, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - Atilio Barbeito
- Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, Durham Veterans Affairs Hospital, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - Padma Gulur
- Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
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17
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Ghoshal M, Shapiro H, Todd K, Schatman ME. Chronic Noncancer Pain Management and Systemic Racism: Time to Move Toward Equal Care Standards. J Pain Res 2020; 13:2825-2836. [PMID: 33192090 PMCID: PMC7654542 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s287314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Hannah Shapiro
- Division of Alcohol, Drugs, and Addiction, McLean Hospital, Belmont, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Knox Todd
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Michael E Schatman
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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18
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Affiliation(s)
- Oluwole Jegede
- Addiction Psychiatry Fellow, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut
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19
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Verna EC, Schluger A, Brown RS. Opioid epidemic and liver disease. JHEP Rep 2019; 1:240-255. [PMID: 32039374 PMCID: PMC7001546 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2019.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2019] [Revised: 06/27/2019] [Accepted: 06/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Opioid use in the United States and in many parts of the world has reached epidemic proportions. This has led to excess mortality as well as significant changes in the epidemiology of liver disease. Herein, we review the impact of the opioid epidemic on liver disease, focusing on the multifaceted impact this epidemic has had on liver disease and liver transplantation. In particular, the opioid crisis has led to a significant shift in incident hepatitis C virus infection to younger populations and to women, leading to changes in screening recommendations. Less well characterized are the potential direct and indirect hepatotoxic effects of opioids, as well as the changes in the incidence of hepatitis B virus infection and alcohol abuse that are likely rising in this population as well. Finally, the opioid epidemic has led to a significant rise in the proportion of organ donors who died due to overdose. These donors have led to an overall increase in donor numbers, but also to new considerations about the better use of donors with perceived or actual risk of disease transmission, especially hepatitis C. Clearly, additional efforts are needed to combat the opioid epidemic. Moreover, better understanding of the epidemiology and underlying pathophysiology will help to identify and treat liver disease in this high-risk population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth C. Verna
- Center for Liver Disease and Transplantation, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY
| | - Aaron Schluger
- Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY
| | - Robert S. Brown
- Center for Liver Disease and Transplantation, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
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20
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Geiger C, Smart R, Stein BD. Who receives naloxone from emergency medical services? Characteristics of calls and recent trends. Subst Abus 2019; 41:400-407. [PMID: 31361589 DOI: 10.1080/08897077.2019.1640832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Background: With the rapid rise in opioid overdose-related deaths, state policy makers have expanded policies to increase the use of naloxone by emergency medical services (EMS). However, little is known about changes in EMS naloxone administration in the context of continued worsening of the opioid crisis and efforts to increase use of naloxone. This study examines trends in patient demographics and EMS response characteristics over time and by county urbanicity. Methods: We used data from the 2013-2016 National EMS Information System to examine trends in patient demographics and EMS response characteristics for 911-initiated incidents that resulted in EMS naloxone administration. We also assessed temporal, regional, and urban-rural variation in per capita rates of EMS naloxone administrations compared with per capita rates of opioid-related overdose deaths. Results: From 2013 to 2016, naloxone administrations increasingly involved young adults and occurred in public settings. Particularly in urban counties, there were modest but significant increases in the percentage of individuals who refused subsequent treatment, were treated and released, and received multiple administrations of naloxone before and after arrival of EMS personnel. Over the 4-year period, EMS naloxone administrations per capita increased at a faster rate than opioid-related overdose deaths across urban, suburban, and rural counties. Although national rates of naloxone administration were consistently higher in suburban counties, these trends varied across U.S. Census Regions, with the highest rates of suburban administration occurring in the South. Conclusions: Naloxone administration rates increased more quickly than opioid deaths across all levels of county urbanicity, but increases in the percentage of individuals requiring multiple doses and refusing subsequent care require further attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Geiger
- Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.,RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, California, USA
| | | | - Bradley D Stein
- RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, California, USA.,University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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21
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Blackwood CA, Leary M, Salisbury A, McCoy MT, Cadet JL. Escalated Oxycodone Self-Administration Causes Differential Striatal mRNA Expression of FGFs and IEGs Following Abstinence-Associated Incubation of Oxycodone Craving. Neuroscience 2019; 415:173-183. [PMID: 31351142 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2019.07.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2019] [Revised: 07/08/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Addiction to prescribed opioids including oxycodone has reached tragic levels. Herein, we investigated the relevance of fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) and immediate early genes (IEGs) to withdrawal-induced incubation of drug craving following escalated oxycodone self-administration (SA). Rats were trained to self-administer oxycodone for 4 weeks. Seeking tests were performed at various intervals during 1 month of drug withdrawal. Rats were euthanized 1 day after the last test and nucleus accumbens and dorsal striata were dissected for use in PCR analyses. Rats given long access (LgA, 9 h), but not short access (ShA, 3 h) to drug escalated their oxycodone intake and exhibited incubation of oxycodone seeking during withdrawal. These rats exhibited dose-dependent increases in fgf2 expression in the dorsal striatum. Fgfr2 expression was also significantly increased in the striatum in LgA, but not ShA groups. Similarly, striatal c-fos and junB mRNA levels showed greater increases in LgA rats. The observations that fgf mRNA levels were more altered in the dorsal striatum than in the NAc of LgA rats suggest that changes in striatal FGF expression may be more salient to incubation of oxycodone craving than alterations in the NAc. Targeting FGF signaling pathways might offer novel strategies against opioid addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher A Blackwood
- Molecular Neuropsychiatry Research Branch, NIH/NIDA Intramural Research Program 251 Bayview Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21224, United States of America
| | - Michael Leary
- Molecular Neuropsychiatry Research Branch, NIH/NIDA Intramural Research Program 251 Bayview Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21224, United States of America
| | - Aaron Salisbury
- Molecular Neuropsychiatry Research Branch, NIH/NIDA Intramural Research Program 251 Bayview Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21224, United States of America
| | - Michael T McCoy
- Molecular Neuropsychiatry Research Branch, NIH/NIDA Intramural Research Program 251 Bayview Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21224, United States of America
| | - Jean Lud Cadet
- Molecular Neuropsychiatry Research Branch, NIH/NIDA Intramural Research Program 251 Bayview Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21224, United States of America.
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22
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Wheeler PB, Stevens-Watkins D, Moody M, Dogan J, Lewis D. Culturally relevant risk and protective factors for nonmedical use of prescription opioids among incarcerated African American men. Addict Behav 2019; 93:46-51. [PMID: 30690415 PMCID: PMC6488416 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2019.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2018] [Revised: 01/10/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent studies have demonstrated that nonmedical use of prescription opioids (NMUPO) is a national phenomenon affecting a multitude of subpopulations, including incarcerated African American men. However, there has been little investigation of the correlates of NMUPO among this population. OBJECTIVE Grounded in primary socialization theory, the current study aimed to examine the association between family bonds, family history of prescription drug misuse, and mental health symptoms on NMUPO among African American incarcerated men. METHOD A step-wise logistic regression was conducted to determine whether family and mental health factors affected the likelihood of lifetime NMUPO. RESULTS Prescription drug misuse among immediate family members (p < 0.001) and lifetime experience of serious anxiety (p = 0.003) were significantly associated with an increased likelihood of NMUPO. Having a close personal relationship with one's father was significantly associated with a decreased likelihood of NMUPO (p = 0.034). CONCLUSIONS/IMPORTANCE Risk and protective factors are identified that can be incorporated into interventions aimed at reducing or preventing NMUPO among African American men. Directions for future research on NMUPO among African American incarcerated men are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paris B Wheeler
- College of Education, Department of Educational, School, and Counseling Psychology, University of Kentucky, Dickey Hall, 251 Scott Street, Lexington, KY 40508, United States.
| | - Danelle Stevens-Watkins
- College of Education, Department of Educational, School, and Counseling Psychology, University of Kentucky, Dickey Hall, 251 Scott Street, Lexington, KY 40508, United States.
| | - Myles Moody
- College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Department of Sociology, University of Kentucky, 1515 Patterson Office Tower, Lexington, KY 40506-0027, United States.
| | - Jardin Dogan
- College of Education, Department of Educational, School, and Counseling Psychology, University of Kentucky, Dickey Hall, 251 Scott Street, Lexington, KY 40508, United States.
| | - Dominiqueca Lewis
- College of Education, Department of Educational, School, and Counseling Psychology, University of Kentucky, Dickey Hall, 251 Scott Street, Lexington, KY 40508, United States.
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23
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Allen B, Nolan ML, Kunins HV, Paone D. Racial Differences in Opioid Overdose Deaths in New York City, 2017. JAMA Intern Med 2019; 179:576-578. [PMID: 30742218 PMCID: PMC6450294 DOI: 10.1001/jamainternmed.2018.7700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
This study evaluates racial differences in opioid overdose deaths in New York City for 2017.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bennett Allen
- Bureau of Alcohol and Drug Use Prevention, Care, and Treatment, New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Queens, New York
| | - Michelle L Nolan
- Bureau of Alcohol and Drug Use Prevention, Care, and Treatment, New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Queens, New York
| | - Hillary V Kunins
- Bureau of Alcohol and Drug Use Prevention, Care, and Treatment, New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Queens, New York
| | - Denise Paone
- Bureau of Alcohol and Drug Use Prevention, Care, and Treatment, New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Queens, New York
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24
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Abstract
Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text. Background: Recent research on the US opioid epidemic has focused on the white or total population and has largely been limited to data after 1999. However, understanding racial differences in long-term trends by opioid type may contribute to improving interventions. Methods: Using multiple cause of death data, we calculated age-standardized opioid mortality rates, by race and opioid type, for the US resident population from 1979 to 2015. We analyzed trends in mortality rates using joinpoint regression. Results: From 1979 to 2015, the long-term trends in opioid-related mortality for Earlier data did not include ethnicity so this is incorrect. It is all black and all white residents in the US. blacks and whites went through three successive waves. In the first wave, from 1979 to the mid-1990s, the epidemic affected both populations and was driven by heroin. In the second wave, from the mid-1990s to 2010, the increase in opioid mortality was driven by natural/semi-synthetic opioids (e.g., codeine, morphine, hydrocodone, or oxycodone) among whites, while there was no increase in mortality for blacks. In the current wave, increases in opioid mortality for both populations have been driven by heroin and synthetic opioids (e.g., fentanyl and its analogues). Heroin rates are currently increasing at 31% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 27, 35) per year for whites and 34% (95% CI = 30, 40) for blacks. Concurrently, respective synthetic opioids are increasing at 79% (95% CI = 50, 112) and 107% (95% CI = −15, 404) annually. Conclusion: Since 1979, the nature of the opioid epidemic has shifted from heroin to prescription opioids for the white population to increasing of heroin/synthetic deaths for both black and white populations. See video abstract at, http://links.lww.com/EDE/B377.
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25
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Dasgupta N, Schwarz J, Hennessy S, Ertefaie A, Dart RC. Causal inference for evaluating prescription opioid abuse using trend-in-trend design. Pharmacoepidemiol Drug Saf 2019; 28:716-725. [PMID: 30714239 DOI: 10.1002/pds.4736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2018] [Revised: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 12/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE One response to the opioid crisis in the United States has been the development of opioid analgesics with properties intended to reduce non-oral use. Previous evaluations of abuse in the community have relied on population averaged interrupted time series Poisson models with utilization offsets. However, competing interventions and secular trends complicate interpretation of time-series analyses. An alternative research design, trend-in-trend, accounts for heterogeneity in per capita opioid dispensing and unmeasured time-varying confounding, which provides a causal evaluation, provided that underlying assumptions are met. METHODS Trend-in-trend can be modeled using a logistic regression framework. In logistic regression, exposure was any product-specific outpatient dispensing by three-digit ZIP code and calendar quarter, for 22 opioids. The outcome was any product-specific abuse case ascertained from poison centers and drug treatment programs, covering 94% of the US population, between July 2009 and December 2016. Product-specific odds ratios compared places without dispensing with places with any dispensing; the causal contrast represents the odds of product-specific abuse in the community given exposure. RESULTS Dispensing of new and low-volume opioids varied considerably across the country, with no region showing high of all products. Of 22 opioids analyzed, the three with approved labeling as intended to deter abuse ranked near the lowest in both absolute (population-adjusted rates: 1.7, 0.9, and 8.2 per million people per quarter, respectively) and relative measures (trend-in-trend ORs: 1.96, 1.79, 1.69, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Postmarketing studies of prescription opioid abuse may benefit by evolving from unadjusted surveillance rates to a causal inference approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nabarun Dasgupta
- Rocky Mountain Poison and Drug Center, Denver Health, Denver, CO, USA.,Injury Prevention Research Center and Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - John Schwarz
- Rocky Mountain Poison and Drug Center, Denver Health, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Sean Hennessy
- Center for Pharmacoepidemiology Research and Training and Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Askhan Ertefaie
- Department of Biostatistics and Computational Biology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Richard C Dart
- Rocky Mountain Poison and Drug Center, Denver Health, Denver, CO, USA.,Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Prescription opioid misuse (POM) is a significant problem among U.S. adults, including Blacks, as indicated by past research. Despite potential gender differences in POM among Black adults, previous research has yet to examine this possibility. OBJECTIVES This study identified the prevalence and unique correlates of POM among both Black men and Black women. Results were compared to those of Whites. METHODS We used data from 2015-2016 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (N = 60,133). Weighted logistic regression models stratified by race and gender were estimated. One model was stratified by gender only, with race serving as the primary predictor. RESULTS Findings revealed 3.4% of Black women, 4.9% of Black men, 4.1% of White women, and 5.4% of White men reported past-year POM; although, no significant differences were found. Among Black women only, lower socioeconomic status increased odds of POM. Higher educational attainment, residence in rural areas and older age lowered odds of POM. Encounters with drug dealers, illicit drug, marijuana, and tobacco use, other prescription drug misuse, and poor health were associated with increased odds of POM among Black men. In the gender stratified models, White men were more likely to report POM than Black men. However, White women were not more likely to report POM compared to Black women. CONCLUSIONS Clear gender differences exist in the prevalence and correlates of POM among Black adults. Prevention and intervention strategies must be cognizant of these differences when developing programs to decrease POM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harvey L Nicholson
- a Department of Sociology , University of Central Florida , Orlando , Florida , USA
| | - Jolene Vincent
- b Department of Sociology , College of William and Mary , Williamsburg , Virginia , USA
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27
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Nicholson HL, Ford JA. Sociodemographic, neighborhood, psychosocial, and substance use correlates of cocaine use among Black adults: Findings from a pooled analysis of national data. Addict Behav 2019; 88:182-186. [PMID: 30218941 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2018.08.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2018] [Revised: 08/31/2018] [Accepted: 08/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Cocaine use (CU) is serious a public health issue affecting U.S. adults, including Blacks. Cocaine-related overdose deaths have also trended upwards among this population. However, there remains a lack of research on correlates of CU among a nationally representative sample of Black adults. METHODS The current study examines the prevalence and correlates of past-year CU among Black adults aged 18 and older (N = 9,821). Data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (2015-2016) were used and a weighted logistic regression model was estimated. RESULTS Findings showed 2.4% of Black adults reported past-year CU-significantly higher than rates of CU among other assessed racial groups. Opioid use/misuse, encounters with drug dealers, easier access to cocaine, unemployment, and being 35 or older were associated with increased odds of CU. Greater risk perception of CU and religiosity were associated decreased odds of CU. CONCLUSION Results identified several correlates associated with past-year CU among Black adults. Findings suggest addressing CU among this population will likely require the development of multilevel prevention and intervention strategies and an increased focus on opioid use/misuse as opioids have been recently implicated in cocaine-related overdose deaths.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jason A Ford
- University of Central Florida, Department of Sociology, United States
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28
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Santoro TN, Santoro JD. Racial Bias in the US Opioid Epidemic: A Review of the History of Systemic Bias and Implications for Care. Cureus 2018; 10:e3733. [PMID: 30800543 PMCID: PMC6384031 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.3733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The opioid epidemic has been declared a US national public health emergency. Discrepancies in the rates of abuse and access to treatment exist among non-white minorities. A narrative literature review evaluated the minority racial disparities in opioid use, abuse, and care in the US. Racial disparities in the prescription of opioid-containing compounds are dramatic with the non-white individuals being prescribed at half the rate. Historical and cognitive biases may have insulated the non-white minorities, while the minorities have limited access to treatment. Physician bias, media portrayal of opioid abuse disorders, and governmental regulation are a polyfactorial root of racial inequity in the opioid epidemic. As part of the national response, addressing these issues will be an important factor in curbing this epidemic.
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29
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Stahler GJ, Mennis J. Treatment outcome disparities for opioid users: Are there racial and ethnic differences in treatment completion across large US metropolitan areas? Drug Alcohol Depend 2018; 190:170-178. [PMID: 30041092 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2018.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2018] [Revised: 06/01/2018] [Accepted: 06/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The present study examined racial/ethnic disparities in initial treatment episode completion for adult clients reporting opioids as their primary problem substance in large US metropolitan areas. METHODS Data were extracted from the 2013 TEDS-D dataset (Treatment Episode Dataset-Discharge) for the 42 largest US metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs). Fixed effects logistic regression controlling for MSA was used to estimate the effect of race/ethnicity on the likelihood of treatment completion. The model was repeated for each individual MSA in a stratified design to compare the geographic variation in racial/ethnic disparities, controlling for gender, age, education, employment, living arrangement, treatment setting, medication-assisted treatment, referral source, route of administration, and number of substances used at admission. RESULTS Only 28% of clients completed treatment, and the results from the fixed effects model indicate that blacks and Hispanics are less likely to complete treatment compared to whites. However, the stratified analysis of individual MSAs found only three of the 42 MSAs had racial/ethnic disparities in treatment completion, with the New York City (NYC) MSA largely responsible for the disparities in the combined sample. Supplementary analyses suggest that there are greater differences between whites and minority clients in the NYC MSA vs. other cities on characteristics associated with treatment completion (e.g., residential treatment setting). CONCLUSION This study underscores the need for improving treatment retention for all opioid using clients in large metropolitan areas in the US, particularly for minority clients in those localities where disparities exist, and for better understanding the geographic context for treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerald J Stahler
- Department of Geography and Urban Studies, Temple University, (025-27), 309 Gladfelter Hall, Philadelphia, PA 19122, United States.
| | - Jeremy Mennis
- Department of Geography and Urban Studies, Temple University, (025-27), 309 Gladfelter Hall, Philadelphia, PA 19122, United States.
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