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Puga A, Moreira MM, Sanromán MA, Pazos MM, Delerue-Matos C. Antidepressants and COVID-19: Increased use, occurrence in water and effects and consequences on aquatic environment. A review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 953:175993. [PMID: 39244044 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.175993] [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: 05/16/2024] [Revised: 08/31/2024] [Accepted: 08/31/2024] [Indexed: 09/09/2024]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic changed the consumption of many drugs, among which antidepressants stand out. This review evaluated the frequency of antidepressant use before and after COVID-19. Once the most consumed antidepressants were identified, detecting a variation in the frequency of consumption on the different continents, an overview of their life cycle was carried out, specifying which antidepressants are mostly detected and the places where there is a greater concentration. In addition, the main metabolites of the most used antidepressants were also investigated. A correlation between the most consumed drugs and the most detected was made, emphasizing the lack of information on the occurrence of some of the most consumed antidepressants. Subsequently, studies on the effects on aquatic life were also reviewed, evaluated through different living beings (fish, crustaceans, molluscs, planktonic crustaceans and algae). Likewise, many of the most used antidepressants lack studies on potential adverse effects on aquatic living beings. This review underscores the need for further research, particularly focusing on the life cycle of the most prescribed antidepressants. In particular, it is a priority to know the occurrence and adverse effects in the aquatic environment of the most used antidepressants after the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antón Puga
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 431, 4249-015 Porto, Portugal; CINTECX, University of Vigo, BIOSUV Group, Department of Chemical Engineering, Campus Lagoas-Marcosende, 36310 Vigo, Spain.
| | - Manuela M Moreira
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 431, 4249-015 Porto, Portugal
| | - M Angeles Sanromán
- CINTECX, University of Vigo, BIOSUV Group, Department of Chemical Engineering, Campus Lagoas-Marcosende, 36310 Vigo, Spain
| | - Marta M Pazos
- CINTECX, University of Vigo, BIOSUV Group, Department of Chemical Engineering, Campus Lagoas-Marcosende, 36310 Vigo, Spain
| | - Cristina Delerue-Matos
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 431, 4249-015 Porto, Portugal
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Zhao M, Chang L, Yu J, Wang J, Song Y, Su S, Chen C, Lun Y, Cheng F, Zhao Y, Zhou C. A multicenter retrospective study of antidepressant use in outpatient clinics in China pre- and post-COVID. Int J Clin Pharm 2024; 46:1215-1224. [PMID: 39141181 DOI: 10.1007/s11096-024-01776-0] [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: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Analyzing antidepressant prescribing in real-world settings can provide clinicians and health policymakers valuable information. AIM This epidemiological study examined the status and trends in antidepressant prescribing among the Chinese population from July 1, 2017, to June 30, 2022. METHOD A retrospective study was conducted in three hospitals. Data were collected 2.5 years before and 2.5 years after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. We analyzed the number of patients diagnosed with depression and their corresponding antidepressant prescriptions. Using the chi-square test, stratified analyses were performed to explore the characteristics of these prescriptions in different ages and sexes. RESULTS The study included 124,355 patients and 400,840 antidepressant prescriptions. We observed fluctuating upward trends in the number of patients and antidepressant prescriptions. Post-COVID-19, the number of patients increased by 37.1% compared to the pre-pandemic period, and the number of antidepressant prescriptions rose by 88.3%. The three most frequently prescribed antidepressants for adolescents were sertraline, citalopram, and escitalopram. Among adults, citalopram, escitalopram, and sertraline were most common, while in older adults, citalopram, escitalopram, and mirtazapine were predominant. Male patients used mirtazapine, venlafaxine, paroxetine, bupropion, fluvoxamine, vortioxetine, and clomipramine more frequently compared to female patients, who were more likely to be prescribed citalopram, flupentixol/melitracen, agomelatine, and fluoxetine. Antidepressant monotherapy represented 76.6% of prescriptions, with the most common combination being antidepressants and anxiolytics. CONCLUSION Over the past 5 years, both the number of patients and antidepressant prescriptions have shown upward trends, and the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted prescribing. Understanding the changes in antidepressant prescriptions can identify adherence to national guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengqiang Zhao
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
- Department of the Technology Innovation Center for Artificial Intelligence in Clinical Pharmacy of Hebei Province, the First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Luyao Chang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Jing Yu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
- Department of the Technology Innovation Center for Artificial Intelligence in Clinical Pharmacy of Hebei Province, the First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Jianxin Wang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
- Department of the Technology Innovation Center for Artificial Intelligence in Clinical Pharmacy of Hebei Province, the First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Yang Song
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Shi Su
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroimmunological Regulation and Mental Health of Hebei Province, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Chaoli Chen
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Yang Lun
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Fangfang Cheng
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhao
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroimmunological Regulation and Mental Health of Hebei Province, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Chunhua Zhou
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China.
- Department of the Technology Innovation Center for Artificial Intelligence in Clinical Pharmacy of Hebei Province, the First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China.
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3
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Mahesarajah S, El Asmar ML, Irwin R, Vallejo-Vaz AJ, Mastellos N, Dharmayat KI. Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on psychotropic prescribing: a systematic review. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e076791. [PMID: 39322596 PMCID: PMC11425938 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-076791] [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] [Indexed: 09/27/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The global prevalence of mental health disorders has risen significantly since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic has additionally caused disruption to mental health services, leading to a shift from in-person to remote service delivery. Given its long-term impact, it has become critical to evaluate whether changes in health delivery during the pandemic have had an effect on prescribing patterns for commonly prescribed psychotropic drugs. This study aims to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on changes in psychotropic prescribing patterns in adults, as well as differences in prescribing in different healthcare delivery approaches across various geographical contexts. DESIGN AND ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS Systematic review of cohort, interrupted time-series and cross-sectional studies examining prescribing trends for at least one commonly prescribed psychotropic drug during and after COVID-19 in accessing care remotely or face to face between 1 January 2020 and 17 June 2022. DATA SOURCES MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, HMIC and PsycINFO databases were searched in addition to citation chaining of relevant reviews. EXTRACTION AND ANALYSIS Study screening, data extraction and quality assessment were completed by two independent reviewers. The PECO strategy was used to devise the systematic review and findings were synthesised narratively. RESULTS 16 studies were eligible for inclusion. Studies documenting changes in psychotropic prescribing trends provided very conflicting findings. There were no stark differences in prescribing outcomes between different healthcare delivery methods (ie, face-to-face consultations vs remote consultations). A noteworthy finding was that the prescribing rate of benzodiazepines was higher in women than men. No particular trends were observed for the prescription rates of hypnotics, antidepressants or antipsychotics. CONCLUSIONS Findings support mixed trends in the prescription of psychotropic medications in a range of settings, hindering conclusive statements on COVID-19's impact on prescribing. In areas where remote consultations are in use, more comprehensive research is required to assess the safety of prescribing in these settings to inform public health policy and assess if the observed trends in our systematic review persist over time (given the increased consideration of remote and telehealth care in delivering services), particularly the safe and effective deployment of these services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swettha Mahesarajah
- School of Public Health, Imperial College London Faculty of Medicine, London, UK
| | | | - Ryan Irwin
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | | | | | - Kanika I Dharmayat
- Imperial Centre for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention (ICCP), Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
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Rugova A, Kryeziu-Rrahmani M, Jahiu G, Dakaj N, Rrahmani F, Kryeziu N. Mental health landscape in Kosova from 2017 to 2022: A retrospective study of antidepressant and anxiolytic market trends and the impact of COVID-19. J Psychosom Res 2024; 187:111927. [PMID: 39265410 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2024.111927] [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: 08/06/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2024] [Accepted: 09/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/14/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study explores the mental health situation in Kosova and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS Marketed quantities of antidepressants (N06A) and anxiolytics (N05B) from 2017 to 2022 were analyzed using the Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical/Defined Daily Doses (ATC/DDD) methodology. Caution is advised as these quantities may not directly reflect patient usage and could include uses for conditions outside their primary indications. RESULTS Prior to the pandemic, antidepressant quantities remained relatively stable, but rose from 6.8 DDD/1000 inhabitants/day in 2019 to 9.7 in 2020 and 12.4 in 2021, before returning to pre-pandemic levels of 6.8 DDD in 2022. Over 80 % of these were selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Meanwhile, anxiolytic quantities initially decreased from 17.4 DDD in 2017 to 9.9 in 2019, then rebounded to 17.9 DDD in 2020. Notably, alprazolam usage surged from 2.9 in 2017 to 6.9 in 2021, subsequently dropping to 2.0 in 2022. CONCLUSIONS The volatile trends in medication quantities during the pandemic suggest a fragile mental health landscape in Kosova-a developing, post-conflict country with a youthful population-underscoring the need for proactive interventions in similar contexts globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ardian Rugova
- Alma Mater Europaea Campus College "Rezonanca", Prishtina, Kosovo.
| | | | - Genta Jahiu
- University of Prishtina "Hasan Prishtina", Prishtina, Kosovo.
| | - Nazim Dakaj
- Alma Mater Europaea Campus College "Rezonanca", Prishtina, Kosovo.
| | - Fehmi Rrahmani
- Klinikum Lippe Detmold, Detmold, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany.
| | - Nderim Kryeziu
- Alma Mater Europaea Campus College "Rezonanca", Prishtina, Kosovo.
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5
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Ferrara F, Capuozzo M, Trama U, Nava E, Langella R, Valentino F, Zovi A. Covid-19 psychological distress: Analysis of antipsychotic drugs' use in an Italian population sample. ANNALES PHARMACEUTIQUES FRANÇAISES 2024; 82:840-847. [PMID: 38663841 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharma.2024.04.007] [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: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The current pandemic, in addition to putting a strain on healthcare systems and global economies, has exacerbated psychiatric problems and undermined the mental health of many individuals. In an Italian cohort, this phenomenon has been assessed through a retrospective study aimed at evaluating the consumption and costs of antipsychotic drugs between 2020 and 2022. METHODS All dispensations made in local pharmacies accessible to the public have been extracted from a database called 'Sistema Tessera Sanitaria', which covers a population of approximately one million people residents in the ASL Napoli 3 Sud. Consumption data expressed in defined daily dose (DDD) and expenditure data expressed in Euro have been extrapolated. RESULTS The results in the years 2020-2021 were relatively consistent, with consumption and expenditure decreasing slightly from 2020 to 2021. In 2022, the results showed a decrease in consumption and expenditure (2,706,951.07 DDD and €1,700,897.47) representing the reduced accessibility of patients to the healthcare facilities due to the pandemic. However, it should be noted that the antipsychotic drug aripiprazole showed an upward trend, registering an increase in consumption. CONCLUSION Despite expectations of increased consumption of antipsychotic medications, real-world evidence indicated a different phenomenon, with the pandemic seemingly not affecting the consumption of these drugs. The difficulty in accessing care and medical appointments has probably influenced this data, masking the therapeutic needs of citizens. It will be necessary to assess in the coming years, as normal clinical activity resumes, whether there will be a growing consumption of these medications, which represent one of the main expenditure categories for the National Healthcare System.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Ferrara
- Pharmaceutical department, Asl Napoli 3 Sud, 22, Dell'amicizia street, 80035 Nola, Naples, Italy.
| | - Maurizio Capuozzo
- Pharmaceutical department, Asl Napoli 3 Sud, 3, Marittima street, 80056 Ercolano, Naples, Italy
| | - Ugo Trama
- General Direction for Health Protection and Coordination of the Campania Regional Health System, Naples, Italy
| | - Eduardo Nava
- Pharmaceutical department, Asl Napoli 3 Sud, 22, Dell'amicizia street, 80035 Nola, Naples, Italy
| | - Roberto Langella
- Italian Society of Hospital Pharmacy (SIFO), SIFO Secretariat of the Lombardy Region, 81, Carlo-Farini street, 20159 Milan, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Zovi
- Ministry of Health, 5, viale Giorgio-Ribotta, 00144 Rome, Italy
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Kazi KJ, English CD, Ivantsova E, Souders Ii CL, Martyniuk CJ. Transcriptome networks and physiology related to cardiac function and motor activity are perturbed in larval zebrafish (Danio rerio) following exposure to the antidepressant citalopram. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 361:124767. [PMID: 39168440 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024]
Abstract
Citalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat depression and is often detected in aquatic environments. Here, we measured the acute toxicity of citalopram at environmentally relevant concentrations to zebrafish embryos/larvae and utilized RNA-seq to reveal potential mechanisms of toxicity. We also assessed behavioral outcomes in larval zebrafish. Zebrafish embryos were exposed continuously to embryo rearing medium (ERM), or one concentration of 0.1, 1, 10, 100, and 1000 μg/L citalopram for 7 days post-fertilization (dpf). No acute toxicity was noted for citalopram over 7-days in developing zebrafish, nor were there any effects on hatch rates; however, exposure resulted in a dose-dependent decrease in heart rate at 2 dpf. Reactive oxygen species were also increased in 7-day old larvae zebrafish exposed to 100 μg/L citalopram. There were 29 genes differentially expressed in fish exposed to 10 μg/L citalopram [FDR <0.05] and 79 genes differentially expressed in fish exposed to 1000 μg/L citalopram [FDR <0.05]. In the 1000 μg/L citalopram treatment, there were several transcripts downregulated related to muscle function, including myhz2, myhz1, and myom1. Twenty-five gene set pathways were shared between exposure concentrations including 'IL6 Expression Targets', 'Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) Resistance in Congenital Hypothyroidism', and 'GFs/TNF - > Ion Channels.' Enrichment of KEGG pathways revealed that 1000 μg/L citalopram altered processes related to the proteosome and cardiac muscle contractions. Larval zebrafish at 7 dpf showed hypoactivity with exposure to ≥10 μg/L citalopram. This may be related to the downregulation of transcripts involved in muscle function. Overall, our results show that citalopram as a pharmaceutical pollutant may have an adverse influence on aquatic species' ability to survive by reducing their abilities to elude predators (e.g. cardiac output, locomotor activity). This study improves mechanistic understanding of the potential harm citalopram may cause fish and contributes to environmental risk assessments for SSRIs in aquatic species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kira J Kazi
- Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
| | - Cole D English
- Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Emma Ivantsova
- Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Christopher L Souders Ii
- Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Christopher J Martyniuk
- Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA; UF Genetics Institute, Interdisciplinary Program in Biomedical Sciences Neuroscience, USA.
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7
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Fan L, Zeng P, Wang X, Mo X, Ma Q, Zhou X, Yuan N, Liu Y, Xue Z, Huang J, Li X, Ding J, Chen J. Xiaoyao Pills, a Chinese patent medicine, treats mild and moderate depression: A randomized clinical trial combined with DNA methylation analysis. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 130:155660. [PMID: 38815407 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155660] [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: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Xiaoyao pills (XYP) is a commercial Chinese patent medicine used in the treatment of depression. However, the mechanisms underlying its therapeutic effects, as well as the patients who can benefit from XYP, have not been evaluated so far. OBJECTIVES To this end, we conducted a double-blinded, random, and placebo-controlled clinical trial of orally administered XYP in patients with depression. METHODS The 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD-17) scores were recorded at baseline, and every 2 weeks after the start of treatment. To further elucidate the epigenetic mechanism of XYP, we performed mRNA sequencing and genome-wide DNA methylation sequencing using peripheral blood leukocytes of patients and healthy. RESULTS XYP effectively alleviated the symptoms in patients with mild or moderate depressive disorders, particularly that of psychomotor retardation. XYP restored aberrant gene expression and DNA methylation patterns associated with depression, and the normalization of DNA methylation correlated with downregulation of several genes. In addition, altered DNA methylation levels in the XYP-treated samples were attributed to increased expression of the DNA methyltransferase DNMT1. CONCLUSIONS Our study provides new insights into the epigenetic mechanism underlying depression and the therapeutic effects of XYP, along with an experimental basis for using XYP in the treatment of depression. TRIAL REGISTRATION INFORMATION The name of the registry and number: U.S. CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRY The link to the registration: ClinicalTrials.gov ISRCTN12746343 (https://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN12746343). The name of the trial register is "Efficacy and safety of the Xiaoyao pill for improving the clinical symptoms of stagnation of liver qi (chi) and spleen deficiency". The clinical trial registration number is ISRCTN12746343.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lili Fan
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Formula-Pattern of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Pengguihang Zeng
- RNA Biomedical Institute, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Xihong Wang
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Xiaowei Mo
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Formula-Pattern of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Qingyu Ma
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Formula-Pattern of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Xuan Zhou
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Formula-Pattern of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Naijun Yuan
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Formula-Pattern of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Yueyun Liu
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Zhe Xue
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Junqing Huang
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Formula-Pattern of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Xiaojuan Li
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Formula-Pattern of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China.
| | - Junjun Ding
- RNA Biomedical Institute, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China; Department of Histology and Embryology, Advanced Medical Technology Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 511436, China; West China Biomedical Big Data Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Jiaxu Chen
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Formula-Pattern of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China.
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Negrão LG, Coelho C, Castel-Branco MM, Figueiredo IV, Fernandez-Llimos F. Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on antidepressant consumption in the Central region of Portugal: interrupted time series. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2024:10.1007/s00127-024-02731-0. [PMID: 39001886 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-024-02731-0] [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: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the impact of the pandemic on the consumption of antidepressive agents in Central Portugal. METHODS To estimate the causal effect of the pandemic an interrupted time series analysis was conducted. Data of antidepressant drugs monthly dispensed in community pharmacies between Jan-2010 and Dec-2021 were provided by the regional Health Administration. Anti-Parkinson dopaminergic agents and statins, theoretically not influenced by COVID-19 pandemics, were used as comparator series. The number of packages was converted into defined daily doses and presented as defined daily doses/1000 inhabitants/day. A Bayesian structural time-series model with CausalImpact on R/RStudio was used to predict the counterfactual. Analyses with different geographical granularity (9 sub-regions and 78 municipalities) were performed. RESULTS When compared to counterfactual, regional consumption non-significantly increased after the pandemic declaration, with a relative effect of + 1.30% [95%CI -1.6%:4.2%]. When increasing the granularity, differences appeared between sub-region with significant increases in Baixo Mondego + 6.5% [1.4%:11.0%], Guarda + 4.4% [1.1%:7.7%] or Cova da Beira + 4.1% [0.17%:8.3%], but non-significant variation in the remaining 6 sub-regions. Differences are more obvious at municipality level, ranging from increases of + 37.00% [32.00%:42.00%] to decreases of -11.00% [-17.00%:-4.20%]. Relative impact positively correlated with percentage of elderly in the municipality (r = 0.301; p = 0.007), and negatively with population density (r=-0.243; p = 0.032). No other predicting variables were found. CONCLUSION Antidepressant consumption suffered very slight variations at regional level after the COVID-19 pandemic declaration. Analysis with higher granularity allowed identifying municipalities with higher impact (increase or decrease). The absence of clear association patterns suggests other causal hypotheses of the differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciana G Negrão
- Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Care Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Catarina Coelho
- Administração Regional de Saúde do Centro, IP (ARSC), Coimbra, Portugal
| | - M Margarida Castel-Branco
- Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Care Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Isabel V Figueiredo
- Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Care Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Fernando Fernandez-Llimos
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Drug Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Jorge de Viterbo Ferreira 228, Porto, 4050-313, Portugal.
- Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit (UCIBIO), Porto, Portugal.
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Petromelidou S, Evgenidou E, Tziouvalekas M, Lambropoulou DA. Unravelling psychoactive substances and their metabolites and transformation products: High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry approaches for comprehensive target and suspect screening in wastewater. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 931:172867. [PMID: 38688363 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172867] [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: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Untangling the consumption rates of psychiatric drugs and their metabolites/ transformation products-(TPs) through wastewater gains attention lately. However, the potential environmental impact caused by their release remains ambiguous. As it follows, the monitoring of this class of pharmaceuticals as well as the evaluation of their potential toxicity is a matter of high concern. In the light of the above, here, wastewater samples, were collected in a 1-year and a half sampling campaign (2020-2021) and were further subjected to solid phase extraction. A Q Exactive Focus Orbitrap mass analyzer was employed for the analysis of the samples. For the data curation, except of the monitoring of targets, a comprehensive suspect screening workflow was developed and slightly optimized based on a lab made HRMS database for the investigation of legally or illegally prescribed psychiatric drugs and their relevant metabolites/TPs in influents and effluents. Carbamazepine and amisulpride were quantified at the highest mean concentrations 243 and 225 ng/L respectively, in influents. In effluents, the highest mean concentrations were calculated for carbamazepine (180 ng/L) and venlafaxine (117 ng/L). The implementation of suspect screening approach enhanced the comprehensiveness of analysis by detecting 29 compounds not included in the target list. O-Desmethylvenlafaxine was the predominant metabolite in influents presenting a mean concentration equal to 87 ng/L while the same pattern was also noticed in effluents where the mean concentration was up to 91 ng/L. From the group of suspect compounds for which no analytical standards were available, the predominant compounds with detection frequency 100 % were norephedrine and codeine in influents while in effluents, oxazepam was detected in 81 % of the analyzed samples. Finally, in silico and mathematical tools were employed for the assessment of the risk posed to environmental systems. Most of the detected compounds present high risk in all trophic levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Styliani Petromelidou
- Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control, Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece; Centre for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation (CIRI-AUTH), Balkan Center, Thessaloniki, 10th km Thessaloniki-Thermi Rd, GR 57001, Greece
| | - Eleni Evgenidou
- Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control, Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece; Centre for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation (CIRI-AUTH), Balkan Center, Thessaloniki, 10th km Thessaloniki-Thermi Rd, GR 57001, Greece
| | - Miltiadis Tziouvalekas
- Hellenic Agricultural Organization "Demeter", Institute of Industrial and Forage Crops (IIFC), 1 Theophrastos str., 41335 Larissa, Greece
| | - Dimitra A Lambropoulou
- Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control, Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece; Centre for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation (CIRI-AUTH), Balkan Center, Thessaloniki, 10th km Thessaloniki-Thermi Rd, GR 57001, Greece.
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10
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Vukićević T, Draganić P, Škribulja M, Puljak L, Došenović S. Consumption of psychotropic drugs in Croatia before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: a 10-year longitudinal study (2012-2021). Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2024; 59:799-811. [PMID: 37847256 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-023-02574-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This longitudinal study aimed to examine the trends in antipsychotics, antidepressants, anxiolytics, and hypnotics/sedatives consumption in Croatia over a 10-year period (2012-2021). The study also assessed whether the COVID-19 pandemic had an impact on the yearly consumption of psychotropic drugs. METHODS Data were collected from Croatian Agency for Medicinal Products and Medical Devices (HALMED) and presented as defined daily doses per 1000 inhabitants per day (DDD/TID). The consumption before (2012-2019) and during the COVID-19 pandemic (2020-2021) was compared with interrupted time series analysis. RESULTS There was an increase in total consumption of analyzed psychotropic drugs in Croatia between the years 2012 and 2021, from 115.47 DDD/TID in 2012 to 155.50 DDD/TID in 2021. An increasing trend was observed in the consumption of all 4 analyzed groups of medicines (antipsychotics, anxiolytics, hypnotics and sedatives, and antidepressants). Anxiolytics accounted for 59% (68.29/115.47 DDD/TID), and hypnotics and sedatives for 8.5% (9.76/115.47 DDD/TID) of total consumption in 2012. At the end of a 10-year period, hypnotics and sedatives represented 12% (19.05/155.50 DDD/TID) and anxiolytics 54% (83.53/155.50 DDD/TID) of psychotropic drugs consumption. The total consumption of psychotropic drugs was not significantly different before and during COVID-19 pandemic (estimate ± standard error = 5.029 ± 6.899, t = 0.729, P = 0.490). CONCLUSION Croatia had a high, continuously increasing consumption of psychotropic drugs. National anxiolytics consumption was one of the highest globally, while consumption of antidepressants was rather low compared to other high-income countries. The COVID-19 pandemic did not seem to influence the yearly utilization of psychotropic drugs in Croatia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tea Vukićević
- Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Croatia, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Pero Draganić
- Agency for Medicinal Products and Medical Devices of Croatia, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Marija Škribulja
- Agency for Medicinal Products and Medical Devices of Croatia, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Livia Puljak
- Center for Evidence-Based Medicine and Health Care, Catholic University of Croatia, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Svjetlana Došenović
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, University Hospital Split, Split, Croatia.
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11
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Ukah UV, Platt RW, Nordeng HME. Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Dispensing of Cardiovascular Drugs in Norway: An Interrupted Time Series Study. Am J Prev Med 2024; 66:672-680. [PMID: 37972795 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2023.11.008] [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] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in changes in prescription patterns and fillings for certain medications, but little is known about its impact on the dispensing of cardiovascular drugs. METHODS Trends in dispensing of cardiovascular drugs before and during the pandemic were examined using a population-based cohort in Norway. Using interrupted time series analyses and considering March 1, 2020 as the interruption point, the impact of the pandemic on defined daily dose dispensing of prescribed cardiovascular drugs was estimated in a population of adults with and without pre-existing cardiovascular disease from January 2018 to December 2021. All data were analyzed in 2023. RESULTS In a total of 4,053,957 adults, 690,910 (17.0%) had pre-existing cardiovascular disease. Prior to the pandemic, there was a significant monthly increase in any cardiovascular drug dispensing among those with pre-existing cardiovascular disease (0.30 defined daily dose per month per adult), including prescription of diuretics, calcium channel blockers, and lipid-modifying agents. After controlling for preinterruption trends, there was a slight decrease in level change immediately after the start of the pandemic (2.5 defined daily dose per month per adult) but an increase in the postinterruption trend (0.06 defined daily dose per month per adult) for dispensing of cardiovascular prescriptions, although these changes were not significant. CONCLUSIONS Although the COVID-19 pandemic did not appear to result in significant changes in patterns of cardiovascular drug dispensing in Norway, continued access to cardiovascular drugs remains important to prevent further related morbidity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ugochinyere Vivian Ukah
- Pregnancy and Child Health Research Center, HealthPartners Institute, Minneapolis, Minnesota; Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health, School of Population and Global Health, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
| | - Robert William Platt
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health, School of Population and Global Health, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Hedvig Marie Egeland Nordeng
- PharmacoEpidemiology and Drug Safety Research Group, PharmaTox Strategic Research Initiative, Department of Pharmacy, The Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Department of Child Health and Development, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
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12
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Istvan M, Duval M, Hodel K, Aquizerate A, Chaslerie A, Artarit P, Laforgue EJ, Victorri-Vigneau C. Evolution of the profiles of new psychotropic drug users before and during the COVID-19 crisis: an original longitudinal approach through multichannel sequence analysis using the French health-care database. Eur Arch Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2024:10.1007/s00406-024-01774-3. [PMID: 38499795 DOI: 10.1007/s00406-024-01774-3] [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: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a substantial impact on mental health. An increase in the use of anxiolytic, hypnotic, and antidepressant drugs has been highlighted in France, but with no information at the individual level (trajectories) or concerning patient characteristics. The objective of this study was to describe the profile of new psychotropic drug users since the beginning of the pandemic. We formed two historical cohorts using the Pays-de-la-Loire regional component of the National Health Data System (SNDS): a "COVID-19 crisis cohort" (2020-2021) and a "control cohort" (2018-2019). We analyzed reimbursements for psychotropic medications (anxiolytics, antidepressants, hypnotics, mood stabilizers, and antipsychotics) using a multichannel sequence analysis and performed clustering analysis of sequences. The proportion of new consumers of psychotropic drugs was higher in the COVID-19 crisis cohort (18.0%) than that in the control cohort (16.0%). In the COVID-19 cohort, three clusters of psychotropic drug users were identified, whereas four clusters were identified in the control cohort. A time lag in treatment initiation was observed in the COVID-19 crisis cohort (September) compared with the control cohort (July). This study is one of the first to analyze the profile of psychotropic treatment users during the COVID-19 crisis. Our analysis sheds light on changes in patterns of psychotropic drug use during the COVID-19 pandemic, possibly associated with changes in prescribing conditions and mental health conditions during the crisis. This study also provides an example of the application of an innovative longitudinal analysis methodology in the field of pharmacoepidemiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marion Istvan
- Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Centre d'Évaluation et d'Information sur la Pharmacodépendance-Addictovigilance (CEIP-A), Service de Pharmacologie Clinique, F-44000, Nantes, France.
- Nantes Université, Univ Tours, CHU Nantes, CHU Tours, INSERM, MethodS in Patients-centered outcomes and HEalth Research, SPHERE, F-44000, Nantes, France.
| | - Mélanie Duval
- Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Centre d'Évaluation et d'Information sur la Pharmacodépendance-Addictovigilance (CEIP-A), Service de Pharmacologie Clinique, F-44000, Nantes, France
| | - Karl Hodel
- Direction Régionale du Service Médical des Pays de la Loire, F-44034, Nantes, France
| | - Aurélie Aquizerate
- Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Centre d'Évaluation et d'Information sur la Pharmacodépendance-Addictovigilance (CEIP-A), Service de Pharmacologie Clinique, F-44000, Nantes, France
| | - Anicet Chaslerie
- Direction Régionale du Service Médical des Pays de la Loire, F-44034, Nantes, France
| | - Pascal Artarit
- Direction Régionale du Service Médical des Pays de la Loire, F-44034, Nantes, France
| | - Edouard-Jules Laforgue
- Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Centre d'Évaluation et d'Information sur la Pharmacodépendance-Addictovigilance (CEIP-A), Service de Pharmacologie Clinique, F-44000, Nantes, France
- Nantes Université, Univ Tours, CHU Nantes, CHU Tours, INSERM, MethodS in Patients-centered outcomes and HEalth Research, SPHERE, F-44000, Nantes, France
| | - Caroline Victorri-Vigneau
- Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Centre d'Évaluation et d'Information sur la Pharmacodépendance-Addictovigilance (CEIP-A), Service de Pharmacologie Clinique, F-44000, Nantes, France
- Nantes Université, Univ Tours, CHU Nantes, CHU Tours, INSERM, MethodS in Patients-centered outcomes and HEalth Research, SPHERE, F-44000, Nantes, France
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13
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Saunders R, Buckman JEJ, Suh JW, Fonagy P, Pilling S, Bu F, Fancourt D. Variation in symptoms of common mental disorders in the general population during the COVID-19 pandemic: longitudinal cohort study. BJPsych Open 2024; 10:e45. [PMID: 38344903 PMCID: PMC10897705 DOI: 10.1192/bjo.2024.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A significant rise in mental health disorders was expected during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, referrals to mental health services dropped for several months before rising to pre-pandemic levels. AIMS To identify trajectories of incidence and risk factors for common mental disorders among the general population during 14 months of the COVID-19 pandemic, to inform potential mental health service needs. METHOD A cohort of 33 703 adults in England in the University College London COVID-19 Social Study provided data from March 2020 to May 2021. Growth mixture modelling was used to identify trajectories based on the probability of participants reporting symptoms of depression (Patient Health Questionnaire-9) or anxiety (Generalised Anxiety Disorder-7) in the clinical range, for each month. Sociodemographic and personality-related characteristics associated with each trajectory class were explored. RESULTS Five trajectory classes were identified for depression and anxiety. Participants in the largest class (62%) were very unlikely to report clinically significant symptom levels. Other trajectories represented participants with a high likelihood of clinically significant symptoms throughout, early clinically significant symptoms that reduced over time, clinically significant symptoms that emerged as the pandemic unfolded and a moderate likelihood of clinically significant symptoms throughout. Females, younger adults, carers, those with existing mental health diagnoses, those that socialised frequently pre-pandemic and those with higher neuroticism scores were more likely to experience depression or anxiety. CONCLUSIONS Nearly 40% of participants followed trajectories indicating risk of clinically significant symptoms of depression or anxiety. The identified risk factors could inform public health interventions to target individuals at risk in future health emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rob Saunders
- CORE Data Lab, Centre for Outcomes Research and Effectiveness (CORE), Research Department of Clinical, Educational & Health Psychology, University College London, UK
| | - Joshua E J Buckman
- CORE Data Lab, Centre for Outcomes Research and Effectiveness (CORE), Research Department of Clinical, Educational & Health Psychology, University College London, UK; and iCope Psychological Therapies Service, Camden & Islington NHS Foundation Trust, St Pancras Hospital, London, UK
| | - Jae Won Suh
- CORE Data Lab, Centre for Outcomes Research and Effectiveness (CORE), Research Department of Clinical, Educational & Health Psychology, University College London, UK
| | - Peter Fonagy
- Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, UK
| | - Stephen Pilling
- CORE Data Lab, Centre for Outcomes Research and Effectiveness (CORE), Research Department of Clinical, Educational & Health Psychology, University College London, UK; and Camden & Islington NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Feifei Bu
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, UK
| | - Daisy Fancourt
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, UK
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14
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Odalović M, Gorman A, Paul A, McCallion P, Burke É, MacLachlan M, McCarron M, Henman MC, Moran M, O'Connell J, Walsh M, Shankar R, Ryan C, O'Dwyer M. Psychotropic medicines' prevalence, patterns and effects on cognitive and physical function in older adults with intellectual disability in Ireland: longitudinal cohort study, 2009-2020. BJPsych Open 2024; 10:e39. [PMID: 38297892 PMCID: PMC10897684 DOI: 10.1192/bjo.2023.607] [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] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The frequent prescribing of psychotropics and high prevalence of polypharmacy among older adults with intellectual disabilities require close monitoring. AIMS To describe change in prevalence, predictors and health outcomes of psychotropic use during the four waves (2009/2010, 2013/2014, 2016/2017, 2019/2020) of the Intellectual Disability Supplement to the Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (IDS-TILDA). METHOD Eligible participants were adults (≥40 years) with intellectual disabilities who participated in all four waves of IDS-TILDA and who reported medication use for the entire period. Differences between groups were tested using Cochran's Q test for binary variables and the McNemar-Bowker test for variables with more than two categories. Generalised estimating equation models were used to assess associations between psychotropic use, participants' characteristics and health outcomes. RESULTS Across waves (433 participants) there were no significant differences in prevalence of psychotropic use (61.2-64.2%) and psychotropic polypharmacy (42.7-38.3%). Antipsychotics were the most used subgroup, without significant change in prevalence between waves (47.6-44.6%). A significant decrease was observed for anxiolytics (26.8-17.6%; P < 0.001) and hypnotics/sedatives (14.1-9.0%; P < 0.05). A significant increase was recorded for antidepressants (28.6-35.8%; P < 0.001) and mood-stabilising agents (11.5-14.6%; P < 0.05). Psychotropic polypharmacy (≥2 psychotropics) was significantly associated with moderate to total dependence in performing activities of daily living over the 10-year period (OR = 1.80, 95% CI 1.21-2.69; P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS The study indicates an increase in usage of some classes of psychotropic, a reduction in others and no change in the relatively high rate of antipsychotic use over 10 years in a cohort of older adults with intellectual disabilities and consequent risk of psychotropic polypharmacy and medication-related harm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Odalović
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland; and Trinity Centre for Ageing and Intellectual Disability, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
| | - Ashleigh Gorman
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland; and Trinity Centre for Ageing and Intellectual Disability, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
| | - Aviejay Paul
- School of Social Work, College of Public Health, Temple University, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Philip McCallion
- School of Social Work, College of Public Health, Temple University, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Éilish Burke
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland; and Trinity Centre for Ageing and Intellectual Disability, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
| | - Malcolm MacLachlan
- National Clinical Programme for People with Disabilities, Health Service Executive, Dublin, Ireland; Assisting Living & Learning Institute, Maynooth University, Ireland; and Psychology Department, Maynooth University, Ireland
| | - Mary McCarron
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland; and Trinity Centre for Ageing and Intellectual Disability, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
| | - Martin C Henman
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland; and Trinity Centre for Ageing and Intellectual Disability, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
| | - Maeve Moran
- Faculty of Learning Disability Psychiatry, College of Psychiatrists of Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Juliette O'Connell
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland; and Trinity Centre for Ageing and Intellectual Disability, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
| | - Michael Walsh
- National Clinical Programme for People with Disabilities, Health Service Executive, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Rohit Shankar
- Peninsula Medical School, University of Plymouth, UK
| | - Caitriona Ryan
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland; and Trinity Centre for Ageing and Intellectual Disability, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
| | - Máire O'Dwyer
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland; and Trinity Centre for Ageing and Intellectual Disability, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
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15
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Zhang Y, Gao J, Li N, Xu P, Qu S, Cheng J, Wang M, Li X, Song Y, Xiao F, Yang X, Liu J, Hong H, Mu R, Li X, Wang Y, Xu H, Xie Y, Gao T, Wang G, Aa J. Targeting cAMP in D1-MSNs in the nucleus accumbens, a new rapid antidepressant strategy. Acta Pharm Sin B 2024; 14:667-681. [PMID: 38322327 PMCID: PMC10840425 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2023.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Studies have suggested that the nucleus accumbens (NAc) is implicated in the pathophysiology of major depression; however, the regulatory strategy that targets the NAc to achieve an exclusive and outstanding anti-depression benefit has not been elucidated. Here, we identified a specific reduction of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) in the subset of dopamine D1 receptor medium spiny neurons (D1-MSNs) in the NAc that promoted stress susceptibility, while the stimulation of cAMP production in NAc D1-MSNs efficiently rescued depression-like behaviors. Ketamine treatment enhanced cAMP both in D1-MSNs and dopamine D2 receptor medium spiny neurons (D2-MSNs) of depressed mice, however, the rapid antidepressant effect of ketamine solely depended on elevating cAMP in NAc D1-MSNs. We discovered that a higher dose of crocin markedly increased cAMP in the NAc and consistently relieved depression 24 h after oral administration, but not a lower dose. The fast onset property of crocin was verified through multicenter studies. Moreover, crocin specifically targeted at D1-MSN cAMP signaling in the NAc to relieve depression and had no effect on D2-MSN. These findings characterize a new strategy to achieve an exclusive and outstanding anti-depression benefit by elevating cAMP in D1-MSNs in the NAc, and provide a potential rapid antidepressant drug candidate, crocin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Zhang
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Research Unit of PK–PD Based Bioactive Components and Pharmacodynamic Target Discovery of Natural Medicine of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Jingwen Gao
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Research Unit of PK–PD Based Bioactive Components and Pharmacodynamic Target Discovery of Natural Medicine of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Na Li
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Research Unit of PK–PD Based Bioactive Components and Pharmacodynamic Target Discovery of Natural Medicine of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Peng Xu
- Key Laboratory of Drug Monitoring and Control, Drug Intelligence and Forensic Center, Ministry of Public Security, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Shimeng Qu
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Research Unit of PK–PD Based Bioactive Components and Pharmacodynamic Target Discovery of Natural Medicine of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Jinqian Cheng
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Research Unit of PK–PD Based Bioactive Components and Pharmacodynamic Target Discovery of Natural Medicine of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Mingrui Wang
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Xueru Li
- School of Foreign Languages, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Yaheng Song
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Research Unit of PK–PD Based Bioactive Components and Pharmacodynamic Target Discovery of Natural Medicine of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Fan Xiao
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Research Unit of PK–PD Based Bioactive Components and Pharmacodynamic Target Discovery of Natural Medicine of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Xinyu Yang
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Jihong Liu
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Hao Hong
- Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Ronghao Mu
- Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Xiaotian Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Youmei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Drug Monitoring and Control, Drug Intelligence and Forensic Center, Ministry of Public Security, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Hui Xu
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Research Unit of PK–PD Based Bioactive Components and Pharmacodynamic Target Discovery of Natural Medicine of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yuan Xie
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Research Unit of PK–PD Based Bioactive Components and Pharmacodynamic Target Discovery of Natural Medicine of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Tianming Gao
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Guangji Wang
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Research Unit of PK–PD Based Bioactive Components and Pharmacodynamic Target Discovery of Natural Medicine of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Jiye Aa
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Research Unit of PK–PD Based Bioactive Components and Pharmacodynamic Target Discovery of Natural Medicine of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
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Behnoush AH, Bazmi E, Khalaji A, Jafari-Mehdiabad A, Barzegari N, Dehpour AR, Behnoush B. The trend of poisonings before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Sci Rep 2024; 14:2098. [PMID: 38267612 PMCID: PMC10808127 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-52537-y] [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: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has substantially affected people and healthcare systems. One of the main challenges was the reduction and change in the pattern of non-COVID-19 diseases and conditions. Moreover, due to the mental burden of the pandemic, the trend of poisonings and abuses changed. In this study, we aimed to assess the trends of poisonings from different agents before and during the COVID-19 pandemic using the interrupted time series method. This study was conducted at one of the main Tehran referral centers for poisoning, Baharloo Hospital. Pre-COVID-19 period was defined as April 2018 to January 2020 while the COVID-19 time was from February 2020 to March 2022. The total number of monthly poisoning cases in addition to eight categories of drugs/substances/agents were identified, including drugs (such as psychiatric drugs, cardiovascular drugs, and analgesics), opioids, stimulants, methanol, ethanol, cannabis, pesticides, and carbon monoxide. Interrupted time series analysis was performed to compare the pre-pandemic trend of total monthly cases from each category in addition to the proportion (%) of each one. In total, 13,020 cases were poisoned during the study period, among which 6088 belonged to the pre-pandemic period and 6932 were admitted during the COVID-19 era. There was no significant difference in terms of demographic characteristics of patients before and during the pandemic (p-value > 0.05). At the beginning of the pandemic, there was a sudden fall in the number of poisoning patients (- 77.2 cases/month, p-value = 0.003), however, there was a significant increasing trend during the COVID time (3.9 cases/month, p-value = 0.006). Most of the categories had a sharp decrease at the beginning of the pandemic except for methanol and ethanol which had increases, although not significant. Cannabis also had a significant change in slope (- 0.6 cases/month, p-value = 0.016), in addition to the sudden decrease at the beginning of the pandemic (- 10 cases/month, p-value = 0.007). Regarding the proportion of each category from total monthly poisoning cases, methanol, and ethanol had immediate rises of 4.2% per month and 10.1% per month, respectively (both significant). The pandemic had significant effects on the pattern of poisonings from different agents in Iran, the most important of which were alcohol (ethanol and methanol). These differences had policy implications that can be helpful for policymakers and healthcare systems in combating similar situations in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elham Bazmi
- Legal Medicine Research Center, Legal Medicine Organization, Tehran, Iran
| | | | | | - Nasrin Barzegari
- School of Medicine, Baharloo Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ahmad-Reza Dehpour
- Experimental Medicine Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Behnam Behnoush
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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17
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Gaddis K, Woollen KC, Johnson LJ, Flaherty T, Byrnes JF. A structural vulnerability approach to older adult suicides: Trends and potential impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic in Clark County, NV (2017-2021). Forensic Sci Int Synerg 2024; 8:100454. [PMID: 38304716 PMCID: PMC10830507 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsisyn.2024.100454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
The ongoing SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic has affected all aspects of life in the United States and around the world. This is particularly true for marginalized and vulnerable groups who face disproportionate levels of violence and premature death within their communities. While general impacts of the pandemic have been well-studied overall, little has been done to examine the correlation between COVID-19 and the risk of suicide among older adults. Older adults are particularly at risk because they face challenges including ageism, inadequate support systems, unreliable transportation, and frequent social isolation. Medicolegal casework offers a unique vantage of these issues, as it aims to identify manner of death which may be influenced by underlying structural vulnerabilities. The current research draws upon data collected from the Clark County Office of the Coroner/Medical Examiner. A sample of 871 older adults (aged 50+), whose manner of death was deemed a suicide between the years 2017-2021, were included in this analysis. Statistical analyses investigated differences between adults aged 50-64, 65-84, and 85+ years. Results suggest statistically significant changes in mechanism of death between pre-pandemic and pandemic periods, indicating a shift in risk factors related to social isolation and the home environment. Understanding such changes in trends directly affects the interpretation of skeletal data in forensic anthropology and thus, should be taken into consideration when developing structural vulnerability profiles. Furthermore, the inclusion of a structural vulnerability approach in forensic case reports has the potential to provide additional context for deaths by suicide and may help develop policies and procedures for mitigating future risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Gaddis
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas, 4505 S. Maryland Pkwy., Las Vegas, NV, 89154, USA
| | - Katharine C. Woollen
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas, 4505 S. Maryland Pkwy., Las Vegas, NV, 89154, USA
| | - Liam J. Johnson
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas, 4505 S. Maryland Pkwy., Las Vegas, NV, 89154, USA
| | - Taylor Flaherty
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas, 4505 S. Maryland Pkwy., Las Vegas, NV, 89154, USA
| | - Jennifer F. Byrnes
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas, 4505 S. Maryland Pkwy., Las Vegas, NV, 89154, USA
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18
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Marconi AM, Myers US, Hanson B, Nolan S, Sarrouf EB. Psychiatric medication prescriptions increasing for college students above and beyond the COVID-19 pandemic. Sci Rep 2023; 13:19063. [PMID: 37925588 PMCID: PMC10625532 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-46303-9] [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: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Psychiatric medication prescriptions for college students have been rising since 2007, with approximately 17% of college students prescribed medication for a mental health issue. This increase mirrors overall increases in both mental health diagnoses and treatment of university students. As psychiatric medication prescriptions for college students were increasing prior to pandemic, the goal of this study was to compare these prescriptions over the years, while accounting for the added stressor of the COVID-19 pandemic. This study utilized cross-sectional, retrospective data from a cohort of college students receiving care from the university's health service. We examined prescriptions for mental healthcare from 2015 to 2021. There was a significant increase in the percentage of psychiatric medication prescriptions in 2020 (baseline 15.8%; threshold 3.5%) and 2021 (baseline 41.3%; threshold 26.3%) compared to the historical baseline average for the whole sample and as well as for female students (2020 baseline 21.3% and threshold 4.6%; 2021 baseline 55.1% and threshold 33.7%). Within these years, we found higher trends for prescriptions in April-May as well as September-December. Overall, we found that psychiatric medication prescriptions have continued to rise through the years, with a large increase occurring during the pandemic. In addition, we found that these increases reflect the academic year, which is important for university health centers to consider when they are planning to staff clinics and plan the best way to treat college students with mental health difficulties in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agustina M Marconi
- University Health Services, University of Wisconsin Madison, 333 East Campus Mall, Madison, WI, 53715, USA.
| | - Ursula S Myers
- Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), 171 Ashley Ave, Charleston, South Carolina, 29425, USA
| | - Bjorn Hanson
- University Health Services, University of Wisconsin Madison, 333 East Campus Mall, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Sarah Nolan
- University Health Services, University of Wisconsin Madison, 333 East Campus Mall, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Elena Beatriz Sarrouf
- Direction of Epidemiology, Province of Tucuman, Virgen de La Merced 196, San Miguel de Tucuman, Tucuman, Argentina
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19
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Asadullah MN, Tham E. Learning and happiness during Covid-19 school closure in urban Malaysia. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT 2023; 101:102822. [PMID: 37347031 PMCID: PMC10258585 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijedudev.2023.102822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 school closure has disrupted education systems globally raising concerns over learning time loss. At the same time, social isolation at home has seen a decline in happiness level among young learners. Understanding the link between cognitive effort and emotional wellbeing is important for post-pandemic learning recovery interventions particularly if there is a feedback loop from happiness to learning. In this context, we use primary survey data collected during the first school closure in urban Malaysia to study the complex association between learning loss and student happiness. Machine learning methods are used to accommodate the multi-dimensional and interaction effects between the covariates that influence this association. Empirically, we find that the most important covariates are student gender, social economic status (SES) proxied by the number of books ownership, time spent on play and religious activity. Based on the results, we develop a conceptual framework of learning continuity by formalizing the importance of investment in emotional wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Niaz Asadullah
- Monash University Malaysia, Malaysia
- University of Reading, UK
- North South University, Bangladesh
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20
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Frangou S, Travis-Lumer Y, Kodesh A, Goldberg Y, New F, Reichenberg A, Levine SZ. Increased incident rates of antidepressant use during the COVID-19 pandemic: interrupted time-series analysis of a nationally representative sample. Psychol Med 2023; 53:4943-4951. [PMID: 35680620 PMCID: PMC9273730 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291722001891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2021] [Revised: 03/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has been associated with increased levels of depression and anxiety with implications for the use of antidepressant medications. METHODS The incident rate of antidepressant fills before and during the COVID-19 pandemic were compared using interrupted time-series analysis followed by comprehensive sensitivity analyses on data derived from electronic medical records from a large health management organization providing nationwide services to 14% of the Israeli population. The dataset covered the period from 1 January 2013 to 1 February 2021, with 1 March 2020 onwards defined as the period of the COVID-19 pandemic. Forecasting analysis was implemented to test the effect of the vaccine roll-out and easing of social restrictions on antidepressant use. RESULTS The sample consisted of 852 233 persons with a total antidepressant incident fill count of 139 535.4 (total cumulative rate per 100 000 = 16 372.91, 95% CI 16 287.19-16 459.01). We calculated the proportion of antidepressant prescription fills for the COVID-19 period, and the counterfactual proportion for the same period, assuming COVID-19 had not occurred. The difference in these proportions was significant [Cohen's h = 10-3 (0.16), 95% CI 10-3 ( - 0.71 to 1.03)]. The pandemic was associated with a significant increase in the slope of the incident rate of antidepressant fills (slope change = 0.01, 95% CI 0.00-0.03; p = 0.04) and a monthly increase of 2% compared to the counterfactual (the estimated rate assuming no pandemic occurred). The increased rate was more pronounced in women, and was not modified by lockdown on/off periods, socioeconomic or SARS-CoV-2 status. The rate of observed antidepressant fills was similar to that forecasted under the assumption of ongoing COVID-19 distress. CONCLUSION These findings underscore the toll of the pandemic on mental health and inform mental health policy and service delivery during and after implementing COVID-19 attenuation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia Frangou
- Department of Psychiatry, Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA
| | - Yael Travis-Lumer
- Department of Psychiatry, Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Arad Kodesh
- Faculty of Industrial Engineering and Management, Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
- Department of Community Mental Health, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | | | - Faye New
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA
| | - Abraham Reichenberg
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA
| | - Stephen Z. Levine
- Faculty of Industrial Engineering and Management, Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
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21
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Moreno V, Dévora S, Abdala-Kuri S, Oliva A. Trends in the Consumption of Antidepressant Drugs before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic in the Canary Islands, Spain: The Case of the Province of Las Palmas. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11101425. [PMID: 37239712 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11101425] [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: 04/23/2023] [Revised: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of antidepressants (ADs) has increased significantly as a result of COVID-19 and its consequences. However, there are some notable differences in the relative levels of use between geographical areas and population groups. The aim of this work is to assess the impact of COVID-19 on the consumption of ADs in the Canary Islands, focusing on the islands of Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura and Lanzarote, by analyzing the trends in prescriptions of ADs during the pandemic period (2020) compared to the pre-pandemic period (2016-2020). Data were extracted from the community pharmacy wholesaler at a population level. Consumption patterns are expressed as the number of defined daily doses per 1000 inhabitant/day. The overall consumption of DIDs was higher in Gran Canaria, mainly in urban areas and the capital. It was similar in both Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, but particularly localized in the capital, which are considered semi-urban areas. Lanzarote and Fuerteventura present the same pattern of prescription ADs use, whereas Gran Canaria is notably different. This finding was also observed in the more consumed active pharmaceutical ingredients, although small inter-island variations in the ranking and percentages were observed. Sertraline and escitalopram are two of the most prescribed N06AB ADs, whereas the most recent N06AX ADs such as venlafaxine, mirtazapine and desvenlafaxine are more commonly prescribed. These differences in prescription ADs can be explained by demographical characteristics, population size, the fact of living in an urban area and general medical practice. In this context, the COVID-19 pandemic did not have an impact on the overall trend of the use of ADs between 2016 and 2020 in the islands under study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Moreno
- Department of Physical Medicine and Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of La Laguna, 38200 Tenerife, Spain
| | - Sandra Dévora
- Department of Physical Medicine and Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of La Laguna, 38200 Tenerife, Spain
| | - Susana Abdala-Kuri
- Department of Physical Medicine and Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of La Laguna, 38200 Tenerife, Spain
| | - Alexis Oliva
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Pharmaceutical Technolgy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of La Laguna, 38200 Tenerife, Spain
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22
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Matejczyk M, Ofman P, Wiater J, Świsłocka R, Kondzior P, Lewandowski W. Determination of the Effect of Wastewater on the Biological Activity of Mixtures of Fluoxetine and Its Metabolite Norfluoxetine with Nalidixic and Caffeic Acids with Use of E. coli Microbial Bioindicator Strains. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 16:ma16093600. [PMID: 37176483 PMCID: PMC10180322 DOI: 10.3390/ma16093600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
In the present work, the conducted research concerned the determination of the toxicity and oxidative stress generation of the antidepressant fluoxetine (FLU), its metabolite nor-fluoxetine (Nor-FLU), the antibiotic nalidixic acid (NA), caffeic acid (CA) and their mixtures in three different environments: microbial medium (MM), raw wastewaters (RW) and treated wastewaters (TW). We evaluated the following parameters: E. coli cell viability, toxicity and protein damage, sodA promoter induction and ROS generation. It was found that FLU, Nor-FLU, NA, CA and their mixtures are toxic and they have the potency to generate oxidative stress in E. coli strains. We also detected that the wastewater, in comparison to the microbial medium, had an influence on the toxic activity and oxidative stress synthesis of the tested chemicals and their mixtures. Regardless of the environment under study, the strongest toxic activity and oxidative stress generation were detected after bacterial incubation with NA at a concentration of 1 mg/dm3 and the mixture of FLU (1 mg/dm3) with Nor-FLU (0.1 mg/dm3) and with NA (0.1 mg/dm3). The ROS synthesis and sodA promoter induction suggest that, in the case of the examined compounds and their mixtures, oxidative stress is the mechanism of toxicity. The analysis of the types of interactions among the substances constituting the mixtures in the wastewater revealed synergism, potentiation and antagonism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzena Matejczyk
- Faculty of Civil Engineering and Environmental Sciences, Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnology, Bialystok University of Technology, Wiejska 45E Street, 15-351 Bialystok, Poland
| | - Piotr Ofman
- Department of Technology in Environmental Engineering, Bialystok University of Technology, Wiejska 45E Street, 15-351 Bialystok, Poland
| | - Józefa Wiater
- Department of Agri-Food Engineering and Environmental Management, Bialystok University of Technology, Wiejska 45E Street, 15-351 Bialystok, Poland
| | - Renata Świsłocka
- Faculty of Civil Engineering and Environmental Sciences, Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnology, Bialystok University of Technology, Wiejska 45E Street, 15-351 Bialystok, Poland
| | - Paweł Kondzior
- Faculty of Civil Engineering and Environmental Sciences, Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnology, Bialystok University of Technology, Wiejska 45E Street, 15-351 Bialystok, Poland
| | - Włodzimierz Lewandowski
- Faculty of Civil Engineering and Environmental Sciences, Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnology, Bialystok University of Technology, Wiejska 45E Street, 15-351 Bialystok, Poland
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23
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Silva AR, Mesquita DP, Salomé Duarte M, Lado Ribeiro AR, Pereira MFR, Madalena Alves M, Monteiro S, Santos R, Cunha MV, Jorge S, Vieira J, Vilaça J, Lopes LC, Carvalho M, Brito C, Martins A, Pereira L. Exploring the correlations between epi indicators of COVID-19 and the concentration of pharmaceutical compounds in wastewater treatment plants in Northern Portugal. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS ADVANCES 2023; 10:100315. [PMID: 37193121 PMCID: PMC10171898 DOI: 10.1016/j.hazadv.2023.100315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus led to changes in the lifestyle and human behaviour, which resulted in different consumption patterns of some classes of pharmaceuticals including curative, symptom-relieving, and psychotropic drugs. The trends in the consumption of these compounds are related to their concentrations in wastewater systems, since incompletely metabolised drugs (or their metabolites back transformed into the parental form) may be detected and quantified by analytical methods. Pharmaceuticals are highly recalcitrant compounds and conventional activated sludge processes implemented in wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) are ineffective at degrading these substances. As a results, these compounds end up in waterways or accumulate in the sludge, being a serious concern given their potential effects on ecosystems and public health. Therefore, it is crucial to evaluate the presence of pharmaceuticals in water and sludge to assist in the search for more effective processes. In this work, eight pharmaceuticals from five therapeutic classes were analysed in wastewater and sludge samples collected in two WWTP located in the Northern Portugal, during the third COVID-19 epidemic wave in Portugal. The two WWTP demonstrated a similar pattern with respect to the concentration levels in that period. However, the drugs loads reaching each WWTP were dissimilar when normalising the concentrations to the inlet flow rate. Acetaminophen (ACET) was the compound detected at highest concentrations in aqueous samples of both WWTP (98. 516 μg L - 1 in WWTP2 and 123. 506 μg L - 1in WWTP1), indicating that this drug is extensively used without the need of a prescription, known of general public knowledge as an antipyretic and analgesic agent to treat pain and fever. The concentrations determined in the sludge samples were below 1.65 µg g - 1 in both WWTP, the highest value being found for azithromycin (AZT). This result may be justified by the physico-chemical characteristics of the compound that favour its adsorption to the sludge surface through ionic interactions. It was not possible to establish a clear relationship between the incidence of COVID-19 cases in the sewer catchment and the concentration of drugs detected in the same period. However, looking at the data obtained, the high incidence of COVID-19 in January 2021 is in line with the high concentration of drugs detected in the aqueous and sludge samples but prediction of drug load from viral load data was unfeasible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana R Silva
- CEB, Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Braga 4710-057, Portugal
- LABBELS -Associate Laboratory, Braga, Guimarães 4800-122, Portugal
| | - Daniela P Mesquita
- CEB, Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Braga 4710-057, Portugal
- LABBELS -Associate Laboratory, Braga, Guimarães 4800-122, Portugal
| | - M Salomé Duarte
- CEB, Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Braga 4710-057, Portugal
- LABBELS -Associate Laboratory, Braga, Guimarães 4800-122, Portugal
| | - Ana R Lado Ribeiro
- LSRE-LCM - Laboratory of Separation and Reaction Engineering - Laboratory of Catalysis and Materials, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, Porto 4200-465, Portugal
- ALiCE - Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, Porto 4200-465, Portugal
| | - M Fernando R Pereira
- LSRE-LCM - Laboratory of Separation and Reaction Engineering - Laboratory of Catalysis and Materials, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, Porto 4200-465, Portugal
| | - M Madalena Alves
- CEB, Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Braga 4710-057, Portugal
- LABBELS -Associate Laboratory, Braga, Guimarães 4800-122, Portugal
| | - Sílvia Monteiro
- Laboratório de Análises de Águas, Técnico Lisboa, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Santos
- Laboratório de Análises de Águas, Técnico Lisboa, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Mónica V Cunha
- cE3c - Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes & CHANGE - Global Change and Sustainability Institute, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute (BioISI), Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - António Martins
- AdP VALOR- Serviços Ambientais, S.A, Portugal
- Água do Algarve, S.A, Portugal
| | - Luciana Pereira
- CEB, Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Braga 4710-057, Portugal
- LABBELS -Associate Laboratory, Braga, Guimarães 4800-122, Portugal
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24
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Hernández Martínez SA, Melchor-Martínez EM, González-González RB, Sosa-Hernández JE, Araújo RG, Rodríguez-Hernández JA, Barceló D, Parra-Saldívar R, Iqbal HMN. Environmental concerns and bioaccumulation of psychiatric drugs in water bodies - Conventional versus biocatalytic systems of mitigation. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 229:115892. [PMID: 37084948 PMCID: PMC10114359 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.115892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought increments in market sales and prescription of medicines commonly used to treat mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, stress, and related problems. The increasing use of these drugs, named psychiatric drugs, has led to their persistence in aquatic systems (bioaccumulation), since they are recalcitrant to conventional physical and chemical treatments typically used in wastewater treatment plants. An emerging environmental concern caused by the bioaccumulation of psychiatric drugs has been attributed to the potential ecological and toxicological risk that these medicines might have over human health, animals, and plants. Thus, by the application of biocatalysis-assisted techniques, it is possible to efficiently remove psychiatric drugs from water. Biocatalysis, is a widely employed and highly efficient process implemented in the biotransformation of a wide range of contaminants, since it has important differences in terms of catalytic behavior, compared to common treatment techniques, including photodegradation, Fenton, and thermal treatments, among others. Moreover, it is noticed the importance to monitor transformation products of degradation and biodegradation, since according to the applied removal technique, different toxic transformation products have been reported to appear after the application of physical and chemical procedures. In addition, this work deals with the discussion of differences existing between high- and low-income countries, according to their environmental regulations regarding waste management policies, especially waste of the drug industry.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elda M Melchor-Martínez
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Sciences, Monterrey, 64849, Mexico; Tecnologico de Monterrey, Institute of Advanced Materials for Sustainable Manufacturing, Monterrey, 64849, Mexico
| | - Reyna Berenice González-González
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Sciences, Monterrey, 64849, Mexico; Tecnologico de Monterrey, Institute of Advanced Materials for Sustainable Manufacturing, Monterrey, 64849, Mexico
| | - Juan Eduardo Sosa-Hernández
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Sciences, Monterrey, 64849, Mexico; Tecnologico de Monterrey, Institute of Advanced Materials for Sustainable Manufacturing, Monterrey, 64849, Mexico
| | - Rafael G Araújo
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Sciences, Monterrey, 64849, Mexico; Tecnologico de Monterrey, Institute of Advanced Materials for Sustainable Manufacturing, Monterrey, 64849, Mexico
| | | | - Damià Barceló
- Department of Environmental Chemistry, Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research, IDEA-CSIC, Barcelona, Spain; Catalan Institute for Water Research (ICRA-CERCA), Parc Cientific i Tecnològic de la Universitat de Girona, Edifici H(2)O, Girona, Spain
| | - Roberto Parra-Saldívar
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Sciences, Monterrey, 64849, Mexico; Tecnologico de Monterrey, Institute of Advanced Materials for Sustainable Manufacturing, Monterrey, 64849, Mexico
| | - Hafiz M N Iqbal
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Sciences, Monterrey, 64849, Mexico; Tecnologico de Monterrey, Institute of Advanced Materials for Sustainable Manufacturing, Monterrey, 64849, Mexico.
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25
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Schröder S, Ortiz I, San-Román MF. Formation of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and furans (PCDD/Fs) in the electrochemical oxidation of polluted waters with pharmaceuticals used against COVID-19. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMICAL ENGINEERING 2023; 11:109305. [PMID: 36647535 PMCID: PMC9833857 DOI: 10.1016/j.jece.2023.109305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has produced a huge impact on our lives, increasing the consumption of certain pharmaceuticals, and with this, contributing to the intensification of their presence in wastewater and in the environment. This situation demands the implementation of efficient remediation technologies, among them, electrochemical oxidation (ELOX) is one the most applied. This work studies the application of ELOX with the aim of eliminate pharmaceuticals used in the fight against COVID-19, assessing its degradation rate, as well as the risk of formation of toxic trace by-products, such as unintentional POPs like polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs). To this end, model solutions containing 10 mg L-1 of dexamethasone (DEX), paracetamol (PAR), amoxicillin (AMX), and sertraline (STR) with two different electrolytes (NaCl and Na2SO4) have been evaluated. However, electrochemical systems that contain chloride ions in solution together with PCDD/Fs precursor molecules may lead to the formation of these highly toxic by-products. So, PCDD/Fs were quantified under conditions of complete degradation of the drugs. Furthermore, the presence of PCDD/Fs precursors such as chlorophenols was determined, as well as the role of Cl-, Cl• and SO 4 • - radicals in the formation of the by-products and PCDD/Fs. The maximum measured concentration of PCDD/Fs was around 2700 pg L-1 for the amoxicillin case in NaCl medium. The obtained results emphasise the importance of not underestimating the potential formation of these highly toxic trace by-products, in addition to the correct selection of oxidation processes and operation variables, in order to avoid final higher toxicity in the medium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Schröder
- Departamento de Ingenierías Química y Biomolecular, ETSIIyT, Universidad de Cantabria, Avda. de los Castros 46, 39005 Santander, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Ortiz
- Departamento de Ingenierías Química y Biomolecular, ETSIIyT, Universidad de Cantabria, Avda. de los Castros 46, 39005 Santander, Spain
| | - Ma-Fresnedo San-Román
- Departamento de Ingenierías Química y Biomolecular, ETSIIyT, Universidad de Cantabria, Avda. de los Castros 46, 39005 Santander, Spain
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26
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Tiger M, Wesselhoeft R, Karlsson P, Handal M, Bliddal M, Cesta CE, Skurtveit S, Reutfors J. Utilization of antidepressants, anxiolytics, and hypnotics during the COVID-19 pandemic in Scandinavia. J Affect Disord 2023; 323:292-298. [PMID: 36442654 PMCID: PMC9691511 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2022.11.068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study patterns of antidepressant, anxiolytic, and hypnotic drug utilization in Denmark, Norway, and Sweden during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS The monthly observed number of prescription fills of antidepressants, benzodiazepines and benzodiazepine-related hypnotics (BZ), and other anxiolytics and hypnotics (OAH) per population in 2020 were compared with predicted numbers based on analysis of covariance of prescription fills during 2015-2019. RESULTS In March 2020, there was an increased number of prescription fills for antidepressants, anxiolytics, and hypnotics in youths and adults aged 20-59 years in Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. Antidepressant prescription fills increased between 13.5 % and 31.3 % at the end of 2020 in all age groups in Denmark and 17.4 % in youths in Norway. BZ drug prescription fills increased by 20.8 % at the end of 2020 in the 20-59 year age group in Denmark and decreased by 16.7 % in youths in Sweden. A general increase of prescription fills of OAH at the end of 2020 was observed in all countries (range 24.0-80.0 % in Denmark, 11.5-30.8 % in Norway, and 9.1-12.1 % in Sweden). Increases of prescription fills of OAH occurred earlier in Denmark. LIMITATIONS Aggregated data with lack of information on indications. CONCLUSIONS Peaks of utilization of antidepressants, anxiolytics, and hypnotics observed in March 2020 may reflect medication stock piling. Increased antidepressant drug utilization in Denmark and in Norwegian youths together with the general increase in OAH utilization in the Scandinavian countries in late 2020 may indicate an increase of symptoms of depression and anxiety, as well as disturbed sleep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikael Tiger
- Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Rikke Wesselhoeft
- Clinical Pharmacology, Pharmacy and Environmental Medicine, Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark; Child and Adolescent Mental Health Odense, Mental Health Services in the Region of Southern Denmark
| | - Pär Karlsson
- Centre for Pharmacoepidemiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Marte Handal
- Department of Mental Disorders, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway; Norwegian Centre for Addiction Research (SERAF), Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Mette Bliddal
- Clinical Pharmacology, Pharmacy and Environmental Medicine, Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark; Research Unit OPEN, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Carolyn E Cesta
- Centre for Pharmacoepidemiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Svetlana Skurtveit
- Department of Mental Disorders, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway; Norwegian Centre for Addiction Research (SERAF), Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Johan Reutfors
- Centre for Pharmacoepidemiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Mistry P. Prediction of diabetes prescription volumes of various geographies using regression techniques. Health Informatics J 2023; 29:14604582231153514. [PMID: 36691889 DOI: 10.1177/14604582231153514] [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] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Background: Increasing diabetes prevalence is a major public health concern. In this study we ask whether linked open data can be used to predict prescription volumes of drugs used in the treatment of diabetes across small geographies of England. Methods: We propose and demonstrate a methodology of utilising publicly available open data to infer the geo-spatial distribution of prescribed drugs for diabetes, at the lower layer super output area level. Multiple datasets are acquired, processed, and linked together, enabling a more in-depth analysis. Combining these linked datasets with published deprivation factors of geographies across England, we build highly predictive regression models. Results: Regression models were trained and are capable of accurately predicting diabetes prescribing volumes based on deprivation indicators of various geographies across England. Models built with data covering the city of Bradford, England, produced a predicted against actual correlation value of R2 = 0.672 using multiple linear regression and 0.775 using Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO). Median age and air quality factors proved to be significant markers for diabetes prescribing. Conclusions: The results of this study suggest our methodology is robust and accurate. Such predictive models are useful to health authorities in light of increasing costs and increasing prevalence of diabetes. While using publicly available open data negates any issues of data privacy.
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Rachidi M, Hatem G, Hatem M, Zein S, Rachidi S, Awada S. Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the consumption patterns of psychotropic drugs and predictors of limited access to medication. THE JOURNAL OF MEDICINE ACCESS 2023; 7:27550834231163706. [PMID: 37051188 PMCID: PMC10086612 DOI: 10.1177/27550834231163706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
Background Despite the efforts of the health system to improve access to medications during the coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, such as online consultations, encouraging generic prescriptions, and other measures to limit the storage of medication, psychotropic patients faced significant challenges in accessing their medications. Objectives This study aimed (1) to compare the consumption of psychotropics before and during the pandemic, (2) to assess the association between having difficulties finding the medications and the general characteristics of the patients, and (3) to assess the predictors of these difficulties. Design A case-control study was performed in which 128 patients (cases) were recruited during the pandemic (July-October 2021), and 256 patients (controls) using psychotropics before the pandemic were matched for age and sex. Methods Data were collected using a uniform survey given to patients using psychotropics and filled out at their time and place preferences. Results More patients used antipsychotics and anti-anxiety medications before the pandemic, while antidepressants were used more during the pandemic. Almost half of the patients reported facing difficulties finding their medications in both time frames. Before the pandemic, these difficulties were noted per increase in age and being employed and were less faced if patients had medical assistance or lived in the north of Lebanon. However, more patients reported having difficulties accessing their medication during the pandemic, with no significant differences. Conclusion The consumption of psychotropic drugs was higher among cases. All patients faced challenges in accessing their medication throughout the pandemic, while older and employed patients had more limitations before the pandemic. Further investigations exploring viable solutions are recommended in order to maintain sustainable access to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya Rachidi
- Clinical and Epidemiological Research Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Hadat, Lebanon
| | - Georges Hatem
- Clinical and Epidemiological Research Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Hadat, Lebanon
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Georges Hatem, Faculty of medicine, University of Porto, Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Melissa Hatem
- Faculty of Medicine and Medical Sciences, University of Balamand, El-Koura, Lebanon
| | - Salam Zein
- Clinical and Epidemiological Research Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Hadat, Lebanon
| | - Samar Rachidi
- Clinical and Epidemiological Research Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Hadat, Lebanon
| | - Sanaa Awada
- Clinical and Epidemiological Research Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Hadat, Lebanon
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Escalante Saavedra PA, Galato D, de Souza Silva CM, Rodrigues da Silva IC, da Silva EV. Dispensing of psychotropic drugs in the Brazilian capital city before and during the COVID-19 pandemic (2018-2020). Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1028233. [PMID: 36618914 PMCID: PMC9822257 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1028233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Evaluate the data on the psychotropic drugs dispensed by private community pharmacies before and during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Methods: This cross-sectional study compared the quarterly and annual consumption of psychotropic drugs per Defined Daily Dose per 1000 inhabitants-day (DHD). Interrupted time series were also constructed to expose changes in the consumption pattern in the periods before and after March 2020. Results: Among the 20 most consumed psychoactive drugs, 12 were antidepressants, for example, escitalopram (DHD 7.996 and 10.626; p < 0.001), and sertraline (DHD 6.321 and 8.484; p < 0.001), in addition to the hypnotic zolpidem (DHD 6.202 and 8.526; p < 0.001). The time series reveals (R 2 value) a variation in drug dispensing, in DHD values, during the pandemic. Conclusion: Despite the higher variance, a significant increase is clearly seen in the consumption trends of psychoactive drugs, particularly antidepressants, consistent with the pandemic's influence on the general population's mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dayani Galato
- Faculty of Ceilândia, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
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30
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Ding P, Lu J, Wang Y, Schembri MA, Guo J. Antidepressants promote the spread of antibiotic resistance via horizontally conjugative gene transfer. Environ Microbiol 2022; 24:5261-5276. [PMID: 36054646 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.16165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Antibiotic resistance is a global concern threatening public health. Horizontal gene transfer (HGT) between bacterial species contributes greatly to the dissemination of antibiotic resistance. Conjugation is one of the major HGT pathways responsible for the spread of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). Antidepressant drugs are commonly prescribed antipsychotics for major depressive disorders and are frequently detected in aquatic environments. However, little is known about how antidepressants stress bacteria and whether such effect can promote conjugation. Here, we report that commonly prescribed antidepressants, sertraline, duloxetine, fluoxetine, and bupropion, can promote the conjugative transfer of plasmid-borne multidrug resistance genes carried by environmentally and clinically relevant plasmids. Noteworthy, the transfer of plasmids across bacterial genera is significantly enhanced by antidepressants at clinically relevant concentrations. We also reveal the underlying mechanisms of enhanced conjugative transfer by employing flow cytometric analysis, genome-wide RNA sequencing and proteomic analysis. Antidepressants induce the production of reactive oxygen species and the SOS response, increase cell membrane permeability, and upregulate the expression of conjugation relevant genes. Given the contribution of HGT in the dissemination of ARGs, our findings highlight the importance of prudent prescription of antidepressants and to the potential connection between antidepressants and increasing antibiotic resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengbo Ding
- Australian Centre for Water and Environmental Biotechnology (ACWEB, formerly AWMC), The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Ji Lu
- Australian Centre for Water and Environmental Biotechnology (ACWEB, formerly AWMC), The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Yue Wang
- Australian Centre for Water and Environmental Biotechnology (ACWEB, formerly AWMC), The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Mark A Schembri
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jianhua Guo
- Australian Centre for Water and Environmental Biotechnology (ACWEB, formerly AWMC), The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland, Australia
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Yahi F, Lequesne J, Rigal O, Morel A, Leheurteur M, Grellard JM, Leconte A, Clarisse B, Joly F, Lefèvre-Arbogast S. Post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms and associated factors in breast cancer patients during the first COVID-19 lockdown in France. Front Psychol 2022; 13:768043. [PMID: 36186387 PMCID: PMC9521190 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.768043] [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] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction We aimed to study post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms in breast cancer (BC) patients during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. Materials and methods We included BC patients receiving medical treatment during the first COVID-19 lockdown in France. PTSD symptoms were evaluated using the Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R) questionnaire. Quality of life [Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General (FACT-G)], cognitive complaints [Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy–Cognitive Function (FACT-Cog)], insomnia [Insomnia Severity Index (ISI)], and psychosocial experiences during lockdown were also evaluated. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify clinical factors (from medical records) and psychosocial factors (from questionnaires) associated with PTSD symptoms. Results Among the 253 included BC patients (mean age: 58), 46% had metastatic cancer and 52% were treated by chemotherapy alone. COVID-19-induced adjustments in medical oncology practices were experienced by 27% of patients (mainly teleconsultations). No case of COVID-19 was reported; 23% of BC patients had PTSD symptoms. Compared to other patients, patients with PTSD symptoms had more fears relative to COVID-19 infection (83 vs. 60%, p = 0.009), had more feeling of isolation (69 vs. 41%, p = 0.003), and had more prescription or increased use of psychotropic drugs (49 vs. 20%, p = 0.001). In the multivariable model adjusted for clinical factors, fears relative to COVID-19 and increased use of psychotropic drugs were independently associated with PTSD symptoms (OR [95% CI] = 3.01 [1.20–8.44] and 3.45 [1.48–8.17], respectively). Besides, patients with PTSD symptoms had poor quality of life (QoL), and more cognitive complaints and insomnia. Conclusion Post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms were observed in 23% of BC patients during the first COVID-19 lockdown in France. Psychological supports are needed for patients treated during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feriel Yahi
- Clinical Research Department, Centre François Baclesse, Caen, France
- Department of Health, University of Caen Normandie, Caen, France
| | - Justine Lequesne
- Clinical Research Department, Centre François Baclesse, Caen, France
- *Correspondence: Justine Lequesne,
| | - Olivier Rigal
- Department of Medical Oncology, Centre Henri Becquerel, Rouen, France
| | - Adeline Morel
- Department of Medical Oncology, Centre François Baclesse, Caen, France
| | | | | | - Alexandra Leconte
- Clinical Research Department, Centre François Baclesse, Caen, France
| | | | - Florence Joly
- Clinical Research Department, Centre François Baclesse, Caen, France
- Department of Health, University of Caen Normandie, Caen, France
- Department of Medical Oncology, Centre François Baclesse, Caen, France
- INSERM U1086 ANTICIPE, Caen, France
| | - Sophie Lefèvre-Arbogast
- Clinical Research Department, Centre François Baclesse, Caen, France
- INSERM U1086 ANTICIPE, Caen, France
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Pazzagli L, Reutfors J, Lucian E, Zerial G, Perulli A, Castelpietra G. Increased antidepressant use during the COVID-19 pandemic: Findings from the Friuli Venezia Giulia region, Italy, 2015-2020. Psychiatry Res 2022; 315:114704. [PMID: 35830755 PMCID: PMC9245333 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2022.114704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Few studies investigated the impact of the pandemic on antidepressant (AD) use. METHODS The Social and Health Information System of Friuli Venezia Giulia region, Italy, provided data on AD use. Sex, age, AD class and month used the amount of AD prescriptions, measured by defined daily doses (DDD) per 1000 inhabitants per day, to compare AD use in 2020 with the period 2015-2019. A linear trend model predicted AD use for 2020, based on years 2015-2019. RESULTS AD use was on average 20% higher in each month of 2020 when compared with the same month for the period 2015-2019, with an increase of more than 30% in the first four and in the last two months of 2020. The observed AD use in 2020 was higher than predicted, particularly in men, and in the 30-59 years age group. LIMITATIONS Descriptive study of AD use without analysis of data at the individual level. No information on psychiatric diagnoses of AD users. CONCLUSION AD use was higher in the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. Further research is warranted to understand if this may be related to a rise in mental disorders in the general population during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Pazzagli
- Centre for Pharmacoepidemiology, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Johan Reutfors
- Centre for Pharmacoepidemiology, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ejlli Lucian
- Central Health Directorate, Friuli Venezia Giulia region, Riva Nazario Sauro 8, Trieste 34100, Italy
| | - Giovanna Zerial
- Central Health Directorate, Friuli Venezia Giulia region, Riva Nazario Sauro 8, Trieste 34100, Italy
| | - Alfredo Perulli
- Central Health Directorate, Friuli Venezia Giulia region, Riva Nazario Sauro 8, Trieste 34100, Italy
| | - Giulio Castelpietra
- Central Health Directorate, Friuli Venezia Giulia region, Riva Nazario Sauro 8, Trieste 34100, Italy.
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33
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McGuire JM, Werremeyer A. Serotonin Toxicity in Older People. Sr Care Pharm 2022; 37:377-379. [DOI: 10.4140/tcp.n.2022.377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Serotonin toxicity, sometimes referred to as serotonin syndrome, results in a triad of clinical features that include autonomic signs, neuromuscular changes, and altered mental status, which may range from mild symptoms to fatal toxicity. As a result, serotonin toxicity is best thought of as a spectrum of symptoms rather than as a syndrome. Older patients may be at higher risk for serotonin toxicity because of the presence of drug-drug interactions as well as pharmacokinetic changes that occur with aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Michael McGuire
- Associate Professor of Pharmacy Practice Belmont University College of Pharmacy Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Amy Werremeyer
- Chair and Professor Pharmacy Practice Department College of Health Professions North Dakota State University Fargo, North Dakota
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Amill-Rosario A, Lee H, Zhang C, dosReis S. Psychotropic Prescriptions During the COVID-19 Pandemic Among U.S. Children and Adolescents Receiving Mental Health Services. J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol 2022; 32:408-414. [PMID: 36067121 DOI: 10.1089/cap.2022.0037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Objective: Increased mental health problems among children and adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic may have impacted psychotropic medication use. This study describes trends in monthly psychotropic medications before and early in the COVID-19 pandemic among 2- to 17-year-old children and adolescents with mental health disorders. Methods: A cross-sectional study design using the 2019-2020 IQVIA™ prescription and medical commercial claims data to estimate the proportion of children and adolescents with any psychotropic prescription in the month out of all with any mental health-related medical or prescription services in the month and the year-over-year percent change. We assessed monthly proportions of youth who filled a psychotropic prescription overall and by psychotropic class, stratified by age and gender. Results: Of the 8,896,713 children and adolescents in the sample, 24.7% received psychotropic medication during the study period. The proportion of the cohort prescribed a psychotropic medication in a given month averaged 27%-28% from January 2019 to February 2020, peaked at 36.9% in April 2020, and gradually declined to 28.7% in September 2020. The largest year-over-year percent change was in April for antipsychotic (41.9%) and antidepressant (37.9%) medication, which remained higher in September 2020 compared to September 2019, particularly among ages 6 years or older and females. Conclusion: The proportion of youth with a psychotropic prescription increased at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, later returning to prepandemic levels. However, antipsychotics and antidepressants remained higher than prepandemic, highlighting the need to further understand the long-lasting effects of the pandemic on children and adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro Amill-Rosario
- Department of Pharmaceutical Health Services Research, PAVE Center, School of Pharmacy, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Haeyoung Lee
- Department of Pharmaceutical Health Services Research, PAVE Center, School of Pharmacy, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Department of Pharmaceutical Health Services Research, School of Pharmacy, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Chengchen Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Health Services Research, PAVE Center, School of Pharmacy, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Department of Pharmaceutical Health Services Research, School of Pharmacy, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Susan dosReis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Health Services Research, PAVE Center, School of Pharmacy, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Department of Pharmaceutical Health Services Research, School of Pharmacy, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Association between antidepressant use and ED or hospital visits in outpatients with SARS-CoV-2. Transl Psychiatry 2022; 12:341. [PMID: 35995770 PMCID: PMC9395392 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-022-02109-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Antidepressants have previously been associated with better outcomes in patients hospitalized with COVID-19, but their effect on clinical deterioration among ambulatory patients has not been fully explored. The objective of this study was to assess whether antidepressant exposure was associated with reduced emergency department (ED) or hospital visits among ambulatory patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection. This retrospective cohort study included adult patients (N = 25 034) with a positive SARS-CoV-2 test performed in a non-hospital setting. Logistic regression analyses tested associations between home use of antidepressant medications and a composite outcome of ED visitation or hospital admission within 30 days. Secondary exposures included individual antidepressants and antidepressants with functional inhibition of acid sphingomyelinase (FIASMA) activity. Patients with antidepressant exposure were less likely to experience the primary composite outcome compared to patients without antidepressant exposure (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.89, 95% CI 0.79-0.99, p = 0.04). This association was only observed with daily doses of at least 20 mg fluoxetine-equivalent (aOR 0.87, 95% CI 0.77-0.99, p = 0.04), but not with daily doses lower than 20 mg fluoxetine-equivalent (aOR 0.94, 95% CI 0.80-1.11, p = 0.48). In exploratory secondary analyses, the outcome incidence was also reduced with exposure to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (aOR 0.87, 95% CI 0.75-0.99, p = 0.04), bupropion (aOR 0.70, 95% CI 0.55-0.90, p = 0.005), and FIASMA antidepressant drugs (aOR 0.87, 95% CI 0.77-0.99, p = 0.03). Antidepressant exposure was associated with a reduced incidence of emergency department visitation or hospital admission among SARS-CoV-2 positive patients, in a dose-dependent manner. These data support the FIASMA model of antidepressants' effects against COVID-19.
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Lu J, Ding P, Wang Y, Guo J. Antidepressants promote the spread of extracellular antibiotic resistance genes via transformation. ISME COMMUNICATIONS 2022; 2:63. [PMID: 37938640 PMCID: PMC9330934 DOI: 10.1038/s43705-022-00147-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The development of antibiotic resistance as an unavoidable consequence of the application of antimicrobials is a significant concern for human health. Antidepressants are being increasingly consumed globally. Human gut microbial communities are frequently exposed to antidepressants, yet little is known about the interaction between antidepressants and antibiotic resistance. This study aimed to investigate whether antidepressants can accelerate the dissemination of antibiotic resistance by increasing the rate of the horizontal transfer of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). Results demonstrated that some of the commonly-prescribed antidepressants (Duloxetine, Sertraline, Fluoxetine and Bupropion) at clinically relevant concentrations can significantly (n = 9; padj < 0.01) promote the transformation of extracellular ARGs into Acinetobacter baylyi ADP1 for a maximum of 2.3-fold, which is primarily associated with the overproduction of reactive oxygen species. The increased cell membrane permeability and porosity, stimulated transcription and translation of competence, SOS response, universal stress response and ATP synthesis-related genes are also associated with antidepressants-enhanced transformation. This study demonstrated that some antidepressants can speed up the spread of antibiotic resistance by promoting the transformation of ARGs, which emphasizes the necessity to assess the potential risks of antidepressants in spreading antibiotic resistance during clinical antidepressant applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Lu
- Australian Centre for Water and Environmental Biotechnology (ACWEB, formerly AWMC), The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Pengbo Ding
- Australian Centre for Water and Environmental Biotechnology (ACWEB, formerly AWMC), The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Yue Wang
- Australian Centre for Water and Environmental Biotechnology (ACWEB, formerly AWMC), The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Jianhua Guo
- Australian Centre for Water and Environmental Biotechnology (ACWEB, formerly AWMC), The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia.
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Mattioli AV, Coppi F, Nasi M, Gallina S. Stress and cardiovascular risk burden after the pandemic: current status and future prospects. Expert Rev Cardiovasc Ther 2022; 20:507-513. [PMID: 35727895 DOI: 10.1080/14779072.2022.2092097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The recent COVID-19 pandemic has induced an increase in anxiety, stress, and depression in the world population, prompting a reevaluation of these well-known risk factors on cardiovascular burden. AREAS COVERED This short report analyzes the impact of the pandemic on stress and depression, highlighting how the phenomenon has particularly affected women and highlights the strategies that can be undertaken after the pandemic to reduce stress and depression. We have analyzed the pandemic because it has completely changed the scenario of cardiovascular risk factors with an important increase in socio-economic stressors. EXPERT OPINION It is still difficult to assess the damage produced on cardiovascular risk just as it is almost impossible to predict how the overwhelming and important increase in Long-Covid Syndromes will impact the population. Strong action is needed to support critical situations and to implement social campaigns aimed at restoring healthy lifestyles. Physical activity can be an easy and inexpensive tool to help cope with stress and depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Vittoria Mattioli
- Surgical, Medical and Dental Department of Morphological Sciences related to Transplant, Oncology and Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | | | - Milena Nasi
- Surgical, Medical and Dental Department of Morphological Sciences related to Transplant, Oncology and Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Sabina Gallina
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
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Factors That Influence the Use of Dietary Supplements among the Students of Wroclaw Medical University in Poland during the COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19127485. [PMID: 35742733 PMCID: PMC9224475 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19127485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 06/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Background and aim: The use of dietary supplements (DS) and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs is increasing every year. The COVID-19 pandemic might additionally influence the use of such preparations. The study aimed to investigate factors influencing the use of dietary supplements (DS), including stress-relieving supplements, by the students. Methods: In the cross-sectional study, 624 students of the Wroclaw Medical University in Poland, from the second to the last year of studies, completed the anonymous questionnaire, consisting of 22 items, about the use of DS/OTC drugs during the academic year 2020/2021. Obtained data were analyzed using Pearson’s chi-square test, the U-Mann Whitney test, the Kruskal–Wallis test with the post-hoc analysis, and with logistic regression. Results: About 70% of students declared the use of any DS, 33% used DS for stress, anxiety, depression, or sleeping problems, and 59% used other DS. The most important factors influencing the decision to take any kind of DS were Division (p = 0.0001, odds ratio [OR]: 0.35, and confidence interval [CI]: 0.21–0.59), a self-estimated level of stress (p = 0.014, OR: 1.13, CI: 1.03–1.25), and self-estimated level of knowledge about DS (p = 0.0000, OR: 1.31, CI: 1.19–1.36). In the case of students taking DS for stress, anxiety, depression, or sleeping problems, the level of stress and the declared knowledge had the greatest impact on the decision for such a use of DS (p = 0.0001, OD: 1.24, CI: 1.11–1.39 and p = 0.0000, OD: 1.35, CI: 1.22–1.5, respectively). The COVID-19 pandemic did not change the pattern of DS/OTC drug usage in about 33% of students. Those who started taking DS during the pandemic accounted for 19% of all students. Conclusions: The use of DS is common among Wroclaw Medical University students with some differences between subgroups of respondents. Additionally, despite declared good knowledge about DS, most students declare the need to learn more about them.
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Gerbier E, Favre G, Tauqeer F, Winterfeld U, Stojanov M, Oliver A, Passier A, Nordeng H, Pomar L, Baud D, Panchaud A, Meyer-Massetti C, Ceulemans M. Self-Reported Medication Use among Pregnant and Postpartum Women during the Third Wave of the COVID-19 Pandemic: A European Multinational Cross-Sectional Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:5335. [PMID: 35564733 PMCID: PMC9100043 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19095335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Information on medication utilization among pregnant and postpartum women during the pandemic is lacking. We described the prevalence and patterns of self-reported medication use among pregnant and postpartum women during the third wave of the pandemic (June-August 2021). An online questionnaire was distributed in five European countries between June-August 2021. Pregnant women or women who had delivered in the three preceding months, and ≥18 years old, could participate. The prevalence of overall medication use, self-medication, and changes in chronic medication use were determined. A total of 2158 women out of 5210 participants (41.4%) used at least one medication. Analgesics (paracetamol), systemic antihistamines (cetirizine), and drugs for gastric disorders (omeprazole) were the three most used classes. Anti-infectives were less prevalent than during pre-pandemic times. Antidepressants and anxiety related medication use remained similar, despite a higher prevalence of these symptoms. Self-medication was reported in 19.4% of women, and 4.1% of chronic medication users reported that they changed a chronic medication on personal initiative due to the pandemic. In conclusion, medication use patterns in our cohort were mostly similar to those of the first COVID-19 wave and the pre-pandemic period. More studies are needed to explore factors associated with self-medication and changes in chronic medication use due to the pandemic in this perinatal population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Gerbier
- Materno-Fetal and Obstetrics Research Unit, Department “Woman-Mother-Child”, Lausanne University Hospital, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland; (G.F.); (M.S.); (L.P.); (D.B.); (A.P.)
- Service of Pharmacy, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Guillaume Favre
- Materno-Fetal and Obstetrics Research Unit, Department “Woman-Mother-Child”, Lausanne University Hospital, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland; (G.F.); (M.S.); (L.P.); (D.B.); (A.P.)
| | - Fatima Tauqeer
- Pharmacoepidemiology and Drug Safety Research Group, Department of Pharmacy, PharmaTox Strategic Initiative, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Oslo, N-0315 Oslo, Norway; (F.T.); (H.N.)
| | - Ursula Winterfeld
- Swiss Teratogen Information Service and Clinical Pharmacology Service, CHUV, 1066 Lausanne, Switzerland;
| | - Milos Stojanov
- Materno-Fetal and Obstetrics Research Unit, Department “Woman-Mother-Child”, Lausanne University Hospital, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland; (G.F.); (M.S.); (L.P.); (D.B.); (A.P.)
| | - Alison Oliver
- UK Teratology Information Service, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and the UK Health Security Agency, Newcastle upon Tyne NE3 3HD, UK;
| | - Anneke Passier
- Teratology Information Service, Pharmacovigilance Centre Lareb, ‘s Hertogenbosch, 5237 MH Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands; (A.P.); (M.C.)
| | - Hedvig Nordeng
- Pharmacoepidemiology and Drug Safety Research Group, Department of Pharmacy, PharmaTox Strategic Initiative, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Oslo, N-0315 Oslo, Norway; (F.T.); (H.N.)
- Department of Child Health and Development, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, N-0213 Oslo, Norway
| | - Léo Pomar
- Materno-Fetal and Obstetrics Research Unit, Department “Woman-Mother-Child”, Lausanne University Hospital, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland; (G.F.); (M.S.); (L.P.); (D.B.); (A.P.)
- School of Health Sciences (HESAV), University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - David Baud
- Materno-Fetal and Obstetrics Research Unit, Department “Woman-Mother-Child”, Lausanne University Hospital, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland; (G.F.); (M.S.); (L.P.); (D.B.); (A.P.)
| | - Alice Panchaud
- Materno-Fetal and Obstetrics Research Unit, Department “Woman-Mother-Child”, Lausanne University Hospital, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland; (G.F.); (M.S.); (L.P.); (D.B.); (A.P.)
- Service of Pharmacy, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Institute of Primary Health Care (BIHAM), University of Bern, CH-3012 Bern, Switzerland;
| | - Carla Meyer-Massetti
- Institute of Primary Health Care (BIHAM), University of Bern, CH-3012 Bern, Switzerland;
- Pharmacology & Toxicology, Department of General Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Bern, CH-3010 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Michael Ceulemans
- Teratology Information Service, Pharmacovigilance Centre Lareb, ‘s Hertogenbosch, 5237 MH Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands; (A.P.); (M.C.)
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- L-C&Y—KU Leuven Child & Youth Institute, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
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Consumption of Psychiatric Drugs in Primary Care during the COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19084782. [PMID: 35457647 PMCID: PMC9030027 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19084782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 04/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Background: The main objective of this research was to analyze whether there were changes in the use of antidepressants, anxiolytics, and hypnotic-sedative drugs, in the context of primary health care, during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to the pre-pandemic period. We further sought to study consumption in vulnerable population groups. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was performed in a primary health district of Spain. The data were obtained from the Andalusian Public Health System database, for the pre-COVID-19 period, from March 2019 to February 2020, and for the COVID-19 period, from March 2020 to February 2021. Univariant and bivariant analyses were performed. The effect size was measured using the Rosenthal test. Results: While the total number of medical prescriptions decreased by 2.5% in the COVID-19 period, the prescriptions of psychiatric drugs increased by 6.1%. The increase in the dose consumption per 1000 inhabitants (DHD) was highest for anxiolytics (7.2%), followed by hypnotic-sedatives (5.6%) and antidepressants (3.7%). The consumption of antidepressants, anxiolytics, and sedative-hypnotic drugs was higher in women, older people, and rural areas and lower in areas with social transformation needs, with these differences being statistically significant. Conclusions: The consumption of psychiatric drugs has increased over the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in women, older people, and rural areas. Thus, we should reflect on the adequate use of these drugs.
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Daws RE, Timmermann C, Giribaldi B, Sexton JD, Wall MB, Erritzoe D, Roseman L, Nutt D, Carhart-Harris R. Increased global integration in the brain after psilocybin therapy for depression. Nat Med 2022; 28:844-851. [DOI: 10.1038/s41591-022-01744-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on the Use of Antidepressant and Antianxiety Pharmaceuticals as Well as Sick Leave in Poland. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19042135. [PMID: 35206325 PMCID: PMC8872174 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19042135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic caused a major upheaval to the lives of people and placed a strain on societal mental health. The aim of this research is to estimate the impact of the pandemic on the mental condition of the Polish population measured through the consumption of relevant medication and medical leave of absence from the workplace. Methods: We analyzed national-level data on the consumption of pharmaceuticals used in clinical practice in Poland in the treatment of depression and anxiety alongside medical absence in the workplace using the Interrupted Time Series model to estimate the significance of the pandemic. Results: We found no significant change regarding the consumption of pharmaceuticals with the development of the pandemic. Conversely, medical leaves of absence for psychiatric reasons increased significantly with the onset of COVID-19. The influence was strongest in the diagnosis of anxiety or reaction to severe stress and weakest in recurrent depression. Conclusion: The pandemic had a significant influence on the ability to work for psychiatric patients in Poland but did not change pharmaceutical use. Physicians should consider the mental health of patients impacted by the anti-epidemic measures. Further study is needed to fully understand the long-term impact of the pandemic on mental health in Poland.
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Ceulemans M, Foulon V, Panchaud A, Winterfeld U, Pomar L, Lambelet V, Cleary B, O’Shaughnessy F, Passier A, Richardson JL, Nordeng H. Self-Reported Medication Use among Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study in Five European Countries. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:1389. [PMID: 35162405 PMCID: PMC8835534 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19031389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Revised: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Insight into the epidemiology of perinatal medication use during the COVID-19 pandemic is scarce. Therefore, a cross-sectional study using an anonymous web survey was performed in Ireland, Norway, Switzerland, The Netherlands, and United Kingdom (UK) to investigate the prevalence and type of medications used by pregnant and breast-feeding women during the first pandemic wave. Factors associated with medication use were estimated by logistic regression. In total, 8378 women participated (i.e., 3666 pregnant and 4712 breastfeeding women). Most responses were collected in Norway (34%) and The Netherlands (28%), followed by Switzerland (19%), Ireland (17%) and UK (2%). Participants were more often professionally active and more often had a higher educational level compared to the general birthing population in each country. Overall, approximately 60% of women reported having used at least 1 medication in the preceding 3 months. Daily and occasional use was reported by 34% and 42% of pregnant and 29% and 44% of breastfeeding women. The most prevalent ATC (Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical) categories were the nervous system, the respiratory system, the alimentary tract/metabolism, and the musculo-skeletal system. Paracetamol, ibuprofen, antacids, and cetirizine were the most frequently used medications. The rate of antibacterial use was lower than previously reported. Having a chronic illness, country, maternal age, SARS-CoV-2 testing, professional status and time since delivery were associated with medication use. In conclusion, perinatal medication use was highly prevalent during the first pandemic wave, underlining the importance of maintaining counseling efforts on medication use, even in times of disrupted healthcare services and/or limited resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Ceulemans
- Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium;
- Teratology Information Service, Pharmacovigilance Centre Lareb, 5237 MH Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands;
- L-C&Y, KU Leuven Child & Youth Institute, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Veerle Foulon
- Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium;
| | - Alice Panchaud
- Service of Pharmacy, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland;
- Institute of Primary Health Care (BIHAM), University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Ursula Winterfeld
- Swiss Teratogen Information Service, Clinical Pharmacology Service, Lausanne University Hospital, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland;
| | - Léo Pomar
- Materno-Fetal and Obstetrics Research Unit, Lausanne University Hospital, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland; (L.P.); (V.L.)
- School of Health Sciences (HESAV), University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Valentine Lambelet
- Materno-Fetal and Obstetrics Research Unit, Lausanne University Hospital, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland; (L.P.); (V.L.)
| | - Brian Cleary
- Rotunda Hospital, D01 P5W9 Dublin, Ireland; (B.C.); (F.O.)
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, University of Medicine and Health Sciences, D02 VN15 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Fergal O’Shaughnessy
- Rotunda Hospital, D01 P5W9 Dublin, Ireland; (B.C.); (F.O.)
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, University of Medicine and Health Sciences, D02 VN15 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Anneke Passier
- Teratology Information Service, Pharmacovigilance Centre Lareb, 5237 MH Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands;
| | - Jonathan Luke Richardson
- UK Teratology Information Service, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4AB, UK;
| | - Hedvig Nordeng
- Pharmacoepidemiology and Drug Safety Research Group, Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Oslo, 0316 Oslo, Norway;
- Department of Child Health and Development, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, 0213 Oslo, Norway
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de Anta L, Alvarez-Mon MA, Ortega MA, Salazar C, Donat-Vargas C, Santoma-Vilaclara J, Martin-Martinez M, Lahera G, Gutierrez-Rojas L, Rodriguez-Jimenez R, Quintero J, Alvarez-Mon M. Areas of Interest and Social Consideration of Antidepressants on English Tweets: A Natural Language Processing Classification Study. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12020155. [PMID: 35207644 PMCID: PMC8879287 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12020155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Antidepressants are the foundation of the treatment of major depressive disorders. Despite the scientific evidence, there is still a sustained debate and concern about the efficacy of antidepressants, with widely differing opinions among the population about their positive and negative effects, which may condition people’s attitudes towards such treatments. Our aim is to investigate Twitter posts about antidepressants in order to have a better understanding of the social consideration of antidepressants. Methods: We gathered public tweets mentioning antidepressants written in English, published throughout a 22-month period, between 1 January 2019 and 31 October 2020. We analysed the content of each tweet, determining in the first place whether they included medical aspects or not. Those with medical content were classified into four categories: general aspects, such as quality of life or mood, sleep-related conditions, appetite/weight issues and aspects around somatic alterations. In non-medical tweets, we distinguished three categories: commercial nature (including all economic activity, drug promotion, education or outreach), help request/offer, and drug trivialization. In addition, users were arranged into three categories according to their nature: patients and relatives, caregivers, and interactions between Twitter users. Finally, we identified the most mentioned antidepressants, including the number of retweets and likes, which allowed us to measure the impact among Twitter users. Results: The activity in Twitter concerning antidepressants is mainly focused on the effects these drugs may have on certain health-related areas, specifically sleep (20.87%) and appetite/weight (8.95%). Patients and relatives are the type of user that most frequently posts tweets with medical content (65.2%, specifically 80% when referencing sleep and 78.6% in the case of appetite/weight), whereas they are responsible for only 2.9% of tweets with non-medical content. Among tweets classified as non-medical in this study, the most common subject was drug trivialization (66.86%). Caregivers barely have any presence in conversations in Twitter about antidepressants (3.5%). However, their tweets rose more interest among other users, with a ratio 11.93 times higher than those posted by patients and their friends and family. Mirtazapine is the most mentioned antidepressant in Twitter (45.43%), with a significant difference with the rest, agomelatine (11.11%). Conclusions: This study shows that Twitter users that take antidepressants, or their friends and family, use social media to share medical information about antidepressants. However, other users that do not talk about antidepressants from a personal or close experience, frequently do so in a stigmatizing manner, by trivializing them. Our study also brings to light the scarce presence of caregivers in Twitter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura de Anta
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Hospital Universitario Infanta Leonor, 28031 Madrid, Spain; (L.d.A.); (M.M.-M.); (J.Q.)
| | - Miguel Angel Alvarez-Mon
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Hospital Universitario Infanta Leonor, 28031 Madrid, Spain; (L.d.A.); (M.M.-M.); (J.Q.)
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialities, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, 28801 Alcalá de Henares, Spain; (G.L.); (M.A.-M.)
- Correspondence: (M.A.A.-M.); (M.A.O.)
| | - Miguel A. Ortega
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialities, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, 28801 Alcalá de Henares, Spain; (G.L.); (M.A.-M.)
- Ramón y Cajal Health Research Institute (IRYCIS), 28034 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence: (M.A.A.-M.); (M.A.O.)
| | - Cristina Salazar
- Departamento Teoría de la Señal y Comunicaciones y Sistemas Telemáticos y Computación, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería de Telecomunicación, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, 28942 Fuenlabrada, Spain;
| | - Carolina Donat-Vargas
- Unit of Cardiovascular and Nutritional Epidemiology, Institute of Environmental Medicine (IMM), Karolinska Institute, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden;
| | | | - Maria Martin-Martinez
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Hospital Universitario Infanta Leonor, 28031 Madrid, Spain; (L.d.A.); (M.M.-M.); (J.Q.)
| | - Guillermo Lahera
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialities, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, 28801 Alcalá de Henares, Spain; (G.L.); (M.A.-M.)
- Ramón y Cajal Health Research Institute (IRYCIS), 28034 Madrid, Spain
- CIBERSAM (Biomedical Research Networking Centre in Mental Health), 22807 Madrid, Spain;
- Psychiatry Service, Príncipe de Asturias University Hospital, 28805 Alcalá de Henares, Spain
| | | | - Roberto Rodriguez-Jimenez
- CIBERSAM (Biomedical Research Networking Centre in Mental Health), 22807 Madrid, Spain;
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas 12), Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Javier Quintero
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Hospital Universitario Infanta Leonor, 28031 Madrid, Spain; (L.d.A.); (M.M.-M.); (J.Q.)
| | - Melchor Alvarez-Mon
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialities, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, 28801 Alcalá de Henares, Spain; (G.L.); (M.A.-M.)
- Ramón y Cajal Health Research Institute (IRYCIS), 28034 Madrid, Spain
- Immune System Diseases-Rheumatology and Oncology Service, University Hospital Príncipe de Asturias, CIBEREHD, 28805 Alcalá de Henares, Spain
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Kim J, Rim SJ, Jo M, Lee MG, Park S. The Trend of Psychiatric Visits and Psychiatric Medication Prescription Among People Tested for SARS-CoV-2 During the Initial Phase of COVID-19 Pandemic in South Korea. Psychiatry Investig 2022; 19:61-71. [PMID: 35086193 PMCID: PMC8795598 DOI: 10.30773/pi.2021.0247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to monitor the trend of psychiatric visits and medication prescriptions among people tested for SARS-CoV-2 during the initial phase of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in South Korea. METHODS We conducted a population-based cohort study using data from the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) linked to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) data. The overall trend of psychiatric visits during COVID-19 for each month was compared to the month prior to COVID-19. The number of psychiatric medication prescription records was monitored from January 2019 to May 2020. RESULTS A total of 212,678 individuals were tested for SARS-CoV-2 between January 2020 and May 2020. Among these individuals, 72.1% (n=153,309) did not have pre-existing mental illness, and 27.9% (n=59,369) had pre-existing mental illness. We found that most psychiatric visits were made in March, and patients without pre-existing mental illness significantly increased in psychiatric outpatients during the COVID-19 pandemic (p trend<0.001). In addition, psychiatric medication prescriptions were the most prescribed between March and April 2020. CONCLUSION We identified a rising trend in psychiatric visits and medication prescriptions among people who were tested for SARSCoV-2 during the initial phase of COVID-19 pandemic in South Korea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jungeun Kim
- Department of Research Planning, Mental Health Research Institute, National Center for Mental Health, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Soo Jung Rim
- Department of Research Planning, Mental Health Research Institute, National Center for Mental Health, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Minkyung Jo
- Department of Research Planning, Mental Health Research Institute, National Center for Mental Health, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Geu Lee
- Department of Research Planning, Mental Health Research Institute, National Center for Mental Health, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Subin Park
- Mental Health Research Institute, National Center for Mental Health, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Kamran S, Khan Z, Saqlain M, Nazar Z, Khan M, Ali Z, Rashid H, Shah KU, Karatas Y, Rahman NU. Prescription analysis and cost of antidepressant drugs in major depressive disorder outpatients at the tertiary care hospital of Pakistan: a prospective approach. Expert Rev Pharmacoecon Outcomes Res 2021; 22:845-851. [PMID: 34927501 DOI: 10.1080/14737167.2022.2021073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess prescribing care indicators, utilization pattern, cost per prescription, cost ratios, and percent cost variation of antidepressants (ADs). METHOD A prospective cross-sectional study was carried out at the tertiary care hospital of Peshawar, Pakistan among major depressive disorder (MDD) outpatients from July 2019 to February 2020. The ideal standards for World Health Organization (WHO) prescribing care indicators were used. The ePharma Guide was used to calculate the cost in Pakistani rupees (Rs) and United States dollar (USD) 2021 (exchange rate: 1 USD = 154.43 Rs). RESULTS A total of 296 MDD patients received 846 drugs (average 2.86; range:1-8), of which 366 were ADs (average number ADs/prescription; 1.23). About 23% (n = 68) of patients received more than one AD. Only 21 (5.7%) generic ADs were prescribed, and 346 (94.5%) ADs were prescribed from the hospital formulary list. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) were the most prescribed ADs (67.5%). The average cost of ADs per prescription per month was 700.95 Rs (4.54 USD). Escitalopram (5.69 Rs; 0.04 USD) showed highest cost ratio and maximum percentage cost variation (468.97%). CONCLUSION This study observed low generic prescribing, a higher prescribing trend of SSRI, wide differences in cost ratio and percentage cost variation among ADs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zakir Khan
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Health Sciences, Cukurova University, Adana, Turkey
| | | | - Zahid Nazar
- Department of Psychiatry, Lady Reading Hospital (LRH), Peshawar, Pakistan
| | | | | | | | | | - Yusuf Karatas
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Health Sciences, Cukurova University, Adana, Turkey.,Pharmacovigilance Specialist, Faculty of Medicine, Balcali Hospital, Cukurova University, Adana, Turkey
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Degradation of Selected Antidepressants Sertraline and Citalopram in Ultrapure Water and Surface Water Using Gamma Radiation. Processes (Basel) 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/pr10010063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Gamma radiation was applied to degradation selected antidepressants in ultrapure water and surface water. Additionally, the influence of typical radical scavengers like carbonate, nitrate and humic acid was determined. The cytotoxicity towards liver cells HepG2 and colon cells Caco2 were measured during the radiation process. It was found that radiation technology, specifically ionizing radiation, can achieve satisfactory degradation efficiency with both SER and CIT. It was shown that the process of decomposition of the tested antidepressants with the highest efficiency occurs in the reaction with the hydroxyl radical.
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Gutierrez N, Malik S, Cohen PR, Winn AE. Bupropion-Associated Delayed Onset Urticaria. Cureus 2021; 13:e18297. [PMID: 34722072 PMCID: PMC8547370 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.18297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Bupropion is an oral antidepressant that is commonly used to treat various mood disorders. Its therapeutic mechanism of action results from inhibiting the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine. Bupropion is generally well-tolerated and patients usually experience no side effects or mild adverse events. Rarely, hypersensitivity reactions to bupropion, such as urticaria, have been observed. However, the prevalence of delayed onset bupropion-associated urticaria may not be properly reflected in the literature due to misdiagnosis of the condition caused by its atypical presentation. We report a 20-year-old man with delayed onset bupropion-associated urticaria; he had been on bupropion for three weeks and subsequently developed new severely pruritic, erythematous wheals on his abdomen, bilateral flanks, and upper extremities. The clinical features of this rare adverse reaction to bupropion are also summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolas Gutierrez
- General Practice, 1st Marine Division, 1st Combat Engineer Battalion, Camp Pendleton, USA
| | - Sara Malik
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, USA
| | - Philip R Cohen
- Dermatology, University of California, Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, USA
| | - Aubrey E Winn
- Dermatology, Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton, Camp Pendleton, USA
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Mosher Henke R. Knowing Well, Being Well: well-being born of understanding: Shifts in Health Behaviors Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic. Am J Health Promot 2021; 35:1162-1183. [DOI: 10.1177/08901171211055310a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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50
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Amell T. Leveraging Health Risk Assessment Data to Describe Changes in Health Behaviors Associated With the COVID-19 Global Pandemic. Am J Health Promot 2021; 35:1064-1168. [PMID: 34654320 DOI: 10.1177/08901171211055311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Tyler Amell
- MediKeeper Inc., San Diego, CA, USA.,Pacific Coast University for Workplace Health Sciences, Port Alberni, BC, Canada
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