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Tin Y, Castry M, Bowers-Sword R, Shantharam S, Aldridge A, Zarkin GA, Starbird L, Linas BP, Barocas JA, Morgan JR. Establishing a Protocol for Determining the Costs of an Integrated Set of Evidence-based Practices Aimed at Reducing Opioid Overdose Deaths. J Addict Med 2024; 18:13-18. [PMID: 37768777 PMCID: PMC10872250 DOI: 10.1097/adm.0000000000001218] [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] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In the midst of the opioid overdose crisis, local jurisdictions face a choice of public health interventions. A significant barrier when considering evidence-based practices (EBPs) is the lack of information regarding their implementation cost. This protocol paper provides the methodological foundation for the economic cost evaluations of community-wide strategies on the scale of a national study. It can serve as a resource for other communities, local policymakers, and stakeholders as they consider implementing possible public health strategies in their unique settings. METHODS We present a protocol that details (1) the process of identifying, reviewing, and analyzing individual strategies for study-funded and non-study-funded costs; (2) prospective costing tool designation, and; (3) data collection. To do this, we set up working groups with community stakeholders, reviewed financial invoices, and surveyed individuals with detailed knowledge of their community implementation. DISCUSSION There were 3 main challenges/limitations. The first was the lack of a standard structure for documenting nonfunded costs associated with each strategy. The second was the need for timely implementation of cost data. The third was generalizability because our study designed its strategies for selected communities due to their high opioid overdose mortality rates. Future steps include more tailored questions to ask during the categorization/filter process and establishing realistic expectations for organizations regarding documenting. CONCLUSIONS Data collected will provide a critical methodological foundation for costing large community-based EBP strategies and provide clarity for stakeholders on the cost of implementing EBP strategies to reduce opioid overdose deaths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yjuliana Tin
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Boston Medical Center (BMC), Boston, MA
| | - Mathieu Castry
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Boston Medical Center (BMC), Boston, MA
| | | | | | - Arnie Aldridge
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | - Gary A. Zarkin
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | - Laura Starbird
- University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Benjamin P. Linas
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Boston Medical Center (BMC), Boston, MA
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA
| | - Joshua A. Barocas
- Divisions of General Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO
| | - Jake R. Morgan
- Department of Health Law, Policy, and Management, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA
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Lavonas EJ, Akpunonu PD, Arens AM, Babu KM, Cao D, Hoffman RS, Hoyte CO, Mazer-Amirshahi ME, Stolbach A, St-Onge M, Thompson TM, Wang GS, Hoover AV, Drennan IR. 2023 American Heart Association Focused Update on the Management of Patients With Cardiac Arrest or Life-Threatening Toxicity Due to Poisoning: An Update to the American Heart Association Guidelines for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Emergency Cardiovascular Care. Circulation 2023; 148:e149-e184. [PMID: 37721023 DOI: 10.1161/cir.0000000000001161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
In this focused update, the American Heart Association provides updated guidance for resuscitation of patients with cardiac arrest, respiratory arrest, and refractory shock due to poisoning. Based on structured evidence reviews, guidelines are provided for the treatment of critical poisoning from benzodiazepines, β-adrenergic receptor antagonists (also known as β-blockers), L-type calcium channel antagonists (commonly called calcium channel blockers), cocaine, cyanide, digoxin and related cardiac glycosides, local anesthetics, methemoglobinemia, opioids, organophosphates and carbamates, sodium channel antagonists (also called sodium channel blockers), and sympathomimetics. Recommendations are also provided for the use of venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. These guidelines discuss the role of atropine, benzodiazepines, calcium, digoxin-specific immune antibody fragments, electrical pacing, flumazenil, glucagon, hemodialysis, hydroxocobalamin, hyperbaric oxygen, insulin, intravenous lipid emulsion, lidocaine, methylene blue, naloxone, pralidoxime, sodium bicarbonate, sodium nitrite, sodium thiosulfate, vasodilators, and vasopressors for the management of specific critical poisonings.
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Siemens JMA, Bhoora U, Janse van Rensburg M. Methadone use for acute opioid withdrawal in Tshwane shelters during the COVID-19 lockdown. S Afr Fam Pract (2004) 2023; 65:e1-e7. [PMID: 37916694 PMCID: PMC10546247 DOI: 10.4102/safp.v65i1.5708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Temporary shelters were established for street-based people during the national level 5 coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) lockdown. However, street-based substance users' need to access substances was not addressed, resulting in large numbers of people experiencing withdrawal. The Community Oriented Substance Use Programme (COSUP) in Tshwane provided methadone to manage opioid withdrawal. METHODS A cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted using the daily methadone dosing records from shelters in Tshwane between March 2020 and September 2020. RESULTS The final analysis included 495 participants, of which 64 (12.9%) were initiated on 20 mg - 30 mg of methadone, 397 (80.2%) on 40 mg - 50 mg, and 34 (6.9%) on 60 mg - 70 mg. A total of 194 (39.2%) participants continued their initiation dose for 1-2 months, after which 126 (64.9%) had their doses increased, and 68 (35.1%) had their doses decreased. Approximately 12 (2.4%) participants were weaned off methadone after 1-3 months and 46 (9.3%) after 4-6 months. In all, 100 (20.2%) participants left the shelter prematurely and did not continue with methadone. A total of 126 (25.5%) participants continued to stay in the shelters and received methadone for 6 months, with 125 (25.3%) participants leaving the shelter with continued follow-up at a COSUP site. CONCLUSION This study demonstrates variability in methadone dosing regimens among shelter residents. As the lockdown measures eased, many chose to leave the shelters, while others remained to receive methadone and other services. The COSUP appears to be effective during periods of increased vulnerability, since a large number of participants were successfully followed up.Contribution: Opioid dependence is a persistent, lifelong disease. It is multifaceted with complex environmental and individual determinants. This study highlighted the use of opioid substitution therapy during a period of increased vulnerability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jo-Marie A Siemens
- Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria.
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Natale I, Harvey C, Wood P, Anderson K. "It can save your life, that's all I know," barriers and facilitators for engagement in take-home naloxone for people receiving opioid substitution treatment in regional Australia: An explorative study. QUALITATIVE RESEARCH IN MEDICINE & HEALTHCARE 2023; 7:10868. [PMID: 37692452 PMCID: PMC10483482 DOI: 10.4081/qrmh.2023.10868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Engagement in take-home naloxone (THN) programs by people receiving opioid substitution treatment (OST) in Australia is low despite methadone being a significant contributor to opioid overdose deaths. Our aim was to explore barriers and facilitators for OST patients to engage in THN. We used a descriptive qualitative design with thematic analysis to gain insight into naloxone uptake by people engaged in an OST program in regional Australia. Eleven participants were interviewed; eight had previously engaged with THN. Barriers to THN included limited knowledge and understanding, lack of information, and not personally experiencing an overdose. Facilitators included having a traumatic experience of overdose, knowledge and understanding of THN and overdose, empowerment in carrying naloxone, and expanding THN programs. Support for the expansion of THN programs is desired among participants, and widespread peer distribution is understood to be the key to success. This study found that prior traumatic experience of overdose facilitates acceptance of THN, and being offered THN was the most important factor in engagement. Less clear is how to engage people who lack a traumatic overdose experience.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Craig Harvey
- Drugs and Alcohol Services, Barwon Health, Geelong
| | - Pene Wood
- La Trobe University, Bendigo, Australia
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Sellen K, Markowitz B, Parsons JA, Leece P, Handford C, Goso N, Hopkins S, Klaiman M, Shahin R, Milos G, Wright A, Charles M, Morrison L, Strike C, Orkin A. Considerations for the design of overdose education and naloxone distribution interventions: results of a multi-stakeholder workshop. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:888. [PMID: 37189052 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15554-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Opioid overdose epidemic is a public health crisis that is impacting communities around the world. Overdose education and naloxone distribution programs equip and train lay people to respond in the event of an overdose. We aimed to understand factors to consider for the design of naloxone distribution programs in point-of-care settings from the point of view of community stakeholders. METHODS We hosted a multi-stakeholder co-design workshop to elicit suggestions for a naloxone distribution program. We recruited people with lived experience of opioid overdose, community representatives, and other stakeholders from family practice, emergency medicine, addictions medicine, and public health to participate in a full-day facilitated co-design discussion wherein large and small group discussions were audio-recorded, transcribed and analysed using thematic approaches. RESULTS A total of twenty-four participants participated in the multi-stakeholder workshop from five stakeholder groups including geographic and setting diversity. Collaborative dialogue and shared storytelling revealed seven considerations for the design of naloxone distribution programs specific to training needs and the provision of naloxone, these are: recognizing overdose, how much naloxone, impact of stigma, legal risk of responding, position as conventional first aid, friends and family as responders, support to call 911. CONCLUSION To create an naloxone distribution program in emergency departments, family practice and substance use treatment services, stigma is a central design consideration for training and naloxone kits. Design choices that reference the iconography, type, and form of materials associated with first aid have the potential to satisfy the need to de-stigmatize overdose response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Sellen
- Health Design Studio, OCAD University, Toronto, ON, M5T 1W1, Canada.
| | - Benjamin Markowitz
- Applied Health Research Centre, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - Janet A Parsons
- Applied Health Research Centre, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Curtis Handford
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Inner City Health Associates, Toronto, Canada
| | - Nick Goso
- Health Design Studio, OCAD University, Toronto, ON, M5T 1W1, Canada
| | | | - Michelle Klaiman
- Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health, Toronto, Canada
| | | | | | - Amy Wright
- St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health, Toronto, Canada
| | - Mercy Charles
- Applied Health Research Centre, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - Laurie Morrison
- Applied Health Research Centre, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - Carol Strike
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Aaron Orkin
- Inner City Health Associates, Toronto, Canada
- St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health, Toronto, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Joseph's Health Centre, Unity Health, Toronto, Canada
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Allen ST, O'Rourke A, Johnson JA, Cheatom C, Zhang Y, Delise B, Watkins K, Reich K, Reich R, Lockett C. Evaluating the impact of naloxone dispensation at public health vending machines in Clark County, Nevada. Ann Med 2022; 54:2692-2700. [PMID: 36168975 PMCID: PMC9542801 DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2022.2121418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Implementing public health vending machines (PHVMs) is an evidence-based strategy for mitigating substance use-associated morbidity and mortality via the dispensation of essential supplies to people who use drugs, including overdose prevention resources. PHVMs have been implemented throughout the world; however, their implementation in the United States (US) is a recent phenomenon. In 2017, Trac-B Exchange (a syringe services program in Clark County, Nevada) installed three PHVMs. In 2019, naloxone dispensation was launched at PHVMs in Clark County. The purpose of this research is to examine the extent to which naloxone dispensation at PHVMs was associated with changes in opioid-involved overdose fatalities. METHODS Monthly counts of opioid-involved overdose fatalities among Clark County residents that occurred from January 2015 to December 2020 were used to build an autoregressive integrated moving averages (ARIMA) model to measure the impact of naloxone dispensation at PHVMs. We forecasted the number of expected opioid-involved overdose fatalities had naloxone dispensation at PHVMs not occurred and compared to observed monthly counts. Interrupted time series analyses (ITSA) were used to evaluate the step (i.e. the immediate impact of naloxone dispensation at PHVMs on opioid-involved overdose fatalities) and slope change (i.e. changes in trend and directionality of monthly counts of opioid-involved overdose fatalities following naloxone dispensation at PHVMs). RESULTS During the 12-months immediately following naloxone dispensation at PHVMs, our model forecasted 270 opioid-involved overdose fatalities, but death certificate data indicated only 229 occurred, suggesting an aversion of 41 deaths. ITSA identified a significant negative step change in opioid-involved overdose fatalities at the time naloxone dispensation at PHVMs was launched (B = -8.52, p = .0022) and a significant increasing slope change (B = 1.01, p<.0001). Forecasts that extended into the COVID-19 pandemic suggested worsening trends in overdose fatalities. CONCLUSION Naloxone dispensation at PHVMs was associated with immediate reductions in opioid-involved overdose fatalities. Key MessagesNaloxone dispensation at PHVMs was associated with immediate reductions in opioid-involved overdose fatalities.Communities should consider implementing public health vending machines in efforts to prevent opioid-involved overdose fatalities.The COVID-19 pandemic worsened the overdose crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean T Allen
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Allison O'Rourke
- DC Center for AIDS Research, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | | | - Ying Zhang
- Southern Nevada Health District, Las Vegas, NV, USA
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Swartz JA, Lin Q, Kim Y. A measurement invariance analysis of selected Opioid Overdose Knowledge Scale (OOKS) items among bystanders and first responders. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0271418. [PMID: 36240201 PMCID: PMC9565426 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0271418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The Opioid Overdose Knowledge Scale (OOKS) is widely used as an adjunct to opioid education and naloxone distribution (OEND) for assessing pre- and post-training knowledge. However, the extent to which the OOKS performs comparably for bystander and first responder groups has not been well determined. We used exploratory structural equation modeling (ESEM) to assess the measurement invariance of an OOKS item subset when used as an OEND training pre-test. We used secondary analysis of pre-test data collected from 446 first responders and 1,349 bystanders (N = 1,795) attending OEND trainings conducted by two county public health departments. Twenty-four items were selected by practitioner/trainer consensus from the original 45-item OOKS instrument with an additional 2 removed owing to low response variation. We used exploratory factor analysis (EFA) followed by ESEM to identify a factor structure, which we assessed for configural, metric, and scalar measurement invariance by participant group using the 22 dichotomous items (correct/incorrect) as factor indicators. EFA identified a 3-factor model consisting of items assessing: basic overdose risk information, signs of an overdose, and rescue procedures/advanced overdose risk information. Model fit by ESEM estimation versus confirmatory factor analysis showed the ESEM model afforded a better fit. Measurement invariance analyses indicated the 3-factor model fit the data across all levels of invariance per standard fit statistic metrics. The reduced set of 22 OOKS items appears to offer comparable measurement of pre-training knowledge on opioid overdose risks, signs of an overdose, and rescue procedures for both bystanders and first responders.
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Affiliation(s)
- James A. Swartz
- Jane Addams College of Social Work, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Qiao Lin
- College of Education, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Yerim Kim
- Jane Addams College of Social Work, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
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Yi G, Dayton L, Uzzi M, Browne K, Konstantopoulos A, Latkin C. Spatial and neighborhood-level correlates of lay naloxone reversal events and service availability. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2022; 106:103739. [PMID: 35691087 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2022.103739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The opioid epidemic in the United States continues to surge, reaching record deaths from opioid and fentanyl overdoses in 2020. This study analyzes spatial and neighborhood correlates of free naloxone distribution sites as well as overdose and naloxone reversal events in Baltimore, Maryland, which has one of the highest overdose rates in the country. METHODS Using data from a randomized clinical trial on HIV prevention among people using substances in Baltimore, Maryland, as well as demographic data from the US Census Bureau, we conducted: (1) exploratory spatial visualizations of census tracts' minimum distance to naloxone distribution sites, (2) univariable Wilcoxon rank-sum tests to compare census tracts on demographic metrics, and (3) bivariable and multivariable negative binomial regression models to assess associations between census tract characteristics and naloxone reversal events. RESULTS Valid geographic data were provided for 518 overdose events involving either fentanyl or heroin in this study. Of these, 190 (37%) attempted naloxone reversal events were reported. Exploratory spatial visualization techniques suggest that most distribution sites are appropriately located near populations at high risk of overdose, but study findings also identify areas where drug use and overdoses occur that are located farther from distribution sites. In multivariable analyses, naloxone administration was significantly and inversely associated with distance to the nearest distribution site (incidence rate ratio (IRR)=0.72 per 1000m increase, 95% CI 0.59-0.89, p=0.002). CONCLUSION Study findings emphasize the correlation between proximity to naloxone sites and utilization of resources, highlighting that physical proximity to harm reduction resources may contribute to uptake. Results further underscore that research on service accessibility and utilization must consider the spatial distribution of health services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace Yi
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA; David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, 10833 Le Conte Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90025.
| | - Lauren Dayton
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Mudia Uzzi
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kerry Browne
- Luskin School of Public Policy, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Arianna Konstantopoulos
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Carl Latkin
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Bascou NA, Haslund-Gourley B, Amber-Monta K, Samson K, Goss N, Meredith D, Friedman A, Needleman A, Kumar VK, Fischer BD. Reducing the stigma surrounding opioid use disorder: evaluating an opioid overdose prevention training program applied to a diverse population. Harm Reduct J 2022; 19:5. [PMID: 35034649 PMCID: PMC8761384 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-022-00589-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The opioid epidemic is a rapidly growing public health concern in the USA, as the number of overdose deaths continues to increase each year. One strategy for combating the rising number of overdoses is through opioid overdose prevention programs (OOPPs).
Objective To evaluate the effectiveness of an innovative OOPP, with changes in knowledge and attitudes serving as the primary outcome measures.
Methods The OOPP was developed by a group of medical students under guidance from faculty advisors. Training sessions focused on understanding stigmatizing factors of opioid use disorder (OUD), as well as protocols for opioid overdose reversal through naloxone administration. Pre- and post-surveys were partially adapted from the opioid overdose attitudes and knowledge scales and administered to all participants. Paired t-tests were conducted to assess differences between pre- and post-surveys. Results A total of 440 individuals participated in the training; 381 completed all or the majority of the survey. Participants came from a diverse set of backgrounds, ages, and experiences. All three knowledge questions showed significant improvements. For attitude questions, significant improvements were found in all three questions evaluating confidence, two of three questions assessing attitudes towards overdose reversal, and four of five questions evaluating stigma and attitudes towards individuals with OUD. Conclusions Our innovative OOPP was effective not only in increasing knowledge but also in improving attitudes towards overdose reversal and reducing stigma towards individuals with OUD. Given the strong improvements in attitudes towards those with OUD, efforts should be made to incorporate the unique focus on biopsychosocial and sociohistorical components into future OOPPs. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12954-022-00589-6.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Kyle Samson
- Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Nathaniel Goss
- Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Dakota Meredith
- Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Andrew Friedman
- Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Vishnu K Kumar
- Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Antoniou T, Martins D, Campbell T, Tadrous M, Munro C, Leece P, Mamdani M, Juurlink DN, Gomes T. Impact of policy changes on the provision of naloxone by pharmacies in Ontario, Canada: a population-based time-series analysis. Addiction 2021; 116:1514-1520. [PMID: 33207025 PMCID: PMC8247272 DOI: 10.1111/add.15324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS In June 2016, the Ontario, Canada government implemented the Ontario Naloxone Program for Pharmacies (ONPP), authorizing pharmacists to provide injectable naloxone kits at no charge to all Ontario residents. In March 2018, the program was amended to include intranasal naloxone and remove the requirement to present a government health card to the dispensing pharmacist. We examined whether these changes increased naloxone dispensing through the ONPP. DESIGN Population-based time-series analysis using interventional autoregressive integrated moving average models. SETTING Ontario, Canada. PARTICIPANTS All Ontario residents between 1 July 2016 and 31 March 2020. MEASUREMENTS Monthly rates of pharmacy naloxone dispensing. FINDINGS Overall, 199 484 individuals were dispensed a naloxone kit during the study period. In the main analysis, the rate of pharmacy naloxone dispensing increased by 65.1% following program changes (55.6-91.8 kits per 100 000 population between February 2018 and May 2018; P = 0.01). In subgroup analyses, naloxone dispensing increased among individuals receiving opioid agonist therapy (OAT) (3374.9-7264.2 kits per 100 000 OAT recipients; P = 0.04) among individuals receiving other prescription opioids (192.8-381.8 kits per 100 000 population prescribed opioids; P < 0.01), among individuals with past opioid exposure (134.7-205.6 kits per 100 000 population with past opioid exposure; P < 0.01) and in urban centers (56.2-91.4 kits per 100 000 population; P < 0.01). We did not observe a clear impact on pharmacy-dispensed naloxone to individuals with no or unknown opioid exposure (34.4-39.3 kits per 100 000 population with no/unknown opioid exposure; P = 0.42) and in rural regions (50.4-97.2 kits per 100 000 population; P = 0.09). CONCLUSIONS Changes to the Ontario Naloxone Program for Pharmacies to add intranasal naloxone and remove the requirement to present a government health card appeared to increase pharmacy-based naloxone dispensing uptake in Ontario, Canada, particularly among individuals at high risk of inadvertent opioid overdose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tony Antoniou
- Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute of St. Michael's HospitalTorontoOntarioCanada,ICESTorontoOntarioCanada,Department of Family and Community Medicine, Unity HealthTorontoOntarioCanada,Department of PediatricsUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Diana Martins
- Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute of St. Michael's HospitalTorontoOntarioCanada
| | | | - Mina Tadrous
- ICESTorontoOntarioCanada,Women's College HospitalTorontoOntarioCanada,Family and Community MedicineUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Charlotte Munro
- Ontario Drug Policy Research Network Lived Experience Advisory GroupTorontoOntarioCanada
| | | | - Muhammad Mamdani
- Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute of St. Michael's HospitalTorontoOntarioCanada,ICESTorontoOntarioCanada,Family and Community MedicineUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada,Institute of Health Policy, Management, and EvaluationUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada,Department of MedicineUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - David N. Juurlink
- ICESTorontoOntarioCanada,Department of PediatricsUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada,Family and Community MedicineUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada,Department of MedicineUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada,The Sunnybrook Research InstituteTorontoCanada
| | - Tara Gomes
- Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute of St. Michael's HospitalTorontoOntarioCanada,ICESTorontoOntarioCanada,Family and Community MedicineUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada,Institute of Health Policy, Management, and EvaluationUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
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11
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Stein BD, Jones CM, Smart R, Sheng F, Sorbero M. Patient, prescriber, and Community factors associated with filled naloxone prescriptions among patients receiving buprenorphine 2017-18. Drug Alcohol Depend 2021; 221:108569. [PMID: 33578296 PMCID: PMC8027950 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2021.108569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2020] [Revised: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prescribing naloxone to patients at increased opioid overdose risk is a key component of opioid overdose prevention efforts, but little is known about naloxone fills among patients receiving buprenorphine for opioid use disorder, one such high risk group. METHODS This retrospective cross-sectional study used de-identified pharmacy claims representing 90% of all prescriptions filled at retail pharmacies in 50 states and the District of Columbia. We performed a multivariable logistic regression to examine filled naloxone prescriptions among patients receiving buprenorphine treatment and assessed how filled naloxone prescriptions vary by patient, prescriber, and community characteristics. RESULTS Filled naloxone prescriptions occurred among 4.5% of buprenorphine treatment episodes. Episodes paid through Medicaid (aOR 2.40, 95%CI 2.33-2.47) and Medicare (aOR 1.53, 95%CI 1.46-1.60) had higher odds of filled naloxone prescriptions than commercial insurance episodes. Compared to episodes where the primary prescriber was an adult primary care physician, odds of filling a naloxone prescription were higher among episodes prescribed by addiction specialists (aOR 1.30, 95% CI 1.24-1.37) and physician assistants/nurse practitioners (aOR 1.57, 95% CI 1.53-1.61). CONCLUSIONS Prescribing naloxone to patients receiving buprenorphine represents a tangible clinical action that can be taken to help prevent opioid overdose deaths. However, despite recommendations to co-prescribe naloxone to patients at increased risk for opioid overdose, rates of filling naloxone prescriptions remain low among patients dispensed buprenorphine. States, insurers, and health systems should consider implementing strategies to facilitate increased co-prescribing of naloxone to at-risk individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bradley D Stein
- RAND Corporation, 4570 Fifth Avenue, Suite 600, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 3550 Terrace Street, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| | - Christopher M Jones
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Rosanna Smart
- RAND Corporation, 1776 Main Street, Santa Monica, CA, USA
| | - Flora Sheng
- RAND Corporation, 1200 South Hayes Street, Arlington, VA, USA
| | - Mark Sorbero
- RAND Corporation, 4570 Fifth Avenue, Suite 600, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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Victor GA, Bailey K, Ray B. Buprenorphine Treatment Intake and Critical Encounters following a Nonfatal Opioid Overdose. Subst Use Misuse 2021; 56:988-996. [PMID: 33749520 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2021.1901933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Individuals with prior opioid-related overdose events have an increased risk for opioid-related mortality. Buprenorphine is a partial agonist that has shown to be an effective medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD). Yet, few studies have investigated whether buprenorphine reduces the risk of opioid-related mortality following a nonfatal opioid-related overdose. METHODS A retrospective study was conducted on all overdose cases in Indiana between January 1, 2017 and December 31, 2017. Data were linked from multiple administrative sources. Cases were linked to vital records to assess mortality. Bivariate analyses were conducted to assess group differences between survivors and decedents. A series of multiple logistic regression models were used to determine main and interaction effects of opioid-related mortality. RESULTS Among the 10,195 nonfatal overdoses, 2.4% (247) resulted in a subsequent fatal overdose. Overdose decedents were on average 36.4 years-old, 66.8% male, 91.1% White, and 83.8% did not receive a buprenorphine dispensation. Incremental increases in the number of buprenorphine dispensations decreased the likelihood of fatal overdose by 94% (95% CI = 0.88-0.98, p = .001). Incremental increases in arrest encounters were found to significantly increase the likelihood of a fatal overdose (AOR = 2.16; 95% CI = 1.13-3.55). Arrest encounters were a significant moderator of the relationship between buprenorphine uptake effectiveness and drug-related mortality. CONCLUSIONS Analysis of linked data provided details of risk and protective factors of fatal overdose. Buprenorphine reduced the risk of death; however, criminal justice involvement remains an area of attention for diversion and overdose death prevention interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grant A Victor
- Center for Behavioral Health and Justice, School of Social Work, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Katie Bailey
- Center for Behavioral Health and Justice, School of Social Work, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Brad Ray
- Center for Behavioral Health and Justice, School of Social Work, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
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Winhusen T, Walley A, Fanucchi LC, Hunt T, Lyons M, Lofwall M, Brown JL, Freeman PR, Nunes E, Beers D, Saitz R, Stambaugh L, Oga EA, Herron N, Baker T, Cook CD, Roberts MF, Alford DP, Starrels JL, Chandler RK. The Opioid-overdose Reduction Continuum of Care Approach (ORCCA): Evidence-based practices in the HEALing Communities Study. Drug Alcohol Depend 2020; 217:108325. [PMID: 33091842 PMCID: PMC7533113 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2020.108325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The number of opioid-involved overdose deaths in the United States remains a national crisis. The HEALing Communities Study (HCS) will test whether Communities That HEAL (CTH), a community-engaged intervention, can decrease opioid-involved deaths in intervention communities (n = 33), relative to wait-list communities (n = 34), from four states. The CTH intervention seeks to facilitate widespread implementation of three evidence-based practices (EBPs) with the potential to reduce opioid-involved overdose fatalities: overdose education and naloxone distribution (OEND), effective delivery of medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD), and safer opioid analgesic prescribing. A key challenge was delineating an EBP implementation approach useful for all HCS communities. METHODS A workgroup composed of EBP experts from HCS research sites used literature reviews and expert consensus to: 1) compile strategies and associated resources for implementing EBPs primarily targeting individuals 18 and older; and 2) determine allowable community flexibility in EBP implementation. The workgroup developed the Opioid-overdose Reduction Continuum of Care Approach (ORCCA) to organize EBP strategies and resources to facilitate EBP implementation. CONCLUSIONS The ORCCA includes required and recommended EBP strategies, priority populations, and community settings. Each EBP has a "menu" of strategies from which communities can select and implement with a minimum of five strategies required: one for OEND, three for MOUD, and one for prescription opioid safety. Identification and engagement of high-risk populations in OEND and MOUD is an ORCCArequirement. To ensure CTH has community-wide impact, implementation of at least one EBP strategy is required in healthcare, behavioral health, and criminal justice settings, with communities identifying particular organizations to engage in HCS-facilitated EBP implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa Winhusen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, 3131 Harvey Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; Center for Addiction Research, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, 3230 Eden Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA.
| | - Alexander Walley
- Grayken Center for Addiction, Clinical Addiction Research and Education Unit, Boston Medical Center and Boston University School of Medicine, 801 Massachusetts Avenue, 2nd Floor, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Laura C Fanucchi
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, 845 Angliana Avenue, Lexington, KY 40508, USA
| | - Tim Hunt
- Columbia University, School of Social Work, Center for Healing of Opioid and Other Substance Use Disorders (CHOSEN), 1255 Amsterdam, Avenue, Rm 806, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Mike Lyons
- Center for Addiction Research, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, 3230 Eden Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA; Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine 231 Albert Sabin Way, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Michelle Lofwall
- Departments of Behavioral Science and Psychiatry, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, 845 Angliana Avenue, Lexington, KY 40508, USA
| | - Jennifer L Brown
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, 3131 Harvey Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; Center for Addiction Research, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, 3230 Eden Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Patricia R Freeman
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Science, University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy, 789 S Limestone St, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Edward Nunes
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York State Psychiatric Institute, Division on Substance Use, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Donna Beers
- Grayken Center for Addiction, Clinical Addiction Research and Education Unit, Boston Medical Center and Boston University School of Medicine, 801 Massachusetts Avenue, 2nd Floor, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Richard Saitz
- Grayken Center for Addiction, Clinical Addiction Research and Education Unit, Boston Medical Center and Boston University School of Medicine, 801 Massachusetts Avenue, 2nd Floor, Boston, MA 02118, USA; Department of Community Health Sciences, Boston University School of Public Health, 801 Massachusetts Avenue 4th Floor, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
| | - Leyla Stambaugh
- Center for Applied Public Health Research, Research Triangle Institute (RTI) International, 6110 Executive Boulevard, Suite 902, Rockville. MD 20852, USA
| | - Emmanuel A Oga
- Center for Applied Public Health Research, Research Triangle Institute (RTI) International, 6110 Executive Boulevard, Suite 902, Rockville. MD 20852, USA
| | - Nicole Herron
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, 3131 Harvey Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; Center for Addiction Research, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, 3230 Eden Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Trevor Baker
- Grayken Center for Addiction, Clinical Addiction Research and Education Unit, Boston Medical Center and Boston University School of Medicine, 801 Massachusetts Avenue, 2nd Floor, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Christopher D Cook
- Opioid/Substance Use Priority Research Area, University of Kentucky, 845 Angliana Ave Lexington, KY 40508, USA
| | - Monica F Roberts
- Opioid/Substance Use Priority Research Area, University of Kentucky, 845 Angliana Ave Lexington, KY 40508, USA
| | - Daniel P Alford
- Grayken Center for Addiction, Clinical Addiction Research and Education Unit, Boston Medical Center and Boston University School of Medicine, 801 Massachusetts Avenue, 2nd Floor, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Joanna L Starrels
- Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, 111 E. 210th Street, Bronx, NY 10467, USA
| | - Redonna K Chandler
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, 6001 Executive Boulevard, Rockville, MD 20892, USA
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Cheng A, Magid DJ, Auerbach M, Bhanji F, Bigham BL, Blewer AL, Dainty KN, Diederich E, Lin Y, Leary M, Mahgoub M, Mancini ME, Navarro K, Donoghue A. Part 6: Resuscitation Education Science: 2020 American Heart Association Guidelines for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Emergency Cardiovascular Care. Circulation 2020; 142:S551-S579. [PMID: 33081527 DOI: 10.1161/cir.0000000000000903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Gicquelais RE, Bohnert ASB, Fernandez AC. Opportunities to boost naloxone awareness among people who misuse opioid analgesics who have not used illegal opioids. Subst Abus 2020; 42:372-376. [PMID: 32692621 DOI: 10.1080/08897077.2020.1784361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increasing naloxone awareness and carrying among individuals who misuse opioid analgesic medications (OAs) could reduce opioid overdose mortality. Methods: Self-report surveys were completed by 322 adults receiving residential addiction treatment who misused OAs in the past year. Descriptive analyses and prevalence ratios (using Poisson generalized estimating equations) examined whether illegal opioid (e.g., heroin) initiation was associated with naloxone awareness. Results: Among this sample of participants who misused OAs, naloxone awareness was lowest among those who never used illegal opioids (26%) and highest among those who transitioned from OAs to illegal opioid use over time (83%). Naloxone awareness remained higher among participants who had used illegal opioids after adjustment for sociodemographic and substance use characteristics. Those who used OAs before initiating illegal opioids were 2.3-fold (95% CI: 1.5-3.3) more likely to have naloxone awareness than those who had only misused OAs after adjustment. Half of participants who had only used OAs had experienced an overdose, 75% had witnessed an overdose, and 61% were prescribed OAs to treat pain in the past 6 months. Conclusions: Implementing overdose education and naloxone distribution programs during addiction treatment could bolster naloxone awareness among people who misuse OAs but who have not used illegal opioids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel E Gicquelais
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Amy S B Bohnert
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Veterans Affairs Center for Clinical Management Research, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Anne C Fernandez
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Chichester K, Drawve G, Giménez-Santana A, Sisson M, McCleskey B, Dye DW, Walker J, Mrug S, Cropsey K. Pharmacies and features of the built environment associated with opioid overdose: A geospatial comparison of rural and urban regions in Alabama, USA. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2020; 79:102736. [PMID: 32278255 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2020.102736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2019] [Revised: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Elements of the physical environment have been shown to influence health behaviors including drug use and overdose mortality. Throughout the opioid epidemic in the United States, rural regions have been disproportionately affected by opioid overdose. Although the relationship between the urban built environment and opioid overdose has been established, little is known as to how trends may differ in rural areas. METHODS Risk terrain modeling was used as a spatial analytical approach to assess environmental features that significantly increase the risk of opioid overdose in Jefferson County, Alabama. Spatial risk assessments were conducted for urban and rural regions as well as for the county as a whole. Criminogenic, opioid-related, and community variables were included and compared across spatial risk models. RESULTS The geographic context, rural or urban, influenced the relationship between environmental features and opioid overdose. In rural areas, community features such as bus stops and public schools were related to the occurrence of opioid overdose. In urban areas, inpatient treatment centers, transitional living facilities, express loan establishments, and liquor vendors were significantly related to the locations of opioid overdose. CONCLUSION Risk terrain modeling can be used to locate high-risk areas for opioid overdose while identifying factors that are contributing to the risk of events occurring in communities. The patterns of overdose risk differ in rural and urban contexts and may be used to inform the placement of treatment and prevention resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keith Chichester
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1670 University Blvd, Volker Hall, Suite L107, Birmingham, AL 35233, United States
| | - Grant Drawve
- Department of Sociology & Criminology, University of Arkansas, 211 Old Main, Fayetteville, AR 72701, United States
| | | | - Michelle Sisson
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1670 University Blvd, Volker Hall, Suite L107, Birmingham, AL 35233, United States
| | - Brandi McCleskey
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1515 6th Ave S #220, Birmingham, AL 35233, United States
| | - Daniel W Dye
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1515 6th Ave S #220, Birmingham, AL 35233, United States
| | - Jeffery Walker
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1670 University Blvd, Volker Hall, Suite L107, Birmingham, AL 35233, United States
| | - Sylvie Mrug
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1670 University Blvd, Volker Hall, Suite L107, Birmingham, AL 35233, United States
| | - Karen Cropsey
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1670 University Blvd, Volker Hall, Suite L107, Birmingham, AL 35233, United States.
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Ataiants J, Roth AM, Mazzella S, Lankenau SE. Circumstances of overdose among street-involved, opioid-injecting women: Drug, set, and setting. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2020; 78:102691. [PMID: 32086154 PMCID: PMC7302961 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2020.102691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2019] [Revised: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Current discourses about the causes of the overdose crisis largely focus on the harmful effects of drugs. Prior research, however, indicates that drug use experience is shaped by complex interactions of drugs with physiological and mental "sets" of people who use drugs and the wider social and physical "setting." Zinberg's "drug, set, and setting" theoretical framework was applied to identify patterns in circumstances leading up to women's overdose. METHODS In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with 29 opioid-injecting street-involved women, clients of a Philadelphia harm reduction program. Qualitative analysis with deductive and inductive coding was utilized to examine transcripts for theory-driven and emerging themes. RESULTS Ten out of 29 women attributed their overdose to "drugs," reporting the unpredictable quality of street opioids, concurrent use of benzodiazepines, or chasing the "high." Thirteen women reported "set" as a type of circumstance where their emotional states were affected by a "good" or "bad" day, leading them to unusual drug consumption practices. Six women described "setting" type of circumstances where their overdose was preceded by a recent change in context, such as release from prison, which prompted unsafe drug use to address physiological or psychological dependence on drugs. CONCLUSION While all overdoses result from the pharmacological action of drugs, some overdoses were triggered by circumstances occurring in women's set or setting. Overdose prevention policies should embrace not only individual-level behavioral interventions, but also structural measures to address stress, social isolation, and risky drug use contexts that plague the lives of street-involved women who inject opioids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janna Ataiants
- Department of Community Health and Prevention, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, 3215 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - Alexis M Roth
- Department of Community Health and Prevention, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, 3215 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Silvana Mazzella
- Prevention Point Philadelphia, 2913 Kensington Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19134, USA
| | - Stephen E Lankenau
- Department of Community Health and Prevention, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, 3215 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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MAURI AMANDAI, TOWNSEND TARLISEN, HAFFAJEE REBECCAL. The Association of State Opioid Misuse Prevention Policies With Patient- and Provider-Related Outcomes: A Scoping Review. Milbank Q 2020; 98:57-105. [PMID: 31800142 PMCID: PMC7077777 DOI: 10.1111/1468-0009.12436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Policy Points This scoping review reveals a growing literature on the effects of certain state opioid misuse prevention policies, but persistent gaps in evidence on other prevalent state policies remain. Policymakers interested in reducing the volume and dosage of opioids prescribed and dispensed can consider adopting robust prescription drug monitoring programs with mandatory access provisions and drug supply management policies, such as prior authorization policies for high-risk prescription opioids. Further research should concentrate on potential unintended consequences of opioid misuse prevention policies, differential policy effects across populations, interventions that have not received sufficient evaluation (eg, Good Samaritan laws, naloxone access laws), and patient-related outcomes. CONTEXT In the midst of an opioid crisis in the United States, an influx of state opioid misuse prevention policies has provided new opportunities to generate evidence of policy effectiveness that can inform policy decisions. We conducted a scoping review to synthesize the available evidence on the effectiveness of US state interventions to improve patient and provider outcomes related to opioid misuse and addiction. METHODS We searched six online databases to identify evaluations of state opioid policies. Eligible studies examined legislative and administrative policy interventions that evaluated (a) prescribing and dispensing, (b) patient behavior, or (c) patient health. FINDINGS Seventy-one articles met our inclusion criteria, including 41 studies published between 2016 and 2018. These articles evaluated nine types of state policies targeting opioid misuse. While prescription drug monitoring programs (PDMPs) have received considerable attention in the literature, far fewer studies addressed other types of state policy. Overall, evidence quality is very low for the majority of policies due to a small number of evaluations. Of interventions that have been the subject of considerable research, promising means of reducing the volume and dosages of opioids prescribed and dispensed include drug supply management policies and robust PDMPs. Due to low study number and quality, evidence is insufficient to draw conclusions regarding interventions targeting patient behavior and health outcomes, including naloxone access laws and Good Samaritan laws. CONCLUSIONS Recent research has improved the evidence base on several state interventions targeting opioid misuse. Specifically, moderate evidence suggests that drug supply management policies and robust PDMPs reduce opioid prescribing. Despite the increase in rigorous evaluations, evidence remains limited for the majority of policies, particularly those targeting patient health-related outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- AMANDA I. MAURI
- University of Michigan School of Public Health
- Injury Prevention CenterUniversity of Michigan Medical School
| | - TARLISE N. TOWNSEND
- University of Michigan School of Public Health
- Injury Prevention CenterUniversity of Michigan Medical School
- University of Michigan Department of Sociology
| | - REBECCA L. HAFFAJEE
- University of Michigan School of Public Health
- Injury Prevention CenterUniversity of Michigan Medical School
- RAND Corporation
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Smart R, Kase CA, Taylor EA, Lumsden S, Smith SR, Stein BD. Strengths and weaknesses of existing data sources to support research to address the opioids crisis. Prev Med Rep 2020; 17:101015. [PMID: 31993300 PMCID: PMC6971390 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2019.101015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2019] [Revised: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Better opioid prescribing practices, promoting effective opioid use disorder treatment, improving naloxone access, and enhancing public health surveillance are strategies central to reducing opioid-related morbidity and mortality. Successfully advancing and evaluating these strategies requires leveraging and linking existing secondary data sources. We conducted a scoping study in Fall 2017 at RAND, including a literature search (updated in December 2018) complemented by semi-structured interviews with policymakers and researchers, to identify data sources and linking strategies commonly used in opioid studies, describe data source strengths and limitations, and highlight opportunities to use data to address high-priority public health research questions. We identified 306 articles, published between 2005 and 2018, that conducted secondary analyses of existing data to examine one or more public health strategies. Multiple secondary data sources, available at national, state, and local levels, support such research, with substantial breadth in data availability, data contents, and the data's ability to support multi-level analyses over time. Interviewees identified opportunities to expand existing capabilities through systematic enhancements, including greater support to states for creating and facilitating data use, as well as key data challenges, such as data availability lags and difficulties matching individual-level data over time or across datasets. Multiple secondary data sources exist that can be used to examine the impact of public health approaches to addressing the opioid crisis. Greater data access, improved usability for research purposes, and data element standardization can enhance their value, as can improved data availability timeliness and better data comparability across jurisdictions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Susan Lumsden
- Office of Health Policy, Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, United States
| | - Scott R. Smith
- Office of Health Policy, Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, United States
| | - Bradley D. Stein
- RAND Corporation, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh PA, United States
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Rieb LM, Samaan Z, Furlan AD, Rabheru K, Feldman S, Hung L, Budd G, Coleman D. Canadian Guidelines on Opioid Use Disorder Among Older Adults. Can Geriatr J 2020; 23:123-134. [PMID: 32226571 PMCID: PMC7067148 DOI: 10.5770/cgj.23.420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Canada, rates of hospital admission from opioid overdose are higher for older adults (≥ 65) than younger adults, and opioid use disorder (OUD) is a growing concern. In response, Health Canada commissioned the Canadian Coalition of Seniors' Mental Health to create guidelines for the prevention, screening, assessment, and treatment of OUD in older adults. METHODS A systematic review of English language literature from 2008-2018 regarding OUD in adults was conducted. Previously published guidelines were evaluated using AGREE II, and key guidelines updated using ADAPTE method, by drawing on current literature. Recommendations were created and assessed using the GRADE method. RESULTS Thirty-two recommendations were created. Prevention recommendations: it is key to prioritize non-pharmacological and non-opioid strategies to treat acute and chronic noncancer pain. Assessment recommendations: a comprehensive assessment is important to help discern contributions of other medical conditions. Treatment recommendations: buprenorphine is first line for both withdrawal management and maintenance therapy, while methadone, slow-release oral morphine, or naltrexone can be used as alternatives under certain circumstances; non-pharmacological treatments should be offered as an integrated part of care. CONCLUSION These guidelines provide practical and timely clinical recommendations on the prevention, assessment, and treatment of OUD in older adults within the Canadian context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Launette M Rieb
- Department of Family Practice, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC
| | - Zainab Samaan
- Department of Psychiatry, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON
| | | | - Kiran Rabheru
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON
| | - Sid Feldman
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON
| | - Lillian Hung
- Canadian Gerontological Nurses Association, Toronto, ON
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The impact of a pharmacist-led naloxone education and community distribution project on local use of naloxone. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2020; 60:S56-S60. [PMID: 31953118 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2019.11.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Revised: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the use and public perception of naloxone through distribution and education by pharmacists at local health screenings in low-income communities in Western Pennsylvania. METHODS A prospective study was conducted, offering education on opioid use disorder and naloxone to individuals attending community outreach events in Allegheny County, PA. Participants with interest and willingness to use naloxone in the event of an opioid overdose were offered naloxone nasal spray and additional training. These individuals were asked to complete a survey at the time of naloxone provision and were recontacted by telephone at a later date to collect follow-up data. The primary objective of the study was to ascertain naloxone use at follow-up. Secondary objectives of the study were to measure the difficulty of obtaining naloxone, identify any change in knowledge of naloxone before and after pharmacist intervention, and assess public perception of stigma associated with naloxone initiatives. Data were analyzed using descriptive and univariate comparative statistics. RESULTS A total of 265 people received naloxone, and 132 (49.8%) completed the initial survey. Fifty-seven participants subsequently completed both surveys (43.2% follow-up). Naloxone was utilized by 3.5% of respondents over an average of 3 months. Participants' perception of obtaining naloxone before the study was evenly distributed (35.8% never tried, 32.1% difficult, and 30.2% not difficult). A total of 52.6% of respondents believed that naloxone initiatives decreased the stigma of illicit opioid use. CONCLUSION Naloxone provided in the community setting was utilized by a small percentage of the general public in the 2- to 4-month follow-up. Pharmacists can provide naloxone education and training within communities affected by high opioid overdose rates.
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Incidence and predictors of drug overdoses among a cohort of >10,000 patients treated for substance use disorder. Drug Alcohol Depend 2020; 206:107714. [PMID: 31753733 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2019.107714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Revised: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Drug overdoses remain a significant public health burden throughout the world. This study assessed the incidence and predictors of non-fatal and fatal drug overdoses among patients with an opioid use, treated for drug use disorders (DUD) at public treatment centers in Denmark. METHODS A consecutive cohort of patients (n = 11,199) were tracked from date of first registered enrollment between the year 2000 and 2010 to first registered drug overdose, death or December 31st 2010, whichever occurred first. Competing-risks regression models were fitted to estimate the sub hazard ratios (SHRs) of non-fatal and fatal drug overdoses and confounding risk factors. RESULTS A total of 3186 (28%) patients experienced a non-fatal drug overdose during follow-up, and 572 (6%) died from an overdose. Use of benzodiazepines (SHR: 1.15 95% CI 1.03, 1.28) was significantly associated with non-fatal overdose. Intravenous drug use and previous hospitalization for a non-fatal overdose increased the risk of later non-fatal (SHR: 1.57 95% CI 1.42, 1.73) and fatal overdoses (SHR: 1.43 95% CI 1.12, 1.82). CONCLUSIONS Patients who use opioids remain at risk of overdoses for a long time after discharge from drug treatment. Besides relevant monitoring and psychosocial support in opioid maintenance treatment, there is a need for informing and educating opioid users in risk factors and preventive measures in settings where they are often difficult to access for traditional treatment services.
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Thylstrup B, Hesse M, Jørgensen M, Thiesen H. One opioid user saving another: the first study of an opioid overdose-reversal and naloxone distribution program addressing hard-to-reach drug scenes in Denmark. Harm Reduct J 2019; 16:66. [PMID: 31805969 PMCID: PMC6896775 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-019-0328-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2018] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Overdose education and naloxone distribution programs decrease opioid overdose deaths. However, no studies of such programs have been carried out in Denmark. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and the effect of a broader "training-the-trainers" model in low-threshold settings after participation in the "Danish Save Lives" [SL] program. METHODS Between May 2013 and November 2015, 552 participants from four municipalities took part in the SL program. The program is built on the train-the-trainers model where a central trainer trains others (trainers), who in turn train others (helpers). Participants were 30 police officers (5%), 188 people who use opioids (34%), 23 significant others (4%), and 217 social workers (39%). Ninety-four participants could not be classified (17%). At follow-up, participants were interviewed to determine the number and outcomes of opioid overdoses. Logistic regression was used to assess predictors of treating an overdose. RESULTS In all, 37 (7%) participants had intervened in 45 opioid overdose events (two trainers and 35 helpers). Detailed descriptions of the overdose event were available from 32 follow-up interviews (70%). In 16 cases, the person who intervened was already present at the site when the overdose occurred, and in 17 cases, the overdose victim recovered without complications. All overdose victims survived except one. People who used opioids were more likely to have treated an overdose than other participants (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 8.50, p = 0.001), and the likelihood of treating and overdose declined over time AOR = 0.37 (0.13, 0.93), p = 0.034). CONCLUSIONS Prevention programs that target people who use opioids are more likely to be effective than programs that target professionals, especially in high-risk settings that can be hard for paramedics to reach. A future goal is to explore how prevention programs can be adapted to new user groups. TRIAL REGISTRATION The Danish Data Protection Agency, 2015-57-0002, Aarhus University, 2016-051-000001, 184, retrospectively registered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Birgitte Thylstrup
- Centre for Alcohol and Drug Research, Bartholins Allé 10, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Morten Hesse
- Centre for Alcohol and Drug Research, Bartholins Allé 10, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Marian Jørgensen
- HealthTeam for Homeless, Save Lives Program, Sundholmsvej 18, 2300 København S, Denmark
| | - Henrik Thiesen
- HealthTeam for Homeless, Save Lives Program, Sundholmsvej 18, 2300 København S, Denmark
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Lim JK, Forman LS, Ruiz S, Xuan Z, Callis BP, Cranston K, Walley AY. Factors associated with help seeking by community responders trained in overdose prevention and naloxone administration in Massachusetts. Drug Alcohol Depend 2019; 204:107531. [PMID: 31526959 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2019.06.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2019] [Revised: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Community overdose responders do not always seek help from emergency services when administering naloxone. We aimed to identify responder, overdose event, and community characteristics associated with help seeking from emergency services during overdoses reported by Massachusetts Overdose Education and Naloxone Distribution (OEND) enrollees, and to assess trends in help seeking over time. METHODS We analyzed overdose reports submitted between 2007 and 2017 to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. We used logistic regression, stratified by responder drug use status, to assess associations of characteristics with help seeking during an overdose. RESULTS From January 2007 through December 2017, there were 69,870 OEND enrollees. 5,588 enrollees reported 10,246 overdoses. Help seeking was more likely among responders who did not use drugs. Among responders who did not use drugs, help seeking was more likely when: the responder was older or female, the victim was a stranger or client, and when naloxone did not work. Among responders who used drugs, help seeking was more likely when: the responder was female or had not previously reported responding to an overdose, the victim was a stranger or client or did not use fentanyl, naloxone took a longer time to work, and when the overdose was public or occurred more recently. The percentage of overdoses where help seeking occurred reached a maximum in 2016 at 50%. CONCLUSIONS Help seeking by OEND enrollees was significantly associated with several responder, victim, and event characteristics. Targeted interventions to promote help seeking are warranted, particularly as the lethality of opioid supplies rises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie K Lim
- Department of Pediatrics, Boston Medical Center, 1 Boston Medical Center Place, Boston, MA, 02118, USA.
| | - Leah S Forman
- Biostatistics and Epidemiology Data Analytics Center, Boston University School of Public Health, 715 Albany St., Boston, MA, 02118, USA.
| | - Sarah Ruiz
- Bureau of Infectious Disease and Laboratory Sciences, Massachusetts Department of Public Health, 305 South St., Jamaica Plain, MA, 02130, USA; Bureau of Substance Addiction Services, Massachusetts Department of Public Health, 250 Washington Street, Boston, MA, 02108, USA.
| | - Ziming Xuan
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Boston University School of Public Health, 801 Massachusetts Avenue, Boston, MA, 02118, USA; Grayken Center for Addiction, Section of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Boston Medical Center and Boston University School of Medicine, 801 Massachusetts Ave., Boston, MA, 02118, USA.
| | - Barry P Callis
- Bureau of Infectious Disease and Laboratory Sciences, Massachusetts Department of Public Health, 305 South St., Jamaica Plain, MA, 02130, USA.
| | - Kevin Cranston
- Bureau of Infectious Disease and Laboratory Sciences, Massachusetts Department of Public Health, 305 South St., Jamaica Plain, MA, 02130, USA.
| | - Alexander Y Walley
- Grayken Center for Addiction, Section of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Boston Medical Center and Boston University School of Medicine, 801 Massachusetts Ave., Boston, MA, 02118, USA; Bureau of Substance Addiction Services, Massachusetts Department of Public Health, 250 Washington Street, Boston, MA, 02108, USA.
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Dietze P, Jauncey M, Salmon A, Mohebbi M, Latimer J, van Beek I, McGrath C, Kerr D. Effect of Intranasal vs Intramuscular Naloxone on Opioid Overdose: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Netw Open 2019; 2:e1914977. [PMID: 31722024 PMCID: PMC6902775 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2019.14977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Previous unblinded clinical trials suggested that the intranasal route of naloxone hydrochloride was inferior to the widely used intramuscular route for the reversal of opioid overdose. OBJECTIVE To test whether a dose of naloxone administered intranasally is as effective as the same dose of intramuscularly administered naloxone in reversing opioid overdose. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS A double-blind, double-dummy randomized clinical trial was conducted at the Uniting Medically Supervised Injecting Centre in Sydney, Australia. Clients of the center were recruited to participate from February 1, 2012, to January 3, 2017. Eligible clients were aged 18 years or older with a history of injecting drug use (n = 197). Intention-to-treat analysis was performed for all participants who received both intranasal and intramuscular modes of treatment (active or placebo). INTERVENTIONS Clients were randomized to receive 1 of 2 treatments: (1) intranasal administration of naloxone hydrochloride 800 μg per 1 mL and intramuscular administration of placebo 1 mL or (2) intramuscular administration of naloxone hydrochloride 800 μg per 1 mL and intranasal administration of placebo 1 mL. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES The primary outcome measure was the need for a rescue dose of intramuscular naloxone hydrochloride (800 μg) 10 minutes after the initial treatment. Secondary outcome measures included time to adequate respiratory rate greater than or equal to 10 breaths per minute and time to Glasgow Coma Scale score greater than or equal to 13. RESULTS A total of 197 clients (173 [87.8%] male; mean [SD] age, 34.0 [7.82] years) completed the trial, of whom 93 (47.2%) were randomized to intramuscular naloxone dose and 104 (52.8%) to intranasal naloxone dose. Clients randomized to intramuscular naloxone administration were less likely to require a rescue dose of naloxone compared with clients randomized to intranasal naloxone administration (8 [8.6%] vs 24 [23.1%]; odds ratio, 0.35; 95% CI, 0.15-0.66; P = .002). A 65% increase in hazard (hazard ratio, 1.65; 95% CI, 1.21-2.25; P = .002) for time to respiratory rate of at least 10 and an 81% increase in hazard (hazard ratio, 1.81; 95% CI, 1.28-2.56; P = .001) for time to Glasgow Coma Scale score of at least 13 were observed for the group receiving intranasal naloxone compared with the group receiving intramuscular naloxone. No major adverse events were reported for either group. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE This trial showed that intranasally administered naloxone in a supervised injecting facility can reverse opioid overdose but not as efficiently as intramuscularly administered naloxone can, findings that largely replicate those of previous unblinded clinical trials. These results suggest that determining the optimal dose and concentration of intranasal naloxone to respond to opioid overdose in real-world conditions is an international priority. TRIAL REGISTRATION anzctr.org.au Identifier: ACTRN12611000852954.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Dietze
- Behaviours and Health Risks Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Marianne Jauncey
- Uniting Medically Supervised Injecting Centre, Kings Cross, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Allison Salmon
- Uniting Medically Supervised Injecting Centre, Kings Cross, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mohammadreza Mohebbi
- Biostatistics Unit, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria, Australia
| | - Julie Latimer
- Uniting Medically Supervised Injecting Centre, Kings Cross, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ingrid van Beek
- South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, New South Wales, Australia
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Colette McGrath
- Justice Health Forensic Mental Health Network, New South Wales Health, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Debra Kerr
- Centre for Quality and Patient Safety, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
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Allen ST, White RH, O'Rourke A, Grieb SM, Kilkenny ME, Sherman SG. Take-home naloxone possession among people who inject drugs in rural West Virginia. Drug Alcohol Depend 2019; 204:107581. [PMID: 31574407 PMCID: PMC6936215 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2019.107581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Revised: 07/13/2019] [Accepted: 07/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Take-home naloxone (THN) possession among people who inject drugs (PWID) in rural communities is understudied. Better understanding the nature of THN possession among rural PWID could inform the implementation of overdose prevention initiatives. The purpose of this research is to determine factors associated with rural PWID having recently received THN. METHODS Data from a PWID population estimation study implemented in Cabell County, West Virginia were used for this research. Multivariable Poisson regression with a robust variance estimator was used to evaluate the independent effects of several measures (e.g., sociodemographics, structural vulnerabilities, substance use) on PWID having received THN in the past 6 months. RESULTS Forty-eight percent of our sample (n = 371) of PWID reported having received THN in the past 6 months. Factors associated with having received THN were: age (adjusted Prevalence Ratio [aPR] = 1.02; 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 1.01-1.03), having recently accessed sterile syringes at a needle exchange program (aPR = 1.82; 95% CI: 1.35-2.46), believing that doctors judge people who use drugs (aPR = 1.50; 95% CI: 1.07-2.12), and having witnessed at least one non-fatal overdose in the past 6 months (aPR = 1.44; 95% CI: 1.06-1.94). Greater numbers of overdose events in the past 6 months were also associated with having received THN. CONCLUSIONS Among rural PWID in West Virginia, slightly less than half received THN in the past 6 months. Rural communities need overdose prevention interventions that are responsive to the unique needs of rural PWID, decrease stigma, and ensure PWID have access to harm reduction services and drug treatment programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean T Allen
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N. Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
| | - Rebecca Hamilton White
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N. Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
| | - Allison O'Rourke
- DC Center for AIDS Research, Department of Psychology, George Washington University, 2125 G St. NW, Washington, DC, 20052, USA.
| | - Suzanne M Grieb
- Center for Child and Community Health Research, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA.
| | - Michael E Kilkenny
- Cabell-Huntington Health Department, 703 7th Ave., Huntington, WV, 25701, USA.
| | - Susan G Sherman
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N. Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
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Arthur J, Bruera E. Balancing opioid analgesia with the risk of nonmedical opioid use in patients with cancer. Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2019; 16:213-226. [PMID: 30514978 DOI: 10.1038/s41571-018-0143-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The current opioid crisis has brought renewed attention and scrutiny to opioid prescriptions. When patients receiving opioid therapy for pain engage in nonmedical opioid use (NMOU) or diversion, untoward consequences can occur. New evidence suggests that patients with cancer might be at a higher risk of NMOU than was previously thought, but clinical evidence still supports the use of opioid analgesics as the gold standard to treat cancer-related pain, creating a dilemma in patient management. Clinicians are encouraged to adopt a universal precautions approach to patients with cancer receiving opioids, which includes screening all patients; discussing the risks, benefits, adverse effects and alternatives of opioid therapy; and providing education on safe use, storage and disposal. Use of urine drug tests, prescription drug monitoring programmes and close observation of behaviours related to opioid use help to ensure treatment adherence, detect NMOU and support therapeutic decision-making. These measures can optimize the risk-benefit ratio while supporting safe opioid use. In this Review, we examine the role of opioids in cancer pain, the risk of substance use disorder and methods to achieve the right balance between the two in order to ensure safe opioid use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Arthur
- Department of Palliative Care and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Eduardo Bruera
- Department of Palliative Care and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, Houston, TX, USA.
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28
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Kim HK, Connors NJ, Mazer-Amirshahi ME. The role of take-home naloxone in the epidemic of opioid overdose involving illicitly manufactured fentanyl and its analogs. Expert Opin Drug Saf 2019; 18:465-475. [DOI: 10.1080/14740338.2019.1613372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Hong K. Kim
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Nicholas J. Connors
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Maryann E. Mazer-Amirshahi
- Department of Emergency Medicine, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC, USA
- School of Medicine, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
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Olsen A, Lawton B, Dwyer R, Taing MW, Chun KLJ, Hollingworth S, Nielsen S. Why aren't Australian pharmacists supplying naloxone? Findings from a qualitative study. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2019; 69:46-52. [PMID: 31078908 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2019.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2018] [Revised: 02/28/2019] [Accepted: 03/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Opioid overdose is a significant public health issue among people who use pharmaceutical opioids and/or heroin. One response to reducing overdose deaths is to expand public access to naloxone. The Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration down-scheduled naloxone from prescription only (S4) to pharmacist only over-the-counter (OTC, schedule 3) in February 2016. There is little research examining pharmacists' perspectives or experiences of this change. METHODS Thirty-seven semi-structured interviews with Australian community pharmacists were conducted in 2016-2017 to investigate pharmacists' attitudes to and experiences of OTC naloxone. Transcripts were thematically analysed, guided by a broad interest in facilitators and barriers to OTC supply. RESULTS Around half of the pharmacists were aware of the down-scheduling and only two had provided OTC naloxone. Core barriers to pharmacist provision of OTC naloxone included limited understanding of opioid overdose, confusion about the role and responsibilities of pharmacists in providing OTC naloxone, concerns about business, stigma related to people who inject drugs (PWID) and system-level challenges. CONCLUSION Pharmacy provision of OTC naloxone offers an important opportunity to reduce overdose mortality. Our study suggests this opportunity is yet to be realised and highlights several individual- and structural-level impediments hindering the expansion of public access to naloxone via community pharmacies. There is a need to develop strategies to improve pharmacists' knowledge of OTC naloxone and opioid overdose as well as to address other logistical and cultural barriers that limit naloxone provision in pharmacy settings. These need to be addressed at the individual level (training) as well as the system level (information, regulation and supply).
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Olsen
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University, Acton ACT, 0200, Australia.
| | - Belinda Lawton
- Crawford School of Public Policy, Australian National University, Acton ACT, 0200, Australia
| | - Robyn Dwyer
- Centre for Alcohol Policy Research, LaTrobe University, Bundoora Vic, 3086, Australia
| | - Meng-Wong Taing
- School of Pharmacy, University of Queensland, Brisbane St Lucia, Queensland, 4072, Australia; Centre for Optimising Pharmacy Practice-based Excellence in Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Ka Lai Joyce Chun
- School of Pharmacy, University of Queensland, Brisbane St Lucia, Queensland, 4072, Australia
| | - Samantha Hollingworth
- School of Pharmacy, University of Queensland, Brisbane St Lucia, Queensland, 4072, Australia
| | - Suzanne Nielsen
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Randwick New South Wales, 2031, Australia; Monash Addiction Research Centre, Monash University, Frankston, Victoria, 31699, Australia
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Arthur J, Reddy A. Opioid Prescribing in an Opioid Crisis: What Basic Skills Should an Oncologist Have Regarding Opioid Therapy? Curr Treat Options Oncol 2019; 20:39. [PMID: 30937544 DOI: 10.1007/s11864-019-0636-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
OPINION STATEMENT Although clinical evidence supports the use of opioids for cancer-related pain, doing so amidst the current opioid crisis remains a challenge. A proportion of opioid-related deaths in the USA are attributable to prescription opioids, which implicates health care providers as one of the major contributors. It is therefore even more important now for all clinicians to follow safe and effective opioid prescribing practices. Oncologists are often in the frontline of cancer pain management. They are encouraged to use validated tools to screen all patients receiving opioids for high risk behaviors. Those identified as high risk for potential abuse of opioids should be monitored closely. When aberrant behavior is detected, the clinician will need to openly discuss the issue and its possible implications. Oncologists may then implement measures such as limiting the dose and quantity of opioids prescribed, shortening interval between follow-ups for refills to allow for increased monitoring, setting boundaries/limitations, weaning off opioid analgesics, or/and referring to a pain or palliative medicine or drug addiction expert for co-management when necessary. These efforts may aid oncologists in safely managing cancer pain in the environment of national opioid crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Arthur
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation, & Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, Unit 1414, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Akhila Reddy
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation, & Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, Unit 1414, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
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Berland N, Lugassy D, Fox A, Goldfeld K, Oh SY, Tofighi B, Hanley K. Use of online opioid overdose prevention training for first-year medical students: A comparative analysis of online versus in-person training. Subst Abus 2019; 40:240-246. [PMID: 30767715 DOI: 10.1080/08897077.2019.1572048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: In response to the opioid epidemic and efforts to expand substance use education in medical school, the authors introduced opioid overdose prevention training (OOPT) with naloxone for all first-year medical students (MS1s) as an adjunct to required basic life support training (BLST). The authors previously demonstrated improved knowledge and preparedness following in-person OOPT with BLST; however, it remains unclear whether online-administered OOPT would produce comparable results. In this study, the authors perform a retrospective comparison of online-administered OOPT with in-person-administered OOPT. Objectives: To compare the educational outcomes: knowledge, preparedness, and attitudes, for online versus in-person OOPT. Methods: In-person OOPT was administered in 2014 and 2015 during BLST, whereas online OOPT was administered in 2016 during BLST pre-work. MS1s completed pre- and post-training tests covering 3 measures: knowledge (11-point scale), attitudes (66-point scale), and preparedness (60-point scale) to respond to an opioid overdose. Online scores from 2016 and in-person scores from 2015 were compared across all 3 measures using analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) methods. Results: After controlling for pre-test scores, there were statistical, but no meaningful, differences across all measures for in-person- and online-administered training. The estimated differences were knowledge: -0.05 (0.5%) points (95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.47, 0.36); attitudes: 0.65 (1.0%) points (95% CI: -0.22, 1.51); and preparedness: 2.16 (3.6%) points (95% CI: 1.04, 3.28). Conclusions: The educational outcomes of online-administered OOPT compared with in-person-administered OOPT were not meaningfully different. These results support the use of online-administered OOPT. As our study was retrospective, based on data collected over multiple years, further investigation is needed in a randomized controlled setting, to better understand the educational differences of in-person and online training. Further expanding OOPT to populations beyond medical students would further improve generalizability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noah Berland
- Kings County Hospital, SUNY Downstate Medical Center , Brooklyn , New York , USA
| | - Daniel Lugassy
- Department of Emergency Medicine and Toxicology, New York University School of Medicine , New York , New York , USA
| | - Aaron Fox
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine , Bronx , New York , USA
| | - Keith Goldfeld
- Department of Population health, New York University School of Medicine , New York , New York , USA
| | - So-Young Oh
- Institute for Innovations in Medical Education, New York University School of Medicine , New York , New York , USA
| | - Babak Tofighi
- Department of Population health, New York University School of Medicine , New York , New York , USA
| | - Kathleen Hanley
- Department of Medicine, New York University School of Medicine , New York , New York , USA
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Bagley SM, Cabral H, Saia K, Brown A, Lloyd-Travaglini C, Walley AY, Rose-Jacobs R. Frequency and associated risk factors of non-fatal overdose reported by pregnant women with opioid use disorder. Addict Sci Clin Pract 2018; 13:26. [PMID: 30547833 PMCID: PMC6295054 DOI: 10.1186/s13722-018-0126-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2018] [Accepted: 11/29/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about opioid overdose or naloxone access among pregnant women. OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence of non-fatal overdose, risk factors for overdose, and naloxone access among third trimester women in treatment for opioid use disorder. METHODS We collected baseline data from a case management parental-support intervention study. To explore the association of variables with past year overdose, we used Wilcoxon rank-sum test, Chi square or Fisher's exact tests. RESULTS Among 99 participants, 14% (95% CI 7-21%) reported past year overdose and 67% (95% CI 57-76%) had received overdose education and a naloxone kit. Younger age was the only variable associated with past year overdose. CONCLUSIONS In this sample, past year non-fatal overdose was common, younger age was a risk factor, and most participants had received a naloxone kit. Further work is needed to understand whether younger age is a risk factor in the general population of pregnant women with opioid use disorder and to identify other potential risk factors for overdose in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah M Bagley
- Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, 02118, USA. .,Department of Pediatrics, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, 02118, USA.
| | - Howard Cabral
- School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, USA
| | - Kelley Saia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston, USA
| | - Alyssa Brown
- Northeastern University School of Public Health, Boston, USA
| | | | - Alexander Y Walley
- Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
| | - Ruth Rose-Jacobs
- Department of Pediatrics, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
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Dodson ZM, Enki Yoo EH, Martin-Gill C, Roth R. Spatial Methods to Enhance Public Health Surveillance and Resource Deployment in the Opioid Epidemic. Am J Public Health 2018; 108:1191-1196. [PMID: 30024793 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2018.304524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To improve public health surveillance and response by using spatial optimization. METHODS We identified cases of suspected nonfatal opioid overdose events in which naloxone was administered from April 2013 through December 2016 treated by the city of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Bureau of Emergency Medical Services. We used spatial modeling to identify areas hardest hit to spatially optimize naloxone distribution among pharmacies in Pittsburgh. RESULTS We identified 3182 opioid overdose events with our classification approach, which generated spatial patterns of opioid overdoses within Pittsburgh. We then used overdose location to spatially optimize accessibility to naloxone via pharmacies in the city. Only 24 pharmacies offered naloxone at the time, and only 3 matched with our optimized solution. CONCLUSIONS Our methodology rapidly identified communities hardest hit by the opioid epidemic with standard public health data. Naloxone accessibility can be optimized with established location-allocation approaches. Public Health Implications. Our methodology can be easily implemented by public health departments for automated surveillance of the opioid epidemic and has the flexibility to optimize a variety of intervention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zan M Dodson
- Zan M. Dodson is with the Public Health Dynamics Laboratory, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA. Eun-Hye Enki Yoo is with the Department of Geography, State University of New York at Buffalo. Christian Martin-Gill and Ronald Roth are with the Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Pittsburgh
| | - Eun-Hye Enki Yoo
- Zan M. Dodson is with the Public Health Dynamics Laboratory, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA. Eun-Hye Enki Yoo is with the Department of Geography, State University of New York at Buffalo. Christian Martin-Gill and Ronald Roth are with the Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Pittsburgh
| | - Christian Martin-Gill
- Zan M. Dodson is with the Public Health Dynamics Laboratory, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA. Eun-Hye Enki Yoo is with the Department of Geography, State University of New York at Buffalo. Christian Martin-Gill and Ronald Roth are with the Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Pittsburgh
| | - Ronald Roth
- Zan M. Dodson is with the Public Health Dynamics Laboratory, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA. Eun-Hye Enki Yoo is with the Department of Geography, State University of New York at Buffalo. Christian Martin-Gill and Ronald Roth are with the Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Pittsburgh
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Jacobson AN, Bratberg JP, Monk M, Ferrentino J. Retention of student pharmacists' knowledge and skills regarding overdose management with naloxone. Subst Abus 2018; 39:193-198. [DOI: 10.1080/08897077.2018.1439797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Anita N. Jacobson
- College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Jeffrey P. Bratberg
- College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Miranda Monk
- College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, Rhode Island, USA
| | - John Ferrentino
- College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, Rhode Island, USA
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Pharmaceutical opioid overdose deaths and the presence of witnesses. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2018; 55:8-13. [PMID: 29433040 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2017.12.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2017] [Revised: 11/29/2017] [Accepted: 12/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the past two decades, rates of pharmaceutical opioid use and harms resulting from their use (including death) have risen. The present study identified a series of fatal opioid overdoses where there was evidence that witnesses had noted symptoms consistent with overdose, and examined associated contextual factors. METHODS A retrospective review was undertaken utilising the Coroners Court of Victoria's Overdose Deaths Register for pharmaceutical opioid overdose deaths between 2011 and 2013. Information on the source of pharmaceutical opioids, co-contributing drugs, history of drug dependence, and mental illness was extracted and coded. RESULTS Pharmaceutical opioids were involved in 587 deaths, and within these, 125 cases (21%) were witnessed. The majority of these witnessed deaths (77.6%) occurred at the deceased's residence, with the witness being a partner or unrelated acquaintance who did not realise the significance of what they were witnessing. The most common contributing pharmaceutical opioids were methadone (49.6%), codeine (32.0%), and oxycodone (19.2%), with the source more often prescribed than diverted. Co-contributing drugs were involved in 110 cases, with the most common being benzodiazepines. Evidence of current dependence and mental illness was found in 53.6% of cases. CONCLUSION Most pharmaceutical opioid overdose deaths with a witness present occurred in the deceased's home, with symptoms of overdose being noted, but not acted upon. These findings support the trialling of education and/or naloxone to partners and family members of people who use pharmaceutical opioids in order to reduce overdose deaths.
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Rzasa Lynn R, Galinkin JL. Naloxone dosage for opioid reversal: current evidence and clinical implications. Ther Adv Drug Saf 2017; 9:63-88. [PMID: 29318006 DOI: 10.1177/2042098617744161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 210] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2017] [Accepted: 11/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Opioid-related mortality is a growing problem in the United States, and in 2015 there were over 33,000 opioid-related deaths. To combat this mortality trend, naloxone is increasingly being utilized in a pre-hospital setting by emergency personnel and prescribed to laypersons for out-of-hospital administration. With increased utilization of naloxone there has been a subsequent reduction in mortality following an opioid overdose. Reversal of opioid toxicity may precipitate an opioid-withdrawal syndrome. At the same time, there is a risk of inadequate response or re-narcotization after the administration of a single dose of naloxone in patients who have taken large doses or long-acting opioid formulations, as the duration of effect of naloxone is shorter than that of many opioid agonists. As out-of-hospital use of this medication is growing, so too is concern about effective but safe dosing.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - J L Galinkin
- University of Colorado at Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13123 East 16th Avenue, B090, Aurora, CO 80045-0508, USA
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Marotta PL, McCullagh CA. A cross-national analysis of the association between years of implementation of opioid substitution treatments and drug-related deaths in Europe from 1995 to 2013. Eur J Epidemiol 2017; 33:679-688. [PMID: 29234968 DOI: 10.1007/s10654-017-0342-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2017] [Accepted: 12/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Data at the individual-level provide evidence that opioid substitution treatment (OST) programs protect against mortality for opioid dependent populations. Prior research has not examined the merits of national implementation of opioid substitution programs for reducing mortality at the country-level. This study elucidates longitudinal associations between country-level implementation of opioid substitution treatment programs on mortality rates of drug related deaths (DRD) from 1995 to 2013 in 30 European nations. Cases of DRD were measured using National Definitions for each country from official sources of data. Preliminary analysis of dispersion of cases of DRD using means and variances justified use of the negative binomial regression model with a population offset. Year and country-level fixed effects negative binomial regression models investigated the association between years of implementation of methadone maintenance therapy (MMT), OST in prison, and high dose buprenorphine treatment (HDBT) implementation and mortality rates from drug related deaths after adjusting for unemployment rates, heroin seizures and per capita expenditures on health. Beta coefficients were converted to Incidence Rate Ratios (IRR) and standard errors bootstrapped using non-parametric methods to adjust for bias (SDbs). The mean mortality rate of DRD was 1.81 from 1995 to 2013. In adjusted models, each additional year of MMT (IRR = .61, SD = .04, p < .001; SDbs = .08, p < .001), prison OST (IRR = .90, SD = .01, p < .001; SDbs = .02, p < .001), and HDBT (IRR = .09, SD = .02, p < .001; SDbs = .02, p < .01) was significantly associated with lower rates of DRDs after adjusting for country and year fixed effects. Implementation of OST programs in the general population and in prison settings may have protected against mortality from drug use at the country-level in Europe from 1995 to 2013.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phillip L Marotta
- School of Social Work, New York, NY, USA.
- Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.
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Lewis CR, Vo HT, Fishman M. Intranasal naloxone and related strategies for opioid overdose intervention by nonmedical personnel: a review. Subst Abuse Rehabil 2017; 8:79-95. [PMID: 29066940 PMCID: PMC5644601 DOI: 10.2147/sar.s101700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Deaths due to prescription and illicit opioid overdose have been rising at an alarming rate, particularly in the USA. Although naloxone injection is a safe and effective treatment for opioid overdose, it is frequently unavailable in a timely manner due to legal and practical restrictions on its use by laypeople. As a result, an effort spanning decades has resulted in the development of strategies to make naloxone available for layperson or "take-home" use. This has included the development of naloxone formulations that are easier to administer for nonmedical users, such as intranasal and autoinjector intramuscular delivery systems, efforts to distribute naloxone to potentially high-impact categories of nonmedical users, as well as efforts to reduce regulatory barriers to more widespread distribution and use. Here we review the historical and current literature on the efficacy and safety of naloxone for use by nonmedical persons, provide an evidence-based discussion of the controversies regarding the safety and efficacy of different formulations of take-home naloxone, and assess the status of current efforts to increase its public distribution. Take-home naloxone is safe and effective for the treatment of opioid overdose when administered by laypeople in a community setting, shortening the time to reversal of opioid toxicity and reducing opioid-related deaths. Complementary strategies have together shown promise for increased dissemination of take-home naloxone, including 1) provision of education and training; 2) distribution to critical populations such as persons with opioid addiction, family members, and first responders; 3) reduction of prescribing barriers to access; and 4) reduction of legal recrimination fears as barriers to use. Although there has been considerable progress in decreasing the regulatory and legal barriers to effective implementation of community naloxone programs, significant barriers still exist, and much work remains to be done to integrate these programs into efforts to provide effective treatment of opioid use disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christa R Lewis
- Maryland Treatment Centers, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Department of Psychology, Towson University, Towson, MD, USA
| | - Hoa T Vo
- Maryland Treatment Centers, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Marc Fishman
- Maryland Treatment Centers, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Eigner G, Henriksen B, Huynh P, Murphy D, Brubaker C, Sanders J, McMahan D. Who is Overdosing? An Updated Picture of Overdose Deaths From 2008 to 2015. Health Serv Res Manag Epidemiol 2017; 4:2333392817727424. [PMID: 28959707 PMCID: PMC5593207 DOI: 10.1177/2333392817727424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2017] [Accepted: 06/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine the role of opioids in drug overdose deaths in Allen County, Indiana between January 1, 2008, and December 31, 2015. METHODS File review of 418 overdose deaths was performed using Indiana State Department of Health death certificates available through the Allen County Coroner's Office. Data from autopsy and toxicology reports and coroner-requested prescribing data from Indiana's Prescription Monitoring Program were reviewed. Cause of death and available data were analyzed to identify patterns and trends related to overdose deaths. RESULTS Four hundred eighteen drug overdose deaths were identified (336 accidental, 66 intentional, and 16 undetermined). Mean age was 42.5 years, 88.5% were Caucasian, and 68.7% were employed. The majority of deaths occurred at a place of residence (71.4%) and with other people present (57.5% of the time). Depression was the most common comorbidity identified. The most common drug classes identified by toxicology were opioids, followed by benzodiazepines. Significant increases in both heroin (35% of deaths in 2015 versus 8.2% in 2013) and fentanyl (30% of deaths in 2015 versus 2.2% in 2011) were observed. CONCLUSIONS Drug overdose continues to be a significant cause of death in Allen County. The majority of deaths were accidental and in relatively young, employed individuals. Prevention and awareness strategies should be encouraged, given that the majority of overdose deaths occurred at a place of residence with other people frequently present. Additional concerns about patterns of drug use were confirmed with marked increases in both heroin and fentanyl contributing to overdose deaths in the latter part of the study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory Eigner
- Fort Wayne Medical Education Program, Fort Wayne, IN, USA
| | | | - Philip Huynh
- Department of Health, Fort Wayne-Allen County, Fort Wayne, IN, USA
| | - David Murphy
- Fort Wayne Medical Education Program, Fort Wayne, IN, USA
| | | | - Jana Sanders
- Department of Health, Fort Wayne-Allen County, Fort Wayne, IN, USA
| | - Deborah McMahan
- Department of Health, Fort Wayne-Allen County, Fort Wayne, IN, USA
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40
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Farrugia A, Fraser S, Dwyer R. Assembling the Social and Political Dimensions of Take-Home Naloxone. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017. [DOI: 10.1177/0091450917723350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Farrugia
- National Drug Research Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Suzanne Fraser
- National Drug Research Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Robyn Dwyer
- National Drug Research Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Centre for Alcohol Policy Research, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Fairbairn N, Coffin PO, Walley AY. Naloxone for heroin, prescription opioid, and illicitly made fentanyl overdoses: Challenges and innovations responding to a dynamic epidemic. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2017; 46:172-179. [PMID: 28687187 PMCID: PMC5783633 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2017.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 174] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2017] [Revised: 05/28/2017] [Accepted: 06/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Community-based overdose prevention programs first emerged in the 1990's and are now the leading public health intervention for overdose. Key elements of these programs are overdose education and naloxone distribution to people who use opioids and their social networks. We review the evolution of naloxone programming through the heroin overdose era of the 1990's, the prescription opioid era of the 2000's, and the current overdose crisis stemming from the synthetic opioid era of illicitly manufactured fentanyl and its analogues in the 2010's. We present current challenges arising in this new era of synthetic opioids, including variable potency of illicit drugs due to erratic adulteration of the drug supply with synthetic opioids, potentially changing efficacy of standard naloxone formulations for overdose rescue, potentially shorter overdose response time, and reports of fentanyl exposure among people who use drugs but are opioid naïve. Future directions for adapting naloxone programming to the dynamic opioid epidemic are proposed, including scale-up to new venues and social networks, new standards for post-overdose care, expansion of supervised drug consumption services, and integration of novel technologies to detect overdose and deliver naloxone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Fairbairn
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Canada.
| | - Phillip O Coffin
- San Francisco Department of Public Health, United States; University of California, San Francisco, United States
| | - Alexander Y Walley
- Clinical Addiction Research and Education Unit, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston Medical Center, United States
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Oxytocin under opioid antagonism leads to supralinear enhancement of social attention. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2017; 114:5247-5252. [PMID: 28461466 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1702725114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
To provide new preclinical evidence toward improving the efficacy of oxytocin (OT) in treating social dysfunction, we tested the benefit of administering OT under simultaneously induced opioid antagonism during dyadic gaze interactions in monkeys. OT coadministered with a μ-opioid receptor antagonist, naloxone, invoked a supralinear enhancement of prolonged and selective social attention, producing a stronger effect than the summed effects of each administered separately. These effects were consistently observed when averaging over entire sessions, as well as specifically following events of particular social importance, including mutual eye contact and mutual reward receipt. Furthermore, attention to various facial regions was differentially modulated depending on social context. Using the Allen Institute's transcriptional atlas, we further established the colocalization of μ-opioid and κ-opioid receptor genes and OT genes at the OT-releasing sites in the human brain. These data across monkeys and humans support a regulatory relationship between the OT and opioid systems and suggest that administering OT under opioid antagonism may boost the therapeutic efficacy of OT for enhancing social cognition.
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Bagley SM, Forman LS, Ruiz S, Cranston K, Walley AY. Expanding access to naloxone for family members: The Massachusetts experience. Drug Alcohol Rev 2017; 37:480-486. [DOI: 10.1111/dar.12551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2016] [Revised: 02/16/2017] [Accepted: 03/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah M. Bagley
- Medicine and Pediatrics; Boston University School of Medicine, Boston Medical Center; Boston USA
| | - Leah S. Forman
- Data Coordinating Center; Boston University School of Public Health; Boston USA
| | - Sarah Ruiz
- Massachusetts Department of Public Health; Boston USA
| | | | - Alexander Y. Walley
- Medicine and Pediatrics; Boston University School of Medicine, Boston Medical Center; Boston USA
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45
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Is a Prehospital Treat and Release Protocol for Opioid Overdose Safe? J Emerg Med 2017; 52:52-58. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jemermed.2016.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2016] [Accepted: 09/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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46
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Das S, Shah N, Ghadiali M. Intravenous use of intranasal naloxone: A case of overdose reversal. Subst Abus 2016; 38:18-21. [DOI: 10.1080/08897077.2016.1267686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Smita Das
- Department of Addiction Psychiatry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- San Francisco VA Medical Center, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Nina Shah
- Chemical Dependency Recovery Program, Kaiser Permanente San Francisco Medical Center, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Murtuza Ghadiali
- Department of Addiction Psychiatry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Addiction Medicine, Kaiser Permanente San Francisco Medical Center, San Francisco, California, USA
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Leece P, Gassanov M, Hopkins S, Marshall C, Millson P, Shahin R. Process evaluation of the Prevent Overdose in Toronto (POINT) program. Canadian Journal of Public Health 2016; 107:e224-e230. [PMID: 27763835 DOI: 10.17269/cjph.107.5480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2016] [Revised: 07/22/2016] [Accepted: 07/03/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
SETTING A harm reduction program at a public health unit in Toronto, Ontario, between August 31, 2011 and August 31, 2013. INTERVENTION We conducted a process evaluation of the first two years of an opioid overdose prevention and response program, Prevent Overdose in Toronto (POINT), including analysis of data from program documentation forms, as well as qualitative interviews with program staff, representatives from partner agencies, and program clients. OUTCOMES In the first two years of the program, 662 individuals (52.4% male; mean age 38.3 years) were trained in opioid overdose prevention and given a naloxone kit. Among clients currently using opioids, the most frequently reported opioids were oxycodone (40.4%) and heroin (34.4%). Clients reported 98 administrations of naloxone, primarily to friends and acquaintances. Nearly all naloxone recipients reportedly survived; one did not survive, and one had an unknown outcome.Staff and partner agencies feel the program reaches the target population and that POINT training meets clients' needs. Clients would like to see the training offered more widely. Overall, staff, partner agencies and clients were pleased with the POINT program, and they offered suggestions on program recruitment and delivery. IMPLICATIONS Individuals at risk of opioid overdose have participated in overdose prevention and response training, and reported using naloxone in overdose events. Results of this initial program evaluation are being used to improve the delivery of the POINT program and can inform broader public health practice in opioid overdose prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Leece
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON.
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48
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Drainoni ML, Koppelman EA, Feldman JA, Walley AY, Mitchell PM, Ellison J, Bernstein E. Why is it so hard to implement change? A qualitative examination of barriers and facilitators to distribution of naloxone for overdose prevention in a safety net environment. BMC Res Notes 2016; 9:465. [PMID: 27756427 PMCID: PMC5070095 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-016-2268-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2016] [Accepted: 10/06/2016] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The increase in opioid overdose deaths has become a national public health crisis. Naloxone is an important tool in opioid overdose prevention. Distribution of nasal naloxone has been found to be a feasible, and effective intervention in community settings and may have potential high applicability in the emergency department, which is often the initial point of care for persons at high risk of overdose. One safety net hospital introduced an innovative policy to offer take-home nasal naloxone via a standing order to ensure distribution to patients at risk for overdose. The aims of this study were to examine acceptance and uptake of the policy and assess facilitators and barriers to implementation. METHODS After obtaining pre-post data on naloxone distribution, we conducted a qualitative study. The PARiHS framework steered development of the qualitative guide. We used theoretical sampling in order to include the range of types of emergency department staff (50 total). The constant comparative method was initially used to code the transcripts and identify themes; the themes that emerged from the coding were then mapped back to the evidence, context and facilitation constructs of the PARiHS framework. RESULTS Acceptance of the policy was good but uptake was low. Primary themes related to facilitators included: real-world driven intervention with philosophical, clinician and leadership support; basic education and training efforts; availability of resources; and ability to leave the ED with the naloxone kit in hand. Barriers fell into five general categories: protocol and policy; workflow and logistical; patient-related; staff roles and responsibilities; and education and training. CONCLUSIONS The actual implementation of a new innovation in healthcare delivery is largely driven by factors beyond acceptance. Despite support and resources, implementation was challenging, with low uptake. While the potential of this innovation is unknown, understanding the experience is important to improve uptake in this setting and offer possible solutions for other facilities to address the opioid overdose crisis. Use of the PARiHS framework allowed us to recognize and understand key evidence, contextual and facilitation barriers to the successful implementation of the policy and to identify areas for improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mari-Lynn Drainoni
- Boston University School of Public Health, 715 Albany Street, T3 W, Boston, MA 02118 USA
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA USA
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research, ENRM Veterans Administration Hospital, Bedford, MA USA
| | - Elisa A. Koppelman
- Boston University School of Public Health, 715 Albany Street, T3 W, Boston, MA 02118 USA
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research, ENRM Veterans Administration Hospital, Bedford, MA USA
| | - James A. Feldman
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA USA
- Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA USA
| | - Alexander Y. Walley
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA USA
- Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA USA
| | - Patricia M. Mitchell
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA USA
- Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA USA
| | - Jacqueline Ellison
- Boston University School of Public Health, 715 Albany Street, T3 W, Boston, MA 02118 USA
| | - Edward Bernstein
- Boston University School of Public Health, 715 Albany Street, T3 W, Boston, MA 02118 USA
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA USA
- Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA USA
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Lim JK, Bratberg JP, Davis CS, Green TC, Walley AY. Prescribe to Prevent: Overdose Prevention and Naloxone Rescue Kits for Prescribers and Pharmacists. J Addict Med 2016; 10:300-8. [PMID: 27261669 PMCID: PMC5049966 DOI: 10.1097/adm.0000000000000223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2015] [Accepted: 04/07/2016] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
In March of 2015, the United States Department of Health and Human Services identified 3 priority areas to reduce opioid use disorders and overdose, which are as follows: opioid-prescribing practices; expanded use and distribution of naloxone; and expansion of medication-assisted treatment. In this narrative review of overdose prevention and the role of prescribers and pharmacists in distributing naloxone, we address these priority areas and present a clinical scenario within the review involving a pharmacist, a patient with chronic pain and anxiety, and a primary care physician. We also discuss current laws related to naloxone prescribing and dispensing. This review was adapted from the Prescribe to Prevent online continuing medical education module created for prescribers and pharmacists (http://www.opioidprescribing.com/naloxone_module_1-landing).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie K Lim
- Clinical Addiction Research and Education Unit (JKL, AYW), Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA; College of Pharmacy (JPB), University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI; Network for Public Health Law (CSD), St. Paul, MN; Departments of Emergency Medicine and Epidemiology (TCG), Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI; and Department of Emergency Medicine (TCG), Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA
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Baldacchino A, Crocamo C, Humphris G, Neufeind J, Frisher M, Scherbaum N, Carrà G. Decision support in addiction: The development of an e-health tool to assess and prevent risk of fatal overdose. The ORION Project. COMPUTER METHODS AND PROGRAMS IN BIOMEDICINE 2016; 133:207-216. [PMID: 27393811 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmpb.2016.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2015] [Revised: 05/22/2016] [Accepted: 05/31/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE The application of e-health technology to the field of substance use disorders is at a relatively early stage, and methodological quality is still variable. Few have explored the extent of utilization of communication technology in exploring risk perception by patients enrolled in substance abuse services. The Overdose RIsk InfOrmatioN (ORION) project is a European Commission funded programme, aimed to develop and pilot an e-health psycho-educational tool to provide information to drug using individuals about the risks of suffering a drug overdose. METHODS In this article, we report on phase 1 (risk estimation), phase 2 (design), and phase 3 (feasibility) of the ORION project. RESULTS The development of ORION e-health tool underlined the importance of an evidence-based intervention aimed in obtaining reliable evaluation of risk. The ORION tool supported a decision making process aimed at influencing the substance users' self-efficacy and the degree to which the substance users' understand risk factors. Therefore, its innovative power consisted in translating risks combination into a clear estimation for the user who will then appear more likely to be interested in his/her risk perception. CONCLUSION Exploratory field testing and validation confirmed the next stage of evaluation, namely, collection of routine patient samples in study clinics. The associations between risk perception of overdose, engagement with the ORION tool and willingness to alter overdose risk factors, in a clinical setting across various EU member states will further confirm the ORION tool's generalisability and effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Baldacchino
- School of Medicine, Medical and Biological Sciences Building North Haugh, University of St Andrews, Fife KY16 9AJ, United Kingdom.
| | - C Crocamo
- Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, Unit of Biostatistics and Clinical Epidemiology, University of Pavia, Via Forlanini, 2-27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - G Humphris
- School of Medicine, Medical and Biological Sciences Building North Haugh, University of St Andrews, Fife KY16 9AJ, United Kingdom
| | - J Neufeind
- School of Medicine, Medical and Biological Sciences Building North Haugh, University of St Andrews, Fife KY16 9AJ, United Kingdom; Playfield Institute, Startheden Hospital, Cupar, Fife KY15 5RR, United Kingdom
| | - M Frisher
- Faculty of Health, School of Pharmacy, Hornbeam Building, Keele, Staffordshire ST5 5BG, United Kingdom
| | - N Scherbaum
- Department of Addictive Behaviour and Addiction Medicine, LVR-Hospital Essen, Hospital of the University of Duisburg-Essen, Virchowstr. 174, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - G Carrà
- Department of Mental Health, San Gerardo University Hospital, Via Pergolesi, 33-20900 Monza, Italy
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