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Patterson TG, Beckenkamp P, Ferreira M, Turner J, Gnjidic D, Chen Y, Mesa Castrillion CI, Ferreira P. Deprescribing paracetamol in pain conditions: A scoping review. Res Social Adm Pharm 2021; 18:3272-3283. [PMID: 34911668 DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2021.11.008] [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: 09/10/2021] [Revised: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine evidence on deprescribing paracetamol in pain conditions and inform future strategies for paracetamol deprescription. DESIGN Scoping review. PARTICIPANTS Adults with pain conditions, taking paracetamol. RESULTS After two independent teams of reviewers screening for titles, abstracts, and then full texts, 16 original articles were included. Deprescribing strategies were grouped into 5 categories: (1) Pharmacological, (2) Psychological, (3) Physiological, (4) Policy, and (5) Combination. We found strategies were predominately consumer-focused, conducted in community settings and involved individuals experiencing musculoskeletal pain (such as low back pain and osteoarthritis). A total of twelve studies investigated interventions targeting dose reduction and four studies examined interventions focusing on discontinuation of paracetamol. The most common strategies used to deprescribe paracetamol in pain conditions were physiological strategies, followed by psychological strategies. All included studies demonstrated some level of effectiveness to deprescribe paracetamol in a pain conditions through dose reduction or discontinuation, although the effectiveness of deprescribing strategies were highly variable, ranging from the majority of participants discontinuing their paracetamol use, to less than 10% reducing their paracetamol use upon the latest follow-up. CONCLUSIONS There are clear opportunities for prospective trials to be designed more purposely and primarily focused to influence reduction and cessation of paracetamol for specific pain conditions where deprescription is appropriate.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paula Beckenkamp
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
| | - Manuela Ferreira
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
| | - Justin Turner
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
| | - Danijela Gnjidic
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
| | - Yanyu Chen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
| | | | - Paulo Ferreira
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
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Schück S, Roustamal A, Gedik A, Voillot P, Foulquié P, Penfornis C, Job B. Assessing Patient Perceptions and Experiences of Paracetamol in France: Infodemiology Study Using Social Media Data Mining. J Med Internet Res 2021; 23:e25049. [PMID: 34255645 PMCID: PMC8314157 DOI: 10.2196/25049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Revised: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Individuals frequently turning to social media to discuss medical conditions and medication, sharing their experiences and information and asking questions among themselves. These online discussions can provide valuable insights into individual perceptions of medical treatment, and increasingly, studies are focusing on the potential use of this information to improve health care management. OBJECTIVE The objective of this infodemiology study was to identify social media posts mentioning paracetamol-containing products to develop a better understanding of patients' opinions and perceptions of the drug. METHODS Posts between January 2003 and March 2019 containing at least one mention of paracetamol were extracted from 18 French forums in May 2019 with the use of the Detec't (Kap Code) web crawler. Posts were then analyzed using the automated Detec't tool, which uses machine learning and text mining methods to inspect social media posts and extract relevant content. Posts were classified into groups: Paracetamol Only, Paracetamol and Opioids, Paracetamol and Others, and the Aggregate group. RESULTS Overall, 44,283 posts were analyzed from 20,883 different users. Post volume over the study period showed a peak in activity between 2009 and 2012, as well as a spike in 2017 in the Aggregate group. The number of posts tended to be higher during winter each year. Posts were made predominantly by women (14,897/20,883, 71.34%), with 12.00% (2507/20,883) made by men and 16.67% (3479/20,883) by individuals of unknown gender. The mean age of web users was 39 (SD 19) years. In the Aggregate group, pain was the most common medical concept discussed (22,257/37,863, 58.78%), and paracetamol risk was the most common discussion topic, addressed in 20.36% (8902/43,725) of posts. Doliprane was the most common medication mentioned (14,058/44,283, 31.74%) within the Aggregate group, and tramadol was the most commonly mentioned drug in combination with paracetamol in the Aggregate group (1038/19,587, 5.30%). The most common unapproved indication mentioned within the Paracetamol Only group was fatigue (190/616, with 16.32% positive for an unapproved indication), with reference to dependence made by 1.61% (136/8470) of the web users, accounting for 1.33% (171/12,843) of the posts in the Paracetamol Only group. Dependence mentions in the Paracetamol and Opioids group were provided by 6.94% (248/3576) of web users, accounting for 5.44% (342/6281) of total posts. Reference to overdose was made by 245 web users across 291 posts within the Paracetamol Only group. The most common potential adverse event detected was nausea (306/12843, 2.38%) within the Paracetamol Only group. CONCLUSIONS The use of social media mining with the Detec't tool provided valuable information on the perceptions and understanding of the web users, highlighting areas where providing more information for the general public on paracetamol, as well as other medications, may be of benefit.
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Morthorst BR, Erlangsen A, Chaine M, Eriksson F, Hawton K, Dalhoff K, Nordentoft M. Restriction of non-opioid analgesics sold over-the-counter in Denmark: A national study of impact on poisonings. J Affect Disord 2020; 268:61-68. [PMID: 32158008 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2020.02.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Revised: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Self-poisoning with non-opioid analgesics presents a growing challenge to health care providers. We aimed to assess the impact of an 18-year age restriction of OTC sales and a pack size restriction of non-opioid analgesics sold OTC in pharmacies on hospital-treated poisonings and poisoning severity measured using biomarkers. METHODS We applied a before and after design using interrupted time series analysis. Data on all poisonings recorded as hospital admissions were obtained during 2002-2015 and biochemical parameters from laboratory databases during 2011-2015, both covering the entire Danish population. RESULTS The age restriction was followed by a 17% level reduction in admissions for non-opioid analgesic poisoning among young people age 10-17 years (RR 0.830; 95% CI 0.697-0.988; p < 0.036). After the pack size restriction, an instant level reduction of 18.5% (RR 0.815; 95% CI 0.729-0.912; p < 0.001) was observed for the entire population. A 27% decrease in the number of poisonings with alanine transaminase levels (ALT) ≥ 210 U/L was observed (RR 0.734; 95% CI 0.579-0.931; p = 0.011) followed by 40% decrease in biomarkers indicative of liver failure (RR 0.597; 95% CI 0.421-0.847; p = 0.004). We also observed similar reductions for other poisonings such as psychotropics. LIMITATIONS Although declines in poisonings were observed after implementation of means restrictive measures, a causal link cannot be inferred. CONCLUSION Age and pack size restriction were assiociated with a reduction in the numbers of poisonings. This was also observed for pharmaceutical poisonings in general, which might suggest a non-specific or spill-over effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Britt Reuter Morthorst
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Danish Research Institute for Suicide Prevention, Copenhagen Research Center for Mental Health (CORE), mental Health Center Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Child & Adolescent Mental Health Services Capital Region of Denmark, Gentofte Hospitalsvej 15, DK - 2900 Hellerup.
| | - Annette Erlangsen
- Danish Research Institute for Suicide Prevention, Copenhagen Research Center for Mental Health (CORE), mental Health Center Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA; Center for Mental Health Research, College of Health and Medicine, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | | | - Frank Eriksson
- Section of Biostatistics, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Keith Hawton
- Centre for Suicide Research, University Department of Psychiatry, Oxford University, Oxford, UK
| | - Kim Dalhoff
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Clinical Toxicology, Copenhagen University Hospital Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Merete Nordentoft
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Danish Research Institute for Suicide Prevention, Copenhagen Research Center for Mental Health (CORE), mental Health Center Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Jung KY, Kim T, Hwang SY, Yoon H, Shin TG, Sim MS, Jo IJ, Cha WC. Availability of drug at convenient stores is not associated with an increased incidence of their poisoning. Pharmacoepidemiol Drug Saf 2019; 28:536-543. [PMID: 30848006 DOI: 10.1002/pds.4760] [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: 11/12/2018] [Revised: 01/19/2019] [Accepted: 01/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE In late 2012, South Korea revised the Pharmaceutical Affairs Act to make selected medications including acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and cold medications available in nonpharmacy outlets, including the 24-hour convenient stores (CVS). The objective of this study was to identify whether the characteristics and trend of self-poisonings associated with these medications were altered after the legislative change. METHODS A retrospective study was performed using national data from the Emergency Department (ED)-based Injury In-depth Surveillance database. The patients diagnosed with poisoning were sorted from 2011 to 2016 and included in the study. As the Act was implemented from 2013, the demographic characteristics and clinical outcomes were compared before and after January 2013. A piecewise regression analysis was performed to determine the association between the monthly use of acetaminophen, medication for cold, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and the incidence of total poisonings before and after the January 2013. RESULTS Among 1 536 277 patients included in the database, 17 523 patients diagnosed with poisoning were enrolled. After the legislative change, the etiology of poisoning did not change, although the frequency of hospitalization from ED was significantly increased. The monthly trend for poisoning due to acetaminophen, cold medications, and NSAIDs showed no significant slope change between before and after the legislative change. The proportional use of acetaminophen and cold medications was significantly decreased, while that of NSAIDs was unchanged before and after the legislative change. CONCLUSIONS The change in the Pharmaceutical Affairs Act was not associated with any change in the monthly frequency of medication-related poisoning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kwang Yul Jung
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Taerim Kim
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sung Yeon Hwang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hee Yoon
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Tae Gun Shin
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Min Seob Sim
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Ik Joon Jo
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Won Chul Cha
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
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Jung KY, Kim T, Hwang SY, Lee TR, Yoon H, Shin TG, Sim MS, Cha WC, Jeon HJ. Deliberate Self-harm among Young People Begins to Increase at the Very Early Age: a Nationwide Study. J Korean Med Sci 2018; 33:e191. [PMID: 30034304 PMCID: PMC6052326 DOI: 10.3346/jkms.2018.33.e191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2017] [Accepted: 04/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Suicide in young people is one of most common cause of death; and deliberate self-harm (DSH) is important indicator of suicide. It is currently unclear how old the rate begins to increase or when it reaches to the same level with adults. The purpose of this study was to find beginning age of DSH and compare their characteristics with adults. METHODS This study retrospectively reviewed 5 years of nationwide prospective registry named Emergency Department-based Injury In-depth Surveillance (EDIIS) registry composed of all injured patients who were admitted to twenty tertiary university hospital emergency departments. Injured patients aged 29 years or younger from January 1, 2011 to December 31, 2015 were included. Incidence rate of DSH in all age was described. Patients were stratified by age: early teenage (11-15 years), late teenage (16-19 years), and early adulthood (20-29 years). Data of early teenage group were compared to those of other groups for examining their characteristics. RESULTS Among 588,549 injury patients, 8,400 patients reported DSH. The rate began to rise at age 11 and reach at age 16 which was equivalent to that of age 20 to 29. Early teenage had significantly higher excess mortality ratio based injury severity score (EMR-ISS) and had almost same level without significant difference in operation incidence or mortality compared to late teenage and early adulthood. CONCLUSION DSH rate began to rise at age 11, reaching adulthood level at age 16 in Korea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kwang Yul Jung
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Taerim Kim
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sung Yeon Hwang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Tae Rim Lee
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hee Yoon
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Tae Gun Shin
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Min Seob Sim
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Won Chul Cha
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hong Jin Jeon
- Department of Psychiatry, Depression Center, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Are we finally making progress with suicide and self-harm? An overview of the history, epidemiology and evidence for prevention. Ir J Psychol Med 2018; 35:95-101. [PMID: 30115199 DOI: 10.1017/ipm.2017.51] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Ireland's suicide rate is falling, but suicide and self-harm remain substantial societal problems. It is not possible to predict suicide at the level of the individual but good primary care, good mental health care and good social care all likely reduce risk. In terms of targeted interventions, public health measures, such as paracetamol pack size regulations, have the best evidence base to support them. Despite increased public and professional discussion, much remains to be done to provide effective, coordinated support to those at risk of suicide and those bereaved. In 2016, there were up to 300 different groups providing support. Clearly, a coordinated, effective and compassionate approach is needed, linking community and state resources meaningfully with each other. Approaches rooted outside of core mental health services will be vital: addressing alcohol problems and other addictions, reducing homelessness, reforming the criminal justice system and improving social care.
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Morthorst BR, Erlangsen A, Nordentoft M, Hawton K, Hoegberg LCG, Dalhoff KP. Availability of Paracetamol Sold Over the Counter in Europe: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional International Survey of Pack Size Restriction. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2018; 122:643-649. [DOI: 10.1111/bcpt.12959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2017] [Accepted: 12/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Britt Reuter Morthorst
- Faculty of Medical and Health Science; University of Copenhagen; Copenhagen Denmark
- Danish Research Institute for Suicide Prevention; Research Unit; Mental Health Centre Copenhagen; Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Annette Erlangsen
- Danish Research Institute for Suicide Prevention; Research Unit; Mental Health Centre Copenhagen; Copenhagen Denmark
- Department of Mental Health; Johns Hopkins School of Public Health; Baltimore MD USA
- Institute of Regional Health Research; University of Southern Denmark; Odense Denmark
| | - Merete Nordentoft
- Faculty of Medical and Health Science; University of Copenhagen; Copenhagen Denmark
- Danish Research Institute for Suicide Prevention; Research Unit; Mental Health Centre Copenhagen; Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Keith Hawton
- Centre for Suicide Research; University Department of Psychiatry; Oxford University; Oxford UK
| | | | - Kim Peder Dalhoff
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Clinical Toxicology; Copenhagen University Hospital Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg; Copenhagen Denmark
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Gedeborg R, Svennblad B, Holm L, Sjögren H, Bardage C, Personne M, Sjöberg G, Feltelius N, Zethelius B. Increased availability of paracetamol in Sweden and incidence of paracetamol poisoning: using laboratory data to increase validity of a population-based registry study. Pharmacoepidemiol Drug Saf 2017; 26:518-527. [PMID: 28083980 DOI: 10.1002/pds.4166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2016] [Revised: 10/27/2016] [Accepted: 12/16/2016] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To estimate the incidence trend and outcome of paracetamol poisoning, in relation to increased availability of paracetamol from non-pharmacy outlets in 2009. METHOD Patients' serum paracetamol results over 14 years (2000-2013) from 20 (out of 21) regions in Sweden were linked to national registers of hospital care, cause of death, and prescriptions. Paracetamol poisonings were defined by serum paracetamol levels, hospital diagnoses, or cause of death. The change in incidence of poisonings following increased availability of paracetamol was analysed by using segmental regression of time series. RESULTS Of the 12 068 paracetamol poisonings, 85% were classified as intentional self-harm. Following increased availability from non-pharmacy outlets, there was a 40.5% increase in the incidence of paracetamol poisoning, from 11.5/100 000 in 2009 to 16.2/100 000 in 2013. Regression analyses indicated a change in the trend (p < 0.0001) but not an immediate jump in the incidence (p = 0.5991) following the increased availability. Adjusting for trends in hospital episodes for self-harm, suicides, and the sales volume of paracetamol did not influence the result. All-cause mortality at 30 days (3.2%) did not change over time. CONCLUSIONS The incidence of paracetamol poisoning in Sweden has increased since 2009, contrasting the decreased incidence in the period of 2007-2009. The change in trend was temporally associated with the introduction of availability of paracetamol from non-pharmacy outlets but did not appear to be related to sales volume of paracetamol or general trends in self-harm or suicides. © 2017 Commonwealth of Australia. Pharmacoepidemiology and Drug Safety © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rolf Gedeborg
- Department of Scientific Expertise, Medical Products Agency, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Bodil Svennblad
- Uppsala Clinical Research Center, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Lennart Holm
- Department of Usage, Medical Products Agency, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Hans Sjögren
- Department of Efficacy and Safety 1, Medical Products Agency, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Carola Bardage
- Department of Usage, Medical Products Agency, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Mark Personne
- Swedish Poisons Information Centre, Medical Products Agency, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Gunilla Sjöberg
- Swedish Poisons Information Centre, Medical Products Agency, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Nils Feltelius
- Department of Scientific Expertise, Medical Products Agency, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Björn Zethelius
- Department of Scientific Expertise, Medical Products Agency, Uppsala, Sweden
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Kalbani RJ, Wazaify M. Prevalence of prescription and non-prescription drugs-related overdoses at emergency departments in Amman—a cross sectional study. JOURNAL OF SUBSTANCE USE 2017. [DOI: 10.3109/14659891.2016.1144803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Reem J. Kalbani
- Department of Biopharmaceutics and Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, The University of Jordan (JU), Amman, Jordan
| | - Mayyada Wazaify
- Department of Biopharmaceutics and Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, The University of Jordan (JU), Amman, Jordan
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Laubscher C, Van Rooyen EEM. The profile of the overdose patient presenting at Paarl Hospital Emergency Department. S Afr Fam Pract (2004) 2014. [DOI: 10.1080/20786204.2007.10873510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
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Murphy OC, Kelleher C, Malone KM. Demographic trends in suicide in the UK and Ireland 1980–2010. Ir J Med Sci 2014; 184:227-35. [DOI: 10.1007/s11845-014-1092-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2013] [Accepted: 02/14/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Horvat N, Koder M, Kos M. Using the simulated patient methodology to assess paracetamol-related counselling for headache. PLoS One 2012; 7:e52510. [PMID: 23300691 PMCID: PMC3531391 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0052510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2012] [Accepted: 11/19/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Firstly, to assess paracetamol-related counselling. Secondly, to evaluate the patient's approach as a determinant of counselling and to test the acceptability of the simulated patient method in Slovenian pharmacies. METHODS The simulated patient methodology was used in 17 community pharmacies. Three scenarios related to self-medication for headaches were developed and used in all participating pharmacies. Two scenarios were direct product requests: scenario 1: a patient with an uncomplicated short-term headache; scenario 2: a patient with a severe, long-duration headache who takes paracetamol for too long and concurrently drinks alcohol. Scenario 3 was a symptom-based request: a patient asking for medicine for a headache. Pharmacy visits were audio recorded and scored according to predetermined criteria arranged in two categories: counselling content and manner of counselling. The acceptability of the methodology used was evaluated by surveying the participating pharmacists. RESULTS The symptom-based request was scored significantly better (a mean 2.17 out of a possible 4 points) than the direct product requests (means of 1.64 and 0.67 out of a possible 4 points for scenario 1 and 2, respectively). The most common information provided was dosage and adverse effects. Only the symptom-based request stimulated spontaneous counselling. No statistically significant differences in the duration of the consultation between the scenarios were found. There were also no significant differences in the quality of counselling between the Masters of Pharmacy and Pharmacy Technicians. The acceptability of the SP method was not as high as in other countries. CONCLUSION The assessment of paracetamol-related counselling demonstrates room for practice improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nejc Horvat
- Chair of Social Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana- Faculty of Pharmacy, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Marko Koder
- Chair of Social Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana- Faculty of Pharmacy, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Mitja Kos
- Chair of Social Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana- Faculty of Pharmacy, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- * E-mail:
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Kjartansdottir I, Bergmann OM, Arnadottir RS, Björnsson ES. Paracetamol intoxications: a retrospective population-based study in Iceland. Scand J Gastroenterol 2012; 47:1344-52. [PMID: 22827594 DOI: 10.3109/00365521.2012.703236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Paracetamol is the most common cause of acute liver failure (ALF) in many countries. Much data on paracetamol toxicity originate from liver transplant centers and tertiary referral institutions. The authors analyzed the population-based annual incidence of paracetamol overdoses and ALF, and described the risk factors for hepatotoxicity. METHODS A search was undertaken for the diagnosis of paracetamol overdoses in the diagnoses registry of the National University Hospital of Iceland from 2004 to 2009 serving a population of 219,249 inhabitants. Relevant information was collected from medical records. RESULTS A total of 1913 drug-related poisoning episodes were identified and reviewed, 352 (18%) involved paracetamol overdoses. The annual incidence of paracetamol overdoses declined from 30.0 (2004) to 16.0/100,000 per year (2009) (p < 0.05). The female/male ratio was 3.0 and the largest age group was 16-25 years. After the initial examination, 26% were discharged home. Hospitalized index visits were 182 with accidental overdoses constituting 16 (9%) with no gender difference. Compared with intentional overdose the accidental group had higher aminotransferases (p < 0.005). ALF occurred in 3.8% (7/182) of the index visits and the incidence was 0.7/100,000 per year. In the intentional group, 1.2% (2/163) developed ALF versus 25% (4/16) of the accidental group (p = 0.001). Only one patient died from ALF and none underwent liver transplantation. CONCLUSION The annual incidence of paracetamol overdoses was high in this population-based study but declined. Young females with intentional overdose accounted for most of the cases, whereas accidental overdoses were more common in older patients. The occurrence of ALF was low and mostly associated with accidental overdose.
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Armstrong TM, Davies MS, Kitching G, Waring WS. Comparative drug dose and drug combinations in patients that present to hospital due to self-poisoning. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2012; 111:356-60. [PMID: 22510218 DOI: 10.1111/j.1742-7843.2012.00894.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2012] [Accepted: 04/07/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Self-poisoning is a common reason for acute presentation to hospital. Commonly involved drugs have been reported, but few data exist concerning the different combinations of agents or comparative doses ingested. The present study sought to better characterise the typical patterns of drug overdose that may present via the emergency department. Consecutive adults ≥16 years of age that presented to York Hospital owing to self-poisoning were studied for 2010-2011 inclusive. The primary outcome measure was reported dose, expressed as a multiple of the defined daily dose (DDD) to allow comparison between different agents. There were 1024 patients, including 622 women (60.7%), and median age was 32 years (range, 16 to 92 years). Overdose in men was associated with a higher overall quantity of drugs: arithmetic mean of 20 DDD multiples (95% CI, 15-26) versus 13 (11-15), p = 0.001. Overdose involved a single agent only in 538 patients (52.5%). The mean paracetamol dose was 4.0 (95% CI, 3.7-4.3) DDD multiples; the doses of antidepressants (19.4, 17.0-21.7, p < 0.0001) and benzodiazepines (18.0, 12.8-23.2, p < 0.0001) were comparatively higher. The types of agents involved in self-poisoning and common combinations of agents are characterised. Psychotropic medications were ingested in comparatively larger quantities than analgesic agents and had worse clinical outcome. Further work is required to understand the factors that determine the quantity of drug ingested in patients at risk of drug overdose so as to minimise the risk of significant toxicity.
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Simkin S, Hawton K, Kapur N, Gunnell D. What can be done to reduce mortality from paracetamol overdoses? A patient interview study. QJM 2012; 105:41-51. [PMID: 21856743 DOI: 10.1093/qjmed/hcr135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Paracetamol (acetaminophen) is the most common self-poisoning agent in the UK and a leading cause of fatal hepatotoxicity. Following legislation in 1998 to limit pack sizes, beneficial effects on paracetamol-related mortality and morbidity were reported in England. However, there are still over 100 deaths a year and evidence of breaches of sales guidelines. AIM To investigate characteristics of people taking larger paracetamol overdoses and compliance with sales guidelines, to inform possible further initiatives to reduce paracetamol fatalities. DESIGN AND METHODS Interview study of 60 general hospital patients who took overdoses of over 16 paracetamol tablets (8 g). RESULTS Half of all paracetamol overdoses involved over 16 tablets. Patients were predominantly young (three-quarters aged 16-40 years) and female (58.3%); over half (53.3%) had taken a previous paracetamol overdose. Three-quarters said they wanted to die. Half took the overdose within an hour of first thinking of it, half (53.3%) took tablets already in the home and 58.3% bought tablets specifically for the overdose. Ten people tried to buy more than 32 tablets in one transaction; four succeeded. Most knew that a paracetamol overdose could cause death or permanent damage (88.3%) and harm the liver (80.0%) but 70.0% thought they would lose consciousness. Warnings on packs had little deterrent effect. Media and internet influences were identified. Patients chose paracetamol because it was cheap and easily available. CONCLUSIONS Further measures to reduce breaches of sales guidelines and the dangers of paracetamol overdose are required. Media and internet site producers should follow guidelines on reporting suicide.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Simkin
- Centre for Suicide Research, University of Oxford, Department of Psychiatry, Warneford Hospital, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7JX, UK
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Florentine JB, Crane C. Pesticides, paracetamol and psychosocial interventions: A reply to a commentary on Florentine and Crane. Soc Sci Med 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2010.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Paracetamol availability in pharmacy and non-pharmacy outlets in Dublin, Ireland. Ir J Med Sci 2009; 178:79-82. [PMID: 19198976 DOI: 10.1007/s11845-008-0270-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2008] [Accepted: 12/08/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In 2004, there were 11,092 presentations to Irish hospitals with deliberate self-harm, including 7,933 cases of drug overdose, of which 31% involved paracetamol. Limiting the availability of paracetamol reduces morbidity and mortality associated with paracetamol overdose. AIM The present study aimed to determine the level of compliance with statutory regulations governing the sale of paracetamol in Ireland. METHODS Researchers visited pharmacy (n = 20) and non-pharmacy outlets (newsagents, mini-markets and supermarkets) (n = 50) in Dublin city and attempted to purchase amounts of paracetamol that exceeded the statutory limits for a single transaction. RESULTS Amounts of paracetamol in excess of statutory limits for a single transaction were purchased in 50.0% of pharmacies, 81.8% of newsagents/mini-markets and 20.0% of supermarkets. One year later, we again visited pharmacy (n = 20) and non-pharmacy outlets (n = 50) in Dublin city and purchased amounts of paracetamol in excess of statutory limits in 50.0% of pharmacies, 52.3% of newsagents/mini-markets and 10.0% of supermarkets. CONCLUSION We recommend that (a) notwithstanding the improvement in compliance rates in newsagents/mini-markets, the sale of paracetamol in these outlets should be discontinued; (b) the sale of paracetamol in supermarkets should continue, although automated checkout tills should be appropriately re-programmed; and (c) there should be greater efforts to ensure compliance with statutory regulations in pharmacies.
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Van den Bulck J, Leemans L, Laekeman GM. Television and Adolescent Use of Over-the-Counter Analgesic Agents. Ann Pharmacother 2005; 39:58-62. [PMID: 15546946 DOI: 10.1345/aph.1e091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Portrayals of the use of over-the-counter (OTC) analgesics on television may stimulate their use. OBJECTIVE: To explore the association between taking OTC analgesics and television viewing by adolescents. METHODS: A standardized self-administered questionnaire among first-year (mean age 13.16 y) and fourth-year (mean age 16.37 y) secondary students in Flanders, Belgium (n = 2546) was administered in a school setting. The independent variable was television viewing; control variables were school year, gender, drinking alcohol, days off sick, computer gaming, and Internet use. The main outcome variable was monthly use of OTC analgesics. RESULTS: On average, respondents watched 3 hours 18 minutes of television per day (boys more than girls, first-year students more than fourth-year students). Per additional hour of television per day, the odds that respondents were regular users of analgesics were 1.16 times higher (95% CI 1.08 to 1.24). For the 10% heaviest viewers, the odds were 2.30 times higher (95% CI 1.25 to 4.24) compared with the 10% lightest viewers. Odds of OTC analgesic use were higher for students reporting more sick days in the past year (OR 1.38, 95% CI 1.28 to 1.49), regular users of alcohol (OR 1.33, 95% CI 1.17 to 1.50), and girls (OR 1.92, 95% CI 1.35 to 2.73). CONCLUSIONS: A relationship was found between watching television and the use of OTC analgesics, even after controlling for gender and lifestyle measures. More research is needed to establish whether this relationship is causal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Van den Bulck
- Audience Research Center, Department of Communication, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
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