1
|
Johnson L, Youssef E, O'Shea J, Thornley T, Gallagher J, Ledwidge M, Ryan C. Estimating the prevalence of potential and actionable drug-gene interactions in Irish primary care: A cross-sectional study. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2024. [PMID: 38864275 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.16122] [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: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
AIMS Pharmacogenetics (PGx) is increasingly recognized as a strategy for medicines optimisation and prevention of adverse drug reactions. According to guidelines produced by the Clinical Pharmacogenetics Implementation Consortium (CPIC) and the Dutch Pharmacogenetic Working Group (DPWG), most medicines with drug-gene interactions (DGIs) are prescribed in primary care. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of potential and actionable DGIs involving all medicines dispensed in Irish primary care. METHODS Dispensings of 46 drugs to General Medical Services (GMS) patients in the Health Service Executive Primary Care Reimbursement Service Irish pharmacy claims database from 01 January 2021 to 31 December 2021 were analysed to estimate the national prevalence of total dispensings and incidence of first-time dispensings of drugs with potential DGIs according to the CPIC and/or DPWG guidelines. Phenotype frequency data from the UK Biobank and the CPIC were used to estimate the incidence of actionable DGIs. RESULTS One in five dispensings (12 443 637 of 62 754 498, 19.8%) were medicines with potential DGIs, 1 878 255 of these dispensed for the first time. On application of phenotype frequencies and linked guideline based therapeutic recommendations, 2 349 055 potential DGIs (18.9%) required action, such as monitoring and guarding against maximum dose, drug or dose change. One in five (369 700, 19.7%) first-time dispensings required action, with 139 169 (7.4%) requiring a change in prescribing. Antidepressants, weak opioids and statins were most commonly identified as having actionable DGIs. CONCLUSIONS This study estimated a high prevalence of DGIs in primary care in Ireland, identifying the need and opportunity to optimize drug therapy through PGx testing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L Johnson
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - E Youssef
- Faculty of Health, Science, Social Care & Education, Kingston University, London, UK
| | - J O'Shea
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - T Thornley
- School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - J Gallagher
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - M Ledwidge
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - C Ryan
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Carrasco-Garrido P, Palacios-Ceña D, Hernández-Barrera V, Jiménez-Trujillo I, Gallardo-Pino C, Fernández-de-las-Peñas C. Patterns of Opioid and Non-Opioid Analgesic Consumption in Patients with Post-COVID-19 Conditions. J Clin Med 2023; 12:6586. [PMID: 37892724 PMCID: PMC10607000 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12206586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Pain is a major health issue for healthcare systems, and access to pain treatment is a fundamental human right. Pain is a common symptom experienced in the post-COVID phase by a significant percentage of patients. This study describes the prevalence and associated factors associated with the use of opioid and non-opioid analgesics in subjects with post-COVID-19 condition. Sociodemographic data, post-COVID symptoms, health profile, and opioid and non-opioid analgesic consumption were collected in 390 subjects with post-COVID-19 condition. We analyzed the independent effect of all variables on opioid/non-opioid analgesic consumption by using logistic multivariate regressions. The prevalence of opioid and non-opioid analgesic consumption was 24.1% and 82.3%, respectively. Tramadol (17.18%) and codeine (7.95%) were the most commonly used opioid analgesics, and Paracetamol (70%) and ibuprofen (45.4%) were the most commonly used non-opioid analgesics. Females were more likely to consume non-opioid analgesics (aOR2.20, 95%CI 1.15, 4.22) than males. Marital status of married/partner vs. single (aOR2.96; 95% CI 1.43, 6.12), monthly income < EUR 1000 VS. > EUR 2000 (aOR3.81; 95% CI 1.37, 10.61), number of post-COVID symptoms < 5 (aOR2.64, 95%CI 1.18, 5.87), and anxiolytics consumption (aOR 1.85, 95%CI 1.05, 3.25) were associated with a greater likelihood of opioid analgesic consumption. Age > 55 years (aOR3.30, 95%CI 1.34, 8.09) and anxiolytics consumption (aOR2.61, 95%CI 1.36, 4.98) were associated with a greater likelihood of non-opioid analgesic consumption. Opioid analgesic consumption was highly associated (aOR 3.41, 95%CI 1.27, 6.11) with non-opioid analgesic consumption. The prevalence of opioid analgesic and non-opioid analgesic consumption in individuals with post-COVID-19 condition was 24.1% and 82.3%. Females with post-COVID-19 condition showed higher non-opioid analgesic consumption than men. Predictors of opioid consumption were marital status, lower monthly income, number of post-COVID symptoms, and anxiolytic consumption. Older age and anxiolytic consumption were predictors of non-opioid consumption.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pilar Carrasco-Garrido
- Department of Medical Specialties and Public Health, Health Sciences Faculty, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Avenida Atenas s/n, Alcorcon, 28922 Madrid, Spain; (V.H.-B.); (I.J.-T.); (C.G.-P.)
- Preventive Medicine and Public Health Teaching and Research Unit, Health Sciences Faculty, Rey Juan Carlos University, Avda. Atenas s/n. Alcorcón, 28922 Madrid, Spain
| | - Domingo Palacios-Ceña
- Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine, Health Sciences Faculty, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Avenida Atenas s/n, Alcorcon, 28922 Madrid, Spain; (D.P.-C.); (C.F.-d.-l.-P.)
| | - Valentín Hernández-Barrera
- Department of Medical Specialties and Public Health, Health Sciences Faculty, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Avenida Atenas s/n, Alcorcon, 28922 Madrid, Spain; (V.H.-B.); (I.J.-T.); (C.G.-P.)
| | - Isabel Jiménez-Trujillo
- Department of Medical Specialties and Public Health, Health Sciences Faculty, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Avenida Atenas s/n, Alcorcon, 28922 Madrid, Spain; (V.H.-B.); (I.J.-T.); (C.G.-P.)
| | - Carmen Gallardo-Pino
- Department of Medical Specialties and Public Health, Health Sciences Faculty, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Avenida Atenas s/n, Alcorcon, 28922 Madrid, Spain; (V.H.-B.); (I.J.-T.); (C.G.-P.)
| | - Cesar Fernández-de-las-Peñas
- Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine, Health Sciences Faculty, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Avenida Atenas s/n, Alcorcon, 28922 Madrid, Spain; (D.P.-C.); (C.F.-d.-l.-P.)
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Yasmeen A, Syed MH, Alqahtani SS, Kashan Syed N, Meraya AM, Wazaify M, Van Hout MC. Suspected inappropriate use of prescription and non-prescription drugs among requesting customers: A Saudi community pharmacists' perspective. Saudi Pharm J 2023; 31:1254-1264. [PMID: 37273264 PMCID: PMC10238264 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsps.2023.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Inappropriate use of medications is a global health concern, and this is attributed to the increased accessibility to prescription and non-prescription (over-the-counter) drugs at community pharmacies. We investigated the inappropriate use of prescription and non-prescription drugs in community pharmacies based on the perspectives of the community pharmacists in Saudi Arabia. Methods This was a questionnaire-based, cross-sectional survey which employed convenient sampling (snowball technique) to recruit participants. Being a licensed practicing pharmacist in a retail chain or an independent community pharmacy was the inclusion criteria. Participants were asked to report the drugs they suspected of being inappropriately used along with the frequency, age and gender of the suspected customers. Pharmacists were also asked to mention the action taken to limit inappropriate use at their pharmacy. Results A total of 397 community pharmacists completed the questionnaire (86.9 % response rate). 86.4% of the pharmacists suspected some level of abuse or misuse to have occurred. After receiving the questionnaire, the pharmacists reported suspected inappropriate use as encountered during the past three months. Cumulative inappropriate use was reported 1069 times (prescription drugs - 530; non-prescription drugs - 539). The top three inappropriately used prescription-drug categories were gabapentinoids (22.5%), antipsychotics (17.5%) and topical corticosteroids (12.1%). Among non-prescription drugs, cough products (33.2%) ranked first, followed by cold and flu products (29.5%) and first-generation antihistamines (10.8%). The cross tabulations revealed that being in the age range of 26-50 years and being a male was significantly associated (p < 0.001) with abuse/misuse of antipsychotics, antidepressants, gabapentinoids, cough products and first-generation antihistamines. Eye products (Bimatoprost) and skin products abuse/misuse had significant association with female gender (p < 0.001). Conclusion The results of our study provide crucial information to the healthcare authorities regarding the medications that can be inappropriately used at the community pharmacies in Saudi Arabia which necessitates implementation of stringent dispensing regulations. Educational programs can be implemented to increase the awareness among public regarding the harmful effects of inappropriate use of drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ayesha Yasmeen
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
- Pharmacy Practice Research Unit, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mamoon H. Syed
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
- Pharmacy Practice Research Unit, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saad S. Alqahtani
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
- Pharmacy Practice Research Unit, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nabeel Kashan Syed
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
- Pharmacy Practice Research Unit, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulkarim M. Meraya
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
- Pharmacy Practice Research Unit, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mayyada Wazaify
- Department of Biopharmaceutics and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Marie-Claire Van Hout
- Public Health Institute, Faculty of Health, Exchange Station, Liverpool John Moores University, 3rd Floor, Tithebarn Street, Liverpool L2 2QP, UK
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Carrasco-Garrido P, Gallardo-Pino C, Jiménez-Trujillo I, Hernández-Barrera V, García-Gómez-Heras S, Lima Florencio L, Palacios-Ceña D. Nationwide Population-Based Study About Patterns of Prescription Opioid Use and Misuse Among Young Adults in Spain. Int J Public Health 2022; 67:1604755. [PMID: 36059585 PMCID: PMC9437214 DOI: 10.3389/ijph.2022.1604755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Prescription opioid misuse has become one of the most common ways drugs are consumed among young adults. The objective of our study was to describe the prevalence and factors associated with prescription opioid use and misuse among young adults living in Spain.Methods: A nationwide, cross-sectional epidemiological study on the use and misuse of prescription opioids in Spanish Youngers. We used individualized secondary data provided by the Household Survey on Alcohol and Drugs in Spain 2017–2018.Results: Prevalence of prescription opioid use among young adults was 4.89%. Misuse among this population reached prevalence values of 13.4%, with higher values observed among women . The variables associated with a greater probability of prescription opioid use and misuse were misuse of tranquilizers, sedatives, and sleeping pills, along with using cannabis and other illicit psychoactive drugs (aOR = 2.99; 95% CI: 1.10–8.15).Conclusion: Prescription opioid use and misuse in Youngers has important implications for the Spanish public health system, because, even though not currently comparable to the situation in other countries, this drug use could be on the verge of creating similar problems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pilar Carrasco-Garrido
- Department of Medical Specialties and Public Health, Health Sciences Faculty, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, Spain
- *Correspondence: Pilar Carrasco-Garrido,
| | - Carmen Gallardo-Pino
- Department of Medical Specialties and Public Health, Health Sciences Faculty, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, Spain
| | - Isabel Jiménez-Trujillo
- Department of Medical Specialties and Public Health, Health Sciences Faculty, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, Spain
| | - Valentín Hernández-Barrera
- Department of Medical Specialties and Public Health, Health Sciences Faculty, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, Spain
| | - Soledad García-Gómez-Heras
- Department of Basic Health Sciences, Health Sciences Faculty, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, Spain
| | - Lidiane Lima Florencio
- Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine, Health Sciences Faculty, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, Spain
| | - Domingo Palacios-Ceña
- Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine, Health Sciences Faculty, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
'I Was Present but I Was Absent': Perceptions and Experiences of the Non-Medical Use of Prescription or over the Counter Medication among Employed South African Women. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19127151. [PMID: 35742395 PMCID: PMC9222615 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19127151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The need for workplace substance use prevention programmes globally and in South Africa is driven by the growing problem of substance use and the associated burden on the health and welfare of employees, their families and organizations. Substance use, which include the non-medical use of medications (both prescription and over-the counter), remains widespread and is a major cause of mortality and a risk factor for non-communicable diseases (NCDs). METHOD Twenty in-depth semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with employed women in treatment or shortly out of treatment for the non-medically indicated use of over the counter or/and prescription medications (NMIU). These interviews were conducted face-to face with women residing in the Western and Eastern Cape provinces of South Africa. Thematic analysis using NVIVO was used to analyse data collected. RESULTS The findings from this study suggest that previous use of legal or illegal substances and challenging life experiences underpin pathways to the non-medical use of over-the-counter and prescription medications among employed women. Factors found to contribute to misuse relate to a lack of understanding on risks, and health professional prescribing practices, while mitigators to harmful use were related to increased awareness and understanding harmful practices, the need for improved access and referral to specialist treatment as well as prevention programmes for women. CONCLUSION With the improved understanding of the issues surrounding the NMIU of over-the-counter and prescription medications among employed women, the need for interventions to prevent misuse and inadvertently dependency is highlighted.
Collapse
|
6
|
Physician Perspectives on Codeine Accessibility, Patterns of Use, Misuse, and Dependence in Saudi Arabia. Int J Ment Health Addict 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s11469-021-00670-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractIn Saudi Arabia, there are concerning rates of non-compliance with pharmaceutical regulations prohibiting the pharmacy dispensing of prescription-only medications without a physician prescription. This is the first study in the Middle East which examines physicians’ perceptions regarding misuse of codeine, listed as a narcotic, controlled, and prescription-only drug. The CODEMISUSED survey was adapted to the Saudi Arabian context and pilot tested, prior to cross-sectional administration to physicians in Riyadh, Jeddah, Abha, and Jazan (n = 105). Descriptive statistics (frequencies and percentage) present physician level of agreement, neutrality, and disagreement with statements regarding codeine prescribing, patient awareness and use, online and community pharmacy availability, and dependence. The study indicates concern by physicians regarding patient intentional use of codeine to enhance mood, misuse patterns, lack of awareness around habit-forming use and iatrogenic dependence, and sourcing via illegal dispensing. It underscores the imperatives to address pharmacy compliance with pharmaceutical regulatory controls, implement enhanced pharmacovigilance, and improve awareness around safe use.
Collapse
|
7
|
Boone CG, Antoniou T, Juurlink DN, von den Baumen TR, Kitchen SA, Richards GC, Tadrous M, Gomes T. The impact of proposed regulatory changes and rescheduling on low-dose codeine purchasing in Canada: a time-series analysis. CMAJ Open 2021; 9:E1181-E1186. [PMID: 34906994 PMCID: PMC8687488 DOI: 10.9778/cmajo.20210173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Low-dose codeine products can be purchased without a prescription in most of Canada. We explored trends in the purchasing of these products across the Canadian provinces from 2014 to 2019, evaluating the impact of Health Canada's 2016 announcement of a proposed regulatory change and the 2017 opening of a 60-day public comment period, as well as the impact of Manitoba's 2016 policy change requiring a prescription for the purchase of all codeine products in that province. METHODS We evaluated population-adjusted monthly purchasing of codeine products from January 2014 to October 2019 using the IQVIA Canadian Drug Store and Hospital Purchases Audit database, stratified by province and over-the-counter (OTC) status. The primary outcomes were change in the monthly volume of low-dose codeine purchased after the 2016 federal regulatory proposal and the 2017 period of public comment across the provinces. Our secondary analysis was the impact of Manitoba's policy change in February 2016 requiring a prescription for low-dose codeine. We conducted a time-series analysis using interventional autoregressive integrated moving average models. RESULTS Over the study period, 24 120 kg of codeine (3.025 billion units) and 937 867 kg of acetaminophen were sold as OTC, low-dose codeine products across the Canadian provinces. Health Canada's 2016 announcement did not significantly affect OTC codeine purchasing (p = 0.57). The initiation of a 60-day public comment period was associated with a roughly 44% decrease in OTC codeine purchasing (p = 0.03). In Manitoba, purchasing of the same codeine formulations decreased after rescheduling in February 2016 (p < 0.001). We observed no significant change in the rate of purchasing of higher dose codeine formulations in response to scheduling changes in Manitoba (p = 0.22). INTERPRETATION Although Health Canada's 2016 announcement of a proposed regulatory change did not appear to have an effect on OTC codeine purchasing nationally, the 60-day comment period was associated with a decrease in purchasing. Further, Manitoba's 2016 policy change was associated with a significant and sustained decrease in the overall volume of codeine purchased. Given the potential risks of codeine dependence and acetaminophen toxicity with these products, a national rescheduling strategy should be considered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte G Boone
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (Boone); Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute (Antoniou, Kitchen, Gomes), St. Michael's Hospital; ICES Central (Antoniou, Juurlink, Tadrous, Gomes); Department of Family and Community Medicine (Antoniou), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont.; London Health Sciences Centre (Rolf von den Baumen), London, Ont.; Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences (Richards), University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Women's College Hospital (Tadrous); Institute for Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation (Gomes), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont
| | - Tony Antoniou
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (Boone); Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute (Antoniou, Kitchen, Gomes), St. Michael's Hospital; ICES Central (Antoniou, Juurlink, Tadrous, Gomes); Department of Family and Community Medicine (Antoniou), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont.; London Health Sciences Centre (Rolf von den Baumen), London, Ont.; Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences (Richards), University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Women's College Hospital (Tadrous); Institute for Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation (Gomes), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont
| | - David N Juurlink
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (Boone); Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute (Antoniou, Kitchen, Gomes), St. Michael's Hospital; ICES Central (Antoniou, Juurlink, Tadrous, Gomes); Department of Family and Community Medicine (Antoniou), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont.; London Health Sciences Centre (Rolf von den Baumen), London, Ont.; Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences (Richards), University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Women's College Hospital (Tadrous); Institute for Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation (Gomes), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont
| | - Teagan Rolf von den Baumen
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (Boone); Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute (Antoniou, Kitchen, Gomes), St. Michael's Hospital; ICES Central (Antoniou, Juurlink, Tadrous, Gomes); Department of Family and Community Medicine (Antoniou), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont.; London Health Sciences Centre (Rolf von den Baumen), London, Ont.; Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences (Richards), University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Women's College Hospital (Tadrous); Institute for Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation (Gomes), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont
| | - Sophie A Kitchen
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (Boone); Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute (Antoniou, Kitchen, Gomes), St. Michael's Hospital; ICES Central (Antoniou, Juurlink, Tadrous, Gomes); Department of Family and Community Medicine (Antoniou), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont.; London Health Sciences Centre (Rolf von den Baumen), London, Ont.; Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences (Richards), University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Women's College Hospital (Tadrous); Institute for Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation (Gomes), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont
| | - Georgia C Richards
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (Boone); Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute (Antoniou, Kitchen, Gomes), St. Michael's Hospital; ICES Central (Antoniou, Juurlink, Tadrous, Gomes); Department of Family and Community Medicine (Antoniou), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont.; London Health Sciences Centre (Rolf von den Baumen), London, Ont.; Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences (Richards), University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Women's College Hospital (Tadrous); Institute for Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation (Gomes), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont
| | - Mina Tadrous
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (Boone); Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute (Antoniou, Kitchen, Gomes), St. Michael's Hospital; ICES Central (Antoniou, Juurlink, Tadrous, Gomes); Department of Family and Community Medicine (Antoniou), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont.; London Health Sciences Centre (Rolf von den Baumen), London, Ont.; Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences (Richards), University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Women's College Hospital (Tadrous); Institute for Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation (Gomes), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont
| | - Tara Gomes
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (Boone); Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute (Antoniou, Kitchen, Gomes), St. Michael's Hospital; ICES Central (Antoniou, Juurlink, Tadrous, Gomes); Department of Family and Community Medicine (Antoniou), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont.; London Health Sciences Centre (Rolf von den Baumen), London, Ont.; Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences (Richards), University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Women's College Hospital (Tadrous); Institute for Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation (Gomes), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Chiappini S, Schifano F, Corkery JM, Guirguis A. Beyond the 'purple drank': Study of promethazine abuse according to the European Medicines Agency adverse drug reaction reports. J Psychopharmacol 2021; 35:681-692. [PMID: 33427017 PMCID: PMC8278560 DOI: 10.1177/0269881120959615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Promethazine is a medicinal product, available on its own or in combination with other ingredients including dextromethorphan, paracetamol and/or expectorants. Anecdotal reports have however indicated that promethazine may have a misuse potential, especially in adolescents. OBJECTIVE We here aimed at studying how this phenomenon has been reported to the European Monitoring Agency Adverse Drug Reactions database. METHODS After a formal request to the European Monitoring Agency, the promethazine-specific dataset has been studied, performing a descriptive analysis of misuse/abuse/dependence-related adverse drug reaction reports. The study was approved by the University of Hertfordshire (LMS/PGR/UH/03234). RESULTS The analysis of promethazine data showed increasing levels of misuse/abuse/ dependence issues over time (2003-2019). Out of a total number of 1543 cases of adverse drug reactions, the abuse/misuse/dependence-related cases reported were 557, with 'drug abuse' (300/557: 53.8%) and 'intentional product misuse' (117/557: 21.0%). being the most represented adverse drug reactions. A high number of fatalities were described (310/557: 55.6%), mostly recorded as 'drug toxicity/drug abuse' cases, with opiates/opioids having been the most commonly reported concomitant drugs used. CONCLUSION Anecdotal promethazine misuse/abuse reports have been confirmed by European Monitoring Agency data. Promethazine misuse/abuse appears to be an alarming issue, being associated with drug-related fatalities. Thus, healthcare professionals should be warned about a possible misuse of promethazine and be vigilant, as in some countries medicinal products containing promethazine can be purchased over the counter. Since promethazine is often available in association with opioids, its abuse may be considered a public health issue, with huge implications for clinical practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Chiappini
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
| | - Fabrizio Schifano
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK,Fabrizio Schifano, Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, College Lane Campus, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL10 9AB, UK.
| | - John Martin Corkery
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
| | - Amira Guirguis
- Swansea University Medical School, Institute of Life Sciences 2, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Birchall E, Perry IJ, Corcoran P, Daly C, Griffin E. The impact of guidance on the supply of codeine-containing products on their use in intentional drug overdose. Eur J Public Health 2021; 31:853-858. [PMID: 34041521 PMCID: PMC8514187 DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckab082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Concerns about the misuse of codeine led to the introduction of guidance restricting the supply of over-the-counter (OTC) codeine-containing products in Ireland in 2010. The aim of this study was to examine the impact of this guidance on the national rate of hospital-presenting self-harm involving codeine-related intentional drug overdose (IDO). Methods Presentations involving IDO to Irish general hospitals between 1 January 2007 and 31 December 2013, as recorded by the National Self-Harm Registry Ireland, were analyzed. Event-based rates per 100 000 were calculated using national population data. Poisson regression models were used to assess rate changes between pre- and post-guidance periods and to calculate excess presentations. Results Between January 2007 and December 2013, a total of 57 759 IDOs were recorded, with 4789 (8.3%) involving a codeine-containing product. The rate of codeine-related IDOs was 20% lower in the period following implementation of the guidance (incidence rate ratio: 0.80; 95% CI: 0.75 to 0.85), representing a total of 509 (95% CI: −624, −387) fewer codeine-related IDOs in that period. Reductions were observed across all ages and were more pronounced for females (0.76, 0.71 to 0.82) than males (0.87, 0.79 to 0.97). The rate of IDOs involving other drugs decreased by 3% in the same period (0.97, 0.95 to 0.98). Conclusion Our findings indicate that the rate of codeine-related IDOs was significantly lower in the period following the implementation of the guidance. There is a large body of evidence supporting the restriction of potentially harmful medication as an effective strategy in suicide prevention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emma Birchall
- School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Ivan J Perry
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Paul Corcoran
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.,National Suicide Research Foundation, Cork, Ireland
| | | | - Eve Griffin
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.,National Suicide Research Foundation, Cork, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Chibi B, Yende-Zuma N, Mashamba-Thompson TP. Prevalence and correlates of prescription drug diversion and misuse among people living with HIV in the eThekwini district, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0243718. [PMID: 33326499 PMCID: PMC7744047 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0243718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prescription drug diversion, and misuse has increased over the past decade and is notably in high-income-countries and significantly contributes to the opioid epidemic. People living with HIV (PLWH) are particularly vulnerable to prescription drug diversion, and misuse as most experience chronic pain, mental health problems and HIV-related illnesses. The researchers investigated the prevalence and correlates of prescription drug diversion, and misuse among PLWH in the eThekwini district, KwaZulu-Natal. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted among 392 PLWH, conveniently recruited from the public healthcare facilities located in rural, semi-urban and urban areas of the eThekwini district. Participants answered questions about their background, prescription medications, substance use, and prescription drug diversion, and misuse. Descriptive analysis was performed to estimate the prevalence of prescription drug diversion, and misuse. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify predictors of prescription drug diversion, and misuse. FINDINGS Overall, 13% of the participants reported lifetime prescription drug diversion. The most common type of diversion was using prescription medication not prescribed by a healthcare provider (11%), followed by sharing of prescription medication (9%) and buying prescription medication without a medical script (5%). Twenty-three per cent of the participants reported prescription drug misuse in the past 90 days, with using prescription medication without a healthcare providers' guidance (9%) and not following the scheduled time periods (8%) being the most common reported types of misuse. Self-medicating was identified as a risk factor for prescription drug misuse. There was no association between ART adherence and prescription drug diversion, and misuse. CONCLUSION The study findings contribute to improving the limited data available on prescription drug diversion, and misuse among PLWH in South Africa. The prevalence underscores a need for urgent interventions when prescribing medications with potential risks. Addressing the risk of self-medicating is imperative for HIV care outcomes and to avert death.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Buyisile Chibi
- Discipline of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa, Doris Duke Medical Research Institute, Durban, South Africa
| | - Nonhlanhla Yende-Zuma
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa, Doris Duke Medical Research Institute, Durban, South Africa
| | - Tivani P. Mashamba-Thompson
- Discipline of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Science, University of Limpopo, Limpopo Province, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Mody S, Kirkdale CL, Thornley T, Dickinson A, Avery AJ, Knaggs R, Rann S, Bastable R. Over-The-Counter Codeine: Can Community Pharmacy Staff Nudge Customers into Its Safe and Appropriate Use? PHARMACY 2020; 8:pharmacy8040185. [PMID: 33049965 PMCID: PMC7712583 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy8040185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The misuse of opioids, including codeine which is sold over-the-counter (OTC) in United Kingdom (UK) community pharmacies, is a growing public health concern. An educational Patient Safety Card was developed and piloted to see if it nudged customers into the safe and appropriate use of OTC codeine. Exploratory analysis was conducted by (i) recording quantitative interactions for people requesting OTC codeine in community pharmacies; and (ii) a web-based pharmacy staff survey. Twenty-four pharmacies submitted data on 3993 interactions using the Patient Safety Card. Staff found the majority of interactions (91.3%) to be very or quite easy. Following an interaction using the card, customers known to pharmacy staff as frequent purchasers of OTC codeine were more likely not to purchase a pain relief medicine compared to customers not known to staff (5.5% of known customers did not purchase any pain relief product versus 1.1% for unknown customers (χ2 = 41.73, df = 1, p < 0.001)). These results support both the use of a visual educational intervention to encourage appropriate use of OTC codeine in community pharmacy and the principles behind better self-care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sapana Mody
- Boots UK, Thane Road, Nottingham NG90 1BS, UK
| | | | - Tracey Thornley
- Boots UK, Thane Road, Nottingham NG90 1BS, UK
- School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
| | | | - Anthony J Avery
- Division of Primary Care, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Roger Knaggs
- School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Sarah Rann
- Formerly CDAO East of England, NHS, Medical Directorate, Victoria House, Capital Park, Cambridge CB21 5XE, UK
| | - Ruth Bastable
- HMP Littlehey, Huntingdon PE28 0SR, UK
- National Health Service, London SE1 6JW, UK
- Royal College of General Practitioners, London NW1 2FB, UK
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Pharmacological Aspects of Over-the-Counter Opioid Drugs Misuse. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25173905. [PMID: 32867117 PMCID: PMC7504308 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25173905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 08/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Several over-the-counter (OTC) drugs are known to be misused. Among them are opioids such as codeine, dihydrocodeine, and loperamide. This work elucidates their pharmacology, interactions, safety profiles, and how pharmacology is being manipulated to misuse these common medications, with the aim to expand on the subject outlined by the authors focusing on abuse prevention and prevalence rates. The reviewed literature was identified in several online databases through searches conducted with phrases created by combining the international non-proprietary names of the drugs with terms related to drug misuse. The results show that OTC opioids are misused as an alternative for illicit narcotics, or prescription-only opioids. The potency of codeine and loperamide is strongly dependent on the individual enzymatic activity of CYP2D6 and CYP3A4, as well as P-glycoprotein function. Codeine can also be utilized as a substrate for clandestine syntheses of more potent drugs of abuse, namely desomorphine (“Krokodil”), and morphine. The dangerous methods used to prepare these substances can result in poisoning from toxic chemicals and impurities originating from the synthesis procedure. OTC opioids are generally safe when consumed in accordance with medical guidelines. However, the intake of supratherapeutic amounts of these substances may reveal surprising traits of common medications.
Collapse
|
13
|
Baumevieille M, Rambaud A, Perri-Plande J, Daveluy A. [Community pharmacists, students in pharmacy, and requests of codeine-based medicines: Observational study]. Therapie 2019; 75:569-577. [PMID: 31937467 DOI: 10.1016/j.therap.2019.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Revised: 11/22/2019] [Accepted: 12/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The case of purple drank motivated a study to investigate the way community pharmacists and students in pharmacy managed, with patients, the abuse risk of non-prescription codeine-based medicines. METHODS This prospective descriptive study was conducted, between September and October 2016, within a 170 community pharmacies network of Aquitaine and 437 pharmacy students of Bordeaux university (fourth, fifth and sixth year students, without selection of the pharmacies where they were able to work). It used a common survey questionnaire, which was sent to students through their own "Facebook" (Facebook Inc.) groups. RESULTS Pharmacists advised codeine-based medicines in self-medication mostly as a second line pain treatment (96.2%), students also (72.1%). The opinions of pharmacists were almost equally shared concerning their ability to identify dependent patients or to raise the subject of addiction with them (57.7% and 53.8% of positive responses). This seemed to be more difficult for students (57.4% doubted about their ability of identification, 73.8% felt unable to address this issue with patients). Successful experiences concerning help to pharmacodependent patients were rare (11.5% of pharmacist, 4.9% of students). All were involved in patient information on these medicines use. Their opinions about an evolution toward a mandatory prescription status for all codeine-based medicines were almost equally split: 50% of pharmacists were favourable to it, 44.3% of students. They expressed the need for information tools in the care of these patients (46.2% of community pharmacists, 63.9% of students). CONCLUSION These results illustrated the interest of pharmacists, and students in pharmacy, toward pharmacodependent patients; they also showed the complexity of this relation. Thus, they could help the elaboration of information tools in the care of these patients, with an adaptation for students who nevertheless presented a good maturity about this question.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marie Baumevieille
- Centre d'addictovigilance de Bordeaux, département de pharmacologie médicale, CHU de Bordeaux, 33076 Bordeaux cedex, France; Inserm U1219, Bordeaux population health, équipe pharmaco-épidémiologie, 33000 Bordeaux, France; Droit et économie pharmaceutiques, UFR des sciences pharmaceutiques, université de Bordeaux, 33076 Bordeaux cedex, France.
| | - Agathe Rambaud
- Centre d'addictovigilance de Bordeaux, département de pharmacologie médicale, CHU de Bordeaux, 33076 Bordeaux cedex, France
| | - Joëlle Perri-Plande
- Centre d'addictovigilance de Bordeaux, département de pharmacologie médicale, CHU de Bordeaux, 33076 Bordeaux cedex, France
| | - Amélie Daveluy
- Centre d'addictovigilance de Bordeaux, département de pharmacologie médicale, CHU de Bordeaux, 33076 Bordeaux cedex, France; Inserm U1219, Bordeaux population health, équipe pharmaco-épidémiologie, 33000 Bordeaux, France
| |
Collapse
|