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Darlington CK, Lipsky RK, Teitelman AM, Koblin BA, Davis A, Walcott M, Compton PA, Tieu HV. HIV risk perception, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) awareness, and PrEP initiation intention among women who use drugs. JOURNAL OF SUBSTANCE USE AND ADDICTION TREATMENT 2023; 152:209119. [PMID: 37451517 PMCID: PMC10529693 DOI: 10.1016/j.josat.2023.209119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Women who use drugs (WWUD) are prime candidates for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) due to their elevated risk of acquiring HIV through biological, behavioral, and contextual factors. However, PrEP uptake among WWUD remains low. The relationship between unhealthy drug use and correlates of PrEP uptake in this vulnerable population is not well defined. The purpose of this study is to characterize the relationships between specific types and routes of drug use and several precursors of PrEP uptake among WWUD. METHODS The study collected data via a computer-based survey from 233 women living in New York City and Philadelphia who participated in a study designed to develop and pilot a women-focused intervention for PrEP uptake. The sample of cisgender, HIV-negative women were not currently taking PrEP but considered PrEP eligible. This analysis is focused on women's HIV risk perception, PrEP awareness, PrEP initiation intention, and any use of the following drugs: barbiturates, benzodiazepines, crack cocaine, powder cocaine, hallucinogens, heroin, methamphetamines, and prescription opioids. RESULTS Within the three months prior to study enrollment, 63.1 % of participants reported any drug use; 42 % reported polydrug use; 19.8 % had injected drugs; 75 % reported getting high or drunk before sex; and 44 % had been enrolled in drug treatment. Of our total sample, 41.2 % perceived themselves at risk for HIV infection, 41.6 % were aware of PrEP prior to the study, and 62.7 % intended to initiate PrEP after they were informed. When compared to other PrEP-eligible women, women who reported prescription opioid use and polydrug use perceived themselves at higher risk for HIV infection and had higher intention to start PrEP. However, they and women who reported injecting drugs also reported lower awareness of PrEP. CONCLUSION These findings have implications for increasing education about PrEP and the various modes of HIV exposure to support PrEP uptake in this vulnerable population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Anne M Teitelman
- University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Thomas Jefferson University, College of Nursing, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Annet Davis
- University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Melonie Walcott
- Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention, Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute, New York Blood Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Peggy A Compton
- University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Hong-Van Tieu
- Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention, Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute, New York Blood Center, New York, NY, USA; Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
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Zamboni L, Portoghese I, Congiu A, Zandonai T, Casari R, Fusina F, Bertoldi A, Lugoboni F. Polysubstance Use Patterns Among High Dose Benzodiazepine Users: A Latent Class Analysis and Differences Between Male and Female Use. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:811130. [PMID: 35145442 PMCID: PMC8821140 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.811130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Benzodiazepines (BZDs) represent one of the most widely used groups of pharmaceuticals, but if used for long periods of time they are associated with dependence and an increased risk of harmful effects. High-dose (HD) BZD dependence is a specific substance use disorder associated with a poor quality of life. It is especially important to pinpoint differences in HD BZD addict subgroups in order to tailor treatment to the individual's specific needs, also considering possible comorbidities with other substance use disorders. We conducted a study to evaluate HD BZD dependence (converted doses to diazepam equivalents, mg) in an Italian sample of 1,354 participants. We also investigated if and to which extent participants co-used other substances (alcohol, tobacco, cannabis/cannabinoids, cocaine, and heroin). We then performed latent class analysis (LCA) to identify the use patterns of these substances, finding three classes: participants in Class 1 (4.3% of the sample) had the highest probability of also using cocaine and alcohol (Polysubstance BZD users); Class 2 comprised subjects with the highest probability of being former heroin, cocaine, THC, and alcohol users (Former polysubstance BZD users); Class 3 represented mono-dependence BZD users (78.5% of the sample) and was the most prevalent among women, while young men were most prevalent in Class 1. The present study underlines different characteristics in HD BZD users both concerning other addictions and sex, and also highlights the need for a stricter control of BZD use, ranging from prescriptions to sales.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Zamboni
- Unit of Addiction Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Integrated University Hospital of Verona, Policlinico "G.B. Rossi", Verona, Italy.,Department of Neurosciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Igor Portoghese
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Alessio Congiu
- Unit of Addiction Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Integrated University Hospital of Verona, Policlinico "G.B. Rossi", Verona, Italy
| | - Thomas Zandonai
- Department of Sport Sciences, Sports Research Centre, Miguel Hernández University, Elche, Spain.,Neuropharmacology on Pain and Functional Diversity (NED), Institute of Health and Biomedical Research of Alicante (ISABIAL), Alicante, Spain
| | - Rebecca Casari
- Unit of Addiction Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Integrated University Hospital of Verona, Policlinico "G.B. Rossi", Verona, Italy
| | - Francesca Fusina
- Padova Neuroscience Center, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.,Department of General Psychology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Anna Bertoldi
- Unit of Addiction Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Integrated University Hospital of Verona, Policlinico "G.B. Rossi", Verona, Italy
| | - Fabio Lugoboni
- Unit of Addiction Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Integrated University Hospital of Verona, Policlinico "G.B. Rossi", Verona, Italy
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Lin A, Elbezanti WO, Schirling A, Ahmed A, Van Duyne R, Cocklin S, Klase Z. Alprazolam Prompts HIV-1 Transcriptional Reactivation and Enhances CTL Response Through RUNX1 Inhibition and STAT5 Activation. Front Neurol 2021; 12:663793. [PMID: 34367046 PMCID: PMC8339301 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.663793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The HIV-1 pandemic is a significant challenge to the field of medicine. Despite advancements in antiretroviral (ART) development, 38 million people worldwide still live with this disease without a cure. A significant barrier to the eradication of HIV-1 lies in the persistently latent pool that establishes early in the infection. The “shock and kill” strategy relies on the discovery of a latency-reversing agent (LRA) that can robustly reactivate the latent pool and not limit immune clearance. We have found that a benzodiazepine (BDZ), that is commonly prescribed for panic and anxiety disorder, to be an ideal candidate for latency reversal. The BDZ Alprazolam functions as an inhibitor of the transcription factor RUNX1, which negatively regulates HIV-1 transcription. In addition to the displacement of RUNX1 from the HIV-1 5′LTR, Alprazolam potentiates the activation of STAT5 and its recruitment to the viral promoter. The activation of STAT5 in cytotoxic T cells may enable immune activation which is independent of the IL-2 receptor. These findings have significance for the potential use of Alprazolam in a curative strategy and to addressing the neuroinflammation associated with neuroHIV-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angel Lin
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of the Sciences, Philadelphia, PA, United States.,Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Weam Othman Elbezanti
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of the Sciences, Philadelphia, PA, United States.,Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Alexis Schirling
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of the Sciences, Philadelphia, PA, United States.,HIV-1 Dynamics and Replication Program, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Adel Ahmed
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Rachel Van Duyne
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Simon Cocklin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Zachary Klase
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States.,Center for Neuroimmunology and CNS Therapeutics, Institute of Molecular Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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4
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Ordak M, Nasierowski T, Muszynska E, Bujalska-Zadrozny M. Psychoactive Substances Taken with Mephedrone and HCV Infection. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10153218. [PMID: 34362002 PMCID: PMC8348849 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10153218] [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: 05/14/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: In recent years, the observed frequency of hospitalization of patients taking mephedrone with other psychoactive substances has increased. There are no data in the literature on the effect of mephedrone use on liver function in patients, including the frequency of HCV infection. We have analysed the impact of taking mephedrone together with other psychoactive substances on the incidence of HCV infection. We have also analysed the effect of taking mephedrone with heroin, alcohol, and benzodiazepines on liver enzyme levels. Methods: The study included patients taking mephedrone with: alcohol (n = 115), heroin (n = 85) and benzodiazepines (n = 130) hospitalized in 2010–2018. The control group consisted of patients addicted to alcohol (n = 180), heroin (n = 221) and benzodiazepines (n = 152). Clinical data and laboratory findings were collected from medical records. Results: Taking mephedrone together with benzodiazepines is a statistically significant predictor of HCV infection in this group of patients, OR (8.44); 95% CI 5.63–12.64; p < 0.001). A statistically significant interaction of the group with HCV infection was observed, i.e., for the level of alanine transaminase (p < 0.001) and aspartate transaminase (p < 0.001). Increased levels of liver enzymes in each of the studied groups was characteristic in patients with HCV infection (p < 0.001). Taking additional mephedrone by this group of patients did not increase the level of liver enzymes. Conclusion: HCV infection is a statistically significant factor affecting the increase in liver enzymes levels in the group of patients taking mephedrone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Ordak
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Centre for Preclinical, Research and Technology (CePT), Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland;
- Correspondence:
| | - Tadeusz Nasierowski
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Elzbieta Muszynska
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical University of Bialystok, 15-089 Bialystok, Poland;
| | - Magdalena Bujalska-Zadrozny
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Centre for Preclinical, Research and Technology (CePT), Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland;
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Mocanu V, Cowan N, Klimas J, Ahamad K, Wood E. Modernizing Withdrawal Management Services. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF ADDICTION 2021. [DOI: 10.1097/cxa.0000000000000113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Votaw VR, McHugh RK, Vowles KE, Witkiewitz K. Patterns of Polysubstance Use among Adults with Tranquilizer Misuse. Subst Use Misuse 2020; 55:861-870. [PMID: 31900021 PMCID: PMC7166167 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2019.1708118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Background: The misuse of benzodiazepine tranquilizers is prevalent and is associated with increased risk of overdose when combined with other substances. Yet, little is known about other substance use among those who misuse tranquilizers. Objectives: This study characterized subgroups of individuals with tranquilizer misuse, based on patterns of polysubstance use. Methods: Data were extracted from the 2015-2017 National Survey on Drug Use and Health; adults with past-month tranquilizer misuse were included (N = 1253). We utilized latent class analysis to identify patterns of polysubstance use in the previous month. Results: We identified three distinct latent classes, including the: (1) limited polysubstance use class (approximately 54.6% of the sample), (2) binge alcohol and cannabis use class (28.5% of the sample), and (3) opioid use class (16.9% of the sample). The binge alcohol and cannabis use class and the opioid use class were characterized by high probabilities of other substance misuse, including cocaine and prescription stimulants. Those in the binge alcohol and cannabis use class and the opioid use class reported more motives for tranquilizer misuse and higher rates of sexually transmitted infection, criminal involvement, and suicidal ideation. Those in the opioid use class also had greater psychological distress and higher rates of injection drug use. Conclusions: Nearly half of those with tranquilizer misuse in a general population sample were categorized into one of two high polysubstance use classes, and these two classes were associated with poorer functioning. Findings from these analyses underscore the need to reduce polysubstance use among those who misuse tranquilizers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria R Votaw
- Department of Psychology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA.,Center on Alcoholism, Substance Abuse, and Addictions, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - R Kathryn McHugh
- Division of Alcohol and Drug Abuse, McLean Hospital, Belmont, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kevin E Vowles
- Department of Psychology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Katie Witkiewitz
- Department of Psychology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA.,Center on Alcoholism, Substance Abuse, and Addictions, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
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Votaw VR, Geyer R, Rieselbach MM, McHugh RK. The epidemiology of benzodiazepine misuse: A systematic review. Drug Alcohol Depend 2019; 200:95-114. [PMID: 31121495 PMCID: PMC6639084 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2019.02.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 222] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2018] [Revised: 02/22/2019] [Accepted: 02/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Benzodiazepine misuse is a growing public health problem, with increases in benzodiazepine-related overdose deaths and emergency room visits in recent years. However, relatively little attention has been paid to this emergent problem. We systematically reviewed epidemiological studies on benzodiazepine misuse to identify key findings, limitations, and future directions for research. METHODS PubMed and PsychINFO databases were searched through February 2019 for peer-reviewed publications on benzodiazepine misuse (e.g., use without a prescription; at a higher frequency or dose than prescribed). Eligibility criteria included human studies that focused on the prevalence, trends, correlates, motives, patterns, sources, and consequences of benzodiazepine misuse. RESULTS The search identified 1970 publications, and 351 articles were eligible for data extraction and inclusion. In 2017, benzodiazepines and other tranquilizers were the third most commonly misused illicit or prescription drug in the U.S. (approximately 2.2% of the population). Worldwide rates of misuse appear to be similar to those reported in the U.S. Factors associated with misuse include other substance use, receipt of a benzodiazepine prescription, and psychiatric symptoms and disorders. Benzodiazepine misuse encompasses heterogeneous presentations of motives, patterns, and sources. Moreover, misuse is associated with myriad poor outcomes, including mortality, HIV/HCV risk behaviors, poor self-reported quality of life, criminality, and continued substance use during treatment. CONCLUSIONS Benzodiazepine misuse is a worldwide public health concern that is associated with a number of concerning consequences. Findings from the present review have implications for identifying subgroups who could benefit from prevention and treatment efforts, critical points for intervention, and treatment targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria R. Votaw
- Department of Psychology, University of New Mexico, MSC 03-2220, Albuquerque, NM, USA,Corresponding author: Victoria R. Votaw, Clinical Psychology Ph.D. Student Department of Psychology, University of New Mexico, Logan Hall, 1 University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131,
| | - Rachel Geyer
- Division of Alcohol and Drug Abuse, McLean Hospital, 115 Mill Street, Belmont, MA, USA
| | - Maya M. Rieselbach
- Department of Psychiatry, McLean Hospital, 115 Mill Street, Belmont, MA, USA
| | - R. Kathryn McHugh
- Division of Alcohol and Drug Abuse, McLean Hospital, 115 Mill Street, Belmont, MA, USA,Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, 401 Park Drive, Boston, MA, USA
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8
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Kim DH, Kim HB, Kim YH, Kim JY. Use of Hypnotics and Risk of Cancer: A Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies. Korean J Fam Med 2018; 39:211-218. [PMID: 29973038 PMCID: PMC6056405 DOI: 10.4082/kjfm.17.0025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2017] [Accepted: 04/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Previous observational epidemiological studies have shown inconsistent results on the relationship between hypnotics use and risk of cancer. To determine the association between hypnotics use and risk of cancer, we conducted a meta-analysis of available literature. METHODS We searched databases PubMed, EMBASE, and the bibliographies of relevant articles to locate additional publications in February 2016. Three evaluators independently reviewed and selected eligible studies based on pre-determined selection criteria. RESULTS A total of six observational epidemiological studies including three case-control studies and three cohort studies, which involved 1,830,434 participants (202,629 hypnotics users and 1,627,805 non-users), were included in the final analyses. In a random-effects meta-analysis, compared with non-use of hypnotics, the odds ratio for overall hypnotics use was 1.29 for various cancers (95% confidence interval, 1.08-1.53). Subgroup meta-analyses by various factors such as study design, type of case-control study, study region, and methodological quality of study revealed consistent findings. CONCLUSION Our findings from a meta-analysis of low-biased epidemiological studies suggested evidence linking the use of hypnotics to an increased risk of cancers. The results should be cautiously interpreted because of considerable heterogeneity with a high I square value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Do-Hyoung Kim
- Department of Family Medicine, MyongJi Hospital, Goyang, Korea
| | - Hong-Bae Kim
- Department of Family Medicine, MyongJi Hospital, Goyang, Korea.,Department of Family Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young-Hyo Kim
- Department of Family Medicine, MyongJi Hospital, Goyang, Korea
| | - Ja-Young Kim
- Department of Family Medicine, MyongJi Hospital, Goyang, Korea
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Kim YH, Kim HB, Kim DH, Kim JY, Shin HY. Use of hypnotics and the risk of or mortality from heart disease: a meta-analysis of observational studies. Korean J Intern Med 2018; 33:727-736. [PMID: 28844123 PMCID: PMC6030407 DOI: 10.3904/kjim.2016.282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2016] [Accepted: 02/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Some observational epidemiologic studies have reported conflicting results on the relationship between hypnotics use and the risk of developing and/or dying from heart disease. We investigated these associations using a meta-analysis of available literatures. METHODS We searched the databases PubMed and EMBASE, along with the bibliographies of relevant articles to find additional publications in February 2016. RESULTS Of 495 articles satisfying our initial criteria, two case-control studies and six cohort studies met our inclusion criteria and were included in the final analyses. Compared with never having used any kind of hypnotics, the odds ratio for overall use was 0.84 for risk of or mortality from heart disease (95% confidence interval, 0.79 to 0.89) in a random-effects meta-analysis of all eight studies. With respect to the geographical region, use of hypnotics was associated with a decreased risk or mortality of heart disease in Asia but not in Western countries. Among various types of sleep medications, zolpidem showed a decreased risk (-29%) of developing or dying from heart disease, but benzodiazepines were related with an increased risk (80%) of or mortality from heart disease. CONCLUSIONS The current meta-analysis of observational epidemiological studies suggested an evidence of association between hypnotics use and a decreased risk of heart disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young-Hyo Kim
- Department of Family Medicine, Myongji Hospital, Goyang, Korea
| | - Hong-Bae Kim
- Department of Family Medicine, Myongji Hospital, Goyang, Korea
- Department of Family Medicine, Yonsei University Graduate School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Correspondence to Hong-Bae Kim, M.D. Department of Family Medicine, Myongji Hospital, 55 Hwasu-ro 14beon-gil, Deokyang-gu, Goyang 10475, Korea Tel: +82-31-810-5420 Fax: +82-31-969-0500 E-mail:
| | - Do-Hyoung Kim
- Department of Family Medicine, Myongji Hospital, Goyang, Korea
| | - Ja-Young Kim
- Department of Family Medicine, Myongji Hospital, Goyang, Korea
| | - Hyun-Young Shin
- Department of Family Medicine, Myongji Hospital, Goyang, Korea
- Department of Family Medicine, Yonsei University Graduate School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Bouvier BA, Waye KM, Elston B, Hadland SE, Green TC, Marshall BDL. Prevalence and correlates of benzodiazepine use and misuse among young adults who use prescription opioids non-medically. Drug Alcohol Depend 2018; 183:73-77. [PMID: 29241103 PMCID: PMC5803376 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2017.10.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2017] [Revised: 10/23/2017] [Accepted: 10/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Benzodiazepine use dramatically increases the risk of unintentional overdose among people who use opioids non-medically. However, little is known about the patterns of co-occurring benzodiazepine and opioid use among young adults in the United States. METHODS The Rhode Island Young Adult Prescription Drug Study (RAPiDS) was a cross-sectional study from January 2015-February 2016. RAPiDS recruited 200 young adults aged 18-29 who reported past 30-day non-medical prescription opioid (NMPO) use. Using Wilcoxon rank sum test and Fisher's exact test, we examined correlates associated with regular prescribed and non-medical use (defined as at least monthly) of benzodiazepines among NMPO users in Rhode Island. RESULTS Among participants, 171 (85.5%) reported lifetime benzodiazepine use and 125 (62.5%) reported regular benzodiazepine use. Nearly all (n=121, 96.8%) reported non-medical use and 43 (34.4%) reported prescribed use. Compared to the 75 participants who did not regularly use benzodiazepines, participants who reported regular use were more likely to be white (66.3% vs. 58.0%, p=0.03), have ever been incarcerated (52.8% vs. 37.3%, p=0.04), and have ever been diagnosed with a psychiatric disorder (bipolar: 29.6% vs. 16.0%, p=0.04; anxiety: 56.8 vs. 36.0%, p=0.01). Although the association was marginally significant, accidental overdose was higher among those who were prescribed the benzodiazepine they used most frequently compared to those who were not (41.9% vs. 24.4%, p=0.06). CONCLUSION Benzodiazepine use and misuse are highly prevalent among young adult NMPO users. Harm reduction and prevention programs for this population are urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin A Bouvier
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, 121 South Main Street, Box G-S-121-2, Providence, RI, 02912, USA
| | - Katherine M Waye
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, 121 South Main Street, Box G-S-121-2, Providence, RI, 02912, USA
| | - Beth Elston
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, 121 South Main Street, Box G-S-121-2, Providence, RI, 02912, USA
| | - Scott E Hadland
- Boston Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, 850 Harrison Avenue, Boston, MA, 02118, USA; Boston University School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Division of General Pediatrics, 88 East Newton Street, Vose Hall Room 322, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
| | - Traci C Green
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, 121 South Main Street, Box G-S-121-2, Providence, RI, 02912, USA; Boston Medical Center Injury Prevention Center and Boston University School of Medicine, Department of Emergency Medicine, 771 Albany Street, Room 1332, Boston, MA, 02118, USA; The Warren Alpert School of Medicine of Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, 55 Claverick Street, Providence, RI 02903, USA
| | - Brandon D L Marshall
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, 121 South Main Street, Box G-S-121-2, Providence, RI, 02912, USA.
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Walton G, Dong H, Milloy MJ, DeBeck K, Kerr T, Wood E, Hayashi K. Increasing availability of benzodiazepines among people who inject drugs in a Canadian setting. Subst Abus 2018; 39:69-76. [PMID: 28727956 DOI: 10.1080/08897077.2017.1356798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [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
BACKGROUND Benzodiazepine misuse is associated with mortality and is common among people who inject drugs (PWID). This study aimed to examine the temporal trends in the availability of benzodiazepines among PWID in a Canadian setting, and to identify factors associated with more immediate access to benzodiazepines. METHODS Data were derived from 3 prospective cohorts of PWID in Vancouver, Canada, between June 2012 and May 2015. The primary outcome was the perceived availability of benzodiazepines, measured in 3 levels: not available, delayed availability (available in ≥10 minutes), and immediate availability (available in <10 minutes). The authors used multivariable generalized estimating equations to identify factors associated with availability of benzodiazepines. RESULTS In total, 1641 individuals were included in these analyses. In multivariable analyses, factors associated with immediate benzodiazepine availability included incarceration (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 1.42, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.06, 1.89) and participation in methadone maintenance therapy (MMT) (AOR: 1.35, 95% CI: 1.14, 1.60). Factors associated with delayed benzodiazepine availability included incarceration (AOR: 1.45, 95% CI: 1.02, 2.07) and participation in MMT (AOR: 1.77, 95% CI: 1.48, 2.12). Benzodiazepine availability increased throughout the study period for both immediate (AOR: 1.14, 95% CI: 1.10, 1.18 per 6-month follow-up period) and delayed (AOR: 1.17, 95% CI: 1.12, 1.22 per 6-month follow-up period) availability. CONCLUSIONS Among our sample of PWID, benzodiazepine availability is increasing and was associated with health and criminal justice system characteristics. Our findings indicate a need to examine prescribing practices and educate both PWID and health care providers about the risks associated with benzodiazepine use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geoffrey Walton
- a British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital , Vancouver , British Columbia , Canada.,b Department of Medicine , University of British Columbia , Vancouver , British Columbia , Canada
| | - Huiru Dong
- a British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital , Vancouver , British Columbia , Canada
| | - M J Milloy
- a British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital , Vancouver , British Columbia , Canada.,b Department of Medicine , University of British Columbia , Vancouver , British Columbia , Canada
| | - Kora DeBeck
- a British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital , Vancouver , British Columbia , Canada.,c School of Public Policy , Simon Fraser University , Vancouver , British Columbia , Canada
| | - Thomas Kerr
- a British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital , Vancouver , British Columbia , Canada
| | - Evan Wood
- a British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital , Vancouver , British Columbia , Canada.,b Department of Medicine , University of British Columbia , Vancouver , British Columbia , Canada
| | - Kanna Hayashi
- a British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital , Vancouver , British Columbia , Canada.,d Faculty of Health Sciences , Simon Fraser University , Burnaby , British Columbia , Canada
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12
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Kim HB, Myung SK, Park YC, Park B. Use of benzodiazepine and risk of cancer: A meta-analysis of observational studies. Int J Cancer 2016; 140:513-525. [PMID: 27667780 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.30443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2016] [Accepted: 09/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Several observational epidemiological studies have reported inconsistent results on the association between the use of benzodiazepine and the risk of cancer. We investigated the association by using a meta-analysis. We searched PubMed, EMBASE, and the bibliographies of relevant articles to locate additional publications in January 2016. Three evaluators independently reviewed and selected eligible studies based on predetermined selection criteria. Of 796 articles meeting our initial criteria, a total of 22 observational epidemiological studies with 18 case-control studies and 4 cohort studies were included in the final analysis. Benzodiazepine use was significantly associated with an increased risk of cancer (odds ratio [OR] or relative risk [RR] 1.19; 95% confidence interval 1.16-1.21) in a random-effects meta-analysis of all studies. Subgroup meta-analyses by various factors such as study design, type of case-control study, study region, and methodological quality of study showed consistent findings. Also, a significant dose-response relationship was observed between the use of benzodiazepine and the risk of cancer (p for trend <0.01). The current meta-analysis of observational epidemiological studies suggests that benzodiazepine use is associated with an increased risk of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Bae Kim
- Department of Family Medicine, MyongJi Hospital, 14-55 Hwasu-ro, Deokyang-gu, Goyang, Gyeonggi-do, 10475, Republic of Korea.,Department of Family Medicine, School of Medicine, Yonsei University, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemoon-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Kwon Myung
- Department of Cancer Control and Policy, Graduate School of Cancer Science and Policy, National Cancer Center, 323 Ilsan-ro, Ilsandong-gu, Goyang, Gyeonggi-do, 10408, Republic of Korea.,Molecular Epidemiology Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Prevention, Research Institute, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Republic of Korea.,Department of Family Medicine and Center for Cancer Prevention and Detection, Hospital, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Republic of Korea
| | - Yon Chul Park
- Department of Family Medicine, School of Medicine, Yonsei University, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemoon-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea.,Department of Family Medicine, Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, 20 Ilsan-ro, Wonju, Gangwon-do, 220-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Byoungjin Park
- Department of Family Medicine, School of Medicine, Yonsei University, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemoon-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea.,Department of Family Medicine, Yongin Severance Hospital, 225 Gumhak-ro, Cheoin-gu, Yongin, Gyeonggi-do, 17046, Republic of Korea
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13
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Murphy Y, Wilson E, Goldner EM, Fischer B. Benzodiazepine Use, Misuse, and Harm at the Population Level in Canada: A Comprehensive Narrative Review of Data and Developments Since 1995. Clin Drug Investig 2016; 36:519-30. [DOI: 10.1007/s40261-016-0397-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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