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Tourchian N, McCormack D, Leece P, Tadrous M, Gomes T. Patterns of publicly funded naltrexone use among patients diagnosed with alcohol use disorder in Ontario. Alcohol Alcohol 2024; 59:agad091. [PMID: 38300604 PMCID: PMC10833073 DOI: 10.1093/alcalc/agad091] [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: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
AIMS Naltrexone is recommended first-line to manage alcohol use disorder (AUD). With previous studies indicating poor retention on naltrexone, we determined duration of naltrexone use and assessed the association between prescription setting and time to discontinuation in Ontario. METHODS We conducted a retrospective population-based cohort study among Ontario public drug beneficiaries diagnosed with AUD who initiated publicly funded naltrexone from June 2018 to September 2019. The primary outcome was time to naltrexone discontinuation, with a secondary analysis assessing receipt of at least one prescription refill. We used Cox proportional hazards models and logistic regression to test the association between prescription setting and each medication persistence outcome. RESULTS Among 2531 new naltrexone patients with AUD, the median duration of naltrexone use was 31 days and 394 (15.6%) continued naltrexone for 6 months or longer. There was no association between setting of initiation and duration of naltrexone use; however, those initiating naltrexone following an acute inpatient hospital stay were more likely to fill a second prescription (aOR 1.43, 95% CI 0.96-2.14), while those initiating after an ED visit were less likely to be dispensed a second prescription (aOR = 0.69, 95% CI 0.52-0.90) compared to those starting in a physician's office. CONCLUSION Persistence on naltrexone to treat an AUD is low, regardless of the setting of initiation. Further research is needed to elucidate the barriers encountered by patients with AUD that lead to poor treatment persistence in order to develop interventions that facilitate patient-centered access to evidence-based treatment for AUD in the province.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nima Tourchian
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, 144 College St, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3M2, Canada
| | | | - Pamela Leece
- Public Health Ontario, 480 University Ave. #300, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 1V2, Canada
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, 500 University Ave.,Toronto, Ontario, M5G 1V7, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 155 College St., Toronto, Ontario, M5T 3M7, Canada
| | - Mina Tadrous
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, 144 College St, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3M2, Canada
- ICES, 2075 Bayview Ave., Toronto, Ontario, M4N 3M5, Canada
- Women’s College Hospital, 76 Grenville St., Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1B2, Canada
| | - Tara Gomes
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, 144 College St, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3M2, Canada
- ICES, 2075 Bayview Ave., Toronto, Ontario, M4N 3M5, Canada
- Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute of St. Michael’s Hospital, 30 Bond St., Toronto, Ontario, M5B 1W8, Canada
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Tijani AO, Garg J, Frempong D, Verana G, Kaur J, Joga R, Sabanis CD, Kumar S, Kumar N, Puri A. Sustained drug delivery strategies for treatment of common substance use disorders: Promises and challenges. J Control Release 2022; 348:970-1003. [PMID: 35752256 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.06.034] [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: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/19/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Substance use disorders (SUDs) are a leading cause of death and other ill health effects in the United States and other countries in the world. Several approaches ranging from detoxification, behavioral therapy, and the use of antagonists or drugs with counter effects are currently being applied for its management. Amongst these, drug therapy is the mainstay for some drug abuse incidences, as is in place specifically for opioid abuse or alcohol dependence. The severity of the havocs observed with the SUDs has triggered constant interest in the discovery and development of novel medications as well as suitable or most appropriate methods for the delivery of these agents. The chronic need of such drugs in users warrants the need for their prolonged or sustained systemic availability. Further, the need to improve patient tolerance to medication, limit invasive drug use and overall treatment outcome are pertinent considerations for embracing sustained release designs for medications used in managing SUDs. This review aims to provide an overview on up-to-date advances made with regards to sustained delivery systems for the drugs for treatment of different types of SUDs such as opioid, alcohol, tobacco, cocaine, and cannabis use disorders. The clinical relevance, promises and the limitations of deployed sustained release approaches along with future opportunities are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akeemat O Tijani
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bill Gatton College of Pharmacy, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614, USA.
| | - Jivesh Garg
- University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Panjab University, Chandigarh 160014, India
| | - Dorcas Frempong
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bill Gatton College of Pharmacy, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614, USA.
| | - Gabrielle Verana
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bill Gatton College of Pharmacy, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614, USA.
| | - Jagroop Kaur
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bill Gatton College of Pharmacy, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614, USA.
| | - Ramesh Joga
- Department of Regulatory Affairs, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad 500 037, Telangana, India.
| | - Chetan D Sabanis
- Department of Regulatory Affairs, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad 500 037, Telangana, India.
| | - Sandeep Kumar
- Department of Regulatory Affairs, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad 500 037, Telangana, India.
| | - Neeraj Kumar
- Department of Regulatory Affairs, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad 500 037, Telangana, India.
| | - Ashana Puri
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bill Gatton College of Pharmacy, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614, USA.
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Agabio R, Balia S, Gessa GL, Pani PP. Use of Medications for the Treatment of Alcohol Dependence: A Retrospective Study Conducted in 2011-2012. Curr Drug Res Rev 2021; 13:154-164. [PMID: 33371866 DOI: 10.2174/2589977512666201228121820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/04/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pharmacotherapy for Alcohol Dependence (AD) is underutilized. Barriers preventing the use of AD medications include high prices, lack of access to prescribing physicians, and a limited number of available medications. OBJECTIVE The study evaluated the use of AD medications in a sample of Italian outpatients who received these medications free of charge, had access to physicians during office hours, and for whom substitution therapy [gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB)] was available. We also evaluated the rate of patients who received a combination of non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatments among participants who were still drinking. METHODS SCID for AD and questionnaire were filled by to AD outpatients during a face-to-face interview. RESULTS & DISCUSSION 345 AD outpatients were interviewed: 58.8% were currently receiving at least one AD medication (GHB: 34.3%, disulfiram: 29.6%, acamprosate: 5.9%; naltrexone: 2.5%; more than one medication: 16.7%). Less than 30% of participants who were still drinking, received a combination of non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatments. Nonetheless, we found higher use of AD medications compared to previous studies conducted in other countries. This higher use of AD medications may be due to access to free medications, prescribing physicians' style, and a larger number of available medications. CONCLUSION Our results confirm the underutilization of AD medications, as less than 60% of AD outpatients received medications, and less than 30% of those who were still drinking, received a combination of non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatments. These findings may be useful in improving our knowledge of the barriers that prevent the use of AD medications in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Agabio
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Sardinia, Italy
| | - Silvia Balia
- Department of Economics and Business, University of Cagliari and CRENoS, Sardinia, Italy
| | - Gian Luigi Gessa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Sardinia, Italy
| | - Pier Paolo Pani
- Health Social Services, Public Health Trust Sardinia, Cagliari, Italy
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4
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Predictive factors of long-term follow-up in treatment of Korean alcoholics with naltrexone or acamprosate. Int Clin Psychopharmacol 2020; 35:345-350. [PMID: 32784347 DOI: 10.1097/yic.0000000000000324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Medication is integral in treating alcohol use disorder. However, because of the small to medium effect size, much effort is being exerted to identify predicting factors for effective pharmacological treatment in alcohol abuse disorder. Rather than focusing on abstinence days, alcohol craving, or frequency of drinking, which has been the focus of previous studies. Recently, there have been several studies which focused on follow-up length as an indicator of pharmacological treatment effe ctiveness. The purpose of this study was to investigate the predicting factors of long-term follow-up in treating Korean alcoholics with naltrexone or acamprosate. A retrospective study was conducted. Medical records of all patients diagnosed from November 2008 to May 2017 with alcohol abuse or alcohol dependence at psychiatric clinics at PNUYH were reviewed. We examined total days of which naltrexone or acamprosate were prescribed, and investigated if there were predicting factors maintaining follow-up at least 180 days or more. With these data, logistic regression analysis was conducted. In naltrexone long group compared to naltrexone short group, factors of having medical comorbidities [odds ratio (OR) = 5.477, P = 0.012] showed higher OR. In acamprosate long group, factors of age (OR = 1.083, P = 0.030), and use of more than four psychotropic medications (OR = 7.107, P = 0.030), showed higher OR. In both medications, predicting factors were different from the other. Further study to investigate the reasons would provide us with a new insight.
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Muvvala SB, O'Malley SS, Rosenheck R. Multiple Psychiatric Morbidity and Continued Use of Naltrexone for Alcohol Use Disorder. Am J Addict 2020; 30:55-64. [PMID: 32805083 DOI: 10.1111/ajad.13089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Revised: 06/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Despite substantial evidence of the efficacy of naltrexone in treating alcohol use disorder (AUD), naltrexone is used infrequently and often for short durations. Understanding factors related to the initiation and continued use of naltrexone could identify targets for improving its use in clinical practice. METHODS We used the Fiscal year 2012 national data from the Veterans Health Administration to identify the proportion of veterans diagnosed with AUD who initiated and then continued to receive naltrexone for AUD over a 6-month period (N = 67,788). We further examined correlates of any use and continued use, and patterns of use in inpatient and outpatient mental health services and psychotropic prescription fills. Comparisons were made using bivariate analyses and multinomial logistic regression. RESULTS Among the veterans diagnosed with AUD, 2.02% initiated treatment with naltrexone. Naltrexone initiation was associated with recent homelessness, concurrent psychiatric disorders, receipt of psychiatric outpatient services, psychotropic prescription fills, residential treatment, and psychiatric and medical-surgical hospitalization. Of the 1,366 patients initiating naltrexone, 43.2% (590) received 2 to 5 prescriptions and 16.3% (223) received more than 5 prescriptions for naltrexone. Use of naltrexone beyond one prescription was associated with homelessness, major depressive disorder, schizophrenia, psychotropic medication use, and psychiatric hospitalization. CONCLUSION Veterans with AUD who used and continued naltrexone were primarily those with multimorbidity and extensive involvement in psychiatric treatment. SCIENTIFIC SIGNIFICANCE Prior studies examined the correlates of initiation of naltrexone but retention in treatment has received less attention. This study identified the frequency and important patient and service correlates of continued use of naltrexone. (Am J Addict 2021;30:55-64).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Robert Rosenheck
- Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.,VISN1 VA New England Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center.,VA Connecticut Health Care System, West Haven, Connecticut
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Bach P, Weil G, Pompili E, Hoffmann S, Hermann D, Vollstädt‐Klein S, Mann K, Perez‐Ramirez U, Moratal D, Canals S, Dursun SM, Greenshaw AJ, Kirsch P, Kiefer F, Sommer WH. Incubation of neural alcohol cue reactivity after withdrawal and its blockade by naltrexone. Addict Biol 2020; 25:e12717. [PMID: 30748046 DOI: 10.1111/adb.12717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2018] [Revised: 12/15/2018] [Accepted: 01/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
During the first weeks of abstinence, alcohol craving in patients may increase or "incubate." We hypothesize that Naltrexone (NTX) blocks this incubation effect. Here, we compared NTX effects on neural alcohol cue reactivity (CR) over the first weeks of abstinence and on long-term clinical outcomes to standard treatment. Male alcohol-dependent patients (n = 55) and healthy controls (n = 35) were enrolled. Participants underwent baseline psychometric testing and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) assessment of mesolimbic alcohol CR. Patients participated in a standard treatment program with the option of adjuvant NTX. They received another scan after 2 weeks of treatment. We found higher CR in several brain regions in patients versus healthy controls. CR significantly increased over 2 weeks in the standard treatment group (n = 13) but not in the NTX group (n = 22). NTX significantly attenuated CR in the left putamen and reduced relapse risk to heavy drinking within 3 months of treatment. Additionally, increased CR in the left putamen and its course over time predicted both NTX response and relapse risk. Carrier status for the functional OPRM1 variant rs1799971:A > G was considered but had no effect on NTX efficacy. In conclusion, NTX was most effective in patients with high CR in the left putamen. While the results from our naturalistic study await further confirmation from prospective randomized trials, they support a potential role of neural CR as a biomarker in the development of precision medicine approaches with NTX.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Bach
- Department of Addictive Behavior and Addiction MedicineCentral Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg, Medical Faculty Mannheim Mannheim Germany
- Feuerlein Center on Translational Addiction Medicine (FCTS)University of Heidelberg Heidelberg Germany
| | - Georg Weil
- Department of Addictive Behavior and Addiction MedicineCentral Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg, Medical Faculty Mannheim Mannheim Germany
| | - Enrico Pompili
- Department of Addictive Behavior and Addiction MedicineCentral Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg, Medical Faculty Mannheim Mannheim Germany
| | - Sabine Hoffmann
- Department of Addictive Behavior and Addiction MedicineCentral Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg, Medical Faculty Mannheim Mannheim Germany
- Feuerlein Center on Translational Addiction Medicine (FCTS)University of Heidelberg Heidelberg Germany
| | - Derik Hermann
- Department of Addictive Behavior and Addiction MedicineCentral Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg, Medical Faculty Mannheim Mannheim Germany
- Feuerlein Center on Translational Addiction Medicine (FCTS)University of Heidelberg Heidelberg Germany
| | - Sabine Vollstädt‐Klein
- Department of Addictive Behavior and Addiction MedicineCentral Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg, Medical Faculty Mannheim Mannheim Germany
| | - Karl Mann
- Department of Addictive Behavior and Addiction MedicineCentral Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg, Medical Faculty Mannheim Mannheim Germany
| | - Ursula Perez‐Ramirez
- Center for Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering, Universitat Politècnica de València Valencia Spain
| | - David Moratal
- Center for Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering, Universitat Politècnica de València Valencia Spain
| | - Santiago Canals
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas and Universidad Miguel Hernández San Juan de Alicante Spain
| | | | | | - Peter Kirsch
- Department for Clinical PsychologyCentral Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg, Medical Faculty Mannheim Mannheim Germany
| | - Falk Kiefer
- Department of Addictive Behavior and Addiction MedicineCentral Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg, Medical Faculty Mannheim Mannheim Germany
- Feuerlein Center on Translational Addiction Medicine (FCTS)University of Heidelberg Heidelberg Germany
| | - Wolfgang H. Sommer
- Department of Addictive Behavior and Addiction MedicineCentral Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg, Medical Faculty Mannheim Mannheim Germany
- Institute of Psychopharmacology, Central Institute of Mental HealthUniversity of Heidelberg, Medical Faculty Mannheim Mannheim Germany
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7
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Extended-release vs. oral naltrexone for alcohol dependence treatment in primary care (XON). Contemp Clin Trials 2019; 81:102-109. [PMID: 30986535 DOI: 10.1016/j.cct.2019.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2018] [Revised: 03/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Extended-release naltrexone (XR-NTX, Vivitrol®) and daily oral naltrexone tablets (O-NTX) are FDA-approved mu opioid receptor antagonist medications for alcohol dependence treatment. Despite the efficacy of O-NTX, non-adherence and poor treatment retention have limited its adoption into primary care. XR-NTX is a once-a-month injectable formulation that offers a potentially more effective treatment option in reducing alcohol consumption and heavy drinking episodes among persons with alcohol use disorders. METHODS This pragmatic, open-label, randomized controlled trial examines the effectiveness of XR-NTX vs. O-NTX in producing a Good Clinical Outcome, defined as abstinence or moderate drinking (<2 drinks/day, men; <1 drink/day, women; and < 2 heavy drinking occasions/month) during the final 20 of 24 weeks of primary care-based Medical Management treatment for alcohol dependence. Secondary aims will estimate the cost effectiveness of XR-NTX vs. O-NTX, in conjunction with primary-care based Medical Management for both groups, and patient-level characteristics associated with effectiveness in both arms. Alcohol dependent persons are recruited from the community into treatment in a New York City public hospital primary care setting (Bellevue Hospital Center) for 24 weeks of either XR-NTX (n = 117) or O-NTX (n = 120). RESULTS We describe the rationale, specific aims, design, and recruitment results to date. Alternative design considerations and secondary aims and outcomes are reported. CONCLUSIONS XR-NTX treatment in a primary care setting is potentially more efficacious, feasible, and cost-effective than oral naltrexone when treating community-dwelling persons with alcohol use disorders. This study will estimate XR-NTX's treatment and cost effectiveness relative to oral naltrexone.
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8
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Liu J, Shi YC, Lee DYW. Applications of Pueraria lobata in treating diabetics and reducing alcohol drinking. CHINESE HERBAL MEDICINES 2019; 11:141-149. [PMID: 32831815 PMCID: PMC7434045 DOI: 10.1016/j.chmed.2019.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Pueraria lobata is one of the most important medicinal herbs used traditionally in China. According to Shanghan Lun (Treatise on Exogenous Febrile Disease), it has been used traditionally to relieve body heat, eye soring, dry mouth, headache associated with high blood pressure, and stiff neck problems. Modern studies in the 1970s revealed that isoflavonoids extracted from P. lobata were the bioactive components of an herbal remedy namely Yufeng Ningxin Tablets for the treatment of patients after stroke. This article reviews recent application of P. lobota in the treatment of diabetics and in reducing alcohol drinking. In view of its low toxicity profile, P. lobota stands an excellent chance to be developed as a phytomedicine for treating human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Liu
- Bio-Organic and Natural Products Research Laboratory, Mailman Research Center, McLean Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA 02478, USA
| | | | - David Yue-Wei Lee
- Bio-Organic and Natural Products Research Laboratory, Mailman Research Center, McLean Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA 02478, USA
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Friedmann PD, Dunn KE, Nunes EV, O'Brien CP. Effectiveness, Implementation and Real-World Experience with Extended-Release Naltrexone (XR-NTX): A Special Issue of JSAT. J Subst Abuse Treat 2017; 85:31-33. [PMID: 29273249 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsat.2017.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Peter D Friedmann
- Office of Research and Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts-Baystate and Baystate Health, Springfield, MA.
| | - Kelly E Dunn
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Edward V Nunes
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, Columbia University Medical Center New York, NY
| | - Charles P O'Brien
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
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Karriker-Jaffe KJ, Ji J, Sundquist J, Kendler KS, Sundquist K. Disparities in pharmacotherapy for alcohol use disorder in the context of universal health care: a Swedish register study. Addiction 2017; 112:1386-1394. [PMID: 28406579 PMCID: PMC5503767 DOI: 10.1111/add.13834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2016] [Revised: 10/31/2016] [Accepted: 03/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Pharmacotherapy can be an important part of the continuum of care for alcohol use disorder (AUD). The Swedish universal health-care system emphasizes provision of care to marginalized groups. The primary aim was to test associations of neighborhood deprivation and disadvantaged social status with receipt of AUD pharmacotherapy in this context. DESIGN Data from linked population registers were used to follow an open cohort over 7 years. SETTING Sweden. PARTICIPANTS Alcohol-related ICD-10 codes reported for all hospitalizations in the Swedish Hospital Discharge Register and all clinic/office visits in the Outpatient Care Register between 2005 and 2012 were used to identify 62 549 cases with AUD. MEASUREMENTS The primary outcome was any AUD pharmacotherapy (naltrexone, disulfiram, acamprosate, nalmefene) picked up by patients between 2005 and 2012 (versus none), based on the Swedish Prescribed Drug Register. Neighborhood deprivation was defined using aggregated data from the Total Population Register; indicators of disadvantaged social status (income, education, country of origin) also came from this source. FINDINGS Approximately half the cases (53.7%) picked up one or more AUD pharmacotherapy prescriptions. In adjusted models, people living in neighborhoods with moderate [odds ratio (OR) = 0.90, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.86, 0.95] or high levels of deprivation (OR = 0.75, 95% CI = 0.70, 0.79) compared with low deprivation, those with lower incomes (for example, lowest quartile: OR = 0.70, 95% CI = 0.66, 0.73 compared with highest) and less education (for example, < 10 years: OR = 0.82, 95% CI = 0.78, 0.85 compared with 12+ years) and people born outside Sweden (OR = 0.74, 95% CI = 0.71, 0.78 compared with Swedish-born) were significantly less likely to pick up a prescription for AUD pharmacotherapy during the study period. CONCLUSIONS There appear to be socio-economic disparities in the receipt of pharmacotherapy for alcohol use disorder in Sweden.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jianguang Ji
- Center for Primary Health Care Research, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Jan Sundquist
- Center for Primary Health Care Research, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Kenneth S. Kendler
- Virginia Institute for Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA,Department of Psychiatry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond VA, USA,Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
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11
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Chokron Garneau H, Venegas A, Rawson R, Ray LA, Glasner S. Barriers to initiation of extended release naltrexone among HIV-infected adults with alcohol use disorders. J Subst Abuse Treat 2017; 85:34-37. [PMID: 28527854 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsat.2017.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2016] [Revised: 04/28/2017] [Accepted: 05/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Alcohol consumption is a major risk factor for the acquisition of HIV/AIDS and is associated with greater disease burden and mortality among those who become HIV-infected. Of the extant pharmacological treatments for alcohol use disorders, naltrexone is recognized as one of the most efficacious, producing robust reductions in alcohol craving and use. Given that treatment with oral naltrexone has been limited by problems with adherence, which are particularly prevalent among individuals with multiple chronic, co-occurring conditions, long-acting formulations may be a promising approach for HIV-infected substance users. However, little is known about the barriers to initiation of extended-release naltrexone (XR-NTX) treatment among alcohol users living with HIV. In this report we present and discuss the content analysis of open-ended survey questions, as well as lessons learned, with regards to barriers to initiation and maintenance of XR-NTX treatment collected as part of an RCT evaluating a cognitive behavioral text messaging intervention for HIV-infected adults with alcohol use disorders. Barriers to initiation and maintenance of XR-NTX pharmacotherapy among HIV+ individuals with alcohol use disorders seem to fall in one of two categories: [1] barriers that are amenable to change, which include distance and transportation issues, fear of injections, and belief that alcohol use does not warrant pharmacotherapy, and [2] barriers that are not amenable to change, such as the potential interaction of XR-NTX with another medication regimen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hélène Chokron Garneau
- UCLA Integrated Substance Abuse Programs, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Los Angeles, CA, United States.
| | - Alexandra Venegas
- UCLA Integrated Substance Abuse Programs, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Richard Rawson
- UCLA Integrated Substance Abuse Programs, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Lara A Ray
- University of California Los Angeles, Department of Psychology, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Suzette Glasner
- UCLA Integrated Substance Abuse Programs, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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12
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Springer SA, Di Paola A, Azar MM, Barbour R, Krishnan A, Altice FL. Extended-release naltrexone reduces alcohol consumption among released prisoners with HIV disease as they transition to the community. Drug Alcohol Depend 2017; 174:158-170. [PMID: 28334661 PMCID: PMC5407009 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2017.01.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2016] [Revised: 01/25/2017] [Accepted: 01/27/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra A. Springer
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, AIDS Program, Yale School of Medicine, 135 College Street, Suite 323, New Haven, CT 06510-2283,Yale University School of Public Health, Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, New Haven CT 06510-2283
| | - Angela Di Paola
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, AIDS Program, Yale School of Medicine, 135 College Street, Suite 323, New Haven, CT 06510-2283
| | - Marwan M. Azar
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, AIDS Program, Yale School of Medicine, 135 College Street, Suite 323, New Haven, CT 06510-2283
| | - Russell Barbour
- Yale University School of Public Health, Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, New Haven CT 06510-2283
| | - Archana Krishnan
- State University of New York at Albany, Department of Communication, Albany, NY
| | - Frederick L. Altice
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, AIDS Program, Yale School of Medicine, 135 College Street, Suite 323, New Haven, CT 06510-2283,Yale University School of Public Health, Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, New Haven CT 06510-2283,Yale University School of Public Health, Division of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, New Haven, CT,Centre of Excellence in Research in AIDS (CERiA), University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Drug therapy for alcohol dependence in primary care in the UK: A Clinical Practice Research Datalink study. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0173272. [PMID: 28319159 PMCID: PMC5358741 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0173272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2016] [Accepted: 02/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM To evaluate drug therapy for alcohol dependence in the 12 months after first diagnosis in UK primary care. DESIGN Open cohort study. SETTING General practices contributing data to the UK Clinical Practice Research Database. PARTICIPANTS 39,980 people with an incident diagnosis of alcohol dependence aged 16 years or older between 1 January 1990 and 31 December 2013. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE Use of pharmacotherapy (acamprosate, disulfiram, naltrexone, baclofen and topiramate) to promote abstinence from alcohol or reduce drinking to safe levels in the first 12 months after a recorded diagnosis of alcohol dependence. FINDINGS Only 4,677 (11.7%) of the cohort received relevant pharmacotherapy in the 12 months following diagnosis. Of the 35,303 that did not receive pharmacotherapy, 3,255 (9.2%) received psychosocial support. The remaining 32,048 (80.2%) did not receive either mode of treatment in the first 12 months. Factors that independently reduced the likelihood of receiving pharmacotherapy included: being male (Odds Ratio [OR] 0.74; 95% CI 0.69 to 0.78); older (65-74 years: OR 0.61; 95% CI 0.49 to 0.77); being from a practice based in the most deprived quintile (OR 0.58; 95% CI 0.53 to 0.64); and being located in Northern Ireland (OR 0.78; 95% CI 0.67 to 0.91). The median duration to initiation of pharmacotherapy was 0.80 months (95% CI 0.70 to 1.00) for acamprosate and 0.60 months (95% CI 0.43 to 0.73) for disulfiram. Persistence analysis for those receiving acamprosate and disulfiram revealed that many patients never received a repeat prescription; persistence at 6 months was 27.7% for acomprosate and 33.2% for disulfiram. The median duration of therapy was 2.10 months (95% CI 1.87 to 2.53) for acamprosate and 3.13 months (95% CI 2.77 to 3.36) for disulfiram. CONCLUSION Drug therapy to promote abstinence in alcohol dependent patients was low, with the majority of patients receiving no therapy, either psychological or pharmacological. When drug therapy was prescribed, persistence was low with most patients receiving only one prescription. Our data show that treatment for alcohol dependence is haphazard, and there is an urgent need to explore strategies for improving clinical management of this patient group.
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Crits-Christoph P, Markell HM, Gibbons MBC, Gallop R, Lundy C, Stringer M, Gastfriend DR. A Naturalistic Evaluation of Extended-Release Naltrexone in Clinical Practice in Missouri. J Subst Abuse Treat 2016; 70:50-57. [PMID: 27692188 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsat.2016.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2016] [Revised: 07/15/2016] [Accepted: 07/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to compare the naturalistic outcomes of individuals with alcohol or opioid use problems who were treated with extended-release naltrexone (XR-NTX) to those treated with psychosocial treatment only and also to those treated with other medication-assisted therapies in Missouri during 2010 to 2011. We analyzed intake and discharge data collected as part of SAMHSA's Treatment Episode Data Set assessments. Patients who received XR-NTX during their treatment episode were compared, for those reporting alcohol (but not opioids) as their problem (N=21,137), to those who received oral naltrexone, acamprosate, and psychosocial treatment only, and for those who reported opioids as a problem (N=8996), to those receiving oral naltrexone, buprenorphine/naloxone, and psychosocial treatment only. Group differences were adjusted using propensity score weighting, with propensity scores derived from 18 intake variables. For the alcohol sample, patients who received XR-NTX vs. the oral naltrexone group had superior composite outcomes on a measure combining abstinence, self-help participation, employment, and arrests. For the opioid sample, XR-NTX was found to have significantly better outcomes than oral naltrexone on the composite outcome measure. For both the alcohol and opioid samples, the group that received XR-NTX stayed in treatment longer vs. psychosocial treatment only. In the opioid sample, those receiving buprenorphine/naloxone remained in treatment longer than those receiving XR-NTX.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Crits-Christoph
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA.
| | - Hannah M Markell
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | | | | | - Christie Lundy
- Missouri Department of Mental Health, Jefferson City, MO
| | - Mark Stringer
- Missouri Department of Mental Health, Jefferson City, MO
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Springer SA, Brown SE, Di Paola A, Altice FL. Correlates of retention on extended-release naltrexone among persons living with HIV infection transitioning to the community from the criminal justice system. Drug Alcohol Depend 2015; 157:158-65. [PMID: 26560326 PMCID: PMC4675147 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2015.10.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2015] [Revised: 10/19/2015] [Accepted: 10/22/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The acceptability of and retention on extended-release naltrexone (XR-NTX), an FDA-approved medication for the treatment of alcohol and opioid use disorders, among persons living with HIV disease (PLH) under criminal justice setting (CJS) supervision has not been evaluated to date. METHODS Two double-blind placebo-controlled randomized trials of XR-NTX for inmates with HIV disease transitioning to the community with (1) alcohol use disorders (AUDs) or (2) opioid use disorders, are underway. Reasons for not accepting XR-NTX and an evaluation of differences in demographic features between those who were retained on study drug and those who did not return for their second injection post-release are discussed. RESULTS 70% of eligible persons consented to participate; almost 90% received their first injection; and almost 60% returned for their first injection after release. Variables found to be associated (p<0.10) with returning for the second injection included: not meeting criteria for hazardous drinking (p=0.035; OR 0.424 (CI 0.191-0.941)); being prescribed antiretroviral therapy (p=0.068; OR 2.170 (CI 0.943-4.992)); expressing experiencing serious depression 30 days prior to incarceration (p=0.068; OR 1.889 (CI 0.955-3.737)); not having a positive cocaine urine screen on the day of release (DOR) (p=0.011; OR 0.258 (CI 0.091-0.729)); and not meeting criteria for an AUD plus any substance use disorder (p=0.068; OR 0.521 (CI 0.259-1.048)). Only positive cocaine urine test on DOR was statistically significant after multivariate regression analyses (p=0.005; OR 0.207 (CI 0.068-0.623)). CONCLUSION CJS based XR-NTX programs are highly acceptable among PLH, however retention on XR-NTX after release is negatively impacted by relapse to cocaine use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra A Springer
- Yale AIDS Program, Yale School of Medicine, Section of Infectious Disease, 135 College Street, Suite 323, New Haven, CT 06511, United States.
| | - Shan-Estelle Brown
- Yale AIDS Program, Yale School of Medicine, Section of Infectious Disease, 135 College Street, Suite 323, New Haven, CT 06511, United States
| | - Angela Di Paola
- Yale AIDS Program, Yale School of Medicine, Section of Infectious Disease, 135 College Street, Suite 323, New Haven, CT 06511, United States
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Dayal P, Balhara YPS, Mishra AK. An open label naturalistic study of predictors of retention and compliance to naltrexone maintenance treatment among patients with opioid dependence. JOURNAL OF SUBSTANCE USE 2015. [DOI: 10.3109/14659891.2015.1021867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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17
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Cousins SJ, Denering L, Crèvecoeur-MacPhail D, Viernes J, Sugita W, Barger J, Kim T, Weimann S, Rawson RA. A demonstration project implementing extended-release naltrexone in Los Angeles County. Subst Abus 2015; 37:54-62. [DOI: 10.1080/08897077.2015.1052868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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18
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Aletraris L, Edmond MB, Roman PM. Adoption of injectable naltrexone in U.S. substance use disorder treatment programs. J Stud Alcohol Drugs 2015; 76:143-151. [PMID: 25486403 PMCID: PMC4263776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2014] [Accepted: 08/10/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Medication-assisted treatment for substance use disorders (SUDs) is not widely used in treatment programs. The aims of the current study were to document the prevalence of adoption and implementation of extended-release injectable naltrexone, the newest U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved medication for alcohol use disorder (AUD), in U.S. treatment programs and to examine associations between organizational and patient characteristics and adoption. METHOD The study used interview data from a nationally representative sample of 307 U.S. SUD treatment programs to examine adoption and implementation of injectable naltrexone. RESULTS Thirteen percent of programs used injectable naltrexone for AUD, and 3% of programs used it for opioid use disorder. Every treatment program that offered injectable naltrexone to its patients used it in conjunction with psychosocial treatment, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy. Multivariate logistic regression results indicated that adoption was positively associated with the provision of wraparound services, the percentage of privately insured patients, and the presence of inpatient detoxification services. For-profit status and offering inpatient services were negatively associated with adoption. Within adopting programs, an average of 4.1% of AUD patients and 7.1% of patients with opioid use disorder were currently receiving the medication, despite clinical directors' reports of positive patient outcomes, particularly for relapsers and for those who had been noncompliant with other medications. Cost was a significant issue for the majority of adopting organizations. CONCLUSIONS The rate of adoption of injectable naltrexone in U.S. treatment programs remains limited. Researchers should continue to examine patient, organizational, and external characteristics associated with the adoption and implementation of injectable naltrexone over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lydia Aletraris
- Owens Institute for Behavioral Research, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia
| | - Mary Bond Edmond
- Owens Institute for Behavioral Research, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia
| | - Paul M Roman
- Owens Institute for Behavioral Research, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia
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Gastfriend DR. A pharmaceutical industry perspective on the economics of treatments for alcohol and opioid use disorders. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2014; 1327:112-30. [PMID: 25236185 PMCID: PMC4206699 DOI: 10.1111/nyas.12538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Individuals with alcohol and/or drug use disorders often fail to receive care, or evidence-based care, yet the literature shows health economic benefits. Comparative effectiveness research is emerging that examines approved approaches in terms of real, total healthcare cost/utilization. Comprehensive retrospective insurance claims analyses are few but tend to be nationally distributed and large. The emerging pattern is that, while treatment in general is cost effective, specific therapeutics can yield different health economic outcomes. Cost/utilization data consistently show greater savings with pharmacotherapies (despite their costs) versus psychosocial treatment alone. All FDA-approved addiction pharmacotherapies (oral naltrexone, extended-release naltrexone, acamprosate, disulfiram, buprenorphine, buprenorphine/naloxone, and methadone) are intended for use in conjunction with psychosocial management, not as stand-alone therapeutics; hence, pharmacotherapy costs must offer benefits in addition to abstinence alone or psychological therapy. Patient persistence is problematic, and (despite its cost) extended-release pharmacotherapy may be associated with lower or no greater total healthcare cost, mostly due to reduced hospitalization. The reviewed studies use rigorous case-mix adjustment to balance treatment cohorts but lack the randomization that clinical trials use to protect against confounding. Unlike trials, however, these studies can offer generalizability to diverse populations, providers, and payment models--and are of particular salience to payers.
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Hartung DM, McCarty D, Fu R, Wiest K, Chalk M, Gastfriend DR. Extended-release naltrexone for alcohol and opioid dependence: a meta-analysis of healthcare utilization studies. J Subst Abuse Treat 2014; 47:113-21. [PMID: 24854219 PMCID: PMC4110954 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsat.2014.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2013] [Revised: 03/10/2014] [Accepted: 03/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Through improved adherence, once-monthly injectable extended-release naltrexone (XR-NTX) may provide an advantage over other oral agents approved for alcohol and opioid dependence treatment. The objective of this study was to evaluate cost and utilization outcomes between XR-NTX and other pharmacotherapies for treatment of alcohol and opioid dependence. Published studies were identified through comprehensive search of two electronic databases. Studies were included if they compared XR-NTX to other approved medicines and reported economic and healthcare utilization outcomes in patients with opioid or alcohol dependence. We identified five observational studies comparing 1,565 patients using XR-NTX to other therapies over 6 months. Alcohol dependent XR-NTX patients had longer medication refill persistence versus acamprosate and oral naltrexone. Healthcare utilization and costs was generally lower or as low for XR-NTX-treated patients relative to other alcohol dependence agents. Opioid dependent XR-NTX patients had lower inpatient substance abuse-related utilization versus other agents and $8170 lower total cost versus methadone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel M Hartung
- Oregon State University/Oregon Health & Science University College of Pharmacy, 3303 SW Bond Avenue, CH12C, Portland OR 97239.
| | - Dennis McCarty
- Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, CB669, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR 97239
| | - Rongwei Fu
- Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, CB669, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR 97239
| | | | - Mady Chalk
- Treatment Research Institute, Public Ledger Building, Philadelphia, PA 19106
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Łabuzek K, Beil S, Beil-Gawełczyk J, Gabryel B, Franik G, Okopień B. The latest achievements in the pharmacotherapy of gambling disorder. Pharmacol Rep 2014; 66:811-20. [PMID: 25149985 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharep.2014.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2014] [Revised: 04/28/2014] [Accepted: 05/06/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Gambling disorder (GD) is becoming increasingly prevalent both among adults and adolescents. Unfortunately, this disorder is largely underestimated, while it can still lead to serious social and personal consequences, including criminal behavior or suicide attempts. In the past, the only means of treating gambling were psychobehavioral therapies. Nowadays, this disorder could also respond to many drugs from different classes such as opioid antagonists, serotonin selective reuptake inhibitors, mood stabilizers, atypical antipsychotics or glutamatergic agents. This review presents current pharmacological strategies and the results of clinical trials evaluating the efficacy of pharmacotherapy for GD. It also discusses the importance of distinguishing different pathological gambler subtypes such as impulsive, obsessive-compulsive and addictive subtypes as this may have serious pharmacological implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krzysztof Łabuzek
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland.
| | - Sonia Beil
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | | | - Bożena Gabryel
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Franik
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Bogusław Okopień
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
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Design and methods of a double blind randomized placebo-controlled trial of extended-release naltrexone for alcohol dependent and hazardous drinking prisoners with HIV who are transitioning to the community. Contemp Clin Trials 2013; 37:209-18. [PMID: 24384538 DOI: 10.1016/j.cct.2013.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2013] [Revised: 12/20/2013] [Accepted: 12/23/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV-infected prisoners have a high prevalence of alcohol use disorders and commonly relapse to alcohol soon after release to the community which is linked to high morbidity, poor antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence and increased sexual risk-taking behaviors. Extended-release naltrexone (XR-NTX) effectively reduces relapse to alcohol in alcohol dependent persons, yet it remains unexamined among criminal justice system (CJS) populations transitioning to the community. METHODS A randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of XR-NTX to improve HIV treatment outcomes via reducing relapse to alcohol use after prison release for HIV-infected hazardous drinking and alcohol dependent prisoners is discussed. RESULTS Acceptability of study participation is high with 86% of those referred who met eligibility criteria and 85% of those who were able to receive injections prior to release accepted injections, yet important implementation issues are identified and addressed during the study and are discussed in this paper. CONCLUSION Medication-assisted therapies for prevention of relapse to alcohol use for CJS populations transitioning to the community, especially for HIV-infected patients, are urgently needed in order to reduce alcohol relapse after release and improve HIV treatment outcomes and contribute to improved individual and public health.
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Likhitsathian S, Uttawichai K, Booncharoen H, Wittayanookulluk A, Angkurawaranon C, Srisurapanont M. Topiramate treatment for alcoholic outpatients recently receiving residential treatment programs: a 12-week, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Drug Alcohol Depend 2013; 133:440-6. [PMID: 23906999 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2013.06.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2012] [Revised: 06/28/2013] [Accepted: 06/29/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Initiation of a relapse prevention medication is crucial at the end of alcohol detoxification. This study aimed to examine the efficacy and safety of topiramate for alcoholism in patients receiving a residential treatment program of alcohol detoxification and post-acute treatment. METHODS This was a 12-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of topiramate for alcoholism in patients receiving a residential treatment program. Individuals with DSM-IV alcohol dependence with minimal withdrawal were enrolled. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either 100-300 mg/day of topiramate or placebo. Primary outcomes were given as percentages of heavy drinking days and time to first day of heavy drinking. Other drinking outcomes, craving, and health-related quality of life were evaluated. RESULTS A total of 106 participants were randomized to receive topiramate (n=53) or placebo (n=53). Twenty-eight participants of the topiramate group (52.8%) and 25 participants of the placebo group (47.2%) completed the study. Averaged over the trial period, there was no significant difference between groups on the mean percentages of heavy drinking days [1.96 (-1.62 to 5.54), p=.28]. Log rank survival analysis found no difference of time to first day of heavy drinking between topiramate and placebo groups (61.8 vs. 57.5 days, respectively; χ(2)=0.61, d.f.=1, p=.81). Other secondary outcomes were not significantly different between groups. CONCLUSIONS By using a conservative model for data analysis, we could not detect the effectiveness of topiramate in this particular population. As the sensitivity analysis showed a trend of its benefit, further studies in larger sample sizes are still warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surinporn Likhitsathian
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand.
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Hulse GK. Improving clinical outcomes for naltrexone as a management of problem alcohol use. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2013; 76:632-41. [PMID: 22946873 PMCID: PMC3853523 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2125.2012.04452.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2012] [Accepted: 08/30/2012] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite being a relatively effective and safe treatment, the clinical management of alcohol abuse/dependence by oral naltrexone can be compromised due to the patient's non-compliance with daily use of this medication. Over the past decade an increasing body of research has suggested that the use of sustained release depot naltrexone preparations can overcome this issue and deliver improved clinical outcomes. However, at the same time, research findings from diverse areas of pharmacogenetics, neurobiology and behavioural psychology have also been converging to identify variables including genetic markers, patient psychosocial characteristics and drug use history differences, or clusters of these variables that play a major role in mediating the response of alcohol abuse/dependent persons to treatment by naltrexone. While this article does not attempt to review all available data pertaining to an individual alcohol dependent patient's response to treatment by naltrexone, it does identify relevant research areas and highlights the importance of data arising from them. The characterization of clinical markers, to identify those patients who are most likely to benefit from naltrexone and to tailor a more individual naltrexone treatment, will ultimately provide significant benefit to both patients and clinicians by optimizing treatment outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary K Hulse
- Addiction Medicine, School of Psychiatry & Clinical Neurosciences (M521), The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
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Extended-release naltrexone plus medical management alcohol treatment in primary care: findings at 15 months. J Subst Abuse Treat 2012; 43:458-62. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsat.2012.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2012] [Revised: 07/31/2012] [Accepted: 08/09/2012] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Abstract
This article reviews the spectrum of alcohol use disorders. The pharmacologic properties of ethanol and its metabolism, and the historical, physical, and laboratory elements that may help diagnose an alcohol use disorder are examined. The concepts of motivational interviewing and stages of change are mentioned, along with the American Society of Addiction Medicine patient placement criteria, to determine the best level of treatment for alcoholism. Various therapeutic management options are reviewed, including psychological, pharmacologic, and complementary/alternative choices. This article provides a basic understanding of available tools to diagnose and treat this cunning and baffling brain and multisystem disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony P Albanese
- Hepatology and Chemical Dependency, VA Northern California Healthcare System, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA.
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Stoner SA, Hendershot CS. A randomized trial evaluating an mHealth system to monitor and enhance adherence to pharmacotherapy for alcohol use disorders. Addict Sci Clin Pract 2012. [PMID: 23186301 PMCID: PMC3507635 DOI: 10.1186/1940-0640-7-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nonadherence to prescribed medication regimens is a substantial barrier to the pharmacological management of alcohol use disorders. The availability of low-cost, sustainable interventions that maximize medication adherence would likely lead to improved treatment outcomes. Mobile health (mHealth) technologies are increasingly being adopted as a method of delivering behavioral health interventions and represent a promising tool for adherence interventions. We are evaluating a cell-phone-based intervention called AGATE that seeks to enhance adherence with regular text-messaging. METHODS/DESIGN A randomized controlled effectiveness trial in the context of an eight-week open label naltrexone efficacy trial delivered in a naturalistic clinical setting. Treatment-seeking heavy drinkers (N = 105) are currently being recruited and randomly assigned to the AGATE intervention or a control condition. Daily measures of alcohol use and medication side effects are being recorded via cell phone in both conditions. Additionally, participants randomized to the AGATE condition receive medication reminders via SMS text message according to a schedule that adjusts according to their level of adherence. DISCUSSION Results from this trial will provide initial information about the feasibility and efficacy of mHealth interventions for improving adherence to alcohol pharmacotherapies. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT01349985.
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Therapeutic drug monitoring for drugs used in the treatment of substance-related disorders: literature review using a therapeutic drug monitoring appropriateness rating scale. Ther Drug Monit 2012; 33:561-72. [PMID: 21912330 DOI: 10.1097/ftd.0b013e31822fbf7c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The efficacy of drugs for the treatment of substance-related disorders is moderate at best. Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) could be an instrument to improve outcomes. Because TDM for most of those drugs is not established, the authors reviewed the literature and built a rating scale to detect the potential added value of TDM for these pharmacologic agents. METHODS A literature search was performed for acamprosate, bupropion, buprenorphine, clomethiazole, disulfiram, methadone, naltrexone, and varenicline. The rating scale included 22 items and was divided in five categories: efficacy, toxicity, pharmacokinetics, patient characteristics, and cost-effectiveness. Three reference substances with established TDM were similarly assessed for comparison: clozapine, lithium, and nortriptyline. The three reference substances achieved scores of 15, 12, and 14 points, respectively. RESULTS Drugs for treatment of substance-related disorders achieved 3 to 17 points, 17 for methadone, 11 for buprenorphine, 10 for disulfiram, also 10 for naltrexone for the indication opioid-dependence and 9 for the indication alcohol dependence as well as bupropion, 7 points for acamprosate, 6 points for clomethiazole, and 3 for varenicline. CONCLUSIONS It is concluded that systematic evaluation of drug- and patient-related variables with the new rating scale can estimate the appropriateness of TDM. Because their rating revealed similar scores as the three reference drugs, it is proposed that TDM should be established for bupropion, buprenorphine, disulfiram or a metabolite, methadone, and naltrexone. An objective rating of drug- and patient-related characteristics could help laboratories focus their method development on the most likely drugs to require TDM along with a thorough drug use evaluation.
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Swift R, Oslin DW, Alexander M, Forman R. Adherence monitoring in naltrexone pharmacotherapy trials: a systematic review. J Stud Alcohol Drugs 2011; 72:1012-8. [PMID: 22051215 PMCID: PMC9798465 DOI: 10.15288/jsad.2011.72.1012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The efficacy of naltrexone (Revia, Vivitrol) for the treatment of alcohol dependence exhibits a high degree of heterogeneity. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the extent to which variability in patient adherence to treatment contributed to the range of clinical responses observed during naltrexone treatment. METHOD A systematic review was conducted of efficacy trials of naltrexone for the treatment of alcohol dependence to evaluate the level of adherence monitoring. RESULTS Of 49 identified trials, 22 (49%) met the inclusion criteria of being randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials that reported adherence. The "adherence-assurance score" of these trials was calculated as a function of the frequency with which "low," "moderate," or "high" confidence levels of adherence monitoring were used. Of these 22 randomized, controlled trials, only 3 (14%) met criteria for high levels of adherence assurance, 5 (23%) met medium adherenceassurance criteria, and 14 (64%) met low adherence criteria. Of the three high-assurance studies, one used direct supervision of thrice-weekly oral dosing of naltrexone, and two used extended-release injectable formulations of naltrexone administered once per month. The Spearman correlation between risk ratios for return to heavy drinking (for naltrexone vs. placebo) and the level of adherence assurance (low vs. medium vs. high) was significant (r = -.62, p = .025). CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that the modest effect sizes for naltrexone reported in systematic reviews and meta-analyses may be attributable, at least in part, to variability in naltrexone adherence rates. High-assurance adherence strategies should be standard practice in clinical trials of medications being evaluated for the treatment of alcohol dependence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Swift
- Correspondence may be sent to Robert Swift at the above address or via email at: . Robert Swift also is with the Providence VA Medical Center, Providence, RI. David W. Oslin is with the University of Pennsylvania and Philadelphia VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Mark Alexander and Robert Forman are with Alkermes, Inc., Waltham, MA
| | - David W. Oslin
- Correspondence may be sent to Robert Swift at the above address or via email at: . Robert Swift also is with the Providence VA Medical Center, Providence, RI. David W. Oslin is with the University of Pennsylvania and Philadelphia VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Mark Alexander and Robert Forman are with Alkermes, Inc., Waltham, MA
| | - Mark Alexander
- Correspondence may be sent to Robert Swift at the above address or via email at: . Robert Swift also is with the Providence VA Medical Center, Providence, RI. David W. Oslin is with the University of Pennsylvania and Philadelphia VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Mark Alexander and Robert Forman are with Alkermes, Inc., Waltham, MA
| | - Robert Forman
- Correspondence may be sent to Robert Swift at the above address or via email at: . Robert Swift also is with the Providence VA Medical Center, Providence, RI. David W. Oslin is with the University of Pennsylvania and Philadelphia VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Mark Alexander and Robert Forman are with Alkermes, Inc., Waltham, MA
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Abstract
Extended-release naltrexone (XR-NTX; Vivitrol), developed to address poor adherence in addictive disorders, is approved for use in alcohol and opioid-dependence disorders. In alcohol-dependent adults with ≥ 4-day initial abstinence, XR-NTX increased initial and 6-month abstinence. An fMRI study found that XR-NTX attenuated the salience of alcohol visual and olfactory cues in the absence of alcohol, and post hoc analyses demonstrated efficacy even during high cue-exposure holiday periods. Safety and tolerability have generally been good, without adverse hepatic impact or intractable acute pain management. XR-NTX use appears feasible in primary care and public systems, and retrospective claims analyses have found cost savings and decreased intensive service utilization relative to oral agents. In opioid dependence, following detoxification, XR-NTX shows efficacy for maintaining abstinence, improving retention, decreasing craving, and preventing relapse. Trials are also exploring its use for the treatment of stimulant dependence. XR-NTX appears compatible with counseling and self-help attendance. While more research is needed, current findings suggest that a formulation of naltrexone that was sought beginning over three decades ago is fulfilling its promise as an extended-release pharmacotherapeutic.
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Bryson WC, McConnell KJ, Korthuis PT, McCarty D. Extended-release naltrexone for alcohol dependence: persistence and healthcare costs and utilization. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MANAGED CARE 2011; 17 Suppl 8:S222-34. [PMID: 21761949 PMCID: PMC3556906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Evaluate persistence with treatment, healthcare costs, and utilization in stably enrolled Aetna Behavioral Health members receiving extended-release naltrexone (XR-NTX) for alcohol use dependence compared with oral medications and psychosocial therapy only. STUDY DESIGN Historical cohort study. METHODS Aetna beneficiaries with stable enrollment (at least 6 months before and after index treatment) who initiated pharmacotherapy with XR-NTX (n = 211), disulfiram (n = 1043), oral naltrexone (n = 1408), acamprosate (n = 2479), or psychosocial therapy only (n = 6374) for alcohol use disorders between January 1, 2007, and December 31, 2008, were extracted and deidentified from Aetna's nationwide claims and utilization database. Survival analysis compared persistence with XR-NTX versus oral pharmacotherapies. Difference-in-differences analysis compared healthcare costs and utilization among patients receiving XR-NTX versus oral pharmacotherapies and psychosocial therapy only. Multivariate analyses controlled for demographics. RESULTS Patients taking acamprosate and disulfiram were more likely to discontinue treatment than patients taking naltrexone, and patients given oral naltrexone were more likely to discontinue treatment than those given XR-NTX. Outpatient behavioral health treatment visits increased in all study groups. Nonpharmacy healthcare costs and utilization of inpatient and emergency services decreased in the XR-NTX group relative to other study groups. CONCLUSION Patients receiving XR-NTX persisted with treatment longer than patients receiving oral alcohol use-disorder medications or psychosocial therapy only, and had decreased inpatient and emergency healthcare costs and utilization compared with those receiving other medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- William C. Bryson
- Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, 27705
- Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Oregon Health and Sciences University, Portland, OR, 97239
| | - K. John McConnell
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Oregon Health and Sciences University, Portland, OR, 97239
| | - P. Todd Korthuis
- Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Oregon Health and Sciences University, Portland, OR, 97239
- Department of Internal Medicine, Oregon Health and Sciences University, Portland, OR, 97239
| | - Dennis McCarty
- Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Oregon Health and Sciences University, Portland, OR, 97239
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Rösner S, Hackl-Herrwerth A, Leucht S, Vecchi S, Srisurapanont M, Soyka M. Opioid antagonists for alcohol dependence. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2010:CD001867. [PMID: 21154349 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd001867.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alcohol dependence belongs to the globally leading health risk factors. Therapeutic success of psychosocial programs for relapse prevention is moderate and could be increased by an adjuvant treatment with the opioid antagonists naltrexone and nalmefene. OBJECTIVES To determine the effectiveness and tolerability of opioid antagonists in the treatment of alcohol dependence. SEARCH STRATEGY We searched the Cochrane Drugs and Alcohol Group (CDAG) Specialized Register, PubMed, EMBASE and CINAHL in January 2010 and inquired manufacturers and researchers for unpublished trials. SELECTION CRITERIA All double-blind randomised controlled trials (RCTs) which compare the effects of naltrexone or nalmefene with placebo or active control on drinking-related outcomes. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two authors independently extracted outcome data. Trial quality was assessed by one author and cross-checked by a second author. MAIN RESULTS Based on a total of 50 RCTs with 7793 patients, naltrexone reduced the risk of heavy drinking to 83% of the risk in the placebo group RR 0.83 (95% CI 0.76 to 0.90) and decreased drinking days by about 4%, MD -3.89 (95% CI -5.75 to -2.04). Significant effects were also demonstrated for the secondary outcomes of the review including heavy drinking days, MD - 3.25 (95% CI -5.51 to -0.99), consumed amount of alcohol, MD - 10.83 (95% CI -19.69 to -1.97) and gamma-glutamyltransferase, MD - 10.37 (95% CI -18.99 to -1.75), while effects on return to any drinking, RR 0.96 (95 CI 0.92 to 1.00) missed statistical significance. Side effects of naltrexone were mainly gastrointestinal problems (e.g. nausea: RD 0.10; 95% CI 0.07 to 0.13) and sedative effects (e.g. daytime sleepiness: RD 0.09; 95% CI 0.05 to 0.14). Based on a limited study sample, effects of injectable naltrexone and nalmefene missed statistical significance. Effects of industry-sponsored studies, RR 0.90 (95% CI 0.78 to 1.05) did not significantly differ from those of non-profit funded trials, RR 0.84 (95% CI 0.77 to 0.91) and the linear regression test did not indicate publication bias (P = 0.765). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Naltrexone appears to be an effective and safe strategy in alcoholism treatment. Even though the sizes of treatment effects might appear moderate in their magnitudes, these should be valued against the background of the relapsing nature of alcoholism and the limited therapeutic options currently available for its treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Rösner
- Psychiatric Hospital, University of Munich, Nußbaumstr. 7, Munich, Germany, 80336
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Ray LA, Mackillop J, Monti PM. Subjective responses to alcohol consumption as endophenotypes: advancing behavioral genetics in etiological and treatment models of alcoholism. Subst Use Misuse 2010; 45:1742-65. [PMID: 20590398 PMCID: PMC4703313 DOI: 10.3109/10826084.2010.482427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Individual differences in subjective responses to alcohol consumption represent genetically mediated biobehavioral mechanisms of alcoholism risk (i.e., endophenotype). The objective of this review is three-fold: (1) to provide a critical review the literature on subjective response to alcohol and to discuss the rationale for its conceptualization as an endophenotype for alcoholism; (2) to examine the literature on the neurobiological substrates and associated genetic factors subserving individual differences in subjective response to alcohol; and (3) to discuss the treatment implications of this approach and to propose a framework for conceptualizing, and systematically integrating, endophenotypes into alcoholism treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara A Ray
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1563,USA.
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Abraham AJ, Roman PM. Early adoption of injectable naltrexone for alcohol-use disorders: findings in the private-treatment sector. J Stud Alcohol Drugs 2010; 71:460-6. [PMID: 20409441 DOI: 10.15288/jsad.2010.71.460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The U.S. substance-abuse treatment system has been slow to adopt medications for the treatment of alcohol-use disorders (AUDs). The objectives of this study are to (a) determine how the inherent characteristics of injectable naltrexone (i.e., relative advantage, complexity, trialability, observability, compatibility) shape organizational-level decisions to adopt the medication and (b) identify key predictors of adoption and barriers that impede adoption. METHOD This study uses data from a nationally representative sample of 345 privately funded U.S. substance-abuse treatment programs to examine adoption (current use) of injectable naltrexone. RESULTS Sixteen percent of private treatment programs are early adopters of injectable naltrexone. Multivariate logistic regression models reveal that organizational size and percentage of patients paying with private insurance are significant predictors of adoption. The most salient predictor of adoption is innovation compatibility, measured by program use of other AUD pharmacotherapies. Barriers to adoption include cost, lack of access to prescribing physicians, and lack of knowledge about the medication. Injectable naltrexone, however, is addressing the patient compliance barrier, demonstrated by 70% of patients receiving at least 2 months of medication. CONCLUSIONS The adoption of AUD pharmacotherapies remains low, with only half of the sampled programs prescribing any AUD pharmacotherapies. Patterns of early adoption of injectable naltrexone are, however, promising. Results highlight innovation compatibility and relative advantage as explanations of organizational decisions to adopt injectable naltrexone. Future research will move beyond issues of adoption and provide a more detailed examination of the implementation process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda J Abraham
- Institute for Behavioral Research, 112 Barrow Hall, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602-2401, USA.
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35
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Kranzler HR, Montejano LB, Stephenson JJ, Wang S, Gastfriend DR. Effects of naltrexone treatment for alcohol-related disorders on healthcare costs in an insured population. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2010; 34:1090-7. [PMID: 20374204 DOI: 10.1111/j.1530-0277.2010.01185.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the impact of treatment with oral naltrexone on healthcare costs in patients with alcohol-related disorders. METHODS Using data from the MarketScan Commercial Claims and Encounters Database for 2000-2004, we identified a naltrexone group (with an alcohol-related diagnosis and at least one pharmacy claim for oral naltrexone) and two control groups. Alcohol controls had an alcohol-related diagnosis and were not prescribed an alcoholism treatment medication. Nonalcohol controls had no alcohol-related diagnosis and no prescription for an alcoholism treatment medication. The control groups were matched three to one to the naltrexone group on demographic and other relevant measures. Healthcare expenditures were calculated for the 6-month periods before and after the index naltrexone drug claim (or matched date for controls). Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to compare the groups on key characteristics and on healthcare costs. RESULTS Naltrexone patients (n = 1,138; 62% men; mean age 45 +/- 11 years) had significantly higher total healthcare expenditures in the pre-index period than either of the control groups. In the postindex period, naltrexone patients had a significantly smaller increase than alcohol controls in total alcohol-related expenditures. Total nonalcohol-related expenditures also increased significantly less for the naltrexone group than for the alcohol control group. Multivariate analyses showed that naltrexone treatment significantly reduced alcohol-related, nonalcohol-related, and total healthcare costs relative to alcohol controls. CONCLUSIONS Although prior to treatment patients with alcohol-related disorders had higher healthcare costs, treatment with oral naltrexone was associated with reductions both in alcohol-related and nonalcohol-related healthcare costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry R Kranzler
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, Connecticut 06030-2103, USA.
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Lee JD, Grossman E, DiRocco D, Truncali A, Hanley K, Stevens D, Rotrosen J, Gourevitch MN. Extended-release naltrexone for treatment of alcohol dependence in primary care. J Subst Abuse Treat 2010; 39:14-21. [PMID: 20363090 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsat.2010.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2009] [Revised: 03/05/2010] [Accepted: 03/08/2010] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The feasibility of using extended-release injectable naltrexone (XR-NTX) to treat alcohol dependence in routine primary care settings is unknown. An open-label, observational cohort study evaluated 3-month treatment retention, patient satisfaction, and alcohol use among alcohol-dependent patients in two urban public hospital medical clinics. Adults seeking treatment were offered monthly medical management (MM) and three XR-NTX injections (380 mg, intramuscular). Physician-delivered MM emphasized alcohol abstinence, medication effects, and accessing mutual help and counseling resources. Seventy-two alcohol-dependent patients were enrolled; 90% (65 of 72) of eligible subjects received the first XR-NTX injection; 75% (49 of 65) initiating treatment received the second XR-NTX injection; 62% (40 of 65), the third. Among the 56% (n = 40) receiving three injections, median drinks per day decreased from 4.1 (95% confidence interval = 2.9-6) at baseline to 0.5 (0-1.7) during Month 3. Extended-release naltrexone delivered in a primary care MM model appears a feasible and acceptable treatment for alcohol dependence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua D Lee
- New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10010, USA.
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37
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Mark TL, Montejano LB, Kranzler HR, Chalk M, Gastfriend DR. Comparison of healthcare utilization among patients treated with alcoholism medications. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MANAGED CARE 2010; 16:879-888. [PMID: 21348558 PMCID: PMC4160801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine in a large claims database the healthcare utilization and costs associated with treatment of alcohol dependence with medications vs no medication and across 4 US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved medications. STUDY DESIGN Claims database analysis. METHODS Eligible adults with alcohol dependence claims (n = 27,135) were identified in a commercial database (MarketScan; Thomson Reuters Inc, Chicago, Illinois). Following propensity score-based matching and inverse probability weighting on demographic, clinical, and healthcare utilization variables, patients who had used an FDA-approved medication for alcohol dependence (n = 2977)were compared with patients who had not (n =2977). Patients treated with oral naltrexone hydrochloride(n = 2064), oral disulfiram (n = 2076), oral acamprosate calcium (n = 5068), or extended-release injectable naltrexone (naltrexone XR) (n = 295) were also compared for 6-month utilization rates of alcoholism medication, inpatient detoxification days, alcoholism-related inpatient days, and outpatient services, as well as inpatient charges. RESULTS Patients who received alcoholism medications had fewer inpatient detoxification days (706 vs 1163 days per 1000 patients, P <.001), alcoholism-related inpatient days (650 vs 1086 days, P <.001), and alcoholism-related emergency department visits (127 vs 171, P = .005). Among 4 medications, the use of naltrexone XR was associated with fewer inpatient detoxification days (224 days per 1000 patients) than the use of oral naltrexone (552 days, P = .001), disulfiram (403 days, P = .049), or acamprosate (525 days, P <.001). The group receiving naltrexone XR also had fewer alcoholism-related inpatient days than the groups receiving disulfiram or acamprosate. More patients in the naltrexone XR group had an outpatient substance abuse visit compared with patients in the oral alcoholism medication groups. CONCLUSION Patients who received an alcoholism medication had lower healthcare utilization than patients who did not. Naltrexone XR showed an advantage over oral medications in healthcare utilization and costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tami L Mark
- Thomson Reuters Inc, 4301 Connecticut Ave NW, Ste 330, Washington, DC 20008, USA.
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Ray LA, Krull JL, Leggio L. The Effects of Naltrexone Among Alcohol Non-Abstainers: Results from the COMBINE Study. Front Psychiatry 2010; 1:26. [PMID: 21423437 PMCID: PMC3059647 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2010.00026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2010] [Accepted: 07/21/2010] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
These analyses of the COMBINE Study examined the effects of naltrexone among non-abstainers. Given that one of the most well-established mechanisms of action of naltrexone involves blunting of alcohol reward, it is hypothesized that naltrexone should be more effective among individuals who drank during treatment. Participants were 952 (78% of the total COMBINE Study sample) treatment-seeking alcohol-dependent men and women who received pharmacotherapy for alcoholism and drank at least once during the 16-week trial. Mixed model analyses revealed that individuals who drank more regularly during the trial seemed to benefit most from naltrexone and the effects of naltrexone on heavy drinking was significant in treatment months 2 through 4 among individuals who reported drinking on 81, 68, and 60% or more of days, respectively. Those drinking frequencies were observed in 11, 15, and 19% of the sample. Similar effects were not observed for drinks per drinking day. These results suggest that a small subgroup of non-abstainers, composed primarily of very regular drinkers, appears to benefit from naltrexone in reducing heavy drinking days. Naltrexone may be effective in the context of controlled-drinking approaches, even among very frequent drinkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara A Ray
- Department of Psychology, University of California at Los Angeles Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Abstract
This paper is the 31st consecutive installment of the annual review of research concerning the endogenous opioid system. It summarizes papers published during 2008 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 (Section 2), and the roles of these opioid peptides and receptors in pain and analgesia (Section 3); stress and social status (Section 4); tolerance and dependence (Section 5); learning and memory (Section 6); eating and drinking (Section 7); alcohol and drugs of abuse (Section 8); sexual activity and hormones, pregnancy, development and endocrinology (Section 9); mental illness and mood (Section 10); seizures and neurologic disorders (Section 11); electrical-related activity and neurophysiology (Section 12); general activity and locomotion (Section 13); gastrointestinal, renal and hepatic functions (Section 14); cardiovascular responses (Section 15); respiration and thermoregulation (Section 16); and immunological responses (Section 17).
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Bodnar
- Department of Psychology and Neuropsychology Doctoral Sub-Program, Queens College, City University of New York, 65-30 Kissena Blvd, Flushing, NY 11367, United States.
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Pettinati HM, Gastfriend DR, Dong Q, Kranzler HR, O'Malley SS. Effect of extended-release naltrexone (XR-NTX) on quality of life in alcohol-dependent patients. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2008; 33:350-6. [PMID: 19053979 DOI: 10.1111/j.1530-0277.2008.00843.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Extended-release naltrexone (XR-NTX) is a once-a-month injectable formulation for the treatment of alcohol dependence previously shown to reduce drinking and heavy drinking relative to placebo (Garbutt et al., 2005). A 24-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study established the efficacy and safety of XR-NTX in this patient population. In this report, the effect of XR-NTX on quality of life (QOL) was examined. METHODS Alcohol-dependent patients were randomly assigned to receive XR-NTX 380 mg (N = 205), XR-NTX 190 mg (N = 210), or placebo (N = 209), combined with a standardized psychosocial intervention. QOL was assessed using the Medical Outcomes Study 36-item short-form health survey, administered at baseline and at 4-week intervals during 24 weeks of treatment. RESULTS Compared with U.S. population norms, patients showed initial impairment in the health-related QOL domains of mental health, social functioning, and problems with work or other daily activities due to emotional problems. Adherence to all 6 injections was 65% for XR-NTX 190 mg, 63% for XR-NTX 380 mg, and 64% for placebo. Generalized estimating equations analyses using an intention-to-treat sample revealed that XR-NTX 380 mg was associated with significantly greater improvements from baseline in mental health (p = 0.0496), social functioning (p = 0.010), general health (p = 0.048), and physical functioning (p = 0.028), compared with placebo. Linear regression analyses revealed that reductions from baseline in drinking (percentage of drinking days and percentage of heavy drinking days in the last 30 days) were significantly (p < 0.05) correlated with improvements in quality of life. CONCLUSION Extended-release naltrexone 380 mg in combination with psychosocial intervention was associated with improvements in QOL, specifically in the domains of mental health, social functioning, general health, and physical functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen M Pettinati
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.
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