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Raji MA, Shah R, Westra JR, Kuo YF. Central nervous system active medication use in Medicare enrollees receiving home health care: association with chronic pain and anxiety level. Pain 2024:00006396-990000000-00651. [PMID: 38985202 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000003331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT No comparative effectiveness data exist on nonopioid analgesics and nonbenzodiazepine anxiolytics to treat pain with anxiety. We examined the relationship between drug class and central nervous system (CNS) active drug polypharmacy on pain and anxiety levels in Medicare enrollees receiving home health (HH) care. This retrospective cohort study included enrollees with diagnoses and 2+ assessments of pain and anxiety between HH admission and discharge. Three sets of linear regression difference-in-reduction analyses assessed the association of pain or anxiety reduction with number of drugs; drug type; and drug combinations in those with daily pain and daily anxiety. Logistic regression analysis assessed the effect of medication number and class on less-than-daily pain or anxiety at HH discharge. A sensitivity analysis using multinomial regression was conducted with a three-level improvement to further determine clinical significance. Of 85,403 HH patients, 43% received opioids, 27% benzodiazepines, 26% gabapentinoids, 32% selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, and 8% serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRI). Furthermore, 75% had depression, 40% had substance use disorder diagnoses, and 6.9% had PTSD diagnoses. At HH admission, 83%, 35%, and 30% of patients reported daily pain, daily anxiety, and both, respectively. Central nervous system polypharmacy was associated with worse pain control and had no significant effect on anxiety. For patients with daily pain plus anxiety, pain was best reduced with one medication or any drug combination without opioid/benzodiazepine; anxiety was best reduced with combinations other than opiate/benzodiazepine. Gabapentinoids or SNRI achieved clinically meaningful pain control. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors provided clinically meaningful anxiety relief.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mukaila A Raji
- Division of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
- School of Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
- Sealy Center on Aging, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Rohan Shah
- School of Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Jordan R Westra
- Department of Biostatistics & Data Science, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Yong-Fang Kuo
- Sealy Center on Aging, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
- Department of Biostatistics & Data Science, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
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Han K, Wang JY, Wang PY, Peng YCH. Therapeutic potential of cannabidiol (CBD) in anxiety disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Psychiatry Res 2024; 339:116049. [PMID: 38924898 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2024.116049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD), as one of the phytocannabinoids, has a wide range of therapeutic properties for various neuropsychiatric disorders due to central nervous system effects. These therapeutic properties demonstrated by preclinical and clinical studies encompass more than just anticonvulsant, anti-arthritic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antitumor, antiemetic, antipsychotic and neuroprotective effects. It has been hypothesized that CBD holds potential in the treatment of various neuropsychiatric and anxiety disorders. Thus, PRISMA was used as a guide for our systematic review. Eight of the 1550 articles screened in June 2023 were eligible for meta-analysis. Based on the 316 participants included in these eight articles, this meta-analysis revealed a substantial significant impact of CBD on anxiety with a considerable effect size (Hedges' g = -0.92, 95% CI -1.80 to -0.04). In addition, this meta-analysis focuses on the efficacy of CBD in treating anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder (SAD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, caution should be exercised in interpreting our findings due to the limited size of the clinical sample, and additional trials ought to be carried out if deemed necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Han
- Department of Statistics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
| | - Jia-Yu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Hemp Industry Technology, Harbin, PR China
| | - Peng-Yun Wang
- Heilongjiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Harbin, PR China
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Gao JXY, Chan AHY, Gong J. Rate and predictors of postoperative opioid use and high opioid exposure after surgery in New Zealand: a retrospective study. ANZ J Surg 2024. [PMID: 38873956 DOI: 10.1111/ans.19115] [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: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although excessive opioid use is a significant global health issue, there is a lack of literature on the prescribing patterns for postoperative opioid use and exposure after discharge among surgical patients. This study aimed to examine the rate and predictors of opioid dispensing and high opioid exposure after hospital discharge from surgery in New Zealand (NZ) between January 2007 to December 2019. METHODS This is a retrospective population-based cohort study inclusive of all ages and surgical specialties. Data were obtained from the NZ Ministry of Health's national health databases. RESULTS 1 781 059 patients were included in the study and 20.9% (n = 371 882) of surgical patients received opioids within 7 days after hospital discharge. From those who were dispensed with opioids after hospital discharge, 36.6% (n = 134 646) had high opioid exposure. Orthopaedic surgery (AOR 6.97; 95% CI 6.82-7.13) and history of opioid use (AOR 3.18; 95% CI 2.86-3.53) increased the odds of postoperative opioid dispensing and high opioid exposure respectively. Severe multi-morbidity burden (AOR 0.76; 95% CI 0.73-0.78) and alcohol misuse (AOR 0.84; 95% CI 0.77-0.93) lowered the odds of postoperative opioid dispensing and high opioid exposure respectively. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest a concerning rate of high opioid exposure among surgical patients after discharge. The predictors for postoperative opioid dispensing and high opioid exposure identified in our study provide insight into opioid prescribing patterns in NZ and inform future postoperative pain management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Xiao Yue Gao
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Amy Hai Yan Chan
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jiayi Gong
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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Bjørnestad ED, Vederhus JK, Clausen T. Change in substance use among patients in opioid maintenance treatment: baseline to 1-year follow-up. Harm Reduct J 2024; 21:101. [PMID: 38790008 PMCID: PMC11127449 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-024-01005-x] [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: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD) often have concurrent use of non-opioid substances. When patients enter opioid maintenance treatment (OMT), less is known about outcomes regarding the use of other types of drugs. Here we aimed to investigate changes in substance use among patients entering outpatient OMT, from treatment initiation to 1-year follow-up. METHODS We used data from the prospective Norwegian Cohort of Patient in OMT and Other Drug Treatment Study (NorComt). Among 283 patients who entered OMT at participating facilities across Norway, 179 were assessed at follow-up. Of these patients, 131 were in a non-controlled environment, and were included in the present analysis. The main outcome was change in substance use. Logistic regression analysis was applied to identify factors associated with abstinence from all substances (other than agonist medication) at follow-up. RESULTS Along with opioid use, most patients reported polysubstance use prior to entering treatment. No significant differences were found in baseline characteristics between the included and non-included groups when examining attrition. At the 1-year follow-up, reduced substance use was reported. While in treatment, around two-thirds of patients continued using other drugs to varying degrees. At follow-up, about one-third of patients reported abstinence from all drugs, apart from the agonist medication. Factors related to abstinence included a goal of abstinence at baseline (OR = 5.26; 95% CI 1.14-19.55; p = 0.013) and increasing age (OR = 1.05; 95% CI 1.00-1.09; p = 0.034). CONCLUSIONS The majority of patients entering OMT used other substances in addition to opioids. About one-third of patients reported abstinence at the 1-year follow up. Although the majority of patients continued co-use of other drugs while in treatment, for most substances, less than 10% reported daily use at follow-up, with the exception of cannabis which was used daily/almost daily by about 2 in 10. Higher age and treatment goal at the start of OMT were important factors related to reducing concomitant substance use during treatment. These findings suggest that many patients entering OMT are in need of treatment and support related to the use of other substances, to further improve prognosis. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinicaltrials.gov no. NCT05182918. Registered 10/01/2022 (the study was retrospectively registered).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - John-Kåre Vederhus
- Addiction Unit, Sørlandet Hospital HF, Po. box 416, Kristiansand, Norway
| | - Thomas Clausen
- Norwegian Centre for Addiction Research (SERAF), University of Oslo, Kirkeveien 166, Oslo, N-0407, Norway
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Mori N, Hosomi K, Nishi A, Miyake A, Yamada T, Matsugi A, Jono Y, Lim C, Khoo HM, Tani N, Oshino S, Saitoh Y, Kishima H. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation focusing on patients with neuropathic pain in the upper limb: a randomized sham-controlled parallel trial. Sci Rep 2024; 14:11811. [PMID: 38782994 PMCID: PMC11116497 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-62018-x] [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: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of navigation-guided repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) over the primary motor cortex in patients with neuropathic pain in the upper limb. This randomized, blinded, sham-controlled, parallel trial included a rTMS protocol (10-Hz, 2000 pulses/session) consisting of five daily sessions, followed by one session per week for the next seven weeks. Pain intensity, as well as pain-related disability, quality of life, and psychological status, were assessed. For the primary outcome, pain intensity was measured daily using a numerical rating scale as a pain diary. Thirty patients were randomly assigned to the active rTMS or sham-stimulation groups. In the primary outcome, the decrease (least square [LS] mean ± standard error) in the weekly average of a pain diary at week 9 compared to the baseline was 0.84 ± 0.31 in the active rTMS group and 0.58 ± 0.29 in the sham group (LS mean difference, 0.26; 95% confidence interval, - 0.60 to 1.13). There was no significant effect on the interaction between the treatment group and time point. Pain-related disability score improved, but other assessments showed no differences. No serious adverse events were observed. This study did not show significant pain relief; however, active rTMS tended to provide better results than sham. rTMS has the potential to improve pain-related disability in addition to pain relief.Clinical Trial Registration number: jRCTs052190110 (20/02/2020).
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Affiliation(s)
- Nobuhiko Mori
- Department of Neurosurgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Koichi Hosomi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.
- Department of Neurosurgery, Toyonaka Municipal Hospital, Toyonaka, Japan.
| | - Asaya Nishi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Akimitsu Miyake
- Department of Medical Innovation, Osaka University Hospital, Suita, Japan
- Department of AI and Innovative Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Tomomi Yamada
- Department of Medical Innovation, Osaka University Hospital, Suita, Japan
| | - Akiyoshi Matsugi
- Faculty of Rehabilitation, Shijonawate Gakuen University, Daitou, Japan
| | - Yasutomo Jono
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Naragakuen University, Nara, Japan
| | - Chanseok Lim
- Center for Information and Neural Networks (CiNet), Advanced ICT Research Institute, National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT), Suita, Japan
| | - Hui Ming Khoo
- Department of Neurosurgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Naoki Tani
- Department of Neurosurgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Satoru Oshino
- Department of Neurosurgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Youichi Saitoh
- Department of Mechanical Science and Bioengineering, Osaka University Graduate School of Engineering Science, Toyonaka, Japan
- Tokuyukai Rehabilitation Clinic, Toyonaka, Japan
| | - Haruhiko Kishima
- Department of Neurosurgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
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Joudrey PJ, Wang M, DeRycke E, Williams EC, Edelman EJ. Alcohol-Related Care Among Veterans With Unhealthy Alcohol Use: The Role of Long-Term Opioid Therapy Receipt. J Addict Med 2024; 18:293-299. [PMID: 38533996 PMCID: PMC11150097 DOI: 10.1097/adm.0000000000001291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Long-term opioid therapy (LTOT) is potentially dangerous among patients with unhealthy alcohol use because of possible adverse interactions. We examined receipt of alcohol-related care among patients with unhealthy alcohol use receiving LTOT and without opioid receipt. METHODS We use data collected from 2009 to 2017 in the Women Veterans Cohort Study, a national cohort of Veterans engaged in Veterans Health Administration care. We included patients who screened positive for unhealthy alcohol use (score ≥5) using the Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Consumption questionnaire. Our primary exposure was LTOT (receipt of prescribed opioids for ≥90 days) versus no opioid receipt at the time of the first positive Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Consumption. Our primary outcome was receipt of brief intervention within 14 days of positive alcohol screen. Unadjusted and 4 adjusted modified Poisson regression models assessed prevalence and relative rates (RRs) of outcomes. RESULTS Among eligible veterans, 6222 of 113,628 (5.5%) received LTOT at screening. Among patients receiving LTOT, 67.5% (95% confidence interval [CI], 66.3%-68.6%) had a documented brief intervention within 14 days of positive screen, compared with 70.1% (95% CI, 69.8%-70.4%) among patients without opioid receipt (RR, 0.96; 95% CI, 0.95-0.98; P < 0.001). Within adjusted models, the rate of brief intervention among patients receiving LTOT remained lower than patients without opioid receipt. CONCLUSIONS Among patients with unhealthy alcohol use, patients receiving LTOT had significantly lower rates of brief intervention receipt compared with those without opioid receipt, and they should be a focus for interventions to improve alcohol-related care and safer opioid prescribing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul J Joudrey
- From the Center for Research on Health Care, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA (PJJ); Department of Medicine, UCSF School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA (MW); VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT (ED); Pain Research, Informatics, Multi-morbidities, and Education Center, Department of Veterans Affairs, West Haven, CT (ED); Center of Innovation for Veteran Centered and Value-Driven Care, VA Puget Sound, Seattle, WA (ECW); Department of Health Systems and Population Health, University of Washington School of Public Health, Seattle, WA (ECW); Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT (EJE); and Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT (EJE)
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7
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Blalock DV, Berlin SA, Berkowitz T, Smith VA, Wright C, Bachrach RL, Grubber JM. Associations Between a Primary Care-Delivered Alcohol-Related Brief Intervention and Subsequent Opioid-Related Outcomes. Am J Psychiatry 2024; 181:434-444. [PMID: 38706328 PMCID: PMC11076009 DOI: 10.1176/appi.ajp.20230683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The co-occurrence of unhealthy alcohol use and opioid misuse is high and associated with increased rates of overdose, emergency health care utilization, and death. The current study examined whether receipt of an alcohol-related brief intervention is associated with reduced risk of negative downstream opioid-related outcomes. METHODS This retrospective cohort study included all VISN-6 Veterans Affairs (VA) patients with Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test-Consumption (AUDIT-C) screening results (N=492,748) from 2014 to 2019. Logistic regression was used to examine the association between documentation of an alcohol-related brief intervention and probability of a new 1) opioid prescription, 2) opioid use disorder (OUD) diagnosis, or 3) opioid-related hospitalization in the following year, controlling for demographic and clinical covariates. RESULTS Of the veterans, 13% (N=63,804) had "positive" AUDIT-C screen results. Of those, 72% (N=46,216) had a documented alcohol-related brief intervention. Within 1 year, 8.5% (N=5,430) had a new opioid prescription, 1.1% (N=698) had a new OUD diagnosis, and 0.8% (N=499) had a new opioid-related hospitalization. In adjusted models, veterans with positive AUDIT-C screen results who did not receive an alcohol-related brief intervention had higher odds of new opioid prescriptions (adjusted odds ratio [OR]=1.10, 95% CI=1.03-1.17) and new OUD diagnoses (adjusted OR=1.19, 95% CI=1.02-1.40), while new opioid-related hospitalizations (adjusted OR=1.19, 95% CI=0.99-1.44) were higher although not statistically significant. Removal of medications for OUD (MOUD) did not impact associations. All outcomes were significantly associated with an alcohol-related brief intervention in unadjusted models. CONCLUSIONS The VA's standard alcohol-related brief intervention is associated with subsequent lower odds of a new opioid prescription or a new OUD diagnosis. Results suggest a reduction in a cascade of new opioid-related outcomes from prescriptions through hospitalizations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan V. Blalock
- Durham Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation (ADAPT), Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Durham NC
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham NC
| | - Sophia A. Berlin
- Institute for Medical Research, Durham NC
- Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Durham NC
| | - Theodore Berkowitz
- Durham Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation (ADAPT), Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Durham NC
| | - Valerie A. Smith
- Durham Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation (ADAPT), Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Durham NC
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University, Durham NC
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham NC
| | | | - Rachel L. Bachrach
- Center for Clinical Management Research, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, MI
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Janet M. Grubber
- Durham Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation (ADAPT), Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Durham NC
- Cooperative Studies Program Coordinating Center, Veterans Affairs Boston Health Care System, Boston MA
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Zhao X, Zhang R, Li W. A Strategy for Rescuing a Child From Clonazepam Poisoning: A Case Study. Ther Drug Monit 2024; 46:138-140. [PMID: 37876261 DOI: 10.1097/ftd.0000000000001148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This report describes the successful rescue of a 12-year-old girl who ingested large quantities of clonazepam tablets. METHODS The patient was promptly treated with flumazenil and hemoperfusion to alleviate the symptoms of central depression. Therapeutic drug monitoring was used to evaluate detoxification efficacy. The authors analyzed the rescue protocol for clonazepam poisoning based on the pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, and pharmacokinetics of clonazepam overdose. RESULTS The patient responded well to the treatment and was discharged from the hospital without adverse events. CONCLUSIONS This case study demonstrated the effectiveness and safety of combining flumazenil with hemoperfusion as a treatment for clonazepam poisoning. This study aimed to provide insights into more effective methods for treating clonazepam overdose and contribute to the ongoing issue of managing this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuemei Zhao
- Department of Pharmacy, Qingdao West Coast New Area People's Hospital, Qingdao, China
| | - Rui Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Chengdu Women's and Children's Central Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China; and
| | - Wenjing Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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Weleff J, Anand A, Squeri M, Sieke R, Thompson NR, Barnett BS. An Analysis of Benzodiazepine Prescribing to Primary Care Patients in a Large Healthcare System from 2019-2020. J Psychoactive Drugs 2024; 56:245-256. [PMID: 36940298 DOI: 10.1080/02791072.2023.2191610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 03/22/2023]
Abstract
We sought to quantify benzodiazepine prescribing by primary care providers from 2019 to 2020 and identify correlates of prescribing. We hypothesized prescribing would increase post-COVID-19 lockdown. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of adult patients with primary care visits in 2019 or 2020 in a large Ohio healthcare system. Demographics, diagnosis codes, and receipt of benzodiazepine prescriptions were collected. Using multivariable logistic regression, we examined factors associated with benzodiazepine prescription receipt during the whole study period and post-lockdown. 455,537 adult patients had 1,643,473 visits. Benzodiazepines were prescribed in 3.2% (53,049/1,643,473) of visits. Effect sizes for positive associations with benzodiazepine prescription were largest for anxiety disorders. For negative associations, they were largest for Black patients and patients with cocaine use disorder. Benzodiazepine prescribing was positively associated with multiple groups having contraindications, though effect sizes were small. Contrary to our hypothesis, odds of receiving a prescription were 8.8% lower post-lockdown. Benzodiazepine prescribing rates in our system compared favorably to national rates. Year over year odds of receiving a prescription were slightly lower post-lockdown. Racial disparities were present and deserve further study. Strategies to reduce benzodiazepine prescribing to patients with anxiety may yield the largest reductions for benzodiazepine prescribing in primary care settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy Weleff
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Center for Behavioral Health, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Akhil Anand
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Center for Behavioral Health, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
- EC-10 Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine at Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Michael Squeri
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Center for Behavioral Health, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Rachel Sieke
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Center for Behavioral Health, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Nicolas R Thompson
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Neurological Institute, Center for Outcomes Research & Evaluation, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Brian S Barnett
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Center for Behavioral Health, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
- EC-10 Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine at Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
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10
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Farronato DM, Pezzulo JD, Paulik J, Miltenberg B, Johns WL, Davis DE. The impact of preoperative benzodiazepine use on postoperative opioid use in total shoulder arthroplasty. J Shoulder Elbow Surg 2024:S1058-2746(24)00222-2. [PMID: 38548094 DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2024.02.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND As the rate of total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) and preoperative benzodiazepine use rise, there is an increased need to understand the impact of preoperative benzodiazepine use on postoperative opioid consumption following TSA, especially amid the current opioid epidemic. The relationship between preoperative benzodiazepine use and chronic opioid use postoperatively has been well described following other orthopedic procedures; however, the impact on patients undergoing TSA remains unclear. This study aims to identify the impact of preoperative benzodiazepine use on opioid use following TSA. METHODS A retrospective chart review of 4488 patients undergoing primary TSA (Current Procedural Terminology code 23472) at a single institution from 2014 to 2022 was performed. Patient demographics, surgical variables, comorbidities, Distressed Communities Index (DCI), and clinical outcomes, including readmission and revision, were collected. The Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) was used to assess preoperative health status. Opioid use in morphine milligram equivalents (MMEs) and benzodiazepine use were also recorded using the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program Database. Opioid use was collected at 30-, 60-, and 90-day intervals both before and after each patient's date of surgery. Statistical analysis included stepwise logistic regression to identify variables independently affecting benzodiazepine use pre- and postoperatively. RESULTS Overall, 16% of patients used benzodiazepines within 90 days before their date of surgery. Of those patients, 46.4% were also using preoperative opioids, compared with just 30.0% of patients who were benzodiazepine-naïve (P < .001). Preoperative benzodiazepine use was also associated with increased pre- and postoperative total opioid use in MMEs and the number of opioid prescriptions across all time points when compared to benzodiazepine-naïve patients (P < .001). Furthermore, 37.4% of preoperative benzodiazepine users went on to prolonged opioid use (filled prescriptions >30 days after surgery) compared to 19.0% of those who were benzodiazepine-naïve (P < .001). CONCLUSION This study demonstrates a significant association between preoperative benzodiazepine use and increased and prolonged opioid use following TSA. Further exploration of risk factors contributing to preoperative benzodiazepine use may help to reduce overall opioid use in patients undergoing TSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominic M Farronato
- Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Joshua D Pezzulo
- Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - John Paulik
- Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Benjamin Miltenberg
- Rothman Orthopaedic Institute at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - William L Johns
- Rothman Orthopaedic Institute at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Daniel E Davis
- Rothman Orthopaedic Institute at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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Khatib K, Dixit S, Telang M. Metabolic management of accidental intoxication. Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care 2024; 27:147-154. [PMID: 38260945 DOI: 10.1097/mco.0000000000001013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Unintentional intoxication comprises a major chunk of all intoxications. Most patients are in the pediatric age group with another set of patients being the elderly. Substances found to cause accidental intoxication vary from country to country and even within different regions of a country. Frequent reviews of current literature are needed to be abreast of trends. RECENT FINDINGS Prescription drugs and household chemicals are major culprits when it comes to accidental intoxication. Acetaminophen, digoxin and metformin are some of the prominent prescription drugs frequently associated with unintentional intoxications. Increasingly alcohol based hand sanitizers are becoming an important etiology of these events, following their increased usage during the COVID-19 pandemic. Pattern recognition to identify class of intoxicant and supportive care including prevention of further absorption and increased excretion are cornerstones of therapy. Antidote when available should be used promptly. SUMMARY Knowledge about current epidemiology of accidental intoxications, toxidrome pattern recognition and appropriate antidote usage beside adequate and timely supportive care help in successful management of the unfortunate victim of accidental intoxication.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Subhal Dixit
- Department of Critical Care, Sanjeevan and MJM Hospitals, Pune, India
| | - Madhavi Telang
- Senior Specialist Intensive Care Unit, Rashid Hospital and Emergency Trauma Centre, Dubai, UAE
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12
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Choi NG, Choi BY, Marti CN, Baker SD. Intentional benzodiazepine poisoning in older adults reported to United States Poison Centers. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2024; 62:174-182. [PMID: 38683030 DOI: 10.1080/15563650.2024.2334828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite known contraindications, benzodiazepines are frequently prescribed for older adults. This study utilizes poison control center data on benzodiazepine-involved cases aged 50 and above to compare the characteristics of suspected suicide attempt with other intentional misuse cases. We also examined associations of major medical outcomes (major effect/death) with demographic characteristics and other co-used substances in each group. METHODS The study employed data from the America's Poison Center National Poison Data System from 2015-2022. Descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression models were used. RESULTS Of the benzodiazepine-poisoning cases of intentional misuse (n = 93,245), 85 percent were suicide attempts and 15 percent were other intentional misuses. Reports to poisons centers showed a decline from 2019-2022 when compared to 2015-2016. However, the likelihood of a reported suicide attempt, compared to other intentional misuse, was greater in 2019-2022 compared to 2015-2016 and among those who co-used antidepressants, anxiolytics, atypical antipsychotics, other benzodiazepines, other analgesics, anticonvulsants, and alcohol. The odds of major effect/death in both groups were also greater in 2019-2022, with suicide attempt cases in advanced ages showing higher odds. The co-use of antidepressants, prescription opioids, atypical antipsychotics, anticonvulsants, and other analgesics were associated with a higher likelihood of major effect/death in both exposure groups. For instance, adjusted odds ratios for co-used prescription opioids were 2.20 (95 percent confidence intervals: 2.09-2.31) among suicide attempt cases and 3.51 (95 percent confidence intervals: 3.10-3.97) among other intentional misuse cases. DISCUSSION Healthcare providers need to screen for suicidal ideation among benzodiazepine users, with special attention to an increased risk of suicide attempt among those who co-use antidepressants and opioids and to decreasing adverse outcomes in all misuse cases. Assessments of underlying mental health and substance use problems and medication regimens to minimize polypharmacy and drug interactions are needed to reduce adverse outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Though the numbers of benzodiazepine-involved suicide attempt and other intentional misuse cases reported to United States poison centers decreased in recent years, the likelihood of major medical effect/death among these cases have increased.
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Affiliation(s)
- Namkee G Choi
- Steve Hicks School of Social Work, The University of TX at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Bryan Y Choi
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine & Bayhealth Medical Center, Dover, DE, USA
| | - C Nathan Marti
- Steve Hicks School of Social Work, The University of TX at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
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Bradford WD, Lozano-Rojas F. Higher Rates Of Homelessness Are Associated With Increases In Mortality From Accidental Drug And Alcohol Poisonings. Health Aff (Millwood) 2024; 43:242-249. [PMID: 38315926 DOI: 10.1377/hlthaff.2023.00951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Alcohol and drug overdoses have multiple complex causes. In this article we contribute to the literature that links homelessness, the most extreme form of housing disruption, to accidental SUD-related poisonings. Using plausibly exogenous variation from a state's landlord-tenant policies that influence evictions, we estimated the causal impact of homelessness on SUD-related mortality. We found large effects of homelessness on SUD-related poisonings (for example, a 10 percent increase in homelessness led to a 3.2 percent increase in opioid poisonings in metropolitan areas). Our findings indicate that reducing local homelessness rates from the seventy-fifth to the fiftieth percentile levels could have saved more than 1,900 lives from opioid overdoses across all metropolitan localities in the final year of our study data. We conclude that strengthening the social safety net in terms of housing security could help curb the ongoing SUD-related poisoning epidemic in the US.
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Kappl U, Huppertz B, Stöver H, Stich H. [Narcotic Use under Probation and Parole Supervision - A longitudinal Study of Risk-group-specific Recidivism under Abstinence Conditions]. DAS GESUNDHEITSWESEN 2024; 86:148-154. [PMID: 38128571 PMCID: PMC10883006 DOI: 10.1055/a-2173-8063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVE The aim of this long-term study was to record substance-specific prevalences of illegal use of narcotics despite court-imposed abstinence requirements. METHODS Urine assays were obtained by a public health department on the basis of administrative assistance for the probation department of a district court. The individual and valid allocation of these urine samples was ensured using a proven marker system. After postal dispatch, laboratory chemical analyses for narcotics residues were carried out in an external laboratory via enzyme immunoassay and validation by mass spectrography in the case of positive narcotics results. On the basis of all available routine data, a pooled data set covering a total of fourteen consecutive calendar years (2006-2019) was generated digitally and evaluated anonymously. RESULTS From a total of 380 subjects (female: 13% versus male: 87%; average age: 30.4 years), 13,500 individual narcotic substance analyses from 2,941 urine samples were available. In 2.7% of all individual analyses, at least one of eight potential narcotic substances was detected, whereby the highest overall prevalences in the sense of a relapse were found for cannabis with 3.7% and for opiates with 2.4%. In contrast, there were almost no residues for barbiturates and LSD and no positive evidence for buprenorphine and PCP. As expected, most relapses in all narcotics groups were found in the age groups from 18 to 35 years. Strikingly, more women than men violated the court abstinence order with amphetamines, while relapses with the other seven narcotics groups occurred predominantly among men. In the course of the entire observation period, the most marked fluctuations in relapse rates were found for cannabis, opiates and cocaine. CONCLUSION The use of narcotic substances during probation and parole supervision does not appear to be a rare occurrence and has received little professional attention. Increased attention to this group-specific recidivism and more studies on this topic should help reduce this deficit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ursula Kappl
- Medizinische Fakultät der LMU München, Institut für Medizinische Informationsverarbeitung, Biometrie und Epidemiologie (IBE), München, Germany
- Medizinische Fakultät der LMU München, Pettenkofer School of Public Health, München, Germany
| | - Bernd Huppertz
- Abteilung für Toxikologie und Drogenmonitoring, MVZ Labor Dr. Quade und Kollegen, Köln, Germany
| | - Heino Stöver
- Institut für Suchtforschung Frankfurt am Main (ISFF), Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Heribert Stich
- Medizinische Fakultät der LMU München, Institut für Medizinische Informationsverarbeitung, Biometrie und Epidemiologie (IBE), München, Germany
- Medizinische Fakultät der LMU München, Pettenkofer School of Public Health, München, Germany
- Abteilung 7 Gesundheitsamt, Landratsamt Landshut, Landshut, Germany
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Mullin A, Scott M, Vaccaro G, Floresta G, Arillotta D, Catalani V, Corkery JM, Stair JL, Schifano F, Guirguis A. Benzodiazepine Boom: Tracking Etizolam, Pyrazolam, and Flubromazepam from Pre-UK Psychoactive Act 2016 to Present Using Analytical and Social Listening Techniques. PHARMACY 2024; 12:13. [PMID: 38251407 PMCID: PMC10801481 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy12010013] [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: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 01/01/2024] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The designer benzodiazepine (DBZD) market continues to expand whilst evading regulatory controls. The widespread adoption of social media by pro-drug use communities encourages positive discussions around DBZD use/misuse, driving demand. This research addresses the evolution of three popular DBZDs, etizolam (E), flubromazepam (F), and pyrazolam (P), available on the drug market for over a decade, comparing the quantitative chemical analyses of tablet samples, purchased from the internet prior to the implementation of the Psychoactive Substances Act UK 2016, with the thematic netnographic analyses of social media content. METHOD Drug samples were purchased from the internet in early 2016. The characterisation of all drug batches were performed using UHPLC-MS and supported with 1H NMR. In addition, netnographic studies across the platforms X (formerly Twitter) and Reddit, between 2016-2023, were conducted. The latter was supported by both manual and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven thematic analyses, using numerous.ai and ChatGPT, of social media threads and discussions. RESULTS UHPLC-MS confirmed the expected drug in every sample, showing remarkable inter/intra batch variability across all batches (E = 13.8 ± 0.6 to 24.7 ± 0.9 mg; F = 4.0 ± 0.2 to 23.5 ± 0.8 mg; P = 5.2 ± 0.2 to 11.5 ± 0.4 mg). 1H NMR could not confirm etizolam as a lone compound in any etizolam batch. Thematic analyses showed etizolam dominated social media discussions (59% of all posts), with 24.2% of posts involving sale/purchase and 17.8% detailing new administration trends/poly-drug use scenarios. Artificial intelligence confirmed three of the top five trends identified manually. CONCLUSIONS Purity variability identified across all tested samples emphasises the increased potential health risks associated with DBZD consumption. We propose the global DBZD market is exacerbated by surface web social media discussions, recorded across X and Reddit. Despite the appearance of newer analogues, these three DBZDs remain prevalent and popularised. Reporting themes on harm/effects and new developments in poly-drug use trends, demand for DBZDs continues to grow, despite their potent nature and potential risk to life. It is proposed that greater controls and constant live monitoring of social media user content is warranted to drive active regulation strategies and targeted, effective, harm reduction strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Mullin
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse & Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield AL10 9AB, UK; (A.M.); (M.S.); (G.V.); (G.F.); (V.C.); (J.M.C.); (J.L.S.); (F.S.)
| | - Mark Scott
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse & Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield AL10 9AB, UK; (A.M.); (M.S.); (G.V.); (G.F.); (V.C.); (J.M.C.); (J.L.S.); (F.S.)
| | - Giorgia Vaccaro
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse & Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield AL10 9AB, UK; (A.M.); (M.S.); (G.V.); (G.F.); (V.C.); (J.M.C.); (J.L.S.); (F.S.)
| | - Giuseppe Floresta
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse & Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield AL10 9AB, UK; (A.M.); (M.S.); (G.V.); (G.F.); (V.C.); (J.M.C.); (J.L.S.); (F.S.)
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95131 Catania, Italy
| | - Davide Arillotta
- School of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Florence, 50121 Florence, Italy;
| | - Valeria Catalani
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse & Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield AL10 9AB, UK; (A.M.); (M.S.); (G.V.); (G.F.); (V.C.); (J.M.C.); (J.L.S.); (F.S.)
| | - John M. Corkery
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse & Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield AL10 9AB, UK; (A.M.); (M.S.); (G.V.); (G.F.); (V.C.); (J.M.C.); (J.L.S.); (F.S.)
| | - Jacqueline L. Stair
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse & Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield AL10 9AB, UK; (A.M.); (M.S.); (G.V.); (G.F.); (V.C.); (J.M.C.); (J.L.S.); (F.S.)
| | - Fabrizio Schifano
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse & Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield AL10 9AB, UK; (A.M.); (M.S.); (G.V.); (G.F.); (V.C.); (J.M.C.); (J.L.S.); (F.S.)
| | - Amira Guirguis
- Pharmacy, Medical School, The Grove Extension, Swansea University, Swansea SA2 8PP, UK
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Hsieh CY, Hsu JY, Yang CC. Predictive factors for severe outcomes in substance abuse-related emergency visits: A 5-year retrospective analysis at a medical center in Taiwan. J Chin Med Assoc 2024; 87:40-47. [PMID: 37967467 DOI: 10.1097/jcma.0000000000001020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Substance abuse is a considerable medical issue worldwide, yet current surveillance systems in Taiwan offer limited insights into the clinical characteristics and outcomes of substance abuse patients. This study aimed to delineate the epidemiology of emergency department visits related to substance abuse at a hospital in Taiwan and to identify factors predictive of severe complications or mortality. METHODS A retrospective analysis was conducted on substance abuse-related emergency department visits at a medical center in Taiwan between 2009 and 2013. Eligible participants were individuals aged 20 or older who had confirmed substance abuse through urinalysis. Variables such as patient demographics, substances abused, clinical characteristics, and outcomes were collected. Severe outcomes were defined as admission to the intensive care unit, requirement for endotracheal intubation, or in-hospital death. Logistic regression models were employed to identify factors contributing to severe outcomes. RESULTS The cohort consisted of 623 patients, of whom 64.0% were female and 67.1% were aged between 20 and 49 years. Benzodiazepines were detected in 75.3% of patients, while z-drugs (specifically zopiclone, zolpidem, or zaleplon) were found in 27.8%. Depressants, stimulants, and hallucinogens were present in 14.9%, 10.6%, and 0.6% of the cases, respectively. Of the patient, 121 (19.4%) experienced severe outcomes, including 116 (18.6%) intensive care unit admissions, 73 (11.7%) intubations, and 11 (1.8%) in-hospital deaths. Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed multiple predictors of severe outcomes, such as emergency department triage level, aspiration pneumonia, leukocytosis, abnormal hepatic function, abnormal renal function, hypernatremia, and hypocalcemia. CONCLUSION In Taiwan, benzodiazepines emerged as the most prevalent substance of abuse among emergency department visitors, and a significant proportion of these patients experienced severe outcomes. Continuous monitoring of severe outcome predictors is essential for enhanced understanding and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Ying Hsieh
- Institute of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, College of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Jen-Yu Hsu
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
- Northern Regional Center, Centers for Disease Control, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taoyuan, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Chen-Chang Yang
- Institute of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, College of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
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Kozak Z, Urquhart GJ, Rouhani S, Allen ST, Park JN, Sherman SG. Factors associated with daily use of benzodiazepines/tranquilizers and opioids among people who use drugs. Am J Addict 2024; 33:83-91. [PMID: 37717256 DOI: 10.1111/ajad.13483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Co-use of benzodiazepines and opioids significantly increases fatal overdose risk, yet few studies have examined co-use of these drugs when obtained both with and without a prescription. We examined associations of daily co-use of prescribed benzodiazepines/tranquilizers (BZD/TRQ) and prescribed and nonprescribed opioids among people who use street opioids (PWUO). METHODS PWUO (N = 417) were recruited from Baltimore City and neighboring Anne Arundel County, Maryland, and surveyed on sociodemographic characteristics, structural vulnerabilities, healthcare access and utilization, substance use, and overdose experiences. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with self-reported co-use. RESULTS Participants were 46 years old on average, and predominantly Black (74%) males (62%). Daily co-use was reported by 22%. In multivariable analyses, odds of co-use were significantly higher among participants who did not have a high school degree/GED (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 1.71, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.02-2.88), endorsed receiving mental health treatment in the past 6 months (aOR: 2.13, 95% CI: 1.28-3.56), reported daily use of powdered cocaine (aOR: 3.57, 95% CI: 1.98-6.45), and synthetic cannabinoids (aOR: 3.11, 95% CI: 1.40-6.93). Odds of co-use were significantly lower among Black participants compared to white participants (aOR: 0.39, 95% CI: 0.19-0.82). CONCLUSIONS AND SCIENTIFIC SIGNIFICANCE Clinicians working with PWUO or who prescribe BZDs or opioids should screen patients who use cocaine or synthetic cannabinoids, have low level of educational attainment, or recently accessed mental health services, as these patients may be at higher risk for daily co-use of BZD/TRQ and opioids, and therefore lethal overdose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zofia Kozak
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Glenna J Urquhart
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Saba Rouhani
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, New York University School of Global Public Health, New York, USA
| | - Sean T Allen
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Ju N Park
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- The Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, USA
| | - Susan G Sherman
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Ferguson M, Choisil P, Lamb J, Burmeister C, Newman C, Lock K, Tobias S, Liu L, Buxton JA. Associations with experience of non-fatal opioid overdose in British Columbia, Canada: a repeated cross sectional survey study. Harm Reduct J 2023; 20:178. [PMID: 38093272 PMCID: PMC10717189 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-023-00912-9] [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: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Lives lost in North America due to the unregulated drug poisoning emergency are preventable and those who survive an opioid overdose may suffer long-term disability. Rates of opioid overdose more than doubled following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in British Columbia, Canada. MATERIALS AND METHODS Our analytical sample was comprised of 1447 participants from the 2018, 2019, and 2021 Harm Reduction Client Survey who responded yes or no to having experienced an opioid overdose in the past 6 months. Participants were recruited from harm reduction sites from across British Columbia. We used logistic regression to explore associations of experiencing an opioid overdose. RESULTS Overall, 21.8% of participants reported experiencing an opioid overdose in the last six months (18.2% in 2019 and 26.6% in 2021). The following factors were positively associated with increased adjusted odds of experiencing a non-fatal opioid overdose: cis men relative to cis women (AOR 1.49, 95% CI 1.10-2.02), unstably housed compared to people with stable housing (AOR 1.87, 95% CI 1.40-2.50), and participants from 2021 compared to those from 2019 (AOR 3.06, 95% CI 1.57-5.97). The effects of both previous experience of a stimulant overdose and having witnessed an opioid overdose depended on the year of study, with both effects decreasing over subsequent years. CONCLUSIONS Overdoses have increased over time; in 2021 more than one in four participants experienced an overdose. There is an urgent need for policy and program development to meaningfully address the unregulated drug poisoning emergency through acceptable life-saving interventions and services to prevent overdoses and support overdose survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max Ferguson
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Paul Choisil
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jessica Lamb
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | - Cheri Newman
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Kurt Lock
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Samuel Tobias
- British Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Lisa Liu
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jane A Buxton
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
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Severson MA, Onanong S, Dolezal A, Bartelt-Hunt SL, Snow DD, McFadden LM. Analysis of Wastewater Samples to Explore Community Substance Use in the United States: Pilot Correlative and Machine Learning Study. JMIR Form Res 2023; 7:e45353. [PMID: 37883150 PMCID: PMC10636622 DOI: 10.2196/45353] [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: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Substance use disorder and associated deaths have increased in the United States, but methods for detecting and monitoring substance use using rapid and unbiased techniques are lacking. Wastewater-based surveillance is a cost-effective method for monitoring community drug use. However, the examination of the results often focuses on descriptive analysis. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to explore community substance use in the United States by analyzing wastewater samples. Geographic differences and commonalities of substance use were explored. METHODS Wastewater was sampled across the United States (n=12). Selected drugs with misuse potential, prescriptions, and over-the-counter drugs and their metabolites were tested across geographic locations for 7 days. Methods used included wastewater assessment of substances and metabolites paired with machine learning, specifically discriminant analysis and cluster analysis, to explore similarities and differences in wastewater measures. RESULTS Geographic variations in the wastewater drug or metabolite levels were found. Results revealed a higher use of methamphetamine (z=-2.27, P=.02) and opioids-to-methadone ratios (oxycodone-to-methadone: z=-1.95, P=.05; hydrocodone-to-methadone: z=-1.95, P=.05) in states west of the Mississippi River compared to the east. Discriminant analysis suggested temazepam and methadone were significant predictors of geographical locations. Precision, sensitivity, specificity, and F1-scores were 0.88, 1, 0.80, and 0.93, respectively. Finally, cluster analysis revealed similarities in substance use among communities. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that wastewater-based surveillance has the potential to become an effective form of surveillance for substance use. Further, advanced analytical techniques may help uncover geographical patterns and detect communities with similar needs for resources to address substance use disorders. Using automated analytics, these advanced surveillance techniques may help communities develop timely, tailored treatment and prevention efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie A Severson
- Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD, United States
| | - Sathaporn Onanong
- Water Sciences Laboratory & Nebraska Water Center, part of the Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, United States
| | - Alexandra Dolezal
- Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD, United States
| | - Shannon L Bartelt-Hunt
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, United States
| | - Daniel D Snow
- Water Sciences Laboratory & Nebraska Water Center, part of the Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, United States
| | - Lisa M McFadden
- Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD, United States
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Brady BR, Taj EA, Cameron E, Yoder AM, De La Rosa JS. A Diagram of the Social-Ecological Conditions of Opioid Misuse and Overdose. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6950. [PMID: 37887688 PMCID: PMC10606085 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20206950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
The United States is experiencing a crisis of opioid misuse and overdose. To understand the underlying factors, researchers have begun looking upstream to identify social and structural determinants. However, no study has yet aggregated these into a comprehensive ecology of opioid overdose. We scoped 68 literature sources and compiled a master list of opioid misuse and overdose conditions. We grouped the conditions and used the Social Ecological Model to organize them into a diagram. We reviewed the diagram with nine subject matter experts (SMEs) who provided feedback on its content, design, and usefulness. From a literature search and SME interviews, we identified 80 unique conditions of opioid overdose and grouped them into 16 categories. In the final diagram, we incorporated 40 SME-recommended changes. In commenting on the diagram's usefulness, SMEs explained that the diagram could improve intervention planning by demonstrating the complexity of opioid overdose and highlighting structural factors. However, care is required to strike a balance between comprehensiveness and legibility. Multiple design formats may be useful, depending on the communication purpose and audience. This ecological diagram offers a visual perspective of the conditions of opioid overdose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin R. Brady
- Comprehensive Pain and Addiction Center, University of Arizona Health Sciences, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA; (E.A.T.); (E.C.); (J.S.D.L.R.)
- School of Interdisciplinary Health Programs, College of Health and Human Services, Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, MI 49008, USA
| | - Ehmer A. Taj
- Comprehensive Pain and Addiction Center, University of Arizona Health Sciences, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA; (E.A.T.); (E.C.); (J.S.D.L.R.)
| | - Elena Cameron
- Comprehensive Pain and Addiction Center, University of Arizona Health Sciences, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA; (E.A.T.); (E.C.); (J.S.D.L.R.)
| | - Aaron M. Yoder
- Comagine Health, Seattle, WA 98133, USA;
- Lifecourse Epidemiology of Adiposity and Diabetes (LEAD) Center, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Jennifer S. De La Rosa
- Comprehensive Pain and Addiction Center, University of Arizona Health Sciences, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA; (E.A.T.); (E.C.); (J.S.D.L.R.)
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
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Todaro DR, Li X, Pereira-Rufino LS, Manza P, Nasrallah IM, Das S, Childress AR, Kranzler HR, Volkow ND, Langleben DD, Shi Z, Wiers CE. Hippocampal volume loss in individuals with a history of non-fatal opioid overdose. Addict Biol 2023; 28:e13336. [PMID: 37753562 PMCID: PMC10626561 DOI: 10.1111/adb.13336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
Incidence of opioid-related overdoses in the United States has increased dramatically over the past two decades. Despite public emphasis on overdose fatalities, most overdose cases are not fatal. Although there are case reports of amnestic syndromes and acute injury to the hippocampus following non-fatal opioid overdose, the effects of such overdoses on brain structure are poorly understood. Here, we investigated the neuroanatomical correlates of non-fatal opioid overdoses by comparing hippocampal volume in opioid use disorder (OUD) patients who had experienced an opioid overdose (OD; N = 17) with those who had not (NOD; N = 32). Voxel-based morphometry showed lower hippocampal volume in the OD group than in the NOD group, which on post hoc analysis was evident in the left but not the right hippocampus. These findings strengthen the evidence that hippocampal injury is associated with non-fatal opioid overdose, which is hypothesized to underlie overdose-related amnestic syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dustin R Todaro
- Center for Studies of Addiction, Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Xinyi Li
- Center for Studies of Addiction, Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Laís S Pereira-Rufino
- Center for Studies of Addiction, Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Morphology and Genetics, Federal University of São Paulo-UNIFESP, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Peter Manza
- Laboratory of Neuroimaging, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Ilya M Nasrallah
- Department of Radiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Sandhitsu Das
- Department of Neurology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Anna Rose Childress
- Center for Studies of Addiction, Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Henry R Kranzler
- Center for Studies of Addiction, Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center, Crescenz Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Nora D Volkow
- Laboratory of Neuroimaging, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Daniel D Langleben
- Center for Studies of Addiction, Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Zhenhao Shi
- Center for Studies of Addiction, Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Corinde E Wiers
- Center for Studies of Addiction, Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Radiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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22
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Baranger DAA, Paul SE, Hatoum AS, Bogdan R. Alcohol use and grey matter structure: Disentangling predispositional and causal contributions in human studies. Addict Biol 2023; 28:e13327. [PMID: 37644894 PMCID: PMC10502907 DOI: 10.1111/adb.13327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Alcohol use is a growing global health concern and economic burden. Alcohol involvement (i.e., initiation, use, problematic use, alcohol use disorder) has been reliably associated with broad spectrum grey matter differences in cross-sectional studies. These findings have been largely interpreted as reflecting alcohol-induced atrophy. However, emerging data suggest that brain structure differences also represent pre-existing vulnerability factors for alcohol involvement. Here, we review evidence from human studies with designs (i.e., family-based, genomic, longitudinal) that allow them to assess the plausibility that these correlates reflect predispositional risk factors and/or causal consequences of alcohol involvement. These studies provide convergent evidence that grey matter correlates of alcohol involvement largely reflect predisposing risk factors, with some evidence for potential alcohol-induced atrophy. These conclusions highlight the importance of study designs that can provide causal clues to cross-sectional observations. An integrative model may best account for these data, in which predisposition to alcohol use affects brain development, effects which may then be compounded by the neurotoxic consequences of heavy alcohol use.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A A Baranger
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University St. Louis Medical School, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Sarah E Paul
- Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, Washington University St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Alexander S Hatoum
- Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, Washington University St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
- Artificial Intelligence and the Internet of Things in Medicine Institute, Washington University St. Louis Medical School, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Ryan Bogdan
- Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, Washington University St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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23
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Fluyau D, Kailasam VK, Pierre CG. Beyond benzodiazepines: a meta-analysis and narrative synthesis of the efficacy and safety of alternative options for alcohol withdrawal syndrome management. Eur J Clin Pharmacol 2023; 79:1147-1157. [PMID: 37380897 DOI: 10.1007/s00228-023-03523-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To compare the efficacy and safety of non-benzodiazepines (non-BZDs) to benzodiazepines (BZDs) in the treatment of alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS). METHODS For relevant literature, Google Scholar, PubMed, Embase, OVID MEDLINE, EBSCO, Cochrane Central Registry of Controlled Trials, Web of Science, and Scopus were searched. Randomized control trials (RCTs) were included, omitted were nonblinded trials, blinded trials that were not randomized, and open-label studies. The Effective Public Health Practice Project Quality Assessment was used to assess the trial's quality. A meta-analysis and a narrative synthesis were carried out. RESULTS Twenty non-BZDs and five BZDs were investigated in thirty RCTs. Meta-analysis favored gabapentin over chlordiazepoxide and lorazepam (d = 0.563, p < 0.001) and carbamazepine over oxazepam and lorazepam (d = 0.376, p = 0.029), for reducing Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcohol-Revised (CIWA-Ar) scale scores. Eleven non-BZDs fared better than BZDs for reducing CIWA-Ar, Total Severity Assessment, Selective Severity Assessment, Borg and Weinholdt, and Gross Rating Scale for Alcohol Withdrawal scores. Eight non-BZDs outmatched BZDs regarding autonomic, motor, awareness, and psychiatric symptoms. Sedation and fatigue were prevalent in BZDs, while seizures were prevalent in non-BZDs. CONCLUSION For AWS treatments, non-BZDs are superior to or equally effective as BZDs. Non-BZD adverse events warrant further investigation. Agents that inhibit gated ion channels are promising candidates. PROTOCOL REGISTRATION PROSPERO CRD42022384875.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimy Fluyau
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida, 1600 SW Archer Rd, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA.
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24
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Bianco MCM, Tardelli VS, Brooks ER, Areco KC, Tardelli AO, Bandiera-Paiva P, Santaella J, Segura LE, Castaldelli-Maia JM, Martins SS, Fidalgo TM. Drug overdose deaths in Brazil between 2000 and 2020: an analysis of sociodemographics and intentionality. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PSIQUIATRIA (SAO PAULO, BRAZIL : 1999) 2023; 45:405-413. [PMID: 37718117 PMCID: PMC10894626 DOI: 10.47626/1516-4446-2022-3023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine drug overdose records in Brazil from 2000 to 2020, analyzing trends over time in overdoses and overall sociodemographic characteristics of the deceased. METHODS Using data from the Brazilian Mortality Information System (Sistema de Informações sobre Mortalidade), we identified records from 2000-2020 in which the underlying cause-of-death was one of the following codes: X40-X45 (accidental poisoning), X60-X65 (intentional poisoning), or Y10-Y15 (undetermined intentionality poisoning). The Brazilian dataset included 21,410 deaths. We used joinpoint regression analysis to assess changes in trends over time. RESULTS People who died of drug overdoses in Brazil between 2000 and 2020 had a mean age of 38.91 years; 38.45% were women, and 44.01% were identified as White. Of the overdose deaths, 44.70% were classified as intentional and 32.12% were classified as unintentional. Among the identified drugs, stimulants were the most common class. However, most records did not report which drug was responsible for death. CONCLUSION Sociodemographic trends in overdose deaths in Brazil must guide country-specific policies. Nevertheless, data collection protocols must be improved, particularly regarding the drug used in overdoses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vitor S. Tardelli
- Departamento de Psiquiatria, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Translational Addiction Research Laboratory, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Emily Rose Brooks
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kelsy C.N. Areco
- Departamento de Informática em Saúde, UNIFESP, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | | | | | - Julian Santaella
- Department of Population Health, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Luis E. Segura
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - João M. Castaldelli-Maia
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA
- Departamento de Psiquiatria, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Silvia S. Martins
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Thiago M. Fidalgo
- Departamento de Psiquiatria, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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25
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Robertson I, Rhon DI, Fritz JM, Velosky A, Lawson BK, Highland KB. Post-lumbar surgery prescription variation and opioid-related outcomes in a large US healthcare system: an observational study. Spine J 2023; 23:1345-1357. [PMID: 37220814 PMCID: PMC10524933 DOI: 10.1016/j.spinee.2023.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND CONTEXT Spinal decompression and fusion procedures are one of the most common procedures performed in the United States (US) and remain associated with high postsurgical opioid burden. Despite guidelines emphasizing nonopioid pharmacotherapy strategies for postsurgical pain management, prescribing practices are likely variable and guideline-incongruent. PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to characterize patient-, care-, and system-level factors associated with opioid, nonopioid pain medication, and benzodiazepine prescribing variation in the US Military Health System (MHS). STUDY DESIGN/SETTING Retrospective study analyzing medical records from the US MHS Data Repository. PATIENT SAMPLE Adult patients (N=6,625) undergoing lumbar decompression and spinal fusion procedures from 2016 to 2021 in the MHS enrolled in TRICARE at least a year prior to their procedure and had at least one encounter beyond the 90-day postprocedure period, without recent trauma, malignancy, cauda equina syndrome, and co-occurring procedures. OUTCOME MEASURES Patient-, care-, and system-level factors influencing outcomes of discharge morphine equivalent dose (MED), 30-day opioid refill, and persistent opioid use (POU). POU was defined as dispensing of opioid prescriptions monthly for the first 3 months after surgery and then at least once between 90 and 180 days after surgery. METHODS (Generalized) linear mixed models evaluated multilevel factors associated with discharge MED, opioid refill, and POU. RESULTS The median discharge MED was 375 mg (IQR 225, 580) and days' supply was 7 days (IQR 4, 10); 36% received an opioid refill and 5%, overall, met criteria for POU. Discharge MED was associated with fusion procedures (+151-198 mg), multilevel procedures (+26 mg), policy release (-184 mg), opioid naïvty (-31 mg), race (Black -21 mg, another race and ethnicity -47 mg), benzodiazepine receipt (+100 mg), opioid-only medications (+86 mg), gabapentinoid receipt (-20 mg), and nonopioid pain medications receipt (-60 mg). Longer symptom duration, fusion procedures, beneficiary category, mental healthcare, nicotine dependence, benzodiazepine receipt, and opioid naivety were associated with both opioid refill and POU. Multilevel procedures, elevated comorbidity score, policy period, antidepressant receipt, and gabapentinoid receipt, and presurgical physical therapy were also associated with opioid refill. POU increased with increasing discharge MED. CONCLUSIONS Significant variation in discharge prescribing practices require systems-level, evidence-based intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian Robertson
- Department of Internal Medicine, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, 9499 Palmer Rd N, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA.
| | - Daniel I Rhon
- University of Utah, 201 Presidents' Cir, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Julie M Fritz
- University of Utah, 201 Presidents' Cir, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Alexander Velosky
- Defense and Veterans Center for Integrative Pain Management, Department of Anesthesiology, Uniformed Services University, 4301 Jones Bridge Rd, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA; Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, 11300 Rockville Pike Suite 709, Rockville, MD 20852, USA
| | - Bryan K Lawson
- Department of Orthopedics, Brooke Army Medical Center, 3551 Roger Brooke Dr, Fort Sam Houston, TX, 78234-6200, USA
| | - Krista B Highland
- Department of Anesthesiology, Uniformed Services University, 4301 Jones Bridge Rd, Bethesda, MD, 20814
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26
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Soyka M, Wild I, Caulet B, Leontiou C, Lugoboni F, Hajak G. Long-term use of benzodiazepines in chronic insomnia: a European perspective. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1212028. [PMID: 37599882 PMCID: PMC10433200 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1212028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic insomnia occurs in ~10% of the general population and has numerous negative health effects. The recommended first line treatment of cognitive behavior therapy for insomnia is not widely available for patients in Europe, so pharmacotherapies such as benzodiazepine receptor agonist agents (benzodiazepines and Z-drugs) are commonly used. However, their use is only recommended for ≤4 weeks due to unproven long-term efficacy in treatment of chronic insomnia, and the risk of tolerance, and the potential for dependence and misuse. In Europe, recommendations limiting the use of benzodiazepines (lowest dose and shortest duration) in chronic insomnia are not always followed, likely due to the lack of approved effective alternative therapies. Here we present a recent pilot survey of the pharmacological treatment landscape in chronic insomnia in five European countries (France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom) and physicians' attitude toward treatment. The results suggest that benzodiazepines and Z-drugs are the most widely used treatments in chronic insomnia and are being used for longer than their recommended duration. Country variations in prescription rates were observed. Due to the known association between long-term benzodiazepine use and potential for developing dependence, further analysis of the literature was performed on the use and misuse of benzodiazepines. The results show that long-term use of benzodiazepines is associated with multiple consequences of treatment, including dependence, but also that previous use of benzodiazepines may increase the risk of opioid use disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Soyka
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Ludwig Maximilian University, Munich, Germany
| | - Imane Wild
- Idorsia Pharmaceuticals Ltd., Allschwil, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Fabio Lugoboni
- Department of Internal Medicine, Addiction Unit, Verona University Hospital, Verona, Italy
| | - Göran Hajak
- University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Social Foundation Bamberg, Teaching Hospital of the University of Erlangen, Bamberg, Germany
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27
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Baskerville WA, Grodin EN, Lin J, Miotto K, Mooney LJ, Ray LA. Alcohol Use Among Treatment-Seeking Individuals With Opioid Use Disorder. J Stud Alcohol Drugs 2023; 84:579-584. [PMID: 37096768 PMCID: PMC10488310 DOI: 10.15288/jsad.22-00176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Individuals in the United States with opioid use disorder (OUD) have high rates of co-occurring alcohol use disorder. However, there is limited research on co-use patterns among opioid and alcohol use. The present study examined the relationship between alcohol and opioid use in treatment-seeking individuals with an OUD. METHOD The study used baseline assessment data from a multisite, comparative effectiveness trial. Participants with an OUD who had used nonprescribed opioids in the last 30 days (n = 567) reported on their alcohol and opioid use during the past 30 days using the Timeline Followback. Two mixed-effects logistic regression models were used to assess the effect of alcohol use and binge alcohol use (≥4 drinks/day for women and ≥5 drinks/day for men) on opioid use. RESULTS The likelihood of same-day opioid use was significantly lower on days in which participants drank any alcohol (p < .001) as well as on days in which participants reported binge drinking (p = .01), controlling for age, gender, ethnicity, and years of education. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that alcohol or binge alcohol use is associated with significantly lower odds of opioid use on a given day, which was not related to gender or age. The prevalence of opioid use remained high on both alcohol use and non-alcohol use days. In line with a substitution model of alcohol and opioid co-use, alcohol may be used to treat symptoms of opioid withdrawal and possibly play a secondary and substitutive role in individuals with OUD substance use patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Erica N. Grodin
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Johnny Lin
- Office of Advanced Research Computing, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Karen Miotto
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Larissa J. Mooney
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Lara A. Ray
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
- Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
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28
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Powers JM, Lape EC, LaRowe LR, Hooker JE, Heckman BW, Ditre JW. Initial Validation of the Intentions to Co-Use Alcohol and Opioids Scale. J Psychoactive Drugs 2023; 55:369-377. [PMID: 35574916 PMCID: PMC9761858 DOI: 10.1080/02791072.2022.2075713] [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: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Co-use of alcohol and prescription opioid medication increases risk for harmful and potentially fatal health effects (e.g., overdose). Behavioral intentions (i.e., the immediate antecedent of corresponding behavior according to the Theory of Planned Behavior) are important in prediction of substance use, and a valid measure assessing intentions to co-use alcohol and opioids is needed to identify individuals at-risk for harmful substance use. The goal of the current study was to develop and conduct the psychometric validation of a six-item Intentions to Co-Use Alcohol and Opioids (ICAO) scale. Participants included 261 (Mage = 38; 64% male) past-month drinkers with a current opioid prescription and chronic musculoskeletal pain who completed a targeted online survey. Confirmatory factor analysis indicated that a single-factor structure provided good model fit (Bollen-Stine bootstrap p = .121). Moreover, the ICAO demonstrated high internal consistency (α = .96) and was correlated with measures of alcohol and opioid use/co-use. These findings provide support for the single-factor structure, reliability, and concurrent/convergent validity of the ICAO among individuals who endorse alcohol use, opioid use, and chronic musculoskeletal pain. The ICAO may offer clinical utility as a tool to identify individuals at greater risk of potentially fatal co-use of alcohol and opioid medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica M. Powers
- Department of Psychology, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY 13244, United States
| | - Emma C. Lape
- Department of Psychology, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY 13244, United States
| | - Lisa R. LaRowe
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI 02903, United States
| | - Julia E. Hooker
- Department of Psychology, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY 13244, United States
| | - Bryan W. Heckman
- Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN 37208, United States
| | - Joseph W. Ditre
- Department of Psychology, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY 13244, United States
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Treitler P, Samples H, Hermida R, Crystal S. Association of a State Prescribing Limits Policy with Opioid Prescribing and Long-term Use: an Interrupted Time Series Analysis. J Gen Intern Med 2023; 38:1862-1870. [PMID: 36609812 PMCID: PMC10271990 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-022-07991-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prescription opioids were a major initial driver of the opioid crisis. States have attempted to reduce overprescribing by enacting policies that limit opioid prescriptions, but the impacts of such policies on new prescribing and subsequent transitions to long-term use are not fully understood. OBJECTIVE To examine the association of implementation of a state prescribing limits policy with opioid prescribing and transitions to long-term opioid use. DESIGN Interrupted time series analyses assessing trends in new opioid prescriptions and long-term use before and after policy implementation. PATIENTS A total of 130,591 New Jersey Medicaid enrollees ages 18-64 who received an initial opioid prescription from January 2014 to December 2019. INTERVENTIONS New Jersey's opioid prescribing limit policy implemented in March 2017. MAIN MEASURES Total new opioid prescriptions, percentage of new prescriptions with >5 days' supply, and transition to long-term opioid use, defined as having opioid supply on day 90 after the initial prescription. KEY RESULTS Policy implementation was associated with a significant monthly increase in new opioid prescriptions of 0.86 per 10,000 enrollees, halving the pre-policy decline in the prescribing rate. Among new opioid prescriptions, the percentage with >5 days' supply decreased by about 1 percentage point (-0.76 percentage points, 95% CI -0.89, -0.62) following policy implementation. However, policy implementation was associated with a significant monthly increase in the rate of initial prescriptions with supply on day 90 (9.95 per 10,000 new prescriptions, 95% CI 4.80, 15.11) that reversed the downward pre-implementation trend. CONCLUSIONS The New Jersey policy was associated with a reduction in initial prescriptions with >5 days' supply, but not with an overall decline in new opioid prescriptions or in the rate at which initial prescriptions led to long-term use. Given their only modest benefits, policymakers and clinicians should carefully weigh potential unintended consequences of strict prescribing limits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Treitler
- Institute for Health, Health Care Policy & Aging Research, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ USA
- School of Social Work, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ USA
| | - Hillary Samples
- Institute for Health, Health Care Policy & Aging Research, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ USA
- School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ USA
| | - Richard Hermida
- Institute for Health, Health Care Policy & Aging Research, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ USA
| | - Stephen Crystal
- Institute for Health, Health Care Policy & Aging Research, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ USA
- School of Social Work, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ USA
- School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ USA
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30
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Hong JH, de Dios C, Badawi JC, Tonkin SS, Schmitz JM, Walss-Bass C, Meyer TD. Types of Traumatic Experiences in Drug Overdose-Related Deaths: An Exploratory Latent Class Analysis. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2023:2023.04.30.23289256. [PMID: 37205511 PMCID: PMC10187323 DOI: 10.1101/2023.04.30.23289256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Aim Drug overdose related-deaths in the US are increasing, with over 100,000 deaths occurring in 2020, an increase of 30% from the previous year and the highest number recorded in a single year. It is widely known that experiences of trauma and substance use very often co-occur, but little is known about the role of trauma in the context of drug overdose-related deaths. Latent class analysis (LCA) was used to classify drug overdose-related deaths based on type of traumatic experiences and individual, social, and substance use characteristics. Methods Psychological autopsy data were obtained from the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) Brain Collection. A total of 31 drug overdose-related deaths collected from January 2016 through March 2022 were included in this study. LCA was used to identify latent factors via experience of four trauma categories (illness/accidents, sexual/interpersonal violence, death/trauma to another, other situations where life was in danger). Generalized linear modeling (GLM) was used to explore differences on demographic, social, substance use, and psychiatric variables between the latent classes in separate models. Results LCA identified 2 classes: C1 ( n =12; 39%) was characterized by higher incidence of overall trauma exposure as well as variation in trauma type; C2 ( n =19; 61%) had lower levels of overall trauma exposure with sexual/interpersonal violence as the most frequent. GLMs indicated that C1 membership was associated with higher incidence of polysubstance use, being married, and having suicidal ideation compared to C2 membership ( p s<0.05). Conclusion Among individuals who died by drug overdose, the exploratory LCA identified two distinct subgroups that differed in type of trauma experienced and substance use pattern, the first group having more "typical" characteristics of drug overdoses cases, the other group less typical. This suggests that those at risk of drug overdose may not always exhibit high-risk characteristics.
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31
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Kleinman RA. Overdose Deaths Among Non-Hispanic American Indian and Alaska Native Individuals in the US: 1999-2020. J Gen Intern Med 2023; 38:1762-1764. [PMID: 36544070 PMCID: PMC10212896 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-022-07916-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Robert A Kleinman
- Addictions Division, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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Dickerson DM, Mariano ER, Szokol JW, Harned M, Clark RM, Mueller JT, Shilling AM, Udoji MA, Mukkamala SB, Doan L, Wyatt KEK, Schwalb JM, Elkassabany NM, Eloy JD, Beck SL, Wiechmann L, Chiao F, Halle SG, Krishnan DG, Cramer JD, Ali Sakr Esa W, Muse IO, Baratta J, Rosenquist R, Gulur P, Shah S, Kohan L, Robles J, Schwenk ES, Allen BFS, Yang S, Hadeed JG, Schwartz G, Englesbe MJ, Sprintz M, Urish KL, Walton A, Keith L, Buvanendran A. Multiorganizational consensus to define guiding principles for perioperative pain management in patients with chronic pain, preoperative opioid tolerance, or substance use disorder. Reg Anesth Pain Med 2023:rapm-2023-104435. [PMID: 37185214 DOI: 10.1136/rapm-2023-104435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Significant knowledge gaps exist in the perioperative pain management of patients with a history of chronic pain, substance use disorder, and/or opioid tolerance as highlighted in the US Health and Human Services Pain Management Best Practices Inter-Agency Task Force 2019 report. The report emphasized the challenges of caring for these populations and the need for multidisciplinary care and a comprehensive approach. Such care requires stakeholder alignment across multiple specialties and care settings. With the intention of codifying this alignment into a reliable and efficient processes, a consortium of 15 professional healthcare societies was convened in a year-long modified Delphi consensus process and summit. This process produced seven guiding principles for the perioperative care of patients with chronic pain, substance use disorder, and/or preoperative opioid tolerance. These principles provide a framework and direction for future improvement in the optimization and care of 'complex' patients as they undergo surgical procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Dickerson
- Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston, Illinois, USA
- Department of Anesthesia & Critical Care, University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Edward R Mariano
- Anesthesiology and Perioperative Care Service, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Joseph W Szokol
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Michael Harned
- Department of Anesthesiology, Division of Pain Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Randall M Clark
- American Society of Anesthesiologists, Park Ridge, Illinois, USA
| | - Jeffrey T Mueller
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic Arizona, Phoenix, Arizona, USA
| | - Ashley M Shilling
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Mercy A Udoji
- Department of Anesthesiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Atlanta VA Health Care System, Decatur, Georgia, USA
| | | | - Lisa Doan
- Department of Anesthesiology, PerioperativeCare and Pain Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Karla E K Wyatt
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperativeand Pain Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jason M Schwalb
- Department of Neurosurgery, Henry Ford Medical Group, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Nabil M Elkassabany
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Jean D Eloy
- Department of Anesthesiology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Stacy L Beck
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Maternal Fetal Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Health System, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Lisa Wiechmann
- Department of Surgery, NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Franklin Chiao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Westchester Medical Center, Valhalla, New York, USA
| | - Steven G Halle
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Deepak G Krishnan
- Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
- Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - John D Cramer
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Wael Ali Sakr Esa
- Department of Pain Management, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Iyabo O Muse
- Department of Anesthesiology, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, Westchester Medical Center Health Network, Valhalla, New York, USA
| | - Jaime Baratta
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - Padma Gulur
- Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Shalini Shah
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Care, University of California Irvine, Orange, California, USA
| | - Lynn Kohan
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Jennifer Robles
- Department of Urology Division of Endourology and Stone Disease, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
- Surgical Service, Veterans Affairs Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Eric S Schwenk
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Brian F S Allen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Stephen Yang
- Department of Surgery, Division of Thoracic Surgery, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions Campus, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Gary Schwartz
- AABP Integrative Pain Care, Melville, New York, USA
- Maimonides Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | | | - Michael Sprintz
- Sprintz Center for Pain and Recovery, Shenandoah, Texas, USA
| | - Kenneth L Urish
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ashley Walton
- American Society of Anesthesiologists, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Lauren Keith
- American Society of Anesthesiologists, Park Ridge, Illinois, USA
| | - Asokumar Buvanendran
- Department of Anesthesiology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Myers AL, Jeske AH. Provider-directed analgesia for dental pain. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2023; 16:435-451. [PMID: 37083548 DOI: 10.1080/17512433.2023.2206118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Extraction of impacted molar teeth is a common procedure performed by oral surgeons and general dentists, with postoperative pain being a significant adverse event post-surgery. If mismanaged, pain can lead to complications that impact oral and systemic health. The current scourge of the opioid epidemic has ushered in a new era of provider-directed analgesic (PDA) therapy in dentistry. AREAS COVERED This article provides an in-depth review on the major pharmacological and therapeutic properties of established and alternative analgesics used to manage dental pain. EXPERT OPINION Substantial evidence-based literature shows combination of a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID; e.g. ibuprofen) and acetaminophen provides superior pain relief than single-agent or combination opioid regimens. However, there are clinical scenarios (e.g. severe pain) when short-course opioid prescription is appropriate in select patients, in which a 2-3-day treatment duration is typically sufficient. Alternative agents (e.g. caffeine, gabapentin, phytotherapies), typically in combination with established agents, can mitigate postoperative dental pain. Some evidence suggests preemptive therapies (e.g. corticosteroids, NSAIDs) reduce amounts of postsurgical analgesic consumption and might lessen opioid prescription burden. In summary, this comprehensive review provides an opportune update on the evolving landscape of pharmacotherapy for acute postsurgical dental pain, informing best practices for PDA in the dental setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan L Myers
- Department of Diagnostic & Biomedical Sciences, School of Dentistry, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Arthur H Jeske
- Office of the Dean, School of Dentistry, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
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Ellis JD, Rabinowitz JA, Ware OD, Wells J, Dunn KE, Huhn AS. Patterns of polysubstance use and clinical comorbidity among persons seeking substance use treatment: An observational study. JOURNAL OF SUBSTANCE USE AND ADDICTION TREATMENT 2023; 146:208932. [PMID: 36880895 PMCID: PMC10035066 DOI: 10.1016/j.josat.2022.208932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Polysubstance use is common among individuals seeking treatment for substance use disorders (SUD). However, we know less about patterns and correlates of polysubstance use among treatment-seeking populations. The current study aimed to identify latent patterns of polysubstance use and associated risk factors in persons entering SUD treatment. METHODS Patients (N = 28,526) being admitted for substance use treatment reported on their use of thirteen substances (e.g., alcohol, cannabis, cocaine, amphetamines, methamphetamines, other stimulants, heroin, other opioids, benzodiazepines, inhalants, synthetics, hallucinogens, and club drugs) in the month before treatment and prior to the month before treatment. Latent class analysis (LCA) determined the relationship between class membership and gender, age, employment status, unstable housing, self-harm, overdose, past treatment, depression, generalized anxiety disorder, and/or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). RESULTS Identified classes included: 1) Alcohol primary, 2) Moderate probability of past-month alcohol, cannabis, and/or opioid use; 3) Alcohol primary, Lifetime cannabis and cocaine use; 4) Opioid primary, Lifetime use of alcohol, cannabis, hallucinogens, club drugs, amphetamines, and cocaine; 5) Moderate probability of past-month alcohol, cannabis, and/or opioid use, Lifetime use of various substances; 6) Alcohol and cannabis primary, Lifetime use of various substances; and 7) High past-month polysubstance use. Individuals who engaged in past-month polysubstance use attended to face elevated risk of screening positive for recent unstable housing, unemployment, depression, anxiety, PTSD, self-harm, and overdose. CONCLUSIONS Current polysubstance use is associated with significant clinical complexity. Tailored treatments that reduce harms resulting from polysubstance use and related psychiatric comorbidity may improve treatment outcomes in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer D Ellis
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America.
| | - Jill A Rabinowitz
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Orrin D Ware
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America; University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Social Work, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America
| | - Jonathan Wells
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Family Medicine and Population Health, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States of America
| | - Kelly E Dunn
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Andrew S Huhn
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America.
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Badour CL, Flores J, Hood CO, Jones AC, Brake CA, Tipsword JM, Penn CJ, McCann JP. Concurrent and proximal associations among PTSD symptoms, prescription opioid use, and co-use of other substances: Results from a daily monitoring study. PSYCHOLOGICAL TRAUMA : THEORY, RESEARCH, PRACTICE AND POLICY 2023; 15:367-376. [PMID: 35901427 PMCID: PMC10157500 DOI: 10.1037/tra0001303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and nonmedical prescription opioid use (NMPOU) are linked. Much of the research documenting this association uses cross-sectional or longitudinal designs that describe patterns of use over extended intervals. The present study used a daily monitoring design to examine how daily fluctuations in PTSD symptoms predicted patterns of prescription opioid use (both medical and nonmedical) and co-use of other substances. This approach has distinct advantages for understanding proximal temporal relations between PTSD symptom variation and substance use patterns. METHOD Forty adults with clinical or subclinical PTSD and past-month NMPOU completed daily measures of PTSD symptoms, physical pain, prescription opioid use, and other substance use for 28 days using a smartphone application. RESULTS Same day co-use of prescription opioids and at least one other substance was common. Higher-than-typical PTSD symptoms on a given day (within-person) was associated with an increased likelihood of reporting NMPOU (overall and with co-use of one or more additional substances) on the same day. This association was specific to PTSD alterations in arousal and reactivity symptoms (Criteria E). Neither total PTSD symptoms nor individual PTSD symptom clusters prospectively predicted next-day prescription opioid use (overall or with co-use). Use of prescription opioids also did not predict next-day PTSD symptom severity. CONCLUSION This is the first study to demonstrate positive associations between day-to-day fluctuations in PTSD symptoms and NMPOU. Results from the current study also highlight the importance of examining polysubstance use patterns among individuals with PTSD who use prescription opioids. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved).
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Nguyen T, Meille G, Buchmueller T. Mandatory prescription drug monitoring programs and overlapping prescriptions of opioids and benzodiazepines: Evidence from Kentucky. Drug Alcohol Depend 2023; 243:109759. [PMID: 36621199 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2022.109759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In response to the opioid epidemic, many states implemented mandates requiring providers to check prescription drug monitoring programs (PDMPs) before prescribing opioids. We examine how overlapping benzodiazepine and opioid prescriptions changed after Kentucky implemented a PDMP mandate in July 2012. METHODS We conducted an interrupted time series analysis using monthly data from Kentucky's PDMP from 2010 to 2016. Separate analyses were conducted for overlapping prescriptions from a single provider or multiple providers, and by sex and age group. We also conducted an individual-level longitudinal analysis that compared changes in utilization patterns after the mandate went into effect to changes in earlier periods during which the mandate was not in effect. RESULTS Kentucky's PDMP mandate was associated with an immediate 7.5 % decline in the rate of overlapping benzodiazepine and opioid prescriptions and a significant change in the trend from increasing to decreasing. Approximately half of the immediate effect in level terms was explained by decreases in overlapping prescriptions written by a single provider. Our longitudinal analysis suggests that over one year the mandate reduced initiation of overlapping prescriptions by 29.3 % and reduced continuation of overlapping prescriptions by 9.4 %. The effects of the policy were largest for women and men aged 36-50. CONCLUSIONS Though not the main rationale for the policy, Kentucky's PDMP mandate reduced overlapping prescriptions of benzodiazepines and opioids. Further efforts to reduce overlapping prescriptions should consider the effects on populations such as women over 50, who have high rates of overlapping prescriptions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thuy Nguyen
- Department of Health Management and Policy, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
| | - Giacomo Meille
- Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Thomas Buchmueller
- Department of Health Management and Policy, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Stephen M. Ross School of Business, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Jacobs DM, Tober R, Yu C, Gibson W, Dunn T, Lu CH, Bednzarczyk E, Jette G, Lape-Newman B, Falls Z, Elkin PL, Leonard KE. Trends in Prescribing Opioids, Benzodiazepines, and Both Among Adults with Alcohol Use Disorder in New York State. J Gen Intern Med 2023; 38:138-146. [PMID: 35650469 PMCID: PMC9849516 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-022-07682-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a highly prevalent public health problem that contributes to opioid- and benzodiazepine-related morbidity and mortality. Even though co-utilization of these substances is particularly harmful, data are sparse on opioid or benzodiazepine prescribing patterns among individuals with AUD. OBJECTIVE To estimate temporal trends and disparities in opioid, benzodiazepine, and opioid/benzodiazepine co-prescribing among individuals with AUD in New York State (NYS). DESIGN/PARTICIPANTS Serial cross-sectional study analyzing merged data from the NYS Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS) and the NYS Department of Health Medicaid Data Warehouse. Subjects with a first admission to an OASAS treatment program from 2005-2018 and a primary AUD were included. A total of 148,328 subjects were identified. MEASURES Annual prescribing rates of opioids, benzodiazepines, or both between the pre- (2005-2012) and post- (2013-2018) Internet System for Tracking Over-Prescribing (I-STOP) periods. I-STOP is a prescription monitoring program implemented in NYS in August 2013. Analyses were stratified based on sociodemographic factors (age, sex, race/ethnicity, and location). RESULTS Opioid prescribing rates decreased between the pre- and post-I-STOP periods from 25.1% (95% CI, 24.9-25.3%) to 21.3% (95% CI, 21.2-21.4; P <.001), while benzodiazepine (pre: 9.96% [95% CI, 9.83-10.1%], post: 9.92% [95% CI, 9.83-10.0%]; P =.631) and opioid/benzodiazepine prescribing rates remained unchanged (pre: 3.01% vs. post: 3.05%; P =.403). After I-STOP implementation, there was a significant decreasing trend in opioid (change, -1.85% per year, P <.0001), benzodiazepine (-0.208% per year, P =.0184), and opioid/benzodiazepine prescribing (-0.267% per year, P <.0001). Opioid, benzodiazepine, and co-prescription rates were higher in females, White non-Hispanics, and rural regions. CONCLUSIONS Among those with AUD, opioid prescribing decreased following NYS I-STOP program implementation. While both benzodiazepine and opioid/benzodiazepine co-prescribing rates remained high, a decreasing trend was evident after program implementation. Continuing high rates of opioid and benzodiazepine prescribing necessitate the development of innovative approaches to improve the quality of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Jacobs
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA.
| | - Ryan Tober
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Carrie Yu
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Walter Gibson
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Terry Dunn
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Chi-Hua Lu
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Edward Bednzarczyk
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Gail Jette
- Division of Outcomes, Management, and Systems Information, Office of Addiction Services and Supports, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Brynn Lape-Newman
- Division of Program Development and Management, Office of Health Insurance Programs, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Zackary Falls
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Peter L Elkin
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
- Faculty of Engineering, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, WNY VA, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Kenneth E Leonard
- Clinical and Research Institute on Addictions, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
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Sacarny A, Avilova T, Powell D, Williamson I, Merrick W, Jacobson M. A Randomized Trial Of Letters To Encourage Prescription Monitoring Program Use And Safe Opioid Prescribing. Health Aff (Millwood) 2023; 42:140-149. [PMID: 36623221 DOI: 10.1377/hlthaff.2022.00859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
To facilitate safer prescribing of opioids and other drugs, nearly all states operate prescription monitoring programs (PMPs), which collect and share data on controlled substance dispensing. Policy makers have sought to raise clinicians' engagement with these programs but lack evidence on effective interventions. Working with the Minnesota Prescription Monitoring Program, we conducted a randomized trial to assess whether letters to clinicians increased program use and decreased risky coprescribing of opioids with benzodiazepines or gabapentinoids. In March 2021 we randomly assigned 12,000 coprescribers to either a control arm or one of three study arms sent differing letters. The respective letters highlighted a new mandate to check the PMP before prescribing, provided information about coprescribing risks with a list of coprescribed patients, or contained both messages combined. Letters highlighting the mandate alone or along with coprescribing information increased PMP search rates by 4.5 and 4.0 percentage points, respectively, with no significant effect on coprescribing. These letters also increased PMP account-holding rates among clinicians. Effects persisted for at least eight months. The letter with only coprescribing information had no detected effects on key outcomes. Our results support the use of simple letter interventions as evidence-based tools to increase PMP engagement and potentially facilitate better-informed prescribing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Sacarny
- Adam Sacarny , Columbia University, New York, New York
| | | | - David Powell
- David Powell, RAND Corporation, Arlington, Virginia
| | - Ian Williamson
- Ian Williamson, Minnesota Management and Budget Agency, Saint Paul, Minnesota
| | | | - Mireille Jacobson
- Mireille Jacobson, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
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An observational study of the factors associated with frequency of outpatient benzodiazepine prescribing to patients receiving chronic opioid analgesic therapy in primary care at a major academic center. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2022; 23:322. [PMID: 36513985 PMCID: PMC9749278 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-022-01936-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prescribing benzodiazepines to patients taking chronic opioid analgesic therapy increases risks of adverse events. In 2016, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended avoidance of benzodiazepine prescribing concurrently with opioids, and various organizations have instituted similar guidelines. We aimed to determine the frequency and patterns of benzodiazepine prescribing at Mayo Clinic primary care (Community Internal Medicine, Family Medicine) clinics for patients taking chronic opioid analgesic therapy and the characteristics of patients receiving the prescriptions and providers administering them. METHODS This retrospective observational study included adult patients taking chronic opioid analgesic therapy for 2 full years in 2018 and 2019 at Mayo Clinic primary care practices in Arizona and Florida. We assessed electronic health records for these individual patients to determine whether they received a benzodiazepine prescription during the study period and how frequently they received a prescription. Variations in prescriptions by provider specialty, location, and sex were studied. Documented data included receipt of a benzodiazepine prescription by patients with at-risk alcohol use or alcohol use disorder, depression, anxiety, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, falls, and psychiatric referral. Data were compared between patients who received benzodiazepines and those who did not with the Kruskal-Wallis test or χ2 test, and the Wilcoxon signed rank test was used to assess whether the change in number of benzodiazepine prescriptions (2018 vs. 2019) was different from zero. RESULTS Study participants (N = 457) were predominantly women (n = 266, 58.2%); median age was 69 years. In total, 148 patients (32.4%) received benzodiazepine prescription. These patients were more likely to be women (P = .046) and younger (P = .02). Mean percentage change was 176.9% (P < .001) in number of benzodiazepine prescriptions provided from 2018 to 2019. Frequency of referral to mental health providers was low, as was presence of an established mental health provider despite a greater prevalence of anxiety (P < .001) and depression (P = .001) among patients receiving benzodiazepines. CONCLUSION Benzodiazepine prescription to individual patients taking chronic opioid analgesic therapy significantly increased from 2018 to 2019 despite the documented risks and harms associated with such practice. No statistically significant difference was observed in frequency of benzodiazepine prescriptions between practice location, sex of provider, or specialty.
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Na PJ, Bommersbach TJ, Petrakis IL, Rhee TG. National trends of suicidal ideation and mental health services use among US adults with opioid use disorder, 2009-2020. EClinicalMedicine 2022; 54:101696. [PMID: 36267498 PMCID: PMC9576812 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2022.101696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The substantial increase in deaths by overdose and potential underlying suicidal intent in such deaths suggest the importance of understanding trends of suicidal ideation in individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD). This study aimed to examine the trends and correlates of past-year suicidal ideation (SI) and mental health service use among US adults with past-year OUD from 2009 to 2020. METHODS We used data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Participants included non-institutionalized US civilians aged ≥18 with past-year OUD (n=5386). SI was measured by self-reported thoughts of killing oneself. Mental health service utilization was assessed with questions concerning receipt of any past-year outpatient or inpatient mental health services or prescription medications. We examined the prevalence and correlates of SI and adjusted odds ratios (aORs) for changes over time adjusting for potentially confounding sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. Further, trends in utilization of mental health services were explored. FINDINGS From 2009 to 2020, the prevalence of SI increased from 22.8% to 29.8% (average annual percent change, 3.64% [95% CI, 1.01-2.10%]) in adults with OUD. Subgroups including individuals aged 18-25 (aOR, 1.72 [95% CI, 1.09-2.71]; P=0.020), residing in non-metropolitan areas (aOR, 1.43 [95% CI, 1.04-1.97]; P = 0.029), with co-occurring past-year major depressive episode (aOR, 5.28 [95% CI, 4.27-6.53]; P < 0.001) and alcohol (aOR, 1.55 [95% CI, 1.23-1.97]; P < 0.001), cocaine (aOR, 1.42 [95% CI, 1.03-1.97]; P = 0.034), and sedative use disorders (aOR, 1.48 [95% CI, 1.11-1.98]; P = 0.008) were associated with SI after adjusting for covariates. No significant change in mental health service use was observed. Individuals with SI were 2.5 times more likely to report an unmet need for treatment compared to individuals without SI (53.6% vs 21.4%; P < 0.001). INTERPRETATION The prevalence of SI in adults with OUD increased substantially without a corresponding change in mental health service use. These results underscore the potential benefit of routine screening for suicidality and improved access to care for individuals with OUD, especially those with co-occurring depression and/or polysubstance use. FUNDING None reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter J. Na
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, CT, United States
| | | | - Ismene L. Petrakis
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, CT, United States
| | - Taeho Greg Rhee
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, CT, United States
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, United States
- Corresponding author at: 100 York St, STE 2J, New Haven, CT 06511, USA.
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Fliegel DK, Lichenstein SD. Systematic literature review of human studies assessing the efficacy of cannabidiol for social anxiety. PSYCHIATRY RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS 2022; 2:100074. [PMID: 36875967 PMCID: PMC9983614 DOI: 10.1016/j.psycom.2022.100074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
The current review evaluates the potential of cannabidiol (CBD) as a promising pharmacotherapy for social anxiety disorder (SAD). Although a number of evidence-based treatments for SAD are available, less than a third of affected individuals experience symptom remission after one year of treatment. Therefore, improved treatment options are urgently needed, and CBD is one candidate medication that may have certain benefits over current pharmacotherapies, including the absence of sedating side effects, reduced abuse liability, and rapid course of action. The current review provides a brief overview of CBD's mechanisms of action, neuroimaging in SAD, and evidence for CBD's effects on the neural substrates of SAD, as well as systematically reviewing literature directly examining the efficacy of CBD for improving social anxiety among healthy volunteers and individuals with SAD. In both populations, acute CBD administration significantly decreased anxiety without co-occurring sedation. A single study has also shown chronic administration to decrease social anxiety symptoms in individuals with SAD. Collectively, the current literature suggests CBD may be a promising treatment for SAD. However, further research is needed to establish optimal dosing, assess the timecourse of CBD's anxiolytic effects, evaluate long-term CBD administration, and explore sex differences in CBD for social anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sarah D. Lichenstein
- Corresponding author. 1 Church Street 7th Floor New Haven, CT, 06510, USA., (S.D. Lichenstein)
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Pytell JD, Shen NM, Keruly JC, Lesko CR, Lau B, Fojo AT, Baum MK, Gorbach PM, Javanbakht M, Kipke M, Kirk GD, Mustanski B, Shoptaw S, Siminski S, Moore RD, Chander G. The relationship of alcohol and other drug use during the COVID-19 pandemic among people with or at risk of HIV; A cross-sectional survey of people enrolled in Collaborating Consortium of Cohorts Producing NIDA Opportunities (C3PNO) cohorts. Drug Alcohol Depend 2022; 241:109382. [PMID: 35331580 PMCID: PMC8891146 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2022.109382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alcohol use during the COVID-19 pandemic increased. People living with HIV or at risk for HIV acquisition often have psycho-social and structural barriers or co-occurring substance use making them vulnerable to the adverse effects of alcohol. We describe factors associated with alcohol use during the COVID-19 pandemic in this group. METHODS From May 2020 to February 2021, 1984 people enrolled in 6 existing cohort studies completed surveys about alcohol and other drug use during the COVID-19 pandemic. We describe the past-month prevalence of no alcohol use, low-risk use, and hazardous use. We use multinomial regression to describe factors associated with low-risk or hazardous alcohol use relative to no alcohol use. RESULTS Forty-five percent of participants reported no alcohol use, 33% low-risk use, and 22% hazardous use in the past 30 days. Cannabis and stimulant use were associated with a higher prevalence of low-risk use relative to no use. Tobacco, stimulant, cannabis use and recent overdose were associated with a higher prevalence of hazardous use relative to no use. Substance use treatment and living with HIV were associated with a lower prevalence of low-risk or hazardous use relative to no use. CONCLUSIONS Stimulant use was strongly associated with a higher prevalence of hazardous alcohol use while engagement in substance use treatment or living with HIV was associated with a lower prevalence. Ascertaining hazardous alcohol and other drug use, particularly stimulants, in clinical care could identify people at higher risk for adverse outcome and harm reduction counseling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jarratt D Pytell
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, 600 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
| | - Nicola M Shen
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Jeanne C Keruly
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, 600 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Catherine R Lesko
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Bryan Lau
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Anthony T Fojo
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, 600 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Marianna K Baum
- Department of Dietetics and Nutrition, Robert Stempel College of Public Health, Florida International University, 11200 SW 8 Street, AHC-5, 326, Miami, FL 33199, USA
| | - Pamina M Gorbach
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles, Box 951772, CHS 41-295, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1772, USA
| | - Marjan Javanbakht
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles, Box 951772, CHS 41-295, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1772, USA
| | - Michele Kipke
- University of Southern California, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, CHL 4650 W. Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90027, USA
| | - Gregory D Kirk
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Brian Mustanski
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing and Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Steven Shoptaw
- Department of Family Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, 10880 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA
| | - Susanne Siminski
- Frontier Science Foundation, 4033 Maple Road, Amherst, NY 14226, USA
| | - Richard D Moore
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, 600 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Geetanjali Chander
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, 600 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
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Sarker A, Nataraj N, Siu W, Li S, Jones CM, Sumner SA. Concerns among people who use opioids during the COVID-19 pandemic: a natural language processing analysis of social media posts. Subst Abuse Treat Prev Policy 2022; 17:16. [PMID: 35248103 PMCID: PMC8897722 DOI: 10.1186/s13011-022-00442-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Timely data from official sources regarding the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on people who use prescription and illegal opioids is lacking. We conducted a large-scale, natural language processing (NLP) analysis of conversations on opioid-related drug forums to better understand concerns among people who use opioids. Methods In this retrospective observational study, we analyzed posts from 14 opioid-related forums on the social network Reddit. We applied NLP to identify frequently mentioned substances and phrases, and grouped the phrases manually based on their contents into three broad key themes: (i) prescription and/or illegal opioid use; (ii) substance use disorder treatment access and care; and (iii) withdrawal. Phrases that were unmappable to any particular theme were discarded. We computed the frequencies of substance and theme mentions, and quantified their volumes over time. We compared changes in post volumes by key themes and substances between pre-COVID-19 (1/1/2019—2/29/2020) and COVID-19 (3/1/2020—11/30/2020) periods. Results Seventy-seven thousand six hundred fifty-two and 119,168 posts were collected for the pre-COVID-19 and COVID-19 periods, respectively. By theme, posts about treatment and access to care increased by 300%, from 0.631 to 2.526 per 1000 posts between the pre-COVID-19 and COVID-19 periods. Conversations about withdrawal increased by 812% between the same periods (0.026 to 0.235 per 1,000 posts). Posts about drug use did not increase (0.219 to 0.218 per 1,000 posts). By substance, among medications for opioid use disorder, methadone had the largest increase in conversations (20.751 to 56.313 per 1,000 posts; 171.4% increase). Among other medications, posts about diphenhydramine exhibited the largest increase (0.341 to 0.927 per 1,000 posts; 171.8% increase). Conclusions Conversations on opioid-related forums among people who use opioids revealed increased concerns about treatment and access to care along with withdrawal following the emergence of COVID-19. Greater attention to social media data may help inform timely responses to the needs of people who use opioids during COVID-19. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13011-022-00442-w.
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Pandya V, Nguyen Sorenson AH, Jones E, Young BA, Pearson LN. Spirited away: Can ethanol testing in add-on orders provide meaningful results? Clin Biochem 2022; 115:97-102. [PMID: 36356659 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2022.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Ethanol is a volatile substance, and specimens need to be tightly capped prior to analysis to prevent evaporative loss. However, add-on requests in previously decapped tubes are commonly received, yet ethanol stability in this setting is unclear. We compared the stability of ethanol in capped vs decapped tubes in the context of routine laboratory automation, storage time, and specimen volumes. Serum specimens were pooled and spiked with ethanol followed by simulating an add-on scenario. Additionally, to evaluate ethanol stability at room temperature for extended times, ethanol concentrations were measured in capped or decapped tubes containing 0.5 mL or 0.1 mL samples over a 4 h time course. Finally, the risk of misclassification of ethanol results in decapped tubes was evaluated near the critical value threshold (∼54 mmol/L). The add-on tubes had a mean recovery of 101.5 % (95 % CI: 97.7-105.4 %) relative to the direct tubes. The time-course experiment showed an average recovery of 87.4 % (95 % CI: 81.8-94.0 %) at the 4 h time point in decapped 0.5 mL specimens. An average recovery of 85.4 % (95 % CI: 84.2-86.1 %) was observed for specimens spiked near the critical value threshold. Importantly, all measurements with 0.5 mL specimen volume were within 25 %, which is the total allowable error (TAE) of the assay.However, with a 0.1 mL volume, specimens cross the TAE threshold just after 1 h, and the percent recovery at 4 h dropped to 52.9 % (95 % CI: 50.2-55.7 %). In conclusion, ethanol testing in decapped tubes remains within the TAE for up to 4 h in specimens with a 0.5 mL volume. Therefore, add-on ethanol testing using routine laboratory automation and storage conditions can be successfully performed.
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Buckley C, Ye Y, Kerr WC, Mulia N, Puka K, Rehm J, Probst C. Trends in mortality from alcohol, opioid, and combined alcohol and opioid poisonings by sex, educational attainment, and race and ethnicity for the United States 2000-2019. BMC Med 2022; 20:405. [PMID: 36280833 PMCID: PMC9590383 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-022-02590-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The ongoing opioid epidemic and increases in alcohol-related mortality are key public health concerns in the USA, with well-documented inequalities in the degree to which groups with low and high education are affected. This study aimed to quantify disparities over time between educational and racial and ethnic groups in sex-specific mortality rates for opioid, alcohol, and combined alcohol and opioid poisonings in the USA. METHODS The 2000-2019 Multiple Cause of Death Files from the National Vital Statistics System (NVSS) were used alongside population counts from the Current Population Survey 2000-2019. Alcohol, opioid, and combined alcohol and opioid poisonings were assigned using ICD-10 codes. Sex-stratified generalized least square regression models quantified differences between educational and racial and ethnic groups and changes in educational inequalities over time. RESULTS Between 2000 and 2019, there was a 6.4-fold increase in opioid poisoning deaths, a 4.6-fold increase in combined alcohol and opioid poisoning deaths, and a 2.1-fold increase in alcohol poisoning deaths. Educational inequalities were observed for all poisoning outcomes, increasing over time for opioid-only and combined alcohol and opioid mortality. For non-Hispanic White Americans, the largest educational inequalities were observed for opioid poisonings and rates were 7.5 (men) and 7.2 (women) times higher in low compared to high education groups. Combined alcohol and opioid poisonings had larger educational inequalities for non-Hispanic Black men and women (relative to non-Hispanic White), with rates 8.9 (men) and 10.9 (women) times higher in low compared to high education groups. CONCLUSIONS For all types of poisoning, our analysis indicates wide and increasing gaps between those with low and high education with the largest inequalities observed for opioid-involved poisonings for non-Hispanic Black and White men and women. This study highlights population sub-groups such as individuals with low education who may be at the highest risk of increasing mortality from combined alcohol and opioid poisonings. Thereby the findings are crucial for the development of targeted public health interventions to reduce poisoning mortality and the socioeconomic inequalities related to it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Buckley
- Department of Automatic Control and Systems Engineering, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Yu Ye
- Alcohol Research Group, Public Health Institute, Emeryville, California, USA
| | - William C Kerr
- Alcohol Research Group, Public Health Institute, Emeryville, California, USA
| | - Nina Mulia
- Alcohol Research Group, Public Health Institute, Emeryville, California, USA
| | - Klajdi Puka
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), 33 Ursula Franklin Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 2S1, Canada.,Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
| | - Jürgen Rehm
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), 33 Ursula Franklin Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 2S1, Canada.,Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada.,Dalla Lana School of Public Health & Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Zentrum für Interdisziplinäre Suchtforschung der Universität Hamburg (ZIS), Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,Department of International Health Projects, Institute for Leadership and Health Management, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Charlotte Probst
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), 33 Ursula Franklin Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 2S1, Canada. .,Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada. .,Department of International Health Projects, Institute for Leadership and Health Management, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation. .,Heidelberg Institute of Global Health (HIGH), Medical Faculty and University Hospital, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany. .,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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Hozack BA, Kistler JM, Vaccaro AR, Beredjiklian PK. Benzodiazepines and Related Drugs in Orthopaedics. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2022; 104:2204-2210. [PMID: 36223476 DOI: 10.2106/jbjs.22.00516] [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: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
➤ Benzodiazepines are among the most commonly prescribed drugs worldwide and are often used as anxiolytics, hypnotics, anticonvulsants, and muscle relaxants. ➤ The risk of dependence on and abuse of these medications has recently gained more attention in light of the current opioid epidemic. ➤ Benzodiazepines can increase the risk of prolonged opioid use and abuse. ➤ Given the prevalence of the use of benzodiazepines and related drugs, orthopaedic patients are often prescribed these medications. ➤ Orthopaedic surgeons need to be aware of the prevalence of benzodiazepine and related drug prescriptions in the general population, their current uses in orthopaedic surgery, and the risks and adverse effects of their use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan A Hozack
- Rothman Orthopaedic Institute, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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Amico KN, Arnold ME, Dourron MS, Solomon MG, Schank JR. The effect of concurrent access to alcohol and oxycodone on self-administration and reinstatement in rats. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2022; 239:3277-3286. [PMID: 35972517 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-022-06210-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Although polysubstance use is highly prevalent, preclinical studies that assess voluntary consumption of multiple substances at the same time are rather uncommon. Overlooking drug taking patterns commonly observed in humans may limit the translational value of preclinical models. OBJECTIVES Here, we aimed to develop a model of polysubstance use that could be used to assess oral operant self-administration patterns under concurrent access to alcohol and the prescription opioid oxycodone. METHODS After a training period where animals associated specific cues and levers with each drug, rats self-administered alcohol and oxycodone solutions concurrently in daily sessions. Oxycodone was then removed to assess potential changes in alcohol consumption. The role of cues and stress on alcohol consumption and oxycodone seeking was also examined under reinstatement conditions. RESULTS We found that females consumed more alcohol and oxycodone than males when given access to both drugs, and this effect on alcohol intake persisted when oxycodone was removed. Additionally, re-exposure to oxycodone cues in combination with the administration of the pharmacological stressor yohimbine drove reinstatement of oxycodone seeking in females but did not have a strong effect in males, possibly due to low levels of oxycodone intake during active self-administration in male rats. Additionally, yohimbine drove increased alcohol consumption, in line with prior findings from our group and others. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, this study demonstrates that rats will concurrently self-administer both oxycodone and alcohol in operant chambers, and this procedure can serve as a platform for future investigations in polysubstance use and relapse-like behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen N Amico
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, 501 DW Brooks Drive, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Miranda E Arnold
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, 501 DW Brooks Drive, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Morgan S Dourron
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, 501 DW Brooks Drive, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Matthew G Solomon
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, 501 DW Brooks Drive, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Jesse R Schank
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, 501 DW Brooks Drive, Athens, GA, 30602, USA.
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Abstract
Unhealthy alcohol use-the consumption of alcohol at a level that has caused or has the potential to cause adverse physical, psychological, or social consequences-is common, underrecognized, and undertreated. For example, data from the 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health indicate that 7.0% of adults reported heavy alcohol use in the previous month, and only 4.2% of adults with alcohol use disorder received treatment. Primary care is an important setting for optimizing screening and treatment of unhealthy alcohol use to promote individual and public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph H Donroe
- Yale Program in Addiction Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut (J.H.D.)
| | - E Jennifer Edelman
- Yale Program in Addiction Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, and Yale Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut (E.J.E.)
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Sacarny A, Safran E, Steffel M, Dunham JR, Abili OD, Mohajeri L, Oh PT, Sim A, Brutcher RE, Spevak C. Effect of Pharmacist Email Alerts on Concurrent Prescribing of Opioids and Benzodiazepines by Prescribers and Primary Care Managers. JAMA HEALTH FORUM 2022; 3:e223378. [PMID: 36218952 PMCID: PMC9526090 DOI: 10.1001/jamahealthforum.2022.3378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Question Can pharmacist email alerts to practitioners reduce concurrent prescribing of opioids and benzodiazepines? Findings In this randomized clinical trial of 2237 patients coprescribed opioids and benzodiazepines and 789 practitioners who treated them, email alerts failed to detectably reduce concurrent prescribing of opioids and benzodiazepines, which can put patients at risk of overdose. The email alerts had no statistically significant effect on patient receipt of these medications or on practitioner prescribing. Meaning These findings suggest that alternative strategies may be more fruitful targets for efforts to make opioid prescribing safer and demonstrate that pairing randomization with quality improvement activities can generate evidence for stakeholders. Importance Policy makers have sought to discourage concurrent prescribing of opioids and benzodiazepines (coprescribing) because it is associated with overdose. Email alerts sent by pharmacists may reduce coprescribing, but this intervention lacks randomized evidence. Objective To investigate whether pharmacist emails to practitioners caring for patients who recently received opioids and benzodiazepines reduce coprescribing of these medications. Design, Setting, and Participants Randomized clinical trial (intention to treat) conducted in 2019-2021 of patients and their practitioners (prescribers and primary care managers) in the National Capital Region of the Military Health System. Participants were 2237 patients who were recently coprescribed opioids and benzodiazepines. These patients had 789 practitioners eligible for emails. Interventions Patients were randomized to email alerts to their practitioners or as-usual care. Clinical pharmacists sent the email alert. Messages were standardized and designed to facilitate coordination between practitioners, increase awareness of guidelines, and provide action steps and resources. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcomes were patients’ days received of opioids, benzodiazepines, and concurrent opioids and benzodiazepines during the 90 days following enrollment evaluated using 1-sided hypothesis tests. Secondary outcomes included total prescribing of opioids and benzodiazepines by patients’ practitioners, including to patients outside the study, to test for broader outcomes on their prescribing. Results Of 2237 patients, 1187 were assigned to treatment and 1050 to control; 1275 (57%) were women. Patients received a mean (SD) of 31 (44) days of opioids and 33 (34) days of benzodiazepines in the 90 days before enrollment. There were no detected differences in the primary end points, including patients’ receipt of opioids (adjusted difference, 1.1 days; 95% CI, -∞ to 3.0; P = .81), benzodiazepines (adjusted difference, −0.6 days; 95% CI, -∞ to 1.4; P = .30), and opioids and benzodiazepines together (adjusted difference, −0.1 days; 95% CI, -∞ to 0.7; P = .41). Of 789 practitioners, 429 were considered the treatment group, 325 were considered controls, and 35 were excluded. There were no detected differences in practitioners’ total prescribing of opioids, benzodiazepines, or both drug classes together. Conclusions and Relevance In this randomized clinical trial of pharmacist emails to practitioners, email alerts failed to detectably reduce coprescribing, highlighting the value of alternative approaches. Combining randomization with quality improvement activities may help stakeholders seeking evidence-based interventions to encourage guideline-concordant care. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03887247
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Sacarny
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - Elana Safran
- Office of Evaluation Sciences, US General Services Administration, Washington, DC
| | - Mary Steffel
- D’Amore-McKim School of Business, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Orolo D. Abili
- Department of Anesthesia, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Lobat Mohajeri
- Department of Pharmacy, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Patricia T. Oh
- Department of Pharmacy, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Alan Sim
- Enterprise Intelligence and Data Solutions Program Management Office, Defense Health Agency, Falls Church, Virginia
| | - Robert E. Brutcher
- School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Christopher Spevak
- National Capital Regional Pain Initiative, Department of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
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Bakewell BK, Townsend CB, Ly JA, Sherman M, Abdelfattah HM, Solarz M, Woozley K, Ilyas AM. The Effect of Preoperative Benzodiazepine Usage on Postoperative Opioid Consumption After Hand Surgery: A Multicenter Analysis. Cureus 2022; 14:e29609. [PMID: 36321037 PMCID: PMC9601921 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.29609] [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] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Prescription rates of opioids and benzodiazepines have steadily increased in the last decade with the percentage of prescription opioid overdose deaths involving benzodiazepines more than doubling during that time. Orthopaedic surgery is one of the highest-volume opioid prescribing medical specialties, but the effects of benzodiazepine use on orthopaedic surgery patient outcomes are not well understood. The purpose of the study was to utilize the state Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) database to investigate if perioperative benzodiazepine use predisposes patients to prolonged opioid use following hand and upper extremity orthopaedic surgery. Methods This study was retrospective and conducted at three urban academic institutions. All patients who underwent carpal tunnel release, thumb basal joint arthroplasty, and distal radius fracture open reduction internal fixation performed by 14 board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopaedic hand and upper extremity surgeons between April 2018 and August 2019, were collected via a database query. All opioid and benzodiazepine prescriptions were collected from three months preoperatively to six months postoperatively. Results In this study, 634 patients met the inclusion criteria presented to one of the three institutions during the 18-month study period. Patients consisted of 276 carpal tunnel releases, 217 distal radius fracture open reduction internal fixations, and 141 thumb basal joint arthroplasties. Benzodiazepine users were 14.6% more likely to fill an additional opioid prescription (p<0.005) and were 10.8% more likely to experience prolonged three to six-month postoperative opioid use (p<0.005). Conclusion This study found that patients who use benzodiazepines are at a higher risk of filling additional opioid prescriptions and prolonged opioid use following hand and upper extremity surgery. Prescribers should take this into account when prescribing opioids after upper extremity orthopaedic surgery.
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