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Khatoon H, Faudzi SMM. Balancing acts: The dual faces of fentanyl in medicine and public health. Leg Med (Tokyo) 2024; 71:102507. [PMID: 39127024 DOI: 10.1016/j.legalmed.2024.102507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2024] [Revised: 07/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
Fentanyl is a potent synthetic opioid widely used in medicine for its effective analgesic properties, particularly in surgical procedures and in the treatment of severe, chronic pain. In recent decades, however, there has been a worrying increase in the illicit use of fentanyl, particularly in North America. This rise in illicit use is concerning because fentanyl is associated with polydrug abuse, which adds layers of complexity and dangerous. This review provides a comprehensive examination of fentanyl, focusing on its synthesis and medical use. It also discusses the significance of the piperidine ring in medicinal chemistry as well as the critical role of fentanyl in pain management and anesthesia. Furthermore, it addresses the challenges associated with the abuse potential of fentanyl and the resulting public health concerns. The study aims to strike a balance between the clinical benefits and risks of fentanyl by advocating for innovative uses while addressing public health issues. It examines the chemistry, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of fentanyl and highlights the importance of personalized medicine in the administration of opioids. The review underscores the necessity of continuous research and adaptation in both clinical use and public health strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hena Khatoon
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Siti Munirah Mohd Faudzi
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia; Natural Medicines and Product Research Laboratory, Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia
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2
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Marshall KD, Derse AR, Weiner SG, Joseph JW. Navigating Care Refusal and Noncompliance in Patients with Opioid Use Disorder. J Emerg Med 2024; 67:e233-e242. [PMID: 38849254 DOI: 10.1016/j.jemermed.2024.03.008] [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: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND For many emergency physicians (EPs), deciding whether or not to allow a patient suffering the ill effects of opioid use to refuse care is the most frequent and fraught situation in which they encounter issues of decision-making capacity, informed refusal, and autonomy. Despite the frequency of this issue and the well-known impacts of opioid use disorder on decision-making, the medical ethics community has offered little targeted analysis or guidance regarding these situations. DISCUSSION As a result, EPs demonstrate significant variability in how they evaluate and respond to them, with highly divergent understandings and application of concepts such as decision-making capacity, informed consent, autonomy, legal repercussions, and strategies to resolve the clinical dilemma. In this paper, we seek to provide more clarity to this issue for the EPs. CONCLUSIONS Successfully navigating this issue requires that EPs understand the specific effects that opioid use disorder has on decision-making, and how that in turn bears on the ethical concepts of autonomy, capacity, and informed refusal. Understanding these concepts can lead to helpful strategies to resolve these commonly-encountered dilemmas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth D Marshall
- Department of Emergency Medicine and History and Philosophy of Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas.
| | - Arthur R Derse
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Center for Bioethics and Medical Humanities, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Scott G Weiner
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Joshua W Joseph
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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3
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Laffont CM, Purohit P, Delcamp N, Gonzalez-Garcia I, Skolnick P. Comparison of intranasal naloxone and intranasal nalmefene in a translational model assessing the impact of synthetic opioid overdose on respiratory depression and cardiac arrest. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1399803. [PMID: 38952632 PMCID: PMC11215134 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1399803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Using a validated translational model that quantitatively predicts opioid-induced respiratory depression and cardiac arrest, we compared cardiac arrest events caused by synthetic opioids (fentanyl, carfentanil) following rescue by intranasal (IN) administration of the μ-opioid receptor antagonists naloxone and nalmefene. Methods This translational model was originally developed by Mann et al. (Clin Pharmacol Ther 2022) to evaluate the effectiveness of intramuscular (IM) naloxone. We initially implemented this model using published codes, reproducing the effects reported by Mann et al. on the incidence of cardiac arrest events following intravenous doses of fentanyl and carfentanil as well as the reduction in cardiac arrest events following a standard 2 mg IM dose of naloxone. We then expanded the model in terms of pharmacokinetic and µ-opioid receptor binding parameters to simulate effects of 4 mg naloxone hydrochloride IN and 3 mg nalmefene hydrochloride IN, both FDA-approved for the treatment of opioid overdose. Model simulations were conducted to quantify the percentage of cardiac arrest in 2000 virtual patients in both the presence and absence of IN antagonist treatment. Results Following simulated overdoses with both fentanyl and carfentanil in chronic opioid users, IN nalmefene produced a substantially greater reduction in the incidence of cardiac arrest compared to IN naloxone. For example, following a dose of fentanyl (1.63 mg) producing cardiac arrest in 52.1% (95% confidence interval, 47.3-56.8) of simulated patients, IN nalmefene reduced this rate to 2.2% (1.0-3.8) compared to 19.2% (15.5-23.3) for IN naloxone. Nalmefene also produced large and clinically meaningful reductions in the incidence of cardiac arrests in opioid naïve subjects. Across dosing scenarios, simultaneous administration of four doses of IN naloxone were needed to reduce the percentage of cardiac arrest events to levels that approached those produced by a single dose of IN nalmefene. Conclusion Simulations using this validated translational model of opioid overdose demonstrate that a single dose of IN nalmefene produces clinically meaningful reductions in the incidence of cardiac arrest compared to IN naloxone following a synthetic opioid overdose. These findings are especially impactful in an era when >90% of all opioid overdose deaths are linked to synthetic opioids such as fentanyl.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celine M. Laffont
- Research and Development, Indivior, Inc., Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Prasad Purohit
- Research and Development, Indivior, Inc., Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Nash Delcamp
- Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacometrics Solutions, Simulations Plus, Buffalo, NY, United States
| | - Ignacio Gonzalez-Garcia
- Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacometrics Solutions, Simulations Plus, Buffalo, NY, United States
| | - Phil Skolnick
- Research and Development, Indivior, Inc., Richmond, VA, United States
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Olivares J, Tumilty E, Campo-Engelstein L, Cunningham KA. Confidence in Care Instead of Capacity: A Feminist Approach to Opioid Overdose. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BIOETHICS : AJOB 2024; 24:51-53. [PMID: 38635431 DOI: 10.1080/15265161.2024.2327278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Emma Tumilty
- The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston
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Sandelich S, Hooley G, Hsu G, Rose E, Ruttan T, Schwarz ES, Simon E, Sulton C, Wall J, Dietrich AM. Acute opioid overdose in pediatric patients. J Am Coll Emerg Physicians Open 2024; 5:e13134. [PMID: 38464332 PMCID: PMC10920943 DOI: 10.1002/emp2.13134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Recent increases in pediatric and adolescent opioid fatalities mandate an urgent need for early consideration of possible opioid exposure and specific diagnostic and management strategies and interventions tailored to these unique populations. In contrast to adults, pediatric methods of exposure include accidental ingestions, prescription misuse, and household exposure. Early recognition, appropriate diagnostic evaluation, along with specialized treatment for opioid toxicity in this demographic are discussed. A key focus is on Naloxone, an essential medication for opioid intoxication, addressing its unique challenges in pediatric use. Unique pediatric considerations include recognition of accidental ingestions in our youngest population, critical social aspects including home safety and intentional exposure, and harm reduction strategies, mainly through Naloxone distribution and education on safe medication practices. It calls for a multifaceted approach, including creating pediatric-specific guidelines, to combat the opioid crisis among children and to work to lower morbidity and mortality from opioid overdoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Sandelich
- Department of Emergency MedicinePenn State College of MedicinePenn State Milton S. Hershey Medical CenterHersheyPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Gwen Hooley
- Department of Emergency MedicineChildren's Hospital of Los AngelesLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - George Hsu
- Department of Emergency MedicineAugusta University‐Medical College of GeorgiaAugustaGeorgiaUSA
| | - Emily Rose
- Department of Emergency MedicineKeck School of Medicine of the University of Southern CaliforniaLos Angeles General Medical CenterLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Tim Ruttan
- Department of PediatricsDell Medical SchoolThe University of Texas at AustinUS Acute Care SolutionsCantonOhioUSA
| | - Evan S. Schwarz
- Division of Medical ToxicologyDepartment of Emergency MedicineUniversity of California Los AngelesLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Erin Simon
- Department of Emergency MedicineCleveland ClinicAkronOhioUSA
| | - Carmen Sulton
- Departments of Pediatrics and Emergency MedicineEmory University School of MedicineChildren's Healthcare of Atlanta, EglestonAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - Jessica Wall
- Departments of Pediatrics and Emergency MedicineSeattle Children's HospitalHarborview Medical CenterSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Ann M Dietrich
- Department of Emergency MedicinePrisma HealthGreenvilleSouth CarolinaUSA
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6
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Nugent SM, Anderson J, Young SK. Behavioural mental health interventions delivered in the emergency department for suicide, overdose and psychosis: a scoping review. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e080023. [PMID: 38531581 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-080023] [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: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify and describe evidence on brief emergency department (ED)-delivered behavioural and care process interventions among patients presenting with suicide attempt or acute ideation, substance overdose or psychosis. DESIGN We employed a scoping review design and searched multiple data sources, clinical trial registries and references lists through March 2023. We included English-language trials and rigorously designed observational studies. In alignment with scoping review guidelines, we did not assess the quality of included studies or rate the strength of evidence of intervention effectiveness. POPULATION Our population of interest was adults presenting to the ED with suicidality (eg, attempt or acute ideation), any substance overdose or acute psychosis from a primary mental health condition. INTERVENTION We included studies of brief behavioural or care process interventions delivered in the ED. OUTCOME MEASURES Health outcomes (eg, symptom reduction), healthcare utilisation and harms. RESULTS Our search identified 2034 potentially relevant articles. We included 40 studies: 3 systematic reviews and 39 primary studies. Most studies (n=34) examined ED interventions in patients with suicide attempt or suicidal ideation, while eight studies examined interventions in patients with opioid overdose. No studies examined ED interventions in patients with acute psychosis. Most suicide prevention studies reported that brief psychological, psychosocial or screening and triage interventions reduce suicide and suicide attempt following an ED visit. Most clinical trial interventions were multicomponent and included at least one follow-up. All substance overdose studies focused on opioids. These studies often contained medication and referral or consultation components. Multiple studies reported increases in substance use disorder treatment utilisation; evidence on repeat overdose events was limited. CONCLUSIONS A wide range of multicomponent ED-delivered behavioural health interventions for suicidality and opioid use disorder show short-term improvement on primary outcomes such as suicide reattempt. Few studies on non-opioid substances and psychosis are available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon M Nugent
- Center to Improve Veteran Involvement in Care, Portland VA Medical Center, Portland, Oregon, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Johanna Anderson
- Evidence Synthesis Program, Portland VA Medical Center, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Sarah K Young
- Evidence Synthesis Program, Portland VA Medical Center, Portland, Oregon, USA
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Krichbaum M, Fernandez D, Singh-Franco D. Barriers and Best Practices on the Management of Opioid Use Disorder. J Pain Palliat Care Pharmacother 2024; 38:56-73. [PMID: 38100521 DOI: 10.1080/15360288.2023.2290565] [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: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Opioids refer to chemicals that agonize opioid receptors in the body resulting in analgesia and sometimes, euphoria. Opiates include morphine and codeine; semi-synthetic opioids include heroin, hydrocodone, oxycodone, and buprenorphine; and fully synthetic opioids include tramadol, fentanyl and methadone. In 2021, an estimated 5.6 million individuals met criteria for opioid use disorder. This article provides an overview of the pharmacology of heroin and non-prescription fentanyl (NPF) and its synthetic analogues, and summarizes the literature related to the management of opioid use disorder, overdose, and withdrawal. This is followed by a description of barriers to treatment and best practices for management with a discussion on recent updates and their potential impact on this patient population. This is followed by a description of barriers to treatment and best practices for management with a discussion on recent updates and their potential impact on this patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Krichbaum
- Clinical Manager-Pain Management and Palliative Care, Baptist Health South Florida, Miami, FL, USA
| | | | - Devada Singh-Franco
- Associate Professor, Pharmacy Practice, Nova Southeastern University, Health Professions Division, Barry and Judy Silverman College of Pharmacy, Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA
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Aziz R, Nguyen L, Ruhani W, Nguyen A, Zachariah B. The Optimal Initial Dose and Route of Naloxone Administration for Successful Opioid Reversal: A Systematic Literature Review. Cureus 2024; 16:e52671. [PMID: 38380203 PMCID: PMC10878679 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.52671] [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] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
This systematic literature review aims to determine the optimal initial dose of naloxone for successful opioid overdose reversal across different administration routes. Types of participants included adults who have opioid overdoses and adults who are suspected to have opioid overdoses. Pregnant women, children, animals, and populations outside the US were excluded. The interventions included were intranasal (IN), intramuscular (IM), and intravenous (IV) naloxone administration. The data collected for this systematic review were studies from PubMed, CINAHL, PsyINFO, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials registers between January 2015 and July 2021. The risk of bias was assessed via the Review Manager application. Six studies met the inclusion criteria. A meaningful statistical analysis was unable to be conducted with such few studies. The studies reveal 2 mg IN as the most popular dosing for initial naloxone for successful opioid reversal. The most common route of naloxone administration for successful reversal could not be studied but most studies revealed successful initial naloxone dosing in IN equivalents. With minimal studies emerging from our review, further research is warranted in naloxone dosing for optimal opioid reversal in order to fully treat patients. Healthcare workers must be vigilant of potential withdrawal from high naloxone dosing as well as the inefficiency of lower naloxone dosing for adequate opioid overdose reversal in order to treat patients with opioid overdoses properly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rida Aziz
- Pain Management, William Carey University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Hattiesburg, USA
| | - Lan Nguyen
- Pain Management, William Carey University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Hattiesburg, USA
| | - Washika Ruhani
- Pain Management, William Carey University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Hattiesburg, USA
| | - An Nguyen
- Pain Management, William Carey University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Hattiesburg, USA
| | - Brian Zachariah
- Emergency Medicine, William Carey University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Hattiesburg, USA
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Kusic DM, Heil J, Zajic S, Brangan A, Dairo O, Heil S, Feigin G, Kacinko S, Buono RJ, Ferraro TN, Rafeq R, Haroz R, Baston K, Bodofsky E, Sabia M, Salzman M, Resch A, Madzo J, Scheinfeldt LB, Issa JPJ, Jelinek J. Postmortem toxicology findings from the Camden Opioid Research Initiative. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0292674. [PMID: 37910493 PMCID: PMC10619848 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0292674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The United States continues to be impacted by decades of an opioid misuse epidemic, worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic and by the growing prevalence of highly potent synthetic opioids (HPSO) such as fentanyl. In instances of a toxicity event, first-response administration of reversal medications such as naloxone can be insufficient to fully counteract the effects of HPSO, particularly when there is co-occurring substance use. In an effort to characterize and study this multi-faceted problem, the Camden Opioid Research Initiative (CORI) has been formed. The CORI study has collected and analyzed post-mortem toxicology data from 42 cases of decedents who expired from opioid-related toxicity in the South New Jersey region to characterize substance use profiles. Co-occurring substance use, whether by intent or through possible contamination of the illicit opioid supply, is pervasive among deaths due to opioid toxicity, and evidence of medication-assisted treatment is scarce. Nearly all (98%) of the toxicology cases show the presence of the HPSO, fentanyl, and very few (7%) results detected evidence of medication-assisted treatment for opioid use disorder, such as buprenorphine or methadone, at the time of death. The opioid toxicity reversal drug, naloxone, was detected in 19% of cases, but 100% of cases expressed one or more stimulants, and sedatives including xylazine were detected in 48% of cases. These results showing complex substance use profiles indicate that efforts at mitigating the opioid misuse epidemic must address the complications presented by co-occurring stimulant and other substance use, and reduce barriers to and stigmas of seeking effective medication-assisted treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dara M. Kusic
- Research, Coriell Institute for Medical Research, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Jessica Heil
- Clinical Research Office, Cooper University Health Care, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Stefan Zajic
- Research, Coriell Institute for Medical Research, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Andrew Brangan
- Coriell Institute for Medical Research, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Oluseun Dairo
- Coriell Institute for Medical Research, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Stacey Heil
- Coriell Institute for Medical Research, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Gerald Feigin
- Office of the Medical Examiner, Gloucester County Health Department, Sewell, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Sherri Kacinko
- Forensic Toxicology, NMS Labs, Horsham, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Russell J. Buono
- Biomedical Sciences, Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Thomas N. Ferraro
- Biomedical Sciences, Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Rachel Rafeq
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Cooper University Health Care, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Rachel Haroz
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Cooper University Health Care, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Kaitlan Baston
- Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Elliot Bodofsky
- Neurological Institute, Cooper University Health Care, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Michael Sabia
- Anesthesiology, Cooper University Health Care, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Matthew Salzman
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Cooper University Health Care, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Alissa Resch
- Research, Coriell Institute for Medical Research, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Jozef Madzo
- Research, Coriell Institute for Medical Research, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
- Biomedical Sciences, Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Laura B. Scheinfeldt
- Research, Coriell Institute for Medical Research, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
- Biomedical Sciences, Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Jean-Pierre J. Issa
- Research, Coriell Institute for Medical Research, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
- Biomedical Sciences, Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Jaroslav Jelinek
- Research, Coriell Institute for Medical Research, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
- Biomedical Sciences, Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
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Lavonas EJ, Akpunonu PD, Arens AM, Babu KM, Cao D, Hoffman RS, Hoyte CO, Mazer-Amirshahi ME, Stolbach A, St-Onge M, Thompson TM, Wang GS, Hoover AV, Drennan IR. 2023 American Heart Association Focused Update on the Management of Patients With Cardiac Arrest or Life-Threatening Toxicity Due to Poisoning: An Update to the American Heart Association Guidelines for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Emergency Cardiovascular Care. Circulation 2023; 148:e149-e184. [PMID: 37721023 DOI: 10.1161/cir.0000000000001161] [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] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
In this focused update, the American Heart Association provides updated guidance for resuscitation of patients with cardiac arrest, respiratory arrest, and refractory shock due to poisoning. Based on structured evidence reviews, guidelines are provided for the treatment of critical poisoning from benzodiazepines, β-adrenergic receptor antagonists (also known as β-blockers), L-type calcium channel antagonists (commonly called calcium channel blockers), cocaine, cyanide, digoxin and related cardiac glycosides, local anesthetics, methemoglobinemia, opioids, organophosphates and carbamates, sodium channel antagonists (also called sodium channel blockers), and sympathomimetics. Recommendations are also provided for the use of venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. These guidelines discuss the role of atropine, benzodiazepines, calcium, digoxin-specific immune antibody fragments, electrical pacing, flumazenil, glucagon, hemodialysis, hydroxocobalamin, hyperbaric oxygen, insulin, intravenous lipid emulsion, lidocaine, methylene blue, naloxone, pralidoxime, sodium bicarbonate, sodium nitrite, sodium thiosulfate, vasodilators, and vasopressors for the management of specific critical poisonings.
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11
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Yugar B, McManus K, Ramdin C, Nelson LS, Parris MA. Systematic Review of Naloxone Dosing and Adverse Events in the Emergency Department. J Emerg Med 2023; 65:e188-e198. [PMID: 37652808 DOI: 10.1016/j.jemermed.2023.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Experts recommend using the lowest effective dose of naloxone to balance the reversal of opioid-induced respiratory depression and avoid precipitated opioid withdrawal, however, there is no established dosing standards within the emergency department (ED). OBJECTIVES The aim of this review was to determine current naloxone dosing practice in the ED and their association with adverse events. METHODS We conducted a systematic review by searching PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, and EBSCO from 2000-2021. Articles containing patient-level data for initial ED dose and patient outcome had data abstracted by two independent reviewers. Patients were divided into subgroups depending on the initial dose of i.v. naloxone: low dose ([LD], < 0.4 mg), standard dose ([SD], 0.4-2 mg), or high dose ([HD], > 2 mg). Our outcomes were the dose range administered and adverse events per dose. We compared groups using chi-squared difference of proportions or Fisher's exact test. RESULTS The review included 13 articles with 209 patients in the results analysis: 111 patients in LD (0.04-0.1 mg), 95 in SD (0.4-2 mg), and 3 in HD (4-12 mg). At least one adverse event was reported in 37 SD patients (38.9%), compared with 14 in LD (12.6%, p < 0.0001) and 2 in HD (100.0%, p = 0.16). At least one additional dose was administered to 53 SD patients (55.8%), compared with 55 in LD (49.5%, p < 0.0001), and 3 in HD (100.0%, p = 0.48). CONCLUSIONS Lower doses of naloxone in the ED may help reduce related adverse events without increasing the need for additional doses. Future studies should evaluate the effectiveness of lower doses of naloxone to reverse opioid-induced respiratory depression without causing precipitated opioid withdrawal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca Yugar
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey.
| | - Kelly McManus
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey
| | - Christine Ramdin
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey
| | - Lewis S Nelson
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey
| | - Mehruba Anwar Parris
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey
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12
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Brian Lam KH, Sobolevsky T, Ahrens B, Song L, Metushi IG. A Suspected Case of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Consistent with Fentanyl Toxicity. J Appl Lab Med 2023; 8:413-417. [PMID: 36680324 DOI: 10.1093/jalm/jfac140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- K H Brian Lam
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1732
| | - Tim Sobolevsky
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1732
| | - Brian Ahrens
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1732
| | - Lu Song
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1732
| | - Imir G Metushi
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1732
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Febres-Cordero S, Smith DJ, Wulkan AZ, Béliveau AJ, Gish A, Zine S, Fugitt L, Giordano NA. It's what the community demands: Results of community-based emergency opioid overdose trainings. Public Health Nurs 2023; 40:44-53. [PMID: 36377302 DOI: 10.1111/phn.13151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In response to a surge of drug overdoses involving polysubstance use among Atlanta service industry workers that resulted in the deaths of five people in the Atlanta area in the summer of 2021, a local community of harm reductionists and nurses organized opioid education and naloxone distribution (OEND) training sessions specifically customized for service industry workers in Atlanta. After the sessions, the nurses and harm reductionists asked attendants to participate in a study concerning their response to overdoses. The reason nurses and harm reductionists conducted the study was to determine the efficacy of OEND training adapted for those working in the service industries as well as to evaluate and possibly modify the training sessions for future use. This pre-post study examined if and how participants' knowledge and attitudes toward an opioid-involved overdose changed after engaging with the OEND training. If the study determined that the sessions were successful in teaching service industry workers how to mitigate the immediate and devastating effects of overdose, we recommend expanding and implementing both adaptable training sessions like the OEND training referenced, as well as accompanying studies to improve the training sessions' effectiveness. DESIGN The pre-post study used convenience sampling to recruit participants in emergent OEND training. Participants completed an abbreviated version the Opioid Overdose Attitudes Scale (OOAS) which measured how, and to what degree, they changed their attitudes towards overdoses and their responses to them. Participants also completed an abbreviated version of the Opioid Overdose Knowledge Scale (OOKS) which measured how effectively the OEND increased their knowledge when it came to properly responding to an overdose, which included implementing naloxone as part of immediate rehabilitation treatment. Paired nonparametric tests assessed changes in participants' OOAS/OOKS scores. RESULTS A total of 161 individuals attended, and 72 consented to be in the study. The sample predominately consisted of white (76.4%) and female (66.7%) adults whose age averaged 34.3 years. Attitude and knowledge score improvements were statistically significant: approximately 11 points (p < .001) and 3 points (p < .001), respectively. CONCLUSIONS This rapidly implemented training was associated with improving attitudes and knowledge about responding to an opioid-involved overdose. We recommend expanding the scope of studies like these in order to develop and examine effective, dynamic, and targeted OEND training tailored towards specific community groups and situations, such as polysubstance overdose among service industry workers. As the opioid epidemic worsens, it is critical to equip community members themselves with the skills and tools to recognize and respond to opioid overdoses as a frontline prevention to overdose deaths.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Daniel J Smith
- M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing, Villanova, Pennsylvania
| | | | | | - Andy Gish
- Atlanta Harm Reduction Coalition, Atlanta, Georgia.,Georgia Overdose Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
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Mechling BM, Ahern N, Palumbo R, Bebawy A, Zumpe RL. Emergency Department–Initiated Interventions for Illicit Drug Overdose: An Integrative Review of Best Practices. J Psychosoc Nurs Ment Health Serv 2022:1-8. [DOI: 10.3928/02793695-20221123-01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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15
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Rowe A, Chang A, Lostchuck E, Lin K, Scheuermeyer F, McCann V, Buxton J, Moe J, Cho R, Clerc P, McSweeney C, Jiang A, Purssell R. Out-of-hospital management of unresponsive, apneic, witnessed opioid overdoses: a case series from a supervised consumption site. CAN J EMERG MED 2022; 24:650-658. [PMID: 35670914 DOI: 10.1007/s43678-022-00326-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES There are conflicting recommendations for lay rescuer management of patients who are unresponsive and apneic due to opioid overdose. We evaluated the management of such patients at an urban supervised consumption site. METHODS At a single urban supervised consumption site in Vancouver, BC, we conducted a retrospective chart review and administrative database linkage of consecutive patients who were unresponsive and apneic following witnessed opioid overdose between January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2017. We linked these visits with regional hospital records to define the entire care episode, which concluded when the patient was discharged from the supervised consumption site, ED, or hospital, or died. The primary outcome was successful resuscitation, defined as alive and neurologically intact (ambulatory and speaking coherently, or alert and oriented, or Glasgow Coma Scale 15) at the conclusion of the care episode. Secondary outcomes included mortality and predefined complications of resuscitation. RESULTS We collected 767 patients, with a median age of 43 and 81.6% male, with complete follow-up on 763 patients (99.5%). All patients were managed with oxygen and ventilation (100%, 95% CI 0.995-1.0); 715 (93.2%, 95% CI 0.911-0.949) received naloxone; no patients underwent chest compressions (0%, 95% CI 0-0.005). All patients with complete follow-up were alive and neurologically intact at the end of their care episode (100%, 95% CI 0.994-1.0). Overall, 191 (24.9%) patients were transported to hospital, and 15 (2.0%) patients required additional naloxone after leaving the supervised consumption site; 16 (2.1%) developed complications, and 1 patient was admitted to hospital. CONCLUSIONS At an urban supervised consumption site, all unresponsive, apneic patients with witnessed opioid overdose were successfully resuscitated with oxygen and/or naloxone. No patients required chest compressions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrianna Rowe
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University Health Network, ON, Toronto, Canada. .,Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
| | - Andrew Chang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Emily Lostchuck
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Kathleen Lin
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Frank Scheuermeyer
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Victoria McCann
- Faculty of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Jane Buxton
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jessica Moe
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Emergency Medicine, Vancouver General Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Raymond Cho
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Paul Clerc
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Connor McSweeney
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Andy Jiang
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Roy Purssell
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Emergency Medicine, Vancouver General Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,British Columbia Drug and Poison Information Centre, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Wightman RS, Nelson LS. Naloxone Dosing in the Era of Fentanyl: The Path Widens by Traveling Down It. Ann Emerg Med 2022; 80:127-129. [DOI: 10.1016/j.annemergmed.2022.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
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17
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Treatment of opioid overdose: current approaches and recent advances. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2022; 239:2063-2081. [PMID: 35385972 PMCID: PMC8986509 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-022-06125-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The USA has recently entered the third decade of the opioid epidemic. Opioid overdose deaths reached a new record of over 74,000 in a 12-month period ending April 2021. Naloxone is the primary opioid overdose reversal agent, but concern has been raised that naloxone is not efficacious against the pervasive illicit high potency opioids (i.e., fentanyl and fentanyl analogs). METHODS This narrative review provides a brief overview of naloxone, including its history and pharmacology, and the evidence regarding naloxone efficacy against fentanyl and fentanyl analogs. We also highlight current advances in overdose treatments and technologies that have been tested in humans. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS The argument that naloxone is not efficacious against fentanyl and fentanyl analogs rests on case studies, retrospective analyses of community outbreaks, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics. No well-controlled studies have been conducted to test this argument, and the current literature provides limited evidence to suggest that naloxone is ineffective against fentanyl or fentanyl analog overdose. Rather a central concern for treating fentanyl/fentanyl analog overdose is the rapidity of overdose onset and the narrow window for treatment. It is also difficult to determine if other non-opioid substances are contributing to a drug overdose, for which naloxone is not an effective treatment. Alternative pharmacological approaches that are currently being studied in humans include other opioid receptor antagonists (e.g., nalmefene), respiratory stimulants, and buprenorphine. None of these approaches target polysubstance overdose and only one novel approach (a wearable naloxone delivery device) would address the narrow treatment window.
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18
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McLeod KE, Xavier J, Okhowat A, Williams S, Korchinski M, Young P, Papamihali K, Martin RE, Monaghan A, Sharifi N, Buxton JA. Knowledge of the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act and possession of a naloxone kit among people recently released from prison. Int J Prison Health 2021; 18:43-54. [PMID: 34633774 DOI: 10.1108/ijph-04-2021-0033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aims to describe knowledge of Canada's Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act (GSDOA) and take home naloxone (THN) training and kit possession among people being released from provincial correctional facilities in British Columbia. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH The authors conducted surveys with clients of the Unlocking the Gates Peer Health Mentoring program on their release. The authors compared the characteristics of people who had and had not heard of the GSDOA and who were in possession of a THN kit. FINDINGS In this study, 71% people had heard of the GSDOA, and 55.6% were in possession of a THN kit. This study found that 99% of people who had heard of the GSDOA indicated that they would call 911 if they saw an overdose. Among people who perceived themselves to be at risk of overdose, 28.3% did not have a THN kit. Only half (52%) of participants had a mobile phone, but 100% of those with a phone said they would call 911 if they witnessed an overdose. ORIGINALITY/VALUE The authors found that people with knowledge of the GSDOA were likely to report that they would call 911 for help with an overdose. Education about the GSDOA should be a standard component of naloxone training in correctional facilities. More than one in four people at risk of overdose were released without a naloxone kit, highlighting opportunities for training and distribution. Access to a cellphone is important in enabling calls to 911 and should be included in discharge planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine E McLeod
- School of Population and Public Health, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | | | - Ali Okhowat
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | | | - Mo Korchinski
- School of Nursing, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver Canada and Unlocking the Gates Services Society, Maple Ridge, Canada
| | - Pamela Young
- School of Nursing, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver Canada and Unlocking the Gates Services Society, Maple Ridge, Canada
| | | | - Ruth Elwood Martin
- School of Population and Public Health, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Angus Monaghan
- Correctional Health Services, Provincial Health Services Authority, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Nader Sharifi
- Correctional Health Services, Provincial Health Services Authority, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Jane A Buxton
- School of Population and Public Health, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada and BC Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, Canada
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19
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Dezfulian C, Orkin AM, Maron BA, Elmer J, Girotra S, Gladwin MT, Merchant RM, Panchal AR, Perman SM, Starks MA, van Diepen S, Lavonas EJ. Opioid-Associated Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest: Distinctive Clinical Features and Implications for Health Care and Public Responses: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association. Circulation 2021; 143:e836-e870. [PMID: 33682423 DOI: 10.1161/cir.0000000000000958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Opioid overdose is the leading cause of death for Americans 25 to 64 years of age, and opioid use disorder affects >2 million Americans. The epidemiology of opioid-associated out-of-hospital cardiac arrest in the United States is changing rapidly, with exponential increases in death resulting from synthetic opioids and linear increases in heroin deaths more than offsetting modest reductions in deaths from prescription opioids. The pathophysiology of polysubstance toxidromes involving opioids, asphyxial death, and prolonged hypoxemia leading to global ischemia (cardiac arrest) differs from that of sudden cardiac arrest. People who use opioids may also develop bacteremia, central nervous system vasculitis and leukoencephalopathy, torsades de pointes, pulmonary vasculopathy, and pulmonary edema. Emergency management of opioid poisoning requires recognition by the lay public or emergency dispatchers, prompt emergency response, and effective ventilation coupled to compressions in the setting of opioid-associated out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. Effective ventilation is challenging to teach, whereas naloxone, an opioid antagonist, can be administered by emergency medical personnel, trained laypeople, and the general public with dispatcher instruction to prevent cardiac arrest. Opioid education and naloxone distributions programs have been developed to teach people who are likely to encounter a person with opioid poisoning how to administer naloxone, deliver high-quality compressions, and perform rescue breathing. Current American Heart Association recommendations call for laypeople and others who cannot reliably establish the presence of a pulse to initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation in any individual who is unconscious and not breathing normally; if opioid overdose is suspected, naloxone should also be administered. Secondary prevention, including counseling, opioid overdose education with take-home naloxone, and medication for opioid use disorder, is important to prevent recurrent opioid overdose.
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20
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McLeod KE, Slaunwhite AK, Zhao B, Moe J, Purssell R, Gan W, Xavier C, Kuo M, Mill C, Buxton JA, Scheuermeyer FX. Comparing mortality and healthcare utilization in the year following a paramedic-attended non-fatal overdose among people who were and were not transported to hospital: A prospective cohort study using linked administrative health data. Drug Alcohol Depend 2021; 218:108381. [PMID: 33158663 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2020.108381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Revised: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND As the overdose emergency continues in British Columbia (BC), paramedic-attended overdoses are increasing, as is the proportion of people not transported to hospital following an overdose. This study investigated risk of death and subsequent healthcare utilization for people who were and were not transported to hospital after a paramedic-attended non-fatal overdose. METHODS Using a linked administrative health data set which includes all overdoses that come into contact with health services in BC, we conducted a prospective cohort study of people who experienced a paramedic-attended non-fatal overdose between 2015 and 2016. People were followed for 365 days after the index event. The primary outcomes assessed were all-cause mortality and overdose-related death. Additionally, we examined healthcare utilization after the index event. RESULTS In this study, 8659 (84%) people were transported and 1644 (16%) were not transported to hospital at the index overdose event. There were 279 overdose deaths (2.7% of people, 59.4% of deaths) during follow-up. There was no significant difference in risk of overdose-related death, though people not transported had higher odds of a subsequent non-fatal overdose event captured in emergency department and outpatient records within 90 days. People transported to hospital had higher odds of using hospital and outpatient services for any reason within 365 days. CONCLUSIONS Transport to hospital after a non-fatal overdose is an opportunity to provide care for underlying and chronic conditions. There is a need to better understand factors that contribute to non-transport, particularly among people aged 20-59 and people without chronic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine E McLeod
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 2194 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada.
| | - Amanda K Slaunwhite
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 2194 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada; BC Centre for Disease Control, 655 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z4R4, Canada
| | - Bin Zhao
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 2194 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Jessica Moe
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 2194 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada; BC Centre for Disease Control, 655 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z4R4, Canada; Vancouver General Hospital, 899 W 12th Ave, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 1M9, Canada
| | - Roy Purssell
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 2194 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada; BC Centre for Disease Control, 655 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z4R4, Canada
| | - Wenqi Gan
- BC Centre for Disease Control, 655 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z4R4, Canada
| | - Chloé Xavier
- BC Centre for Disease Control, 655 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z4R4, Canada
| | - Margot Kuo
- BC Centre for Disease Control, 655 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z4R4, Canada
| | - Chris Mill
- Public Health Agency of Canada, 130 Colonnade Road A.L. 6501H, Ottawa, Ontario, K1A 0K9, Canada
| | - Jane A Buxton
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 2194 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada; BC Centre for Disease Control, 655 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z4R4, Canada
| | - Frank X Scheuermeyer
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 2194 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada; Providence Health Care, 1081 Burrard St, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
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21
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Jairam V, Yang DX, Yu JB, Park HS. Emergency Department Visits for Opioid Overdoses Among Patients With Cancer. J Natl Cancer Inst 2020; 112:938-943. [PMID: 31845985 PMCID: PMC7492769 DOI: 10.1093/jnci/djz233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2019] [Revised: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with cancer may be at risk of high opioid use due to physical and psychosocial factors, although little data exist to inform providers and policymakers. Our aim is to examine overdoses from opioids leading to emergency department (ED) visits among patients with cancer in the United States. METHODS The Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project Nationwide Emergency Department Sample was queried for all adult cancer-related patient visits with a primary diagnosis of opioid overdose between 2006 and 2015. Temporal trends and baseline differences between patients with and without opioid-related ED visits were evaluated. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to identify risk factors associated with opioid overdose. All statistical tests were two-sided. RESULTS Between 2006 and 2015, there were a weighted total of 35 339 opioid-related ED visits among patients with cancer. During this time frame, the incidence of opioid-related ED visits for overdose increased twofold (P < .001). On multivariable regression (P < .001), comorbid diagnoses of chronic pain (odds ratio [OR] 4.51, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 4.13 to 4.93), substance use disorder (OR = 3.54, 95% CI = 3.28 to 3.82), and mood disorder (OR = 3.40, 95% CI = 3.16 to 3.65) were strongly associated with an opioid-related visit. Patients with head and neck cancer (OR = 2.04, 95% CI = 1.82 to 2.28) and multiple myeloma (OR = 1.73, 95% CI = 1.32 to 2.26) were also at risk for overdose. CONCLUSIONS Over the study period, the incidence of opioid-related ED visits in patients with cancer increased approximately twofold. Comorbid diagnoses and primary disease site may predict risk for opioid overdose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vikram Jairam
- Department of Therapeutic Radiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Daniel X Yang
- Department of Therapeutic Radiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - James B Yu
- Department of Therapeutic Radiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Cancer Outcomes, Public Policy, and Effectiveness Research (COPPER) Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Henry S Park
- Department of Therapeutic Radiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Cancer Outcomes, Public Policy, and Effectiveness Research (COPPER) Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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22
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Naghian E, Marzi Khosrowshahi E, Sohouli E, Ahmadi F, Rahimi-Nasrabadi M, Safarifard V. A new electrochemical sensor for the detection of fentanyl lethal drug by a screen-printed carbon electrode modified with the open-ended channels of Zn(ii)-MOF. NEW J CHEM 2020. [DOI: 10.1039/d0nj01322f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
An electrochemical fentanyl sensor based on modified screen-printed carbon electrode by Zn(ii)-MOF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ebrahim Naghian
- Chemical Injuries Research Center
- Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute
- Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences
- Tehran
- Iran
| | | | - Esmail Sohouli
- Young Researchers and Elites Club, Science and Research Branch
- Islamic Azad University
- Tehran
- Iran
| | - Farhad Ahmadi
- Physiology Research Center
- Iran University of Medical Sciences
- Tehran
- Iran
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy-International Campus
| | - Mehdi Rahimi-Nasrabadi
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences
- Tehran
- Iran
- Department of Chemistry
- South Tehran Branch Islamic Azad University
| | - Vahid Safarifard
- Department of Chemistry
- Iran University of Science and Technology
- Tehran 16846-13114
- Iran
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Carpenter J, Murray BP, Atti S, Moran TP, Yancey A, Morgan B. Naloxone Dosing After Opioid Overdose in the Era of Illicitly Manufactured Fentanyl. J Med Toxicol 2020; 16:41-48. [PMID: 31471760 PMCID: PMC6942078 DOI: 10.1007/s13181-019-00735-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2019] [Revised: 08/01/2019] [Accepted: 08/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Illicitly manufactured fentanyl (IMF) is responsible for a growing number of deaths. Some case series have suggested that IMF overdoses require significantly higher naloxone doses than heroin overdoses. Our objective was to determine if the naloxone dose required to treat an opioid overdose is associated with the finding of fentanyl, opiates, or both on urine drug screen (UDS). METHODS A retrospective chart review was conducted at a single emergency department and its affiliated emergency medical services (EMS) agency. The charts of all patients who received naloxone through this EMS from 1/1/2017 to 6/15/2018 were reviewed. The study included patients diagnosed with a non-suicidal opioid overdose whose UDS was positive for opiates, fentanyl, or both. Data collected included demographics, vital signs, initial GCS, EMS and ED naloxone administrations, response to treatment, laboratory findings, and ED disposition. The fentanyl-only and fentanyl + opiate groups were compared to the opiate-only group using the stratified (by ED provider) variant of the Mann-Whitney U test. RESULTS Eight hundred and thirty-seven charts were reviewed, and 121 subjects were included in the final analysis. The median age of included subjects was 38 years and 75% were male. In the naloxone dose analysis, neither the fentanyl-only (median 0.8 mg, IQR 0.4-1.6; p = 0.68) nor the fentanyl + opiate (median 0.8 mg, IQR 0.4-1.2; p = 0.56) groups differed from the opiate-only group (median 0.58 mg, IQR 0.4-1.6). CONCLUSION Our findings refute the notion that high potency synthetic opioids like illicitly manufactured fentanyl require increased doses of naloxone to successfully treat an overdose. There were no significant differences in the dose of naloxone required to treat opioid overdose patients with UDS evidence of exposure to fentanyl, opiates, or both. Further evaluation of naloxone stocking and dosing protocols is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Carpenter
- Georgia Poison Center, 50 Hurt Plaza SE, Suite 600, Atlanta, GA, 30303, USA.
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | | | - Sukhshant Atti
- Georgia Poison Center, 50 Hurt Plaza SE, Suite 600, Atlanta, GA, 30303, USA
| | - Tim P Moran
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Arthur Yancey
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Brent Morgan
- Georgia Poison Center, 50 Hurt Plaza SE, Suite 600, Atlanta, GA, 30303, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
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24
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Joseph JW, Marshall KD, Reich BE, Boyle KL, Hill KP, Weiner SG, Derse AR. How Emergency Physicians Approach Refusal of Observation after Naloxone Resuscitation. J Emerg Med 2020; 58:148-159. [PMID: 31753755 DOI: 10.1016/j.jemermed.2019.09.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2019] [Revised: 09/03/2019] [Accepted: 09/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients who are resuscitated with naloxone frequently refuse a period of observation, even though they may be suffering from a variety of medical and psychiatric comorbidities. Emergency physicians (EPs) are then confronted with the challenge of how best to serve patients' interests while respecting autonomy. OBJECTIVES We sought to characterize how EPs think about this kind of dilemma and the strategies they use to resolve them. METHODS We conducted qualitative semi-structured interviews with a convenience sample of 59 emergency physicians attending the American College of Emergency Physicians' Scientific Assembly in October 2018. Three case vignettes highlighting different clinical and ethical features served as prompts. Interviews were analyzed using a constant comparative method to identify patterns of responses and derive key themes. RESULTS Across the vignettes, EPs demonstrated diverse approaches to observation, assessing decision-making capacity and encouraging compliance. Some EPs refused to comply with a patient's wishes even when they had determined a patient demonstrated capacity. Conversely, a few EPs were willing to allow patients to leave the emergency department (ED) without assessing capacity, or despite determining that the patient lacked capacity. Common reasons for complying with patients' demands were concerns about the patients' rights and concerns about the safety of staff. Most physicians interviewed reported no institutional guidelines or education on the topic, and many physicians expressed an interest in providing medication for addiction treatment in the ED. CONCLUSIONS EPs approach this clinical and ethical dilemma in widely divergent ways. Consensus about strategies for navigating patients' wishes relative to clinical concerns are needed to help EPs manage these challenging cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua W Joseph
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts; Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Kenneth D Marshall
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Kansas Health System, Kansas City, Kansas; University of Kansas Medical School, Kansas City, Kansas
| | - Betzalel E Reich
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Katherine L Boyle
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts; Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Kevin P Hill
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Division of Addiction Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Scott G Weiner
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Emergency Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Arthur R Derse
- Center for Bioethics and Medical Humanities, Institute for Health and Society, Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Department of Emergency Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
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Emergency Department Initiation of Buprenorphine for Opioid Use Disorder: Current Status, and Future Potential. CNS Drugs 2019; 33:1147-1154. [PMID: 31552608 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-019-00667-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Patients experiencing the consequences of opioid use often present to the emergency department (ED) at times of crisis, such as following overdose or when in withdrawal. This highlights the important role of the ED in recognizing opioid use disorder and engaging these patients into ongoing treatment. Given the limited ability of the healthcare system to provide timely addiction treatment, initiation of therapy in the ED, with referral to long-term care, is associated with improved outcomes. The primary evidence-based treatment used in EDs for this indication is buprenorphine. Although clinicians may find the initiation of buprenorphine therapy daunting, it is straightforward and well-tolerated, and many of the barriers are surmountable. This article addresses these barriers, which include stigma, complicated pharmacology, and confusing regulations, and provides a basis for the use of buprenorphine in acute care clinical practice.
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The rising crisis of illicit fentanyl use, overdose, and potential therapeutic strategies. Transl Psychiatry 2019; 9:282. [PMID: 31712552 PMCID: PMC6848196 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-019-0625-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Revised: 10/10/2019] [Accepted: 10/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Fentanyl is a powerful opioid anesthetic and analgesic, the use of which has caused an increasing public health threat in the United States and elsewhere. Fentanyl was initially approved and used for the treatment of moderate to severe pain, especially cancer pain. However, recent years have seen a growing concern that fentanyl and its analogs are widely synthesized in laboratories and adulterated with illicit supplies of heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, and counterfeit pills, contributing to the exponential growth in the number of drug-related overdose deaths. This review summarizes the recent epidemic and evolution of illicit fentanyl use, its pharmacological mechanisms and side effects, and the potential clinical management and prevention of fentanyl-related overdoses. Because social, economic, and health problems that are related to the use of fentanyl and its analogs are growing, there is an urgent need to implement large-scale safe and effective harm reduction strategies to prevent fentanyl-related overdoses.
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Santos C, Adam A, Calello D, Nelson L. Safety of a Brief Emergency Department Observation Protocol for Patients With Presumed Fentanyl Overdose. Ann Emerg Med 2019; 73:99-100. [PMID: 30577966 DOI: 10.1016/j.annemergmed.2018.10.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia Santos
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, New Jersey Poison Information and Education System, Newark, NJ
| | - Adeeb Adam
- Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, Newark, NJ
| | - Diane Calello
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, New Jersey Poison Information and Education System, Newark, NJ
| | - Lewis Nelson
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, New Jersey Poison Information and Education System, Newark, NJ
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Shastry S, Yeo J, Richardson LD, Manini AF. Observation unit management of low-risk emergency department patients with acute drug overdose. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2019; 58:773-776. [PMID: 31550920 DOI: 10.1080/15563650.2019.1666986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Observation units (OU) are being increasingly used within the Emergency Department (ED) to optimize care and reduce costs, but their use for management of overdose patients is unclear. The present study examined demographics, disposition and outcomes for ED overdose patients managed in an OU.Methods: This was a secondary analysis of a prospective consecutive cohort of adult overdose patients managed in an OU in a single ED from March 2015 to September 2018. The primary composite study outcome was occurrence of any advanced airway intervention, adverse cardiovascular events (ACVE), or mortality. Secondary outcomes were disposition and return visits.Results: Of 946 patients screened, 648 were included in the cohort. Of 132 patients requiring additional medical management after the ED visit, 25 (18.9%) were managed in the OU; 88% of OU patients were discharged home, no patients required airway management, one patient experienced an ACVE requiring admission, and there were no deaths. Three OU patients (12%) had 30-day return visits.Conclusion: In this study, almost one-fifth of patients requiring additional medical management after the ED visit qualified for a low-risk drug overdose OU pathway. Overdoses from a variety of substances were safely managed with acceptably low adverse event rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siri Shastry
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jonathan Yeo
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lynne D Richardson
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 3 East 101st Street, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10128, USA
| | - Alex F Manini
- Division of Medical Toxicology, Department of Emergency Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine, Elmhurst Hospital Center, New York, NY, USA
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Herring AA, Perrone J, Nelson LS. Managing Opioid Withdrawal in the Emergency Department With Buprenorphine. Ann Emerg Med 2019; 73:481-487. [DOI: 10.1016/j.annemergmed.2018.11.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Karamouzian M, Kuo M, Crabtree A, Buxton JA. Correlates of seeking emergency medical help in the event of an overdose in British Columbia, Canada: Findings from the Take Home Naloxone program. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2019; 71:157-163. [PMID: 30691944 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2019.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2018] [Revised: 12/28/2018] [Accepted: 01/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND British Columbia (BC), Canada, is experiencing an unprecedented number of opioid overdoses mainly due to the contamination of illicit drugs with fentanyl and its analogues. Reluctance to seek emergency medical help (i.e., by calling 9-1-1) has been identified as a barrier to optimal care for overdose victims. This study aimed to identify the correlates of seeking help during an overdose event when naloxone was administered via BC's Take Home Naloxone (THN) program. METHODS In this cross-sectional study, we reviewed administrative records (from July 2015 to December 2017) about overdose events submitted by THN participants when they received their replacement naloxone kits (n = 2350). The primary outcome of the study was reported calling 9-1-1 and modified Poisson regression models were built to investigate the factors associated with help-seeking during an overdose event. RESULTS Most overdose victims were men (69.0%) and >30 years old (61.5%). Overall, participants reported calling 9-1-1 in 1310 (55.7%) overdose events. In the multivariable model, the likelihood of calling 9-1-1 was significantly and positively associated with the overdose victim being male and receiving rescue breathing. The likelihood of calling 9-1-1 was significantly and negatively associated with the overdoses occurring in private residences and health regions other than Vancouver Coastal which delivers services to mostly urban residents. CONCLUSION Overall, medical help was sought for 55.7% of overdoses where naloxone was administered. Overdoses occurring among male victims as well as those receiving higher doses of naloxone and mouth-to-mouth rescue breathing were associated with a higher likelihood of help-seeking by responders. Future interventions need to encourage people who witness an overdose to seek emergency medical help.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Karamouzian
- School of Population and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada; HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Margot Kuo
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Alexis Crabtree
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jane A Buxton
- School of Population and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
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Kuczyńska K, Grzonkowski P, Kacprzak Ł, Zawilska JB. Abuse of fentanyl: An emerging problem to face. Forensic Sci Int 2018; 289:207-214. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2018.05.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2018] [Revised: 05/22/2018] [Accepted: 05/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
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Li K, Armenian P, Mason J, Grock A. Narcan or Nar-can’t: Tips and Tricks to Safely Reversing Opioid Toxicity. Ann Emerg Med 2018; 72:9-11. [DOI: 10.1016/j.annemergmed.2018.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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Doran KM, Raja AS, Samuels EA. Opioid Overdose Protocols in the Emergency Department: Are We Asking the Right Questions? Ann Emerg Med 2018; 72:12-15. [DOI: 10.1016/j.annemergmed.2018.05.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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