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Carmona Araújo A, Guerreiro JP, Bulhosa C, Alves da Costa F, Goulão J, Martins AP. Use and misuse of psychoactive medicines: a descriptive cross-sectional study in a densely populated region of Portugal. J Pharm Policy Pract 2024; 17:2369319. [PMID: 39081707 PMCID: PMC11288207 DOI: 10.1080/20523211.2024.2369319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/09/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Although psychoactive medicines (PMed) are needed in several psychiatric conditions, their use and misuse bear risks. We aimed at estimating the prevalence of PMed use and misuse. Methods Data on all PMed prescribed in 2017 and dispensed in community pharmacies of the Lisbon and Tagus Valley region of Portugal (ARSLVT) were extracted from ARSLVT medicines' dispensing database. For 21 PMed among prescription opioids, benzodiazepines and z-drugs (BZDR), antidepressants (AD) and anticonvulsants (AC), we estimated the number of users of each PMed, and assessed PMed misuse by a set of proxy indicators for studying this practice: chronic use (use of ≥180 DDD during the study period) of PMed intended for short-term treatments, concomitant use of several PMed, in particular if involving long-term (≥ 30 days) opioid analgesic (OA) use, and doctor shopping (patients consulting several physicians in order to have access to a quantity higher than intended by each prescriber). Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and hypothesis testing, and multivariate logistic regression was used to explore potential factors affecting long-term concomitant treatment of chronic OA with other PMed. Results PMed use prevalence was 21.7%: 6.6% for OA, 12.7% for benzodiazepines (BZD), 5.3% for AD and 2.8% for AC. BZDR were mainly prescribed in primary care and OA in hospital outpatients. Chronic use of PMed was observed in 25%, especially with sertraline and buprenorphine for opioid use disorder (long-term treatment), and lorazepam (short-term treatment). About 56.6% of OA chronic users were long-term concurrent users with other PMed, mainly BZDR. Risk of abuse was low for BZDR, whilst four opioids had meaningful doctor shopping indicators - fentanyl, opioid use disorder buprenorphine, morphine and hydromorphone. Conclusions BZD are the main PMed used in ARSLVT, often chronically, especially lorazepam. Prevalence of OA use is low, although with higher risk of misuse than BZDR. Concomitant use of several PMed is frequent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Carmona Araújo
- Faculty of Pharmacy, iMed.ULisboa – Research Institute for Medicines, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - José Pedro Guerreiro
- Centre for Health Evaluation & Research/Infosaúde – National Association of Pharmacies (CEFAR/IS-ANF), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Carolina Bulhosa
- Centre for Health Evaluation & Research/Infosaúde – National Association of Pharmacies (CEFAR/IS-ANF), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Filipa Alves da Costa
- Faculty of Pharmacy, iMed.ULisboa – Research Institute for Medicines, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - João Goulão
- ICAD – Institute on Addictive Behaviours and Dependencies, P.I., Lisbon, Portugal
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Andersen PA, Thomsen AH, Hasselstrøm JB, Andersen FD, Thomsen JH, Jornil JR, Andersen CU. Exploring death scenes and circumstances in fatal opioid poisonings: Insights for preventive strategies using forensic autopsy cases in Western Denmark. Forensic Sci Int 2024; 356:111948. [PMID: 38330673 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2024.111948] [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: 10/29/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Fatal opioid poisoning is a growing global issue. This study aims to describe circumstances surrounding fatal opioid poisonings by examining death scenes, demographics, and information from bystanders with the goal of informing prevention efforts. METHODS We extracted data from the autopsy reports of 327 forensic autopsy cases with fatal poisoning involving methadone and/or morphine from 2013-2020. RESULTS Fatal opioid poisonings occurred in both rural and urban areas. Death scene was the decedent's own home and a relative's or friend's home in 62% and 21%, respectively. The decedent died alone in 64% of the cases while other people were staying at the same address while death occurred in 30%. Decedents aged 15-34 years were more likely to die with other people staying at the same address than persons aged > 44 years (OR±SD: 2.3 ± 0.9, p = 0.005), and had lower postmortem blood methadone concentrations compared to persons > 34 years (Median [interquartile range]: 0.36 [0.23-0.62] vs 0.63 [0.28-1.2] mg/kg, p = 0.002). Female sex was more prevalent, and persons using illegal drugs were less prevalent in decedents aged > 44 years compared to those with age 15-44 years (29% vs 20%, p = 0.05% and 67% vs 89%, p < 0.001, respectively). Other psychoactive drugs were detected in 97% of decedents, mainly benzodiazepines (80%). CONCLUSIONS Preventive strategies based on our findings include the need for harm reduction initiatives in both urban and rural areas, recognizing symptoms of fatal poisoning, and awareness of low tolerance among younger age groups. Urgent attention should be given to avoiding opioid use alone, particularly among older individuals, including women using prescribed opioids. Conveying the risks of polydrug use to all age groups is essential, especially co-use of sedative drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Andreas Andersen
- Department of Forensic Science, Aarhus University, Denmark; Danish Pain Research Center, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Denmark.
| | | | | | | | - Jakob Hartvig Thomsen
- Antidote Danmark, Denmark; Department of Cardiology, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Denmark
| | | | - Charlotte Uggerhøj Andersen
- Department of Forensic Science, Aarhus University, Denmark; Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark
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Amundsen EJ, Odsbu I, Skurtveit SO, Gjersing L. Patterns of filled prescriptions and the association with risk of drug-induced death. A population-based nested case-control register study. Pharmacoepidemiol Drug Saf 2024; 33:e5763. [PMID: 38357780 DOI: 10.1002/pds.5763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Opioid analgesics (OA) and other pharmaceuticals have been associated with drug-induced deaths. However, there is a lack of knowledge regarding patterns of use of these pharmaceuticals in the population and regarding such associations. We identify and describe subgroups of people with different patterns of filled prescriptions of OA and other relevant pharmaceuticals and examine associations with drug-induced deaths. In addition, we estimate the proportion of drug-induced deaths with a filled OA prescription and OA as cause of death. METHODS A Norwegian population-based nested case-control register study with cases (drug-induced deaths 2010-2018, N = 2388) and population controls matched for age, gender and year of inclusion (N = 21 465). Patterns of filled prescriptions for opioid analgesics (OA), benzodiazepines and benzodiazepine-related drugs, gabapentinoids, ADHD medication and antidepressants/antipsychotics were explored by k-means cluster analysis. Associations with drug-induced deaths were estimated by conditional logistic regression adjusted for sociodemographic characteristics. Overlap of filled OA prescriptions and OA as cause of death was estimated. RESULTS Five clusters were identified: 'few prescriptions', 'weak OA', 'ADHD medication', 'sedative/psychiatric morbidity' and 'strong OA'. The 'strong OA' cluster had higher socioeconomic status compared to the other groupings. The risk of drug-induced death was also highest in this cluster (OR = 35.5; CI 25.6-49.3) and, for 68% (CI 64-73) of cases, filled prescriptions for OA was indicated as the underlying cause of death. CONCLUSIONS The cluster analysis identified a subgroup with filled prescriptions of OA and other pharmaceuticals and a higher socioeconomic status than other subgroups. This subgroup had a high risk of drug-induced death that needs to be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen J Amundsen
- Department of Alcohol, Tobacco and Drugs, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ingvild Odsbu
- Department of Chronic Diseases, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Svetlana O Skurtveit
- Department of Chronic Diseases, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
- Norwegian Centre for Addiction Research (SERAF), University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Linn Gjersing
- Department of Alcohol, Tobacco and Drugs, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
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Amundsen EJ, Melsom AKM, Eriksen BO, Løchen ML. No decline in drug overdose deaths in Norway: An ecological approach to understanding at-risk groups and the impact of interventions. NORDIC STUDIES ON ALCOHOL AND DRUGS 2024; 41:111-130. [PMID: 38356787 PMCID: PMC10863554 DOI: 10.1177/14550725231195413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Aim: This Norwegian case study examines groups at risk of drug overdose deaths, evidence-based harm reduction interventions, low-threshold services and treatment implemented, as well as trends in drug overdose deaths between 2010 and 2021. We aimed to explore the relevance of interventions for at-risk groups and discuss their potential impact on drug overdose trends. Method/data: Using an ecological approach, we analysed the following: (1) groups identified through latent profile analysis (LPA) among a sample of 413 high-risk drug users collected in 2010-2012, supplemented with other relevant studies up to 2021; (2) published information on harm-reduction interventions, low-threshold services and treatment in Norway; and (3) nationwide drug overdose mortality figures supplemented with published articles on the topic. Results: High-risk drug users in 2010-2012 commonly engaged in frequent illegal drug use, injecting and poly-drug use (including pharmaceutical opioids), which continued into following decade. The interventions implemented between 2010 and 2021 were relevant for at-risk groups identified in the surveys. However, there was no decrease in the trend of drug overdose deaths up to 2021. While relevant interventions may have mitigated a theoretical increase in mortality, new at-risk groups may have contributed to fatal outcomes associated with pharmaceutical opioids. Conclusion: The interventions were relevant to the risk groups identified among high-risk drug users and potentially effective in preventing an increase in drug overdose trends. However, tailored interventions are needed for individuals at risk of death from prescribed opioids. Comprehensive studies encompassing all at-risk populations, including both legal and non-medical users of prescription opioids, are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen J Amundsen
- Department of Alcohol, Tobacco and Drugs, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Anne-Karine M Melsom
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway; Centre for Clinical Research and Education, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Bjørn O Eriksen
- Section of Nephrology, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway; Metabolic and Renal Research Group, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Maja-Lisa Løchen
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway; Department of Clinical Medicine, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
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Uslin V, Hällberg V, Lukkarinen T, Niskanen M, Koivistoinen T, Palomäki A. A four-way patient search method for the retrospective identification of poisoning patients. Sci Rep 2024; 14:1801. [PMID: 38245593 PMCID: PMC10799932 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-52358-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
When studying emergency department (ED) visits, electronic health record systems of hospitals provide a good basis for retrospective studies. However, many intoxication patients presenting to the ED, may not be identified retrospectively if only a single search method is applied. In this study, a new four-way combined patient search method was used to retrospectively identify intoxication patients presenting to the ED. The search included reason for admission to the ED, laboratory results related to intoxication diagnostics, ICD-10 codes, and a novel free word search (FWS) of patient records. After the automated search, the researcher read the medical records of potential substance abuse patients to form comprehensive profiles and remove irrelevant cases. The addition of a free word search identified 36% more substance abuse patients than the combination of the other three methods mentioned above. Patients identified by the FWS search alone were generally admitted to the ED for trauma or mental health problems and were often found to be heavily under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. The main intoxicants were ethanol and benzodiazepines. The free word search was highly complementary to traditional patient search methods, highlighting the importance of the combined patient search method in retrospective data collection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronika Uslin
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, Pieve Emanuele, 20072, Milan, Italy.
- Emergency Department, Kanta-Häme Central Hospital, 13530, Hämeenlinna, Finland.
| | - Ville Hällberg
- Emergency Department, Kanta-Häme Central Hospital, 13530, Hämeenlinna, Finland
| | - Timo Lukkarinen
- City of Helsinki, Social Services, Health Care and Rescue Services Division, 00100, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Teemu Koivistoinen
- Emergency Department, Kanta-Häme Central Hospital, 13530, Hämeenlinna, Finland
| | - Ari Palomäki
- Emergency Department, Kanta-Häme Central Hospital, 13530, Hämeenlinna, Finland
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, 33520, Tampere, Finland
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Heisel LS, Andersen FD, Joca S, Sørensen LK, Simonsen U, Hasselstrøm JB, Andersen CU, Nielsen KL. Combined in vivo metabolic effects of quetiapine and methadone in brain and blood of rats. Arch Toxicol 2024; 98:289-301. [PMID: 37870577 PMCID: PMC10761411 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-023-03620-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Changes in pharmacokinetics and endogenous metabolites may underlie additive biological effects of concomitant use of antipsychotics and opioids. In this study, we employed untargeted metabolomics analysis and targeted analysis to examine the changes in drug metabolites and endogenous metabolites in the prefrontal cortex (PFC), midbrain, and blood of rats following acute co-administration of quetiapine and methadone. Rats were divided into four groups and received cumulative increasing doses of quetiapine (QTP), methadone (MTD), quetiapine + methadone (QTP + MTD), or vehicle (control). All samples were analyzed using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Our findings revealed increased levels of the quetiapine metabolites: Norquetiapine, O-dealkylquetiapine, 7-hydroxyquetiapine, and quetiapine sulfoxide, in the blood and brain when methadone was present. Our study also demonstrated a decrease in methadone and its metabolite 2-ethylidene-1,5-dimethyl-3,3-diphenylpyrrolidine (EDDP) in the rat brain when quetiapine was present. Despite these findings, there were only small differences in the levels of 225-296 measured endogenous metabolites due to co-administration compared to single administrations. For example, N-methylglutamic acid, glutaric acid, p-hydroxyphenyllactic acid, and corticosterone levels were significantly decreased in the brain of rats treated with both compounds. Accumulation of serotonin in the midbrain was additionally observed in the MTD group, but not in the QTP + MTD group. In conclusion, this study in rats suggests a few but important additive metabolic effects when quetiapine and methadone are co-administered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Smedegaard Heisel
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Aarhus University, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, DK-8200, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Freja Drost Andersen
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Aarhus University, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, DK-8200, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Sâmia Joca
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Høegh-Guldbergs Gade 10, DK-8000, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | | | - Ulf Simonsen
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Høegh-Guldbergs Gade 10, DK-8000, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Jørgen Bo Hasselstrøm
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Aarhus University, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, DK-8200, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Charlotte Uggerhøj Andersen
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Aarhus University, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, DK-8200, Aarhus N, Denmark
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Høegh-Guldbergs Gade 10, DK-8000, Aarhus C, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens, Boulevard 99, DK-8200, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Kirstine Lykke Nielsen
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Aarhus University, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, DK-8200, Aarhus N, Denmark.
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Håkansson A, Janfada-Baloo S, Berge J. No obvious effect on mortality from a patient choice reform expanding access to opioid disorder treatment - results from a natural experiment of policy change in Sweden. Subst Abuse Treat Prev Policy 2023; 18:64. [PMID: 37932776 PMCID: PMC10629127 DOI: 10.1186/s13011-023-00577-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Opioid-related overdose deaths remain a common cause of death in many settings, and opioid maintenance treatment is evidence-based for the treatment of opioid use disorders. However, access to such treatment varies and is limited in many settings. METHODS The present study examines the longitudinal effects of a regional patient choice reform which substantially increased availability to opioid maintenance treatment in one Swedish county, starting from 2014. A previous follow-up, limited in time, indicated a possible effect on mortality from this intervention, demonstrating a lower increase in overdose deaths than in counties without this reform. The present study follows overdose deaths through 2021, and compares the intervention county to the remaining parts in the country, using death certificate statistics from the national causes of death register. RESULTS The present study does not demonstrate any significant difference in the development of overdose mortality in the county where this reform substantially expanded treatment access, compared to other counties in the country. CONCLUSIONS The study underlines the importance to maintain extensive efforts against overdose deaths over and above the treatment of opioid use disorders, such as low-threshold provision of opioid antidotes or other interventions specifically addressing overdose risk behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anders Håkansson
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Psychiatry, Lund, Sweden.
- Region Skåne, Malmö Addiction Center/Competence Center Addiction, Malmö, Sweden.
| | - Sahar Janfada-Baloo
- Region Skåne, Malmö Addiction Center/Competence Center Addiction, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Jonas Berge
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Psychiatry, Lund, Sweden
- Region Skåne, Malmö Addiction Center/Competence Center Addiction, Malmö, Sweden
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Jones AW. Bibliometric evaluation of Forensic Science International as a scholarly journal within the subject category legal medicine. Forensic Sci Int Synerg 2023; 7:100438. [PMID: 37753217 PMCID: PMC10518441 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsisyn.2023.100438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
This article presents a bibliometric evaluation of Forensic Science International (FSI) as a scholarly journal within the "legal medicine" subject category. Citation data were retrieved from Science Citation Index (SCI) and Journal Citation Reports (JCR), both of which are part of the Web-of-Science (WOS) database. The most cited articles in FSI were identified along with the most prolific authors. The current journal impact factor (JIF) of FSI is 2.2, which was in good agreement with the 5-year JIF of 2.3. FSI was ranked fourth among 17 journals within the legal medicine subject category. Since 1979, a total of 209 FSI articles were cited over 100 times and the H-index for times cited was 125. Although widely used in academia, bibliometric methods might also prove useful in jurisprudence, such as when evaluating the research and publications of people proposed as expert witnesses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan Wayne Jones
- Division of Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Linköping, Linköping, SE-58183, Sweden
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Andersen FD, Steffensen SC, Vistisen ST, Pinilla E, Pedersen TM, Matchkov V, Simonsen U, Andersen CU. Combined effects of methadone and quetiapine on respiratory rate, haemodynamic variables, and temperature in conscious rats. Addict Biol 2023; 28:e13320. [PMID: 37644895 DOI: 10.1111/adb.13320] [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: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Fatal poisonings where both methadone and quetiapine are detected post-mortem occurs frequently in legal autopsy cases. It is unclear whether quetiapine increases the risk of fatal methadone poisoning or if it is merely detected due to widespread use. We hypothesized that methadone and quetiapine would have additive toxic effects on respiratory rate, blood pressure, and the QTc-interval. To investigate this hypothesis, we used telemetry implants for measurements of respiratory rate, haemodynamic variables, the velocity of blood pressure changes, temperature, and movement in conscious, freely moving male Wistar rats aged 12-13 weeks. The combined effects of three accumulative i.p. doses of methadone (2.5, 10, 15 mg/kg) and quetiapine (3, 10, 30 mg/kg) were compared to rats treated with the same doses of each drug alone, and a vehicle-treated group in a randomized investigator blinded study. No additive effects of quetiapine and methadone on respiratory rate, haemodynamic variables, or movement were observed. However, body temperature was significantly lower by approximately 1.5°C on average in the group treated with both methadone and quetiapine (15 + 30 mg/kg) compared to the other groups. This indicates a synergistic effect of quetiapine and methadone on thermoregulation, which may increase the risk of fatal poisoning. We suggest studying this finding further in human settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Simon Comerma Steffensen
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences/AnimalPhysiology, Central University of Venezuela, Venezuela
| | | | | | | | | | - Ulf Simonsen
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Denmark
| | - Charlotte Uggerhøj Andersen
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Aarhus University, Denmark
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark
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Revol B, Willeman T, Manceau M, Dumestre-Toulet V, Gaulier JM, Fouilhé Sam-Laï N, Eysseric-Guérin H. Trends in Fatal Poisoning Among Drug Users in France From 2011 to 2021: An Analysis of the DRAMES Register. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e2331398. [PMID: 37647066 PMCID: PMC10469283 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.31398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Importance The DRAMES (Décès en Relation avec l'Abus de Médicaments Et de Substances) register is a database of drug-related deaths with the aim of identifying the psychoactive substances associated with and estimating the trends in these deaths. Our novel approach is based on the collection of data on all deaths for which toxicology experts have performed analyses. Objective To describe drug-related deaths in France and report trends over an 11-year period. Design, Setting, and Participants This case series used a national register to assess 4460 drug-related deaths that occurred from 2011 to 2021 in France. Data analyses were performed from January 1, 2012, to December 31, 2022. Main Outcomes and Measures Demographic characteristics; medical and substance abuse history; forensic autopsy findings; and toxicology reports. Results Among the 4460 deceased individuals (mean [SD] age, 37.8 [10.5] years), the mortality rate was highest among men (sex ratio, 4.4:1). Of the deaths involving a single or predominant drug, the legal substitution product, methadone, was the leading cause of death during the entire study period, ahead of heroin-44.7% and 35.9% for methadone vs 15.8% and 21.8% for heroin in 2011 and 2021, respectively. Between 2011 and 2021, most of the drug-related deaths shifted from licit to illicit drugs, and statistically significant variations were found for buprenorphine, cocaine, heroin, methadone, and other licit opioids. Deaths related to polydrug use increased from 23.2% in 2011 to 30.6% in 2021. In this context, opioids remained associated with most deaths, with at least 1 opioid being involved in approximately 9 of 10 cases (85.9%) in 2021. However, the main trend was the dramatic increase in drug combinations with cocaine, from less than one-third of cases in 2011 (30.8%) to more than half in 2021 (57.8%). Conclusions and Relevance This case series assessment of 4460 drug-related deaths found that opioids used alone or in combination were the main contributor to drug-related deaths, despite having a lower prevalence than other drugs. This finding is similar to that of other countries; however, in France licit methadone was the leading cause of opioid-related deaths (ahead of heroin) during the study period. Deaths associated with use of cannabis, new psychoactive substances, and stimulants (including amphetamine-type stimulants and cocaine, especially in combination) have increased and should be closely monitored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Revol
- Addictovigilance Department, Grenoble Alpes University Hospital, Grenoble, France
- HP2 Laboratory, Inserm U1300, Grenoble Alpes University, Grenoble, France
| | - Théo Willeman
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Pharmacogenetics, and Toxicology, Grenoble Alpes University Hospital, Grenoble, France
- Clinical Forensic Medicine Department, Grenoble Alpes University Hospital, Grenoble, France
| | - Marc Manceau
- Clinical Research Center, Inserm CIC1406, Grenoble Alpes University Hospital, Grenoble, France
| | | | | | | | - Hélène Eysseric-Guérin
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Pharmacogenetics, and Toxicology, Grenoble Alpes University Hospital, Grenoble, France
- Forensic Laboratory, Grenoble Alpes University, Grenoble, France
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11
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Walde J, Andersson L, Johnson B, Håkansson A. Drug prescriptions preceding opioid-related deaths-a register study in forensic autopsy patients. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0285583. [PMID: 37256903 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0285583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM Opioid overdose deaths have increased in Sweden and other developed countries in recent decades, despite increased treatment efforts and harm-reduction interventions. Further knowledge in this field is needed if this trend is to be reversed. Previous research suggests that mental health and patterns of prescription of opioids and other prescription drugs are associated with increased opioid-related mortality. The present study therefore aimed to investigate what drugs were prescribed during the last six months of life to individuals with a history of illicit substance use who died with opioids present in their blood, the relationship between drugs prescribed and drugs found in blood at time of death, and if prescription of specific drugs was temporally associated with death. METHODS This was a retrospective, register-based observational study that utilized data from the National Board of Forensic Medicine, the Prescribed Drug Registry, regional health care services, and municipal social services. We used conditional logistic regression to find temporal associations between the prescription and dispensing of drugs and time of death. RESULTS Prescription and dispensing of alprazolam and diazepam were temporally associated with death. The most frequently dispensed drugs were zopiclone, pregabalin, methylphenidate, diazepam and oxycodone. Methadone, alprazolam, and buprenorphine were the drugs most often found in the blood. Opioids and tranquilizers in combination were found in a vast majority of deaths, and prescription data suggested that the use of these drugs was illicit in a majority of cases. CONCLUSION Prescription of certain drugs, especially alprazolam and diazepam, should be made with great caution to patients with a history of illicit substance use or concurrent use of opioids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonatan Walde
- Umeå University and Region Västerbotten, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Lisa Andersson
- Faculty of Health and Society, Department of Social Work, Malmö University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Björn Johnson
- Faculty of Health and Society, Department of Social Work, Malmö University, Malmö, Sweden
- Lund University, School of Social Work, Lund, Sweden
| | - Anders Håkansson
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Psychiatry, Lund, Sweden
- Region Skåne, Malmö Addiction Center, Malmö, Sweden
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12
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Øiestad EL, Øiestad ÅML, Middelkoop G, Brochmann GW, Thaulow CH, Vindenes V. Comparative Study of Postmortem Concentrations of Benzodiazepines and Z-Hypnotics in Several Different Matrices. J Anal Toxicol 2023; 47:287-298. [PMID: 36542823 PMCID: PMC10037634 DOI: 10.1093/jat/bkac106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Benzodiazepines and z-hypnotics are detected in the majority of fatal overdose cases in Norway, often in combination with other drugs of abuse, and their concentrations in peripheral blood (PB) might be important to elucidate the cause of death. In some forensic autopsies, PB is however not available. The aim of the present study was to compare concentrations of benzodiazepines and z-hypnotics in five alternative matrices to assess whether these concentrations are comparable to concentrations in PB. A total of 109 forensic autopsy cases were included. PB, cardiac blood (CB), pericardial fluid (PF), psoas muscle (PM), lateral vastus muscle (LVM) and vitreous humor (VH) from each case were analyzed using ultra high performance liquid chromatography--tandem mass spectrometry. We were able to detect clonazepam, 7-aminoclonazepam, flunitrazepam, 7-aminoflunitrazepam, nitrazepam, 7-aminonitrazepam, diazepam, nordiazepam, oxazepam, alprazolam, midazolam, zopiclone and zolpidem in all the analyzed matrices. Concentrations measured in VH were generally much lower than those of PB for all compounds except zopiclone. 7-Amino metabolite concentrations were high compared to the parent compounds, although less so for the muscle samples. Concentrations of the parent nitrobenzodiazepines in muscles were higher than those in PB, but for the other compounds, concentrations in muscle showed good correspondence with PB. Both CB and PF were viable alternative matrices for PB, although a larger variation and a tendency for higher concentrations in PF were observed. This study shows that CB, PM, LVM and PF can give comparable concentrations to PB for benzodiazepines and z-hypnotics, while VH was less suitable. The concentrations in alternative matrices must, however, be interpreted carefully.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Leere Øiestad
- Department of Forensic Sciences, Division of Laboratory Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, P.O. Box 4950, Oslo N-0424, Norway
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1068 Blindern, Oslo N-0316, Norway
| | - Åse Marit Leere Øiestad
- Department of Forensic Sciences, Division of Laboratory Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, P.O. Box 4950, Oslo N-0424, Norway
| | - Gerrit Middelkoop
- Department of Forensic Sciences, Division of Laboratory Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, P.O. Box 4950, Oslo N-0424, Norway
| | - Gerd-Wenche Brochmann
- Department of Forensic Sciences, Division of Laboratory Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, P.O. Box 4950, Oslo N-0424, Norway
| | - Cecilie Hasselø Thaulow
- Department of Forensic Sciences, Division of Laboratory Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, P.O. Box 4950, Oslo N-0424, Norway
| | - Vigdis Vindenes
- Department of Forensic Sciences, Division of Laboratory Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, P.O. Box 4950, Oslo N-0424, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1171 Blindern, Oslo 0318, Norway
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13
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Designer benzodiazepines (DBs) are a subclass of novel psychoactive substances (NPS). DBs mimic the properties of approved and prescribed benzodiazepines. AREA COVERED A systematic search of literature on DB classification, structure-activity relationships, pharmacologic properties, and adverse effects. EXPERT OPINION The prevalence of DB use has increased substantially over the last decade. All DBs are full-agonist ligands at the gamma-aminobutyric acid type A-benzodiazepine (GABAA-BZ) receptor system. This is not surprising, since DBs largely represent either minor structural modifications, or well-recognized active metabolites, of existing approved benzodiazepines. As such, the pharmacologic profile and associated risks and hazards of DBs are similar or identical to clinically approved and legitimately prescribed benzodiazepines, most of which have been in use for decades. Concurrent use of DBs along with other abusable or recreational drugs (alcohol, opioids, cocaine, stimulants, hallucinogens, other sedative-hypnotics) represents the principal public health risk. The increasing illicit availability and use of DBs is of concern and requires regulatory attention, but DBs do not rank highly among designer psychotropic agents in terms of health risk to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Yu
- Program in Pharmacology and Drug Development, Tufts University School of Medicine and Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Boston, MA, USA
| | - H Karl Greenblatt
- Program in Pharmacology and Drug Development, Tufts University School of Medicine and Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Boston, MA, USA
| | - David J Greenblatt
- Program in Pharmacology and Drug Development, Tufts University School of Medicine and Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Boston, MA, USA
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14
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Gjerde H, Bretteville-Jensen AL, Bache-Andreassen L, Hanoa K, Furuhaugen H, Brochmann GW, Vindenes V. Which illicit drugs are injected in Oslo? A study based on analysis of drug residues in used injection equipment and self-reported information. Scand J Public Health 2023; 51:21-27. [PMID: 34538164 PMCID: PMC9900188 DOI: 10.1177/14034948211043984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND People who inject drugs (PWID) have a high risk of premature death due to fatal overdoses. Newly emerged fentanyls, much more potent than heroin and other opioids, may increase this risk further. Therefore, precise information on injected drugs is critical to improving prevention strategies. AIMS This study aimed to analyse drug residues in used injection equipment in order to determine drug and drug combinations and compare and complement findings with self-reported information. METHODS Used syringes and needles (n=766) were collected at the supervised drug consumption facilities, the needle exchange service and two low-threshold health services for problem drug users in Oslo, Norway. The material was collected every third month from June 2019 to June 2020 and analysed for 64 substances using highly specific analytical methods (ultra-high performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry). Additionally, a street-recruited sample of PWID was interviewed from 2017 to 2019 regarding their drug injection habits (n=572). RESULTS Heroin (65.5%) or amphetamines (59.8%), often in combination (30.5%), were commonly detected in drug residues. Other opioids, stimulants or benzodiazepines were rarely detected (6.1%). Fentanyl was detected in only one syringe. Heroin was the most reported drug (77.6% during the past four weeks, 48.3% daily/almost daily), followed by amphetamines (57.5% during the past four weeks, 23.1% daily or almost daily). Injection of methadone, buprenorphine and dissolved tablets was self-reported more frequently than determined in drug residue findings. CONCLUSIONS
Analysis of the injection equipment proved useful as a non-invasive, rapid and accurate means to obtain detailed information on injected drugs in Oslo and supplement traditional PWID survey information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hallvard Gjerde
- Section of Drug Abuse Research,
Department of Forensic Sciences, Oslo University Hospital, Norway,Hallvard Gjerde, Oslo University Hospital,
Department of Forensic Sciences, Section for Drug Abuse Research, P.O. Box 4950
Nydalen, NO-0424 Oslo, Norway. E-mail:
| | | | - Lihn Bache-Andreassen
- Section of Drug Abuse Research,
Department of Forensic Sciences, Oslo University Hospital, Norway
| | - Kristin Hanoa
- Department of Alcohol, Tobacco and
Drugs, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Norway
| | - Håvard Furuhaugen
- Section of Drug Abuse Research,
Department of Forensic Sciences, Oslo University Hospital, Norway
| | - Gerd-Wenche Brochmann
- Section of Drug Abuse Research,
Department of Forensic Sciences, Oslo University Hospital, Norway
| | - Vigdis Vindenes
- Section of Drug Abuse Research,
Department of Forensic Sciences, Oslo University Hospital, Norway,Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty
of Medicine, University of Oslo, Norway
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15
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Hoseininezhad-Namin MS, Ozkan SA, Rahimpour E, Jouyban A. Development of a β-cyclodextrin-modified gold nanoparticle-assisted electromembrane extraction method followed by capillary electrophoresis for methadone determination in plasma. RSC Adv 2022; 12:33936-33944. [PMID: 36505701 PMCID: PMC9702798 DOI: 10.1039/d2ra06419g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) modified with β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) were used to assist with electromembrane extraction (EME) and were coupled with capillary electrophoresis (CE) and ultraviolet (UV) detection (CE-UV) for the extraction and measurement of methadone from plasma samples. A β-CD-modified AuNP-reinforced hollow fiber (HF) was utilized in this work. The β-CD-modified AuNPs act as an absorbent and provide an extra pathway for the analyte extraction. For obtaining the effect of the presence of β-CD-modified AuNPs in the HF pores, the extraction efficiency of the EME and β-CD-modified AuNPs/EME techniques were compared. Different parameters influencing the extraction efficacy of the EME and β-CD-modified AuNPs/EME methods were optimized. Optimal extractions were performed with 1-octanol as the organic solvent in the supported liquid membrane (SLM), with an applied voltage of 10 V as the driving force across the SLM, and with pH 7.0 in the donor solutions with a stirring speed of 1000 rpm after 20 min and 25 min for the β-CD-modified AuNPs/EME and EME methods, respectively. Under optimal conditions, compared with the EME method, the β-CD-modified AuNPs/EME method exhibited increased extraction efficacy in a short time. The β-CD-modified AuNPs/EME technique demonstrated a lower limit of detection (5.0 ng mL-1), higher extraction recovery (68%), and a more optimal preconcentration factor (135). Furthermore, this method was successfully utilized for measuring methadone in real plasma samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mir Saleh Hoseininezhad-Namin
- Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical SciencesTabrizIran,Pharmaceutical Analysis Research Center and Faculty of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical SciencesTabrizIran
| | - Sibel Aysil Ozkan
- Ankara University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Analytical ChemistryAnkaraTurkey
| | - Elaheh Rahimpour
- Pharmaceutical Analysis Research Center and Faculty of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical SciencesTabrizIran,Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical SciencesTabrizIran
| | - Abolghasem Jouyban
- Pharmaceutical Analysis Research Center and Faculty of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical SciencesTabrizIran,Faculty of Pharmacy, Near East UniversityP.O. Box 99138 Nicosia, North CyprusMersin 10Turkey
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16
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Andersen FD, Joca S, Hvingelby V, Arjmand S, Pinilla E, Steffensen SC, Simonsen U, Andersen CU. Combined effects of quetiapine and opioids: A study of autopsy cases, drug users and sedation in rats. Addict Biol 2022; 27:e13214. [PMID: 36001431 PMCID: PMC9541371 DOI: 10.1111/adb.13214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Fatal opioid poisonings often involve methadone or morphine. This study aimed to elucidate if quetiapine, a widely used sedative antipsychotic medication, may increase the risk of fatal opioid poisoning by additive inhibitory effects on the central nervous system. We used data from 323 cases of fatal methadone or/and morphine poisonings autopsied from 2013 to 2020, a survey of 34 drug users, and performed blinded placebo‐controlled studies in 75 Flinders Resistant Line rats receiving three cumulative intraperitoneal doses of vehicle, methadone (2.5, 10 and 15 mg/kg), morphine (3.75, 15 and 22.5 mg/kg), quetiapine (3, 10 and 30 mg/kg) or quetiapine combined with methadone or morphine. Quetiapine was detected in 20.4% of fatal opioid poisonings with a significantly increased frequency over time, primarily in low or therapeutic concentrations, and was not associated with methadone or morphine concentrations. Use of quetiapine, most commonly in low‐to‐moderate doses to obtain a sleep‐inducing or tranquillizing effect, was reported by 67.6% of survey respondents. In the animal studies, a significant impairment of sedation score, performance on the rotarod and open field mobility was observed in all treatment groups compared with vehicle. However, the effect of quetiapine plus the opioid was not significantly different from that of the opioid alone. Thus, no additive sedative effects were observed in rats. Our results suggest that quetiapine is more often an innocent bystander than a contributor to fatal opioid poisoning. However, the combined effects on other parameters, including blood pressure, cardiac rhythm and respiratory rate, need investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sâmia Joca
- Department of Biomedicine Aarhus University Aarhus Denmark
| | - Victor Hvingelby
- Department of Clinical Medicine – Nuclear Medicine and PET Aarhus University Aarhus Denmark
| | - Shokouh Arjmand
- Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine Aarhus University Aarhus Denmark
| | | | - Simon Comerma Steffensen
- Department of Biomedicine Aarhus University Aarhus Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences/Animal Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Central University of Venezuela
| | - Ulf Simonsen
- Department of Biomedicine Aarhus University Aarhus Denmark
| | - Charlotte Uggerhøj Andersen
- Department of Forensic Medicine Aarhus University Hospital Aarhus Denmark
- Department of Biomedicine Aarhus University Aarhus Denmark
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology Aarhus University Hospital Aarhus Denmark
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17
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Gjersing L, Amundsen E. Increasing trend in accidental pharmaceutical opioid overdose deaths and diverging overdose death correlates following the opioid prescription policy liberalization in Norway 2010-2018. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2022; 108:103785. [PMID: 35907371 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2022.103785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the last decade, opioid prescription policies in Norway have been liberalised and pharmaceutical opioid (PO) dispensing has increased. Against this backdrop, we examined the trends in and the correlates of accidental overdose deaths attributable to PO in the period 2010-2018 in comparison with traditional heroin overdose deaths. METHODS Accidental overdose deaths attributable to PO or heroin were identified through the Norwegian Cause of Death Registry (n = 1267) and cross-linked with population and patient registries. Overdose death correlates were examined using multivariable logistic regression. FINDINGS The trend in accidental overdose deaths attributable to PO increased significantly from 2010 to 2018. Females, people aged 50 years or older, disability pension recipients and/or those with the highest net wealth had a greater risk of a PO vs. heroin overdose death, while those dying in public spaces, living in urban areas, having recent specialized drug treatment encounters, and/or criminal charge(s) had a lower risk. Among those with primary health care encounters, those with back problems and accidents and injuries had a greater risk of a PO vs. heroin overdose death, while those with a substance use disorder had a lower risk. CONCLUSION The increase in accidental overdose deaths attributable to PO coincides with the period of opioid prescription policy liberalization and an increase in PO consumption in Norway. The PO and heroin overdose deaths differed in terms of the associated sociodemographic characteristics, primary and secondary health care encounters, diagnoses, and criminal charges, indicating a need for additional interventions aimed at preventing PO overdose deaths specifically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linn Gjersing
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Postboks 222 Skøyen, 0213 Oslo, Norway.
| | - Ellen Amundsen
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Postboks 222 Skøyen, 0213 Oslo, Norway
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18
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Common opioids and stimulants in autopsy and DUID cases: A comparison of measured concentrations. Forensic Sci Int 2022; 338:111387. [PMID: 35878579 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2022.111387] [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: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Quantitative results from toxicological analyses of autopsy material are widely compared to ranges in reference works to determine if drug concentrations are in relevant levels for establishing intoxication. This study compares concentrations of commonly used opioids and stimulants from drug addict autopsies and driving under the influence of drugs (DUID) cases to supplement current knowledge of the possible span and overlaps of measured concentrations. The study included whole-blood results from forensic autopsies of drug addicts performed from 2015 to 2020 (n = 220) and DUID cases from 2015 to 2019 (n = 7088). The focus was on heroin/morphine, methadone, cocaine, amphetamine and MDMA concentrations because these drugs are commonly encountered in both fatal intoxications and DUID cases and the potential for abuse is well known. In the DUID group, the opioids heroin/morphine and methadone and the stimulants amphetamine and MDMA were often seen in concentrations above the reported lower comatose-fatal level whereas cocaine was almost always below. Thus, based on our data, the potential for false assessment of intoxication cases when comparing to reported comatose-fatal limits appears greatest on lower end concentrations of heroin/morphine, methadone, amphetamine and MDMA, whereas false assessment of cocaine appears less likely because most control cases are below reported comatose-fatal levels.
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19
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Fugelstad A. What lessons from Sweden's experience could be applied in the United States in response to the addiction and overdose crisis? Addiction 2022; 117:1189-1191. [PMID: 35373488 PMCID: PMC9325407 DOI: 10.1111/add.15847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Fugelstad
- Department of Clinical NeuroscienceKarolinska InstitutetStockholmSweden
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20
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Fugelstad A, Ågren G, Ramstedt M, Thiblin I, Hjelmström P. Oxycodone-related deaths in Sweden 2006-2018. Drug Alcohol Depend 2022; 234:109402. [PMID: 35306392 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2022.109402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Revised: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
AIM To identify and characterize oxycodone related deaths in Sweden from 2006 to 2018 and to compare them to other opioid-related deaths. METHODS To assess the factors contributing to the deaths, we used multinomial logistic regression to compare oxycodone-related deaths extracted from all forensic autopsy examinations and toxicology cases in the age groups 15-34 (reference group), 35-54 and 55-74 with regard to sex, presence of benzodiazepines and alcohol at the time of death, prescription of oxycodone, benzodiazepines and antidepressants, previous substance use-related (SUD) treatment, and manner of death. The oxycodone related deaths were compared with deaths with presence of other opioids. RESULT We identified 575 oxycodone-related deaths, and the rate increased during the study period from 0.10 to 1.12 per 100,000 in parallel with an increase of oxycodone prescriptions from 3.17 to 30.33 per 1000. Oxycodone-related deaths amounted to 10.0% of all opioid-related deaths. The deaths occurred mainly in older patients previously being prescribed oxycodone. Benzodiazepines were present at the time of death in 403 (70%) and alcohol in 259 (45%). Prescriptions of any opioid for pain (61%), oxycodone (50%), benzodiazepines (67%) and antidepressants (55%) were common. Only 15% had received treatment for SUD during the last year. CONCLUSION Oxycodone-related deaths increased in Sweden between 2006 and 2018 in parallel to an increase in oxycodone prescriptions. The increase occurred mainly in older patients being prescribed oxycodone for pain. There might be specific interventions needed to avoid oxycodone-related deaths compared to other opioid-related deaths associated with illicit opioid use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Fugelstad
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, SE-17177 Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Gunnar Ågren
- Former National Institute of Public Health, SE-11662 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mats Ramstedt
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, SE-17177 Stockholm, Sweden; Swedish Council for Information on Alcohol and Other Drugs (CAN), SE-11664 Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Public Health Sciences, Stockholm University, SE-10691 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ingmar Thiblin
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Section for Forensic Medicine, Uppsala University, SE-75140 Uppsala, Sweden
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21
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Edvardsen HME, Aamodt C, Bogstrand ST, Krajci P, Vindenes V, Rognli EB. Concentrations of psychoactive substances in blood samples from non-fatal and fatal opioid overdoses. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2022; 88:4494-4504. [PMID: 35470456 PMCID: PMC9543683 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.15365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim The primary aim was to compare concentrations of psychoactive substances in blood in non‐fatal and fatal opioid overdoses. The secondary aim was to assess the concentration levels of naloxone in blood in non‐fatal overdoses and the association between naloxone findings and concomitantly detected drugs. Method Design Case‐control study. Setting Norway. Fatal overdoses from 2017 and non‐fatal overdoses from February 2018 to September 2019. Cases Thirty‐one non‐fatal and 160 fatal opioid overdose cases. Data from the non‐fatal overdoses were collected from hospital records and blood samples, and data from the fatal overdoses were collected from autopsy reports. Concentrations of psychoactive substances (including ethanol) in blood samples were collected at the time of hospital admission for the non‐fatal overdoses and during autopsy for the fatal overdoses. Results The median number of different substances detected was four for fatal and five for non‐fatal overdoses. The fatal overdoses had higher pooled concentrations of opioids (188 vs 57.2 ng/mL, P < .001), benzodiazepines (5467 vs 2051 ng/mL, P = .005) and amphetamines (581 vs 121 ng/mL, P < .001) than the non‐fatal overdoses. A linear relationship between naloxone and concomitant pooled opioid concentrations was found (95% confidence interval = 0.002‐0.135, P < .05). Conclusion The total load of drug concentrations was associated with the fatal outcome of an overdose, while the number of drugs used, to a lesser extent, differentiated between those who survived and those who died from an overdose. Higher opioid concentrations were associated with treatment with higher naloxone doses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Carl Aamodt
- Department of Substance Use Disorder Treatment, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Stig Tore Bogstrand
- Department of Forensic Sciences, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Institute of Health and Society, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Peter Krajci
- Department of Substance Use Disorder Treatment, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Vigdis Vindenes
- Department of Forensic Sciences, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Eline Borger Rognli
- Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
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22
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Mohr ALA, Logan BK, Fogarty MF, Krotulski AJ, Papsun DM, Kacinko SL, Huestis MA, Ropero-Miller JD. Reports of Adverse Events Associated with Use of Novel Psychoactive Substances, 2017-2020: A Review. J Anal Toxicol 2022; 46:e116-e185. [PMID: 35445267 PMCID: PMC9282356 DOI: 10.1093/jat/bkac023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
An important role of modern forensic and clinical toxicologists is to monitor the adverse events of novel psychoactive substances (NPS). Following a prior review from 2013 to 2016, this critical literature review analyzes and evaluates published case reports for NPS from January 2017 through December 2020. The primary objective of this study is to assist in the assessment and interpretation of these cases as well as provide references for confirmation methods. Chemistry, pharmacology, adverse events and user profiles (e.g., polypharmacy) for NPS are provided including case history, clinical symptoms, autopsy findings and analytical results. Literature reviews were performed in PubMed and Google Scholar for publications using search terms such as NPS specific names, general terms (e.g., ‘designer drugs’ and ‘novel psychoactive substances’), drug classes (e.g., ‘designer stimulants’) and outcome-based terms (e.g., ‘overdose’ and ‘death’). Government and website drug surveillance databases and abstracts published by professional forensic science organizations were also searched. Toxicological data and detailed case information were extracted, tabulated, analyzed and organized by drug category. Case reports included overdose fatalities (378 cases), clinical treatment and hospitalization (771 cases) and driving under the influence of drugs (170 cases) for a total of 1,319 cases providing details of adverse events associated with NPS. Confirmed adverse events with associated toxidromes of more than 60 NPS were reported including synthetic cannabinoid, NPS stimulant, NPS hallucinogen, NPS benzodiazepine and NPS opioid cases. Fifty of these NPS were reported for the first time in January 2017 through December 2020 as compared to the previous 4 years surveyed. This study provides insight and context of case findings described in the literature and in digital government surveillance databases and websites during a recent 4-year period. This review will increase the awareness of adverse events associated with NPS use to better characterize international emerging drug threats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda L A Mohr
- Center for Forensic Science Research and Education at the Fredric Rieders Family Foundation, 2300 Stratford Ave, Willow Grove, PA, 19090, USA
| | - Barry K Logan
- Center for Forensic Science Research and Education at the Fredric Rieders Family Foundation, 2300 Stratford Ave, Willow Grove, PA, 19090, USA.,NMS Labs, 200 Welsh Rd, Horsham, PA, 19044, USA
| | - Melissa F Fogarty
- Center for Forensic Science Research and Education at the Fredric Rieders Family Foundation, 2300 Stratford Ave, Willow Grove, PA, 19090, USA
| | - Alex J Krotulski
- Center for Forensic Science Research and Education at the Fredric Rieders Family Foundation, 2300 Stratford Ave, Willow Grove, PA, 19090, USA
| | | | | | - Marilyn A Huestis
- Center for Forensic Science Research and Education at the Fredric Rieders Family Foundation, 2300 Stratford Ave, Willow Grove, PA, 19090, USA.,Institute of Emerging Health Professions, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
| | - Jeri D Ropero-Miller
- RTI International, Center for Forensic Sciences, 3040 East Cornwallis Rd, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
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23
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Edvardsen HME, Clausen T. Opioid related deaths in Norway in 2000-2019. Drug Alcohol Depend 2022; 232:109281. [PMID: 35042099 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2022.109281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The aim of the study is to present autopsy-based findings of the most prevalent opioids in overdose deaths in Norway from 2000 to 2019, as such data are lacking in the current literature. METHODS Data on cause of death obtained from the Norwegian Cause of Death Registry (NCoDR) were linked with forensic toxicological results from forensic autopsies. RESULTS From year 2000 the annual numbers of overdose deaths decreased, specifically during 2000-2003, thereafter a relatively stable annual number was observed. Opioids were detected in 93% of the cases. Heroin related deaths have decreased, whereas medical opioids for pain treatment have increased with time. Men in their early 40's dominate the overall numbers of deaths, but significantly different sex patterns emerge when studying the specific drugs. During the past 20 years, the mean age at overdose death has increased by 10 years (from 33 to 43 years). Overdose deaths without any illicit drugs present at autopsy have increased in recent years. These deaths, where only potentially prescription medications were detected, were more common among women and with higher age. CONCLUSIONS In Norway during the past 20 years, we observe a dynamic shift in overdose deaths caused by heroin and illicit drugs, to include a gradually increasing trend of overdose deaths from pill based pain medications and also methadone and buprenorphine. This warrants a shift in preventive responses, as the target groups differ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hilde Marie Erøy Edvardsen
- Section for Drug Abuse Research, Department of Forensic Sciences, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Thomas Clausen
- Norwegian Centre for Addiction Research (SERAF), Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
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Postmortem Metabolomics Reveal Acylcarnitines as Potential Biomarkers for Fatal Oxycodone-Related Intoxication. Metabolites 2022; 12:metabo12020109. [PMID: 35208184 PMCID: PMC8878426 DOI: 10.3390/metabo12020109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Postmortem metabolomics has recently been suggested as a potential tool for discovering new biological markers able to assist in death investigations. Interpretation of oxycodone concentrations in postmortem cases is complicated, as oxycodone tolerance leads to overlapping concentrations for oxycodone intoxications versus non-intoxications. The primary aim of this study was to use postmortem metabolomics to identify potential endogenous biomarkers that discriminate between oxycodone-related intoxications and non-intoxications. Ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry data from 934 postmortem femoral blood samples, including oxycodone intoxications and controls positive and negative for oxycodone, were used in this study. Data were processed and evaluated with XCMS and SIMCA. A clear trend in group separation was observed between intoxications and controls, with a model sensitivity and specificity of 80% and 76%. Approximately halved levels of short-, medium-, and long-chain acylcarnitines were observed for oxycodone intoxications in comparison with controls (p < 0.001). These biochemical changes seem to relate to the toxicological effects of oxycodone and potentially acylcarnitines constituting a biologically relevant biomarker for opioid poisonings. More studies are needed in order to elucidate the potential of acylcarnitines as biomarker for oxycodone toxicity and their relation to CNS-depressant effects.
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Nielsen M, Kruckow L, Buch AK, Olsen KB, Banner J. Characterization of deceased drug users in Denmark based on treatment status: A nationwide retrospective autopsy study. Drug Alcohol Depend 2022; 230:109146. [PMID: 34864565 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2021.109146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2021] [Revised: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many drug users are not receiving treatment for their drug use. Little is known about drug users not receiving treatment, as they are difficult to identify and recruit for research. METHODS We identified 479 autopsied decedents with illegal/unmarketed drug or opioid agonist treatment positive toxicological screenings from 2015 to 2016 in Denmark. Toxicological screenings from autopsy, and information on treatment status at time of death, health care utilization, educational attainment, employment status and prescription drug use from Danish national health registers were used for comparison between groups. RESULTS Drug users not in treatment constituted 63.3% of the study population and died at a younger age than those in treatment (41 vs. 44 years). Fatal overdose was the most common cause of death in both groups. Nearly thrice as many drug users not in treatment died from somatic causes compared with drug users in treatment (18.2% vs. 6.8%). On average, drug users not in treatment received fewer prescriptions prior to their deaths than those in treatment, but non-prescribed medications were equally prevalent among both groups (74.3% vs. 81.3%) except for non-prescribed methadone which was significantly less prevalent among drug users not in treatment (33.3% vs. 42.6%). CONCLUSION Two-thirds of decedents were not in treatment at time of death. Drug users not in treatment died more often from somatic causes compared to those in treatment. Decedents had equal amounts of non-prescribed psychotropic medication in the blood, but non-prescribed methadone was more common among those in treatment at the time of death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Nielsen
- Department of Forensic Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Frederik V's Vej 11, 2100 Copenhagen O, Denmark.
| | - Line Kruckow
- Department of Forensic Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Frederik V's Vej 11, 2100 Copenhagen O, Denmark.
| | - Astrid Kerstine Buch
- Department of Forensic Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Frederik V's Vej 11, 2100 Copenhagen O, Denmark.
| | - Kristine Boisen Olsen
- Department of Forensic Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Frederik V's Vej 11, 2100 Copenhagen O, Denmark.
| | - Jytte Banner
- Department of Forensic Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Frederik V's Vej 11, 2100 Copenhagen O, Denmark.
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The incidence of psychoactive substances and alcohol among impaired drivers in Denmark in 2015–2019. Forensic Sci Int 2022; 333:111207. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2022.111207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
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Truver MT, Jakobsson G, Chermà MD, Swortwood MJ, Gréen H, Kronstrand R. Urinary Pharmacokinetics of Immediate and Controlled Release Oxycodone and its Phase I and II Metabolites Using LC-MS-MS. J Anal Toxicol 2021; 46:1025-1031. [PMID: 34922356 PMCID: PMC9872218 DOI: 10.1093/jat/bkab123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxycodone (OC) is a schedule II semisynthetic opioid in the USA that is prescribed for its analgesic effects and has a high potential for abuse. Prescriptions for OC vary based on the dosage and formulation, immediate release (IR) and controlled release (CR). Monitoring OC metabolites is beneficial for forensic casework. The limited studies that involve pharmacokinetics of the urinary excretion of OC metabolites leave a knowledge gap regarding the excretion of conjugated and minor metabolites, pharmacokinetic differences by formulation, and the impact of CYP2D6 activity on the metabolism and excretion of OC. The objectives of this study were to compare urinary excretion of phase I and II metabolites by formulation and investigate if ratio changes over time could be used to predict the time of intake. Subjects (n = 7) received a single 10 mg IR tablet of Oxycodone Actavis. A few weeks later the same subjects received a single 10 mg CR tablet of Oxycodone Actavis. During each setting, urine was collected at 0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14, 24, 48 and 72 h. Urine samples (100 µL) were diluted with 900 µL internal standard mixture and analyzed on an Acquity UPLC® I-class coupled to a Waters Xevo TQD using a previously validated method. The CYP2D6 phenotypes were categorized as poor metabolizers (PM), intermediate metabolizers (IM), extensive metabolizers (EM) and ultrarapid metabolizers (UM). Comparisons between IR and CR were performed using two-tailed paired t-test at a significance level of P = 0.05. The metabolite ratios showed a general increase over time. Four metabolite to parent ratios were used to predict the time of intake showing that predictions were best at the early time points.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael T Truver
- Division of Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping 581 83, Sweden,Department of Pathology, Immunology, and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida College of Medicine, 4800 SW 35th Drive, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | | | - Maria D Chermà
- Department of Forensic Genetics and Forensic Toxicology, National Board of Forensic Medicine, Artillerigatan 12, Linköping 587 58, Sweden
| | - Madeleine J Swortwood
- Department of Forensic Science, College of Criminal Justice, Sam Houston State University, 1003 Bowers Blvd, Huntsville, TX 77340, USA
| | - Henrik Gréen
- Division of Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping 581 83, Sweden,Department of Forensic Genetics and Forensic Toxicology, National Board of Forensic Medicine, Artillerigatan 12, Linköping 587 58, Sweden
| | - Robert Kronstrand
- Division of Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping 581 83, Sweden,Department of Forensic Genetics and Forensic Toxicology, National Board of Forensic Medicine, Artillerigatan 12, Linköping 587 58, Sweden
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Politi C, Gabbin A, Cecchetto G, Montisci M, Viel G, Pascali JP. A case study on MDMA. Two fatal cases involving young adults. AUST J FORENSIC SCI 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/00450618.2021.1921267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Caterina Politi
- Department of Cardiac-Thoracic-Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Andrea Gabbin
- Department of Cardiac-Thoracic-Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Giovanni Cecchetto
- Department of Cardiac-Thoracic-Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Massimo Montisci
- Department of Cardiac-Thoracic-Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Guido Viel
- Department of Cardiac-Thoracic-Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Jennifer P. Pascali
- Department of Cardiac-Thoracic-Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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The role of QT-prolonging medications in a forensic autopsy study from Western Denmark. Forensic Sci Int 2021; 325:110889. [PMID: 34225211 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2021.110889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Medication-induced prolongation of the QT-interval (miQTP) can lead to cardiac arrhythmia. Our aim was to investigate the prevalence of forensic autopsy cases where fatal cardiac arrhythmia related to treatment with QT-prolonging medications (QT-PMs) could be suspected. We performed a cross-sectional study of 741 forensic autopsies undertaken at our institution in non-drug addicts aged 15 years or above from 2017 to 2019. We defined a high risk of miQTP by one detected QT-PM in a concentration above therapeutic level, or two or more detected QT-PMs in post mortem blood. We reviewed the autopsy reports from cases with a high miQTP-risk to identify cases with no other apparent cause of death. We discarded suicides and cases with lethal levels of QT-PMs. We identified 167 cases (22.5%) with high risk of miQTP, and discarded 36 suicides (4.9%) and 7 (0.9%) with lethal levels of QT-PMs. Apart from a high risk of miQTP, no other apparent explanation of the cause of death was present in seven (0.9%). In 18 cases (2.4%) with high miQTP-risk, the cause of death was primarily attributed to cardiac changes other than acute cardiovascular events. In conclusion, 22.5% had a high risk of miQTP, and fatal cardiac arrhythmia related to treatment with QT-PMs could be suspected in 0.9%. However, a genetic pro-arrhythmic background could not be excluded in our study. Furthermore, it is possible that QT-PMs could have played a role in some of the 2.4% of cases where the cause of death was mainly attributed to cardiac changes and the risk of miQTP was high.
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Jakobsson G, Truver MT, Wrobel SA, Gréen H, Kronstrand R. Heroin-Related Compounds and Metabolic Ratios in Postmortem Samples Using LC-MS-MS. J Anal Toxicol 2021; 45:215-225. [PMID: 33031535 PMCID: PMC7953417 DOI: 10.1093/jat/bkaa157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Analysis of postmortem samples with the presence of morphine can sometimes be challenging to interpret. Tolerance complicates interpretation of intoxications and causes of death due to overlap in therapeutic and fatal concentrations. Determination of metabolites and metabolic ratios can potentially differentiate between abstinence, continuous administration, and perhaps time of administration. The purpose of this study was to (a) develop and validate a method for quantitation of morphine-3β-D-glucuronide, morphine-6β-D-glucuronide, normorphine, codeine-6β-D-glucuronide, norcodeine, codeine, 6-acetylmorphine, and ethylmorphine in urine using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry; (b) apply the method to opiate related deaths; (c) compare metabolic ratios in urine in different causes of death (CoD) and after different drug intakes and (d) compare heroin intoxications in rapid and delayed deaths. Validation parameters such as precision, bias, matrix effects, stability, process efficiency, and dilution integrity were assessed and deemed acceptable. Lower limits of quantitation ranged from 0.01–0.2 μg/mL for all analytes. Autopsy cases (n=135) with paired blood and urine samples were analyzed. Cases were divided into three groups based on CoD; opiate intoxication, intoxication with other drugs than opiates, and other CoD. The cases were classified by intake: codeine (n=42), heroin (n=36), morphine (n=49), and ethylmorphine (n=3). Five cases were classified as mixed intakes and excluded. Heroin intoxications (n=35) were divided into rapid (n=15) or delayed (n=20) deaths. Parent drug groups were compared using metabolic ratio morphine-3β-D-glucuronide/morphine and significant differences were observed between codeine vs morphine (p=0.005) and codeine vs heroin (p≤0.0001). Urine and blood concentrations, and metabolic ratios in rapid and delayed heroin intoxications were compared and determined a significant difference for morphine (p=0.001), codeine (p=0.009), 6-acetylmorphine (p=0.02) in urine, and morphine (p=0.02) in blood, but there was no significant difference (p=0.9) between metabolic ratios. Morphine-3β-D-glucuronide results suggested a period of abstinence prior to death in 25% of the heroin intoxications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerd Jakobsson
- *Author to whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail:
| | - Michael T Truver
- Division of Drug Research, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Linköping University, 581 83, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Sonja A Wrobel
- Department of Forensic Genetics and Forensic Toxicology, National Board of Forensic Medicine, 587 58, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Henrik Gréen
- Division of Drug Research, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Linköping University, 581 83, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Forensic Genetics and Forensic Toxicology, National Board of Forensic Medicine, 587 58, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Robert Kronstrand
- Division of Drug Research, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Linköping University, 581 83, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Forensic Genetics and Forensic Toxicology, National Board of Forensic Medicine, 587 58, Linköping, Sweden
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Seyler T, Giraudon I, Noor A, Mounteney J, Griffiths P. Is Europe facing an opioid epidemic: What does European monitoring data tell us? Eur J Pain 2021; 25:1072-1080. [DOI: 10.1002/ejp.1728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Seyler
- European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction Lisbon Portugal
| | - Isabelle Giraudon
- European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction Lisbon Portugal
| | - André Noor
- European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction Lisbon Portugal
| | - Jane Mounteney
- European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction Lisbon Portugal
| | - Paul Griffiths
- European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction Lisbon Portugal
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Jørgenrud B, Furuhaugen H, Gjerde H. Prevalence and Correlates of Illicit Drug Use among Norwegian Nightlife Patrons. Subst Use Misuse 2021; 56:1697-1706. [PMID: 34251973 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2021.1949613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nightclubs and bars are recreational settings with extensive availability and consumption of alcohol and recreational drugs. OBJECTIVES This study aims to determine the proportion of nightclub patrons in Norway that tested positive for illicit drugs, moreover, we examined the correlation between positive test results and demographic and substance use characteristics. METHODS Patrons were recruited outside nightclubs on Friday and Saturday nights between 10:00 pm and 04:00 am. Substance use was determined by breath testing and oral fluid testing for alcohol and drugs, respectively, using accurate and specific analytical methods. Questionnaires recorded demographic and substance use characteristics. RESULTS Of the 1988 included nightclub patrons, 90% tested positive for alcohol, 14% for illicit drug use, and 3% for two or more illicit drugs. The proportion of patrons who tested positive for illicit drugs was highest in the early hours of the morning. Nine out of ten who tested positive for illicit drugs also consumed alcohol. Testing positive for one or more illicit drugs was most strongly correlated with being male and unemployed, using tobacco or other nicotine products, and early on-set illicit drug use; further the correlations were strongest among those who tested positive for two or more illicit drugs.Conclusions/Importance: Patrons who used illicit drugs before or during nightclub visits most often combined drug use with alcohol consumption. Substituting alcohol with cannabis or other drugs was not common in this cohort. The study results provide evidence to introduce harm-reduction prevention programs to address illicit drug and excessive alcohol consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedicte Jørgenrud
- Section of Drug Abuse Research, Department of Forensic Sciences, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Håvard Furuhaugen
- Section of Drug Abuse Research, Department of Forensic Sciences, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Hallvard Gjerde
- Section of Drug Abuse Research, Department of Forensic Sciences, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
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