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Lu A, Kim C, Rosen JG, Thompson E, Tardif J, Welwean R, Park JN. Supervised Inhalation Sites: Preventing Overdose and Reducing Health Inequities among People Who Use Drugs. Subst Use Misuse 2024; 59:520-526. [PMID: 38044494 PMCID: PMC10922979 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2023.2287195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Policy and research on the implementation of services for people who inhale drugs lag behind similar efforts for people who inject drugs, limiting access to adequate harm reduction resources for people who inhale drugs. This commentary considers why supervised inhalation sites (SIS) are needed, highlights operational characteristics of four existing services, and advocates for future SIS research. Our hope is to encourage the expansion of SIS worldwide for overdose prevention and reduction of health inequities. Given the limited literature regarding SIS, more extensive study of these programs is warranted to incorporate inhalation into the implementation of supervised consumption sites to provide fair opportunities for all people who use drugs to do so safely without fear of stigma and overdose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison Lu
- School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
- Department of Neuroscience, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Claire Kim
- Department of Neuroscience, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
- Harm Reduction Innovation Lab, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Joseph G. Rosen
- Harm Reduction Innovation Lab, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Erin Thompson
- Harm Reduction Innovation Lab, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Jessica Tardif
- Harm Reduction Innovation Lab, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Ralph Welwean
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Ju Nyeong Park
- Harm Reduction Innovation Lab, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
- Division of General Internal Medicine, The Department of Medicine, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
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Ericson ØB, Eide D, Lobmaier P, Clausen T. Mortality risk and causes of death among people who use opioids in a take-home naloxone cohort. Drug Alcohol Depend 2024; 255:111087. [PMID: 38228056 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2024.111087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND People who use opioids (PWUO) have an excess mortality from a range of causes. The cumulative effect of behavioral, social, and health risk factors complicates the interpretation of the effects of suitable interventions. This study explores mortality causes among a cohort of PWUO in the take-home naloxone (THN) program. METHODS This was a prospective cohort study of PWUO who received THN between 2015 and 2023. Participant data was linked with death registry data. Crude mortality rates and standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) were calculated for all causes, internal causes, and accidental opioid overdoses (AOOs). In addition to age and gender, risk factors like main route of administration, polydrug use, self-experienced overdoses, and using while alone were fitted in a Cox Regression model to explore factors associated with mortality. RESULTS The 2194 participants had a considerably higher mortality ratio for all causes investigated when compared to the general population (SMR=10.9, 95 % CI = 9.3,12.6). AOOs were the most prevalent cause of death (49 %). Those who reported frequent opioid use while alone had an elevated risk of dying of 2.6 (95 % CI = 1.1,6.4) compared to those who never used while alone. CONCLUSIONS Frequent opioid use while alone was associated with elevated mortality risk, supporting the importance of overdose prevention education with naloxone distribution, and additional efforts to improve environmental and social areas for safer drug-use practices among PWUO. The variety of mortality causes found in this study illustrates the need for multifaceted and targeted interventions for people at risk of overdosing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Øystein Bruun Ericson
- Norwegian Centre for Addiction Research, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, P.O. box 1039 Blindern, Oslo 0315, Norway.
| | - Desiree Eide
- Norwegian Centre for Addiction Research, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, P.O. box 1039 Blindern, Oslo 0315, Norway
| | - Philipp Lobmaier
- Norwegian Centre for Addiction Research, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, P.O. box 1039 Blindern, Oslo 0315, Norway; Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Division of Mental Health and Substance Abuse, P.O. box 23 Vinderen, Oslo 0319, Norway
| | - Thomas Clausen
- Norwegian Centre for Addiction Research, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, P.O. box 1039 Blindern, Oslo 0315, Norway
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MacDonald M, Cheng C, Wang T, McCormack D, Kolla G, Cahill TM, Gomes T. Trends in varying modes of drug use in opioid toxicity deaths in Ontario from 2017 to 2021. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2023:104197. [PMID: 37741701 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2023.104197] [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: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preliminary data indicate a shift toward inhalation instead of injection in opioid toxicity deaths. Understanding changing modes of drug use is essential to addressing the North American drug toxicity crisis driven primarily by unregulated fentanyl. This study aims to comprehensively characterize this shift across Ontario, Canada. METHODS We conducted a population-based repeated cross-sectional study of accidental opioid toxicity deaths in Ontario from July 1, 2017 to June 30, 2021. For each quarter of the study period, the number and percent of deaths by mode of drug use (inhalation only, injection only, both or other) were reported. Descriptive characteristics were reported in the last two years of the study. RESULTS There were 6687 accidental opioid toxicity deaths in Ontario over the study period, with a 62.1 % increase in the quarterly number of deaths observed. The prevalence of deaths where inhalation was the only mode of drug use almost doubled, rising from 22.0 % to 43.5 %. There was a corresponding 64.4 % decrease in opioid toxicity deaths with indication of injection alone (29.0 % to 10.3 %). CONCLUSIONS This study reveals a shift in mode of drug use toward inhalation that is increasingly contributing to opioid toxicity deaths in Ontario. Understanding the shifts in patterns of opioid use serves to provide essential insights into more effective harm reduction and treatment approaches to address the drug toxicity crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martha MacDonald
- Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute of St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Clare Cheng
- Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute of St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | - Gillian Kolla
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | | | - Tara Gomes
- Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute of St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; ICES, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute for Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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Stephenson L, Van Den Heuvel C, Byard RW. Socioeconomic and psychosocial determinants of substance misuse - a national perspective. Forensic Sci Med Pathol 2023:10.1007/s12024-023-00702-6. [PMID: 37682517 DOI: 10.1007/s12024-023-00702-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
Accurate estimates of population drug use and an understanding of the factors that influence substance choice are essential for the development of appropriate and targeted prevention strategies and campaigns. This review aims to provide an overview of the socioeconomic and psychosocial factors that influence substance use patterns within the Australian population through exploration of current and historical examples of substance misuse. Australia's comparatively large online drug market is reflective of the country's relative geographic isolation and high local drug prices. Legislation, particularly relating to cannabis cultivation and personal use, has evolved significantly in response to increased scientific and commercial applications and changing attitudes towards medical and personal use. Methylamphetamine use is disproportionately high, attributed to Australia's geographic location, high rates of local manufacture, steady cost, and increased purity. Despite the increased cost of cocaine over time, the profile of users appears to dictate rates of use. The prevalence of injecting drug use is driven by a lack of education, perceived risk, stigma, and other social factors. Additionally, psychosocial factors also contribute to substance misuse among specific population subgroups such as petrol sniffing among Indigenous Australians. Understanding the reasons for geographical variability in illicit drug use assists in the interpretation of substance-associated behavior in specific groups/populations and in guiding future intervention efforts and predictions of emerging trends. In addition, an understanding of factors influencing local drug usage may assist forensic practitioners in evaluating the occurrence and effects of particular substances that may emerge as significant factors in drug-related deaths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilli Stephenson
- School of Biomedicine, Level 2 Helen Mayo North, The University of Adelaide, Frome Road, Adelaide, 5005, SA, Australia.
| | - Corinna Van Den Heuvel
- School of Biomedicine, Level 2 Helen Mayo North, The University of Adelaide, Frome Road, Adelaide, 5005, SA, Australia
| | - Roger W Byard
- School of Biomedicine, Level 2 Helen Mayo North, The University of Adelaide, Frome Road, Adelaide, 5005, SA, Australia
- Forensic Science SA (FSSA), Adelaide, South Australia, 5000, Australia
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Miller NM, Campbell C, Shorter GW. Barriers and facilitators of naloxone and safe injection facility interventions to reduce opioid drug-related deaths: A qualitative analysis. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2023; 117:104049. [PMID: 37247475 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2023.104049] [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: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Opioid drug-related deaths continue to be a significant public health concern in the Republic of Ireland (ROI) and Northern Ireland (NI). While both regions have implemented naloxone to reduce drug related deaths, there remains a gap in the implementation of a supervised injection facility (SIF). This study aimed to identify barriers and facilitators to implementing naloxone and a SIF to reduce opioid drug-related deaths in ROI and NI. METHODS Semi-structured interviews (n=23) were conducted in ROI and NI with experts by experience (n=8), staff from low threshold services (n=9), and individuals involved in policy making (n= 6). Data were analyzed using coding reliability Thematic Analysis and were informed by the Risk Environmental Framework. RESULTS The findings illustrated that stigma within the media, health centers, and the community was a significant barrier to naloxone distribution and SIF implementation. Policing and community intimidation were reported to hinder naloxone carriage in both the ROI and NI, while threats of paramilitary violence towards people who use drugs were unique to NI. Municipal government delays and policy maker apathy were reported to hinder SIF implementation in the ROI. Participants suggested peer-to-peer naloxone delivery and amending legislation to facilitate non-prescription naloxone would increase naloxone uptake. Participants recommended using webinars, Town Halls, and a Citizens' Assembly as tools to advocate for SIF implementation. CONCLUSION Local and regional stigma reduction campaigns are needed in conjunction with policy changes to advance naloxone and a SIF. Tailoring stigma campaigns to incorporate the lived experience of people who use drugs, their family members, and the general community can aid in educating the public and change negative perceptions. This study highlights the need for ongoing efforts to reduce stigma and increase accessibility to evidence-based interventions to address opioid drug-related deaths in the ROI, NI, and internationally.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Gillian W Shorter
- Drug and Alcohol Research Network & Centre for Improving Health Related Quality of Life, School of Psychology, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
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Kamal A, Ferguson M, Xavier JC, Liu L, Graham B, Lock K, Buxton JA. Smoking identified as preferred mode of opioid safe supply use; investigating correlates of smoking preference through a 2021 cross-sectional study in British Columbia. Subst Abuse Treat Prev Policy 2023; 18:27. [PMID: 37194018 DOI: 10.1186/s13011-023-00515-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The increasing number of illicit drug toxicity deaths in British Columbia (BC) has led to calls for a regulated (pharmaceutical grade) supply of substances ("safe supply"). In order to inform safe supply recommendations, we aimed to identify why people currently smoke opioids and assess the preferred mode of consumption if people who use opioids were provided with opioid safe supply. METHODS The BC Harm Reduction Client Survey (HRCS) is an annual survey that gathers information about people who use drugs' (PWUD) substance use characteristic with the goal of contributing to evidence-based policy. This study utilized data from the 2021 HRCS. The outcome variable was "prefer smoking opioid safe supply" ('yes/no'). Explanatory variables included participants' demographics, drug use, and overdose characteristics. Bivariate and hierarchical multivariable logistic regressions were conducted to identify factors associated with the outcome. RESULTS Of 282 total participants who indicated a preference for a mode of consumption for opioid safe supply, 62.4% preferred a smokable option and 19.9% preferred to inject if provided with opioid safe supply. Variables significantly associated with the outcome (preferred smoking) included: being 19-29 years old (AOR=5.95, CI =1.93 - 18.31) compared to >50 years old, having witnessed an overdose in the last 6 months (AOR=2.26, CI=1.20 - 4.28), having smoked opioids in the last 3 days (AOR=6.35, CI=2.98 - 13.53) and having a preference to smoke stimulants safe supply (AOR=5.04, CI=2.53 - 10.07). CONCLUSION We found that over half of participants prefer smokable options when accessing opioid safe supply. Currently in BC, there are limited smokable opioid safe supply options as alternatives to the toxic street supply. To reduce overdose deaths, safe supply options should be expanded to accommodate PWUD that prefer smoking opioids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariba Kamal
- Public Health Agency of Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Max Ferguson
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Jessica C Xavier
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Lisa Liu
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Brittany Graham
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Kurt Lock
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Jane A Buxton
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
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Rosen JG, Glick JL, Zhang L, Cooper L, Olatunde PF, Pelaez D, Rouhani S, Sue KL, Park JN. Safety in solitude? Competing risks and drivers of solitary drug use among women who inject drugs and implications for overdose detection. Addiction 2022; 118:847-854. [PMID: 36468191 PMCID: PMC10073256 DOI: 10.1111/add.16103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Solitary drug use (SDU) can amplify risks of fatal overdose. We examined competing risks and drivers of SDU, as well as harm reduction strategies implemented during SDU episodes, among women who inject drugs (WWID). DESIGN A cross-sectional qualitative study, including telephone and face-to-face in-depth interviews. SETTING Baltimore City, MD, USA. PARTICIPANTS Twenty-seven WWID (mean age = 39 years, 67% white, 74% injected drugs daily) recruited via outreach and street intercept (April-September 2021). MEASUREMENTS Interviews explored the physical (i.e. indoor/private, outdoor/public) and social (i.e. alone, accompanied) risk environments in which drug use occurred. Guided by the principles of emergent design, we used thematic analysis to interrogate textual data, illuminating women's preferences/motivations for SDU and strategies for minimizing overdose risks when using alone. FINDINGS Many participants reported experiences with SDU, despite expressed preferences for accompanied drug use. SDU motivations clustered around three primary drivers: (1) avoiding opioid withdrawal, (2) preferences for privacy when using drugs and (3) safety concerns, including threats of violence. Participants nevertheless acknowledged the dangers of SDU and, at times, took steps to mitigate overdose risk, including naloxone possession, communicating to peers when using alone ('spotting') and using drugs in public spaces. CONCLUSIONS WWID appear to engage frequently in SDU due to constraints of the physical and social environments in which they use drugs. They express a preference for accompanied drug use in most cases and report implementing strategies to mitigate their overdose risk, especially when using drugs alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph G Rosen
- Department of International Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jennifer L Glick
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Leanne Zhang
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Lyra Cooper
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Praise F Olatunde
- Department of International Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Danielle Pelaez
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Saba Rouhani
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kimberly L Sue
- National Harm Reduction Coalition, New York, New York, USA.,Department of General Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Ju Nyeong Park
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Department of General Internal Medicine, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA.,Center of Biomedical Research Excellent on Opioids and Overdose, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
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Casey LE, Pourmarzi D, Wessel EL, Kemp R, Smirnov A. Injecting drug use opportunities and reasons for choosing not to inject: A population-based study of Australian young adults who use stimulants. Drug Alcohol Rev 2022; 41:873-882. [PMID: 35139243 PMCID: PMC9305533 DOI: 10.1111/dar.13442] [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: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 01/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Understanding reasons for choosing not to inject drugs, among those who have never injected before, may be helpful for reducing transitions to injecting drug use. This study examines opportunities to inject and reasons for never injecting in young adults who used stimulants. METHODS Data are from a population-based study of young adults who used ecstasy and methamphetamine (n = 313), recruited in Queensland, Australia in 2008/2009. At the follow-up, participants who had never injected (n = 293) completed a 13-item instrument on reasons for never injecting. We conducted a principal components analysis to identify types of reasons (scored 0-100) and multivariate regression to predict endorsement of these reasons. RESULTS Approximately one-in-five of all participants ever had an opportunity to inject and there was no gender difference in the propensity to accept an opportunity. Four types of reasons, labelled risk perception, subjective effects, social environment and aversion, were identified. Male gender was associated with lower endorsement of risk perception (β = -7.94; 95% confidence interval [CI] -13.37, -2.51) and social environment (β = -7.35; 95% CI -13.15, -1.54). Having friends who injected was associated with lower endorsement of the social environment (β = -8.88; 95% CI -14.83, -2.94), and higher endorsement of aversion (β = 7.67; 95% CI 1.44, 13.89). DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that injecting drug use opportunities are common among young adults engaged in recreational drug use, with males and females equally likely to accept an opportunity. A strong aversion to injecting and a hedonic preference for non-injecting drug use may reduce the likelihood of accepting these opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke Edward Casey
- School of Public Health, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Davoud Pourmarzi
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Research School of Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | | | - Robert Kemp
- Communicable Diseases, Queensland Health, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Andrew Smirnov
- School of Public Health, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
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Parent S, Papamihali K, Graham B, Buxton JA. Examining prevalence and correlates of smoking opioids in British Columbia: opioids are more often smoked than injected. Subst Abuse Treat Prev Policy 2021; 16:79. [PMID: 34663374 PMCID: PMC8522853 DOI: 10.1186/s13011-021-00414-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND British Columbia (BC) is in the midst of an opioid overdose crisis. Since 2017, smoking illicit drugs has been the leading mode of drug administration causing overdose death. Yet, little is known about people who smoke opioids, and factors underlying choice of mode of administration. The study objectives are to identify the prevalence and correlates associated with smoking opioids. METHODS The Harm Reduction Client Survey is a monitoring tool used by the BC Centre for Disease Control since 2012. This survey is disseminated to harm reduction sites across BC to understand drug use trends and drug-related harms. We examined data from the survey administered October-December 2019 and performed descriptive, univariate, and multivariate analyses to better understand factors associated with smoking opioids. RESULTS A total of 369 people who used opioids in the past 3 days were included, of whom 251 (68.0%) reported smoking opioids. A total of 109 (29.5%) respondents experienced an overdose in the past 6 months; of these 79 (72.5%) smoked opioids. Factors significantly associated with smoking opioids were: living in a small community (AOR =2.41, CI =1.27-4.58), being a woman (AOR = 1.84, CI = 1.03-3.30), age under 30 (AOR = 5.41, CI = 2.19-13.40) or 30-39 (AOR = 2.77, CI = 1.33-5.78) compared to age ≥ 50, using drugs alone (AOR = 2.98, CI = 1.30-6.83), and owning a take-home naloxone kit (AOR = 2.01, CI = 1.08-3.72). Reported use of methamphetamines within the past 3 days was strongly associated with smoking opioids (AOR = 6.48, CI = 3.51-11.96). CONCLUSIONS Our findings highlight important correlates associated with smoking opioids, particularly the recent use of methamphetamines. These findings identify actions to better respond to the overdose crisis, such as targeted harm reduction approaches, educating on safer smoking, advocating for consumption sites where people can smoke drugs, and providing a regulated supply of opioids that can be smoked.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Parent
- Faculty of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kristi Papamihali
- Harm Reduction Services, BC Centre for Disease Control, 655 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4R4, Canada
| | - Brittany Graham
- Harm Reduction Services, BC Centre for Disease Control, 655 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4R4, Canada
| | - Jane A Buxton
- Harm Reduction Services, BC Centre for Disease Control, 655 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4R4, Canada.
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, 655 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4R4, Canada.
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Elkhalifa S, Jozaghi E, Marsh S, Thomson E, Gregg D, Buxton J, Jolly A. Social network support and harm reduction activities in a peer researcher-led pilot study, British Columbia, Canada. Harm Reduct J 2020; 17:57. [PMID: 32825836 PMCID: PMC7441606 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-020-00401-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background People who smoke drugs (PWSD) are at high risk of both infectious disease and overdose. Harm reduction activities organized by their peers in the community can reduce risk by providing education, safer smoking supplies, and facilitate access to other services. Peers also provide a network of people who provide social support to PWSD which may reinforce harm reducing behaviors. We evaluated the numbers of supportive network members and the relationships between received support and participants’ harm-reducing activities. Methods Initial peer-researchers with past or current lived drug use experience were employed from communities in Abbotsford and Vancouver to interview ten friends from their social networks who use illegal drugs mainly through smoking. Contacts completed a questionnaire about people in their own harm reduction networks and their relationships with each other. We categorized social support into informational, emotional, and tangible aspects, and harm reduction into being trained in the use of, or carrying naloxone, assisting peers with overdoses, using brass screens to smoke, obtaining pipes from service organizations and being trained in CPR. Results Fifteen initial peer researchers interviewed 149 participants who provided information on up to 10 people who were friends or contacts and the relationships between them. People who smoked drugs in public were 1.46 (95% CI, 1.13-1.78) more likely to assist others with possible overdoses if they received tangible support; women who received tangible support were 1.24 (95% CI; 1.02-1.45) more likely to carry and be trained in the use of naloxone. There was no relationship between number of supportive network members and harm reduction behaviors. Conclusions In this pilot study, PWSD who received tangible support were more likely to assist peers in possible overdoses and be trained in the use of and/or carry naloxone, than those who did not receive tangible support. Future work on the social relationships of PWSD may prove valuable in the search for credible and effective interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sulaf Elkhalifa
- School of Public Health, University of Ottawa, Room 101, 600 Peter Morand Crescent, Ottawa, Ontario, KIH 8 M5, Canada
| | - Ehsan Jozaghi
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Samona Marsh
- Vancouver Area Network of Drug Users, 380 East Hastings Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6A 1P4, Canada.,British Columbia/Yukon Association of Drug War Survivors, 380 East Hastings Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6A 1P4, Canada.,Sex Workers United Against Violence, 334 Alexander Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6A 1C3, Canada.,Western Aboriginal Harm Reduction Society, 380 East Hastings Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6A 1P4, Canada
| | - Erica Thomson
- University of Fraser Valley, 33844 King Road, Abbotsford, British Columbia, V2S 7 M8, Canada.,The Fraser Health Authority, Suite 400, Central City Tower, 13450 - 102nd Avenue, Surrey, British Columbia, V3T 0H1, Canada
| | - Delilah Gregg
- Vancouver Area Network of Drug Users, 380 East Hastings Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6A 1P4, Canada.,Western Aboriginal Harm Reduction Society, 380 East Hastings Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6A 1P4, Canada
| | - Jane Buxton
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z3, Canada.,British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, 655 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, British Columbia, V5Z 4R4, Canada
| | - Ann Jolly
- School of Public Health, University of Ottawa, Room 101, 600 Peter Morand Crescent, Ottawa, Ontario, KIH 8 M5, Canada.
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Nimbi FM, Rosati F, Esposito RM, Stuart D, Simonelli C, Tambelli R. Chemsex in Italy: Experiences of Men Who Have Sex With Men Consuming Illicit Drugs to Enhance and Prolong Their Sexual Activity. J Sex Med 2020; 17:1875-1884. [PMID: 32727698 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2020.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Revised: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chemsex is a novel phenomenon referring to the consumption of illicit drugs to facilitate, enhance, and prolong the sexual experience in men who have sex with men (MSM). AIM The present study aims to investigate contexts, patterns of substance use, first chemsex experience, and harm reduction in a group of MSM practicing chemsex in Italy. METHODS Thirty MSM involved in chemsex activities were interviewed between February and July 2019. OUTCOMES The interviews were conducted using an ad hoc grid exploring general characteristics of Italian chemsex, patterns of substance use, first chemsex experience, and harm reduction opinions. RESULTS Chemsex in Italy showed important peculiarities and patterns because of sociocultural background. Chemsex was mainly reported in private venues within couple and group sexual activities. Most participants attended chemsex sessions about 1-2 times per month often concurring with men-only club events. Freebase cocaine emerged among the most relevant substances consumed together with gamma-hydroxybutyrate/gamma-butyrolactone, crystal methamphetamine, and mephedrone. A rare use of injected substances compared with other European Union countries was shown. Given the high prevalence of erectile problems, a large use of phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors was reported, and noncoital sexual activities were usually preferred (eg, oral sex, fist fucking). The first chemsex experiences were usually accessed by geolocation-based dating apps and sexual partners and were generally described as positive experiences, with some negative consequences at the end of the session (dysphoric mental states, guilt, craving). Taking part in international gay events seems to favor the first experience of chemsex for some participants. Moreover, some MSM practiced chemsex only abroad or in other cities in Italy so as not to be recognized as chem users in their daily environment. CLINICAL TRANSLATION Implications for ad hoc harm reduction programs are discussed. STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS Despite the methodological limitations due to participants' number and the absence of interviews audio recording, results highlighted some relevant characteristics of chemsex in Italy, such as freebase cocaine use, attitudes regarding slamming, geographical movements, and secrecy. CONCLUSION The results revealed a need for greater scientific and public attention on chemsex to act with the most specific and effective prevention and harm reduction tools. Nimbi FM, Rosati F, Esposito RM, et al. Chemsex in Italy: Experiences of Men Who Have Sex With Men Consuming Illicit Drugs to Enhance and Prolong Their Sexual Activity. J Sex Med 2020;17:1875-1884.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filippo Maria Nimbi
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
| | - Fausta Rosati
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Rita Maria Esposito
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy; IRCCS Foundation Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy
| | - David Stuart
- Chelsea and Westminster hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Chiara Simonelli
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Renata Tambelli
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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