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Henningfield JE, Grundmann O, Huestis MA, Smith KE. Kratom safety and toxicology in the public health context: research needs to better inform regulation. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1403140. [PMID: 38887550 PMCID: PMC11180979 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1403140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Although kratom use has been part of life for centuries in Southeast Asia, the availability and use of kratom in the United States (US) increased substantially since the early 2000s when there was little information on kratom pharmacology, use patterns, and effects, all critical to guiding regulation and policy. Here we provide a synthesis of research with several hundred English-language papers published in the past 5 years drawing from basic research, epidemiological and surveillance data, and recent clinical research. This review of available literature aims to provide an integrated update regarding our current understanding of kratom's benefits, risks, pharmacology, and epidemiology, which may inform United States-based kratom regulation. Recent surveillance indicates there are likely several million past-year kratom consumers, though estimates vary widely. Even without precise prevalence data, kratom use is no longer a niche, with millions of United States adults using it for myriad reasons. Despite its botanical origins in the coffee tree family and its polypharmacy, kratom is popularly characterized as an opioid with presumed opioid-system-based risks for addiction or overdose. Neuropharmacology, toxicology, and epidemiology studies show that kratom is more accurately characterized as a substance with diverse and complex pharmacology. Taken together the work reviewed here provides a foundation for future scientific studies, as well as a guide for ongoing efforts to regulate kratom. This work also informs much-needed federal oversight, including by the United States Food and Drug Administration. We conclude with recommendations for kratom regulation and research priorities needed to address current policy and knowledge gaps around this increasingly used botanical product.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack E. Henningfield
- Pinney Associates, Inc., Bethesda, MD, United States
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Oliver Grundmann
- College of Pharmacy, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Marilyn A. Huestis
- Institute of Emerging Health Professions, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Kirsten E. Smith
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
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West R, Cox S, Notley CJ, Du Plessis G, Hastings J. Achieving consensus, coherence, clarity and consistency when talking about addiction. Addiction 2024; 119:796-798. [PMID: 37985001 DOI: 10.1111/add.16393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Robert West
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Sharon Cox
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Guy Du Plessis
- I-System Institute for Transdisciplinary Studies, Utah State University, Logan, Utah, USA
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3
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Rigg KK. Attitudes toward extended-release naltrexone treatment for opioid use disorder among African Americans. Drug Alcohol Depend 2024; 257:111260. [PMID: 38492256 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2024.111260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Extended-release naltrexone (XR-NTX; Vivitrol®) is a long-acting injectable form of naltrexone, which is a medication used to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). In 2010, XR-NTX received Food and Drug Administration approval to treat OUD, becoming the first non-addictive and non-psychoactive medication for this condition. Because uptake of XR-NTX has been relatively low, less is known regarding how persons with OUD view this form of treatment. And because previous studies tend to rely on samples that lack racial diversity or are conducted outside the United States, we know very little about how African Americans view XR-NTX. The objective of this study, therefore, was to identify/explain the most salient attitudes toward XR-NTX as a form of OUD treatment among African Americans. METHODS In-depth interviews (n = 30) were conducted with a sample of African American adults who used opioids in Southwest Florida between August 2021 and February 2022. Audiotapes of interviews were transcribed, coded, and thematically analyzed. RESULTS Analyses revealed that participants' attitudes toward XR-NTX were generally positive. Specifically, participants found XR-NTX's monthly injection administration, non-addictive and non-intoxicating properties, and perceived effectiveness (compared to other medications for OUD) most appealing. CONCLUSIONS Study findings suggest that African Americans who use opioids may have more favorable attitudes toward XR-NTX than other medications for OUD (e.g., methadone), which tend to be highly stigmatized. These data uniquely contribute to the literature by capturing the voices of African Americans who use opioids, a group with high rates of opioid-related deaths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khary K Rigg
- Department of Mental Health Law & Policy, University of South Florida, 13301 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., Tampa, FL 33612, USA.
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4
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Rigg KK. Prescription Opioid Diversion Sources Among African Americans: Implications for Overdose Prevention. Subst Use Misuse 2024; 59:1271-1274. [PMID: 38501692 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2024.2330901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Recent data show that African Americans (AAs) experienced a greater increase in overdose deaths involving prescription opioids relative to other racial/ethnic groups. One possible mechanism through which elevated risk for overdose is conferred to AAs could be due to greater exposure to contaminated counterfeit pills. Unfortunately, prescription opioid diversion is understudied among AAs and less is known regarding which sources AAs use to access pharmaceutical opioids. The objective of this study, therefore, was to identify and describe the most commonly used diversion sources for prescription opioids among AAs. Qualitative interview data are also presented to contextualize the most prevalent sources. This study used data from the Florida Minority Health Study, a mixed-methods project that included online surveys (n = 303) and qualitative in-depth interviews (n = 30) of AAs. Data collection was conducted from August 2021 to February 2022 throughout Southwest Florida. Analyses revealed that the most widely used sources for prescription opioids were dealers (33.0%) and friends/relatives (34.7%). Additionally, interview data indicated that dealers are the access point where larger volume acquisitions are made and high potency formulations are accessed. These findings suggest that AAs may utilize nonhealthcare related sources at higher rates than healthcare related sources to acquire prescription opioids. This is concerning because opioid pills acquired through nonhealthcare related sources are especially susceptible to fentanyl adulteration. These findings invite further study using nationally representative data to determine if AAs disproportionately use nonhealthcare related sources compared to persons from other racial/ethnic groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khary K Rigg
- Department of Mental Health Law and Policy, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
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5
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Rigg KK, Weiner MA, Kusiak ES. Patterns of polydrug use among Black Americans who misuse opioids. J Behav Health Serv Res 2024:10.1007/s11414-024-09878-3. [PMID: 38468073 DOI: 10.1007/s11414-024-09878-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
In the United States, opioid-related deaths involving polydrug use are now more prevalent than those involving only opioids. What often goes unnoticed is that deaths involving more than one substance are increasing more rapidly among Black Americans than Whites. Unfortunately, little research attention is paid to understanding opioid-related polydrug use patterns among Black Americans. As a result, less is known regarding which drug combinations are most common among this population and their reasons for co-using certain drugs. Therefore, the objective of this mixed methods study was to identify which substances were most commonly co-used with opioids among Black Americans, while also capturing their motives for combining opioids with other drugs. This study used data from the Florida Minority Health Study, a mixed-methods project that included online surveys (n = 303) and qualitative in-depth interviews (n = 30) of Black Americans who misuse opioids. Data collection was conducted from August 2021 to February 2022 throughout Southwest Florida. Analyses revealed that opioids were most commonly combined with alcohol, cocaine, and methamphetamine, respectively. Opioids were co-used with alcohol in an attempt to enhance the desired effect (i.e., intoxication), while stimulants and opioids were combined to counteract the undesirable side effects of the other. This study begins to answer the question of which/why substances are combined with opioids among Black Americans and should inform behavioral health interventions targeted at this population. Data on this topic are especially timely as the United States goes through the current fourth wave of the opioid crisis that is characterized by deaths due to polydrug use. These findings invite further study using nationally representative data to determine the extent to which polydrug using patterns differ across racial/ethnic groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khary K Rigg
- Department of Mental Health Law & Policy, University of South Florida, 13301 Bruce B. Downs Blvd, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA.
| | - Michael A Weiner
- Department of Mental Health Law & Policy, University of South Florida, 13301 Bruce B. Downs Blvd, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
| | - Ethan S Kusiak
- Department of Mental Health Law & Policy, University of South Florida, 13301 Bruce B. Downs Blvd, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
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6
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Kim B, Im HI. Behavioral characterization of early nicotine withdrawal in the mouse: a potential model of acute dependence. BEHAVIORAL AND BRAIN FUNCTIONS : BBF 2024; 20:1. [PMID: 38218838 PMCID: PMC10788015 DOI: 10.1186/s12993-024-00227-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical and preclinical research have demonstrated that short-term exposure to nicotine during the initial experimentation stage can lead to early manifestation of withdrawal-like signs, indicating the state of "acute dependence". As drug withdrawal is a major factor driving the progression toward regular drug intake, characterizing and understanding the features of early nicotine withdrawal may be important for the prevention and treatment of drug addiction. In this study, we corroborate the previous studies by showing that withdrawal-like signs can be precipitated after short-term nicotine exposure in mice, providing a potential animal model of acute dependence on nicotine. RESULTS To model nicotine exposure from light tobacco use during the initial experimentation stage, mice were treated with 0.5 mg/kg (-)-nicotine ditartrate once daily for 3 days. On the following day, the behavioral tests were conducted after implementing spontaneous or mecamylamine-precipitated withdrawal. In the open field test, precipitated nicotine withdrawal reduced locomotor activity and time spent in the center zone. In the elevated plus maze test, the mecamylamine challenge increased the time spent in the closed arm and reduced the number of entries irrespective of nicotine experience. In the examination of the somatic aspect, precipitated nicotine withdrawal enhanced the number of somatic signs. Finally, nicotine withdrawal did not affect cognitive functioning or social behavior in the passive avoidance, spatial object recognition, or social interaction test. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, our data demonstrate that early nicotine withdrawal-like signs could be precipitated by the nicotinic antagonist mecamylamine in mice, and that early withdrawal from nicotine primarily causes physical symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baeksun Kim
- Center for Brain Function, Brain Science Institute (BSI), Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Hwarang-ro 14-gil 5, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Heh-In Im
- Center for Brain Function, Brain Science Institute (BSI), Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Hwarang-ro 14-gil 5, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea.
- Division of Bio-Medical Science & Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea.
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Faucher MA, Morillos S, Cordova P, McNeil-Santiel J, Onisko N, Adhikari EH, Nelson DB. Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa): A Case Review of Use Before and During Pregnancy. J Midwifery Womens Health 2024; 69:144-149. [PMID: 37679866 DOI: 10.1111/jmwh.13558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a plant-based substance with psychoactive properties similar to opioids but is not currently classified as an opioid. One of its more prevalent uses is to treat opioid dependency and withdrawal symptoms. Opioid use disorder is a leading cause of pregnancy-associated maternal mortality, and pregnant women may be using kratom as a substitute or alternative to opioids. Prevalence of kratom use is increasing rapidly, but scientific evidence specific to therapeutic and adverse effects is lacking overall, and the implications of its use in pregnancy and on the fetus-newborn are limited to a few case reports. Kratom is a legal substance by federal law, although some states have banned its use. The lack of regulation is concerning. Significant illness and associated deaths have been reported with kratom use. Lack of disclosure by people using kratom and limited laboratory testing options are major challenges for health care providers and public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Ann Faucher
- Women & Infants Specialty Health, Parkland Health, Dallas, Texas
| | | | - Polly Cordova
- Women & Infants Specialty Health, Parkland Health, Dallas, Texas
| | | | - Nancy Onisko
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Emily H Adhikari
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - David B Nelson
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
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8
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Witkowski K, Lofaro RJ, Headley AM, Contreras S, Remington CL, Ganapati NE. Understanding problematic substance use among first responders during the COVID-19 pandemic: A survey of law enforcement, fire, and EMS workers in the United States. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2024; 123:104261. [PMID: 38006639 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2023.104261] [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: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND First responders have experienced increased levels of stress, anxiety, and depression due to job-related pressures associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. However, little is known about the factors associated with first responder drug and alcohol use during this time. METHODS We conducted a nationwide survey of first responders (n = 2801) to understand the relationship between work pressures, workplace support strategies, and problematic substance use during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. We employed structural equation modeling to analyze whether burnout mediated these relationships. RESULTS Descriptive statistics showed that 60.8 % reported no concerns with substance use. While general workplace support strategies were negatively associated with problematic substance use, specific COVID-related strategies, such as providing compensation during quarantine, were positively associated with problematic substance use. Burnout fully mediated relationships between workplace support strategies and problematic substance use. Finally, providing spaces at work to decompress was negatively associated with problematic substance use and burnout. CONCLUSION Although work pressures increased burnout and problematic substance use among first responders, general workplace support strategies (e.g., decompression spaces) reduced problematic substance use while some COVID-related strategies (e.g. compensation during quarantine) increased problematic substance use. Policy interventions to address problematic substance use should focus on providing spaces for first responders to decompress at work, as well as implementing strategies (e.g., access to mental health services, time off) to reduce burnout. However, organizations should be mindful that not all interventions will have their intended impact and some interventions may unintentionally contribute to negative employee outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaila Witkowski
- Florida Atlantic University, Department of Public Administration, United States.
| | - Ryan J Lofaro
- Georgia Southern University, Department of Public and Nonprofit Studies, United States
| | | | - Santina Contreras
- University of Southern California, Department of Urban Planning and Spatial Analysis, United States
| | - Christa L Remington
- University of South Florida, Department of Public Administration, United States
| | - N Emel Ganapati
- Florida International University, Department of Public Policy and Administration, United States
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9
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Mazaheri M, Crooijmans RF, Vereen M, Corten EML. Clinical efficacy and patients' perception of virtual reality during wound care in adults: A systematic review with meta-analysis of randomised clinical trials. Wound Repair Regen 2023; 31:764-778. [PMID: 37996995 DOI: 10.1111/wrr.13128] [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: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
This study was aimed to review Virtual Reality's (VR) impact on pain, anxiety, opioid usage, physiological and behavioural responses, and patients' experience during wound care (WC) in adults. We searched multiple databases (Embase, Medline ALL, Web of Science Core Collection, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, CINAHL, Scopus and Google Scholar) from inception until January 27th, 2023. Included studies compared VR alone or as an adjunct to standard WC with standard WC or other distraction methods, in adults with burn or non-burn-related wounds. The risk of bias was assessed using the revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomised parallel-group and crossover trials. The review followed PRISMA guidelines for reporting. Fourteen studies were eligible for inclusion. The meta-analysis was limited to studies comprising solely of adult participants. VR reduced pain intensity compared to standard WC in all study designs. Despite not being included in the meta-analysis due to reasons such as mixed population or lack of sufficient statistical data, other studies showed significant pain reduction using VR. Additionally, VR improved patients' experience of WC. No clear effect was found on other outcomes including anxiety, opioid usage and physiological and behavioural responses. VR shows promise in reducing acute pain and enhancing patients' experience of WC. The observed variations in the effects of VR at group and individual levels indicate the need for a personalised treatment plan by selecting the right VR for the right patient given at the right time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masood Mazaheri
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Raoul F Crooijmans
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maya Vereen
- Department of Anesthesiology, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eveline M L Corten
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Baumann L, Bello C, Georg FM, Urman RD, Luedi MM, Andereggen L. Acute Pain and Development of Opioid Use Disorder: Patient Risk Factors. Curr Pain Headache Rep 2023; 27:437-444. [PMID: 37392334 PMCID: PMC10462493 DOI: 10.1007/s11916-023-01127-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Pharmacological therapy for acute pain carries the risk of opioid misuse, with opioid use disorder (OUD) reaching epidemic proportions worldwide in recent years. This narrative review covers the latest research on patient risk factors for opioid misuse in the treatment of acute pain. In particular, we emphasize newer findings and evidence-based strategies to reduce the prevalence of OUD. RECENT FINDINGS This narrative review captures a subset of recent advances in the field targeting the literature on patients' risk factors for OUD in the treatment for acute pain. Besides well-recognized risk factors such as younger age, male sex, lower socioeconomic status, White race, psychiatric comorbidities, and prior substance use, additional challenges such as COVID-19 further aggravated the opioid crisis due to associated stress, unemployment, loneliness, or depression. To reduce OUD, providers should evaluate both the individual patient's risk factors and preferences for adequate timing and dosing of opioid prescriptions. Short-term prescription should be considered and patients at-risk closely monitored. The integration of non-opioid analgesics and regional anesthesia to create multimodal, personalized analgesic plans is important. In the management of acute pain, routine prescription of long-acting opioids should be avoided, with implementation of a close monitoring and cessation plan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Livia Baumann
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Kantonsspital Aarau, Aarau, Switzerland
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Corina Bello
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Filipovic Mark Georg
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Richard D Urman
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Markus M Luedi
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Cantonal Hospital of St, Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Lukas Andereggen
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kantonsspital Aarau, Aarau, Switzerland.
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Powell VD, Macleod C, Sussman J, Lin LA, Bohnert ASB, Lagisetty P. Variation in Clinical Characteristics and Longitudinal Outcomes in Individuals with Opioid Use Disorder Diagnosis Codes. J Gen Intern Med 2023; 38:699-706. [PMID: 35819683 PMCID: PMC9971398 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-022-07732-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [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: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patterns of opioid use vary, including prescribed use without aberrancy, limited aberrant use, and potential opioid use disorder (OUD). In clinical practice, similar opioid-related International Classification of Disease (ICD) codes are applied across this spectrum, limiting understanding of how groups vary by sociodemographic factors, comorbidities, and long-term risks. OBJECTIVE (1) Examine how Veterans assigned opioid abuse/dependence ICD codes vary at diagnosis and with respect to long-term risks. (2) Determine whether those with limited aberrant use share more similarities to likely OUD vs those using opioids as prescribed. DESIGN Longitudinal observational cohort study. PARTICIPANTS National sample of Veterans categorized as having (1) likely OUD, (2) limited aberrant opioid use, or (3) prescribed, non-aberrant use based upon enhanced medical chart review. MAIN MEASURES Comparison of sociodemographic and clinical factors at diagnosis and rates of age-adjusted mortality, non-fatal opioid overdose, and hospitalization after diagnosis. An exploratory machine learning analysis investigated how closely those with limited aberrant use resembled those with likely OUD. KEY RESULTS Veterans (n = 483) were categorized as likely OUD (62.1%), limited aberrant use (17.8%), and prescribed, non-aberrant use (20.1%). Age, proportion experiencing homelessness, chronic pain, anxiety disorders, and non-opioid substance use disorders differed by group. All-cause mortality was high (44.2 per 1000 person-years (95% CI 33.9, 56.7)). Hospitalization rates per 1000 person-years were highest in the likely OUD group (831.5 (95% CI 771.0, 895.5)), compared to limited aberrant use (739.8 (95% CI 637.1, 854.4)) and prescribed, non-aberrant use (411.9 (95% CI 342.6, 490.4). The exploratory analysis reclassified 29.1% of those with limited aberrant use as having likely OUD with high confidence. CONCLUSIONS Veterans assigned opioid abuse/dependence ICD codes are heterogeneous and face variable long-term risks. Limited aberrant use confers increased risk compared to no aberrant use, and some may already have OUD. Findings warrant future investigation of this understudied population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria D Powell
- Palliative Care Program, Division of Geriatric and Palliative Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
- Geriatrics Research, Education, and Clinical Center, LTC Charles S. Kettles VA Medical Center, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
| | - Colin Macleod
- Division of General Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Jeremy Sussman
- Division of General Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- VA Center for Clinical Management Research (CCMR), VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Lewei A Lin
- VA Center for Clinical Management Research (CCMR), VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Addiction Center, Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Amy S B Bohnert
- VA Center for Clinical Management Research (CCMR), VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Pooja Lagisetty
- Division of General Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- VA Center for Clinical Management Research (CCMR), VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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12
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Nadeau SE, Lawhern RA. Management of chronic non-cancer pain: a framework. Pain Manag 2022; 12:751-777. [PMID: 35642546 DOI: 10.2217/pmt-2022-0017] [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: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: Since publication of the CDC 2016 Guideline, opioid-related mortality in the USA has doubled and a crisis has developed among the 15-20 million Americans with chronic, moderate-to-severe, noncancer pain. Our aim was to develop a comprehensive alternative approach to management of chronic pain. Methods: Analytic review of the clinical literature. Results: Published science provides a solid framework for the management of chronic non-cancer pain, detailed here, even as it leaves many knowledge gaps, which we fill with insights from clinical experience. Conclusion: There is a sufficient basis in science and in clinical experience to achieve adequate control of chronic pain in nearly all patients in a way that adequately balances benefits and potential harms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen E Nadeau
- Neurology Service & the Brain Rehabilitation Research Center, Malcom Randall VA Medical Center & the Department of Neurology, University of Florida College of Medicine, FL 32608-1197, USA
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13
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Abstract
Opioid Use Disorder Diagnosis and ManagementThe last 20 years have seen a staggering increase in opioid-related morbidity and mortality. Although the consequences of untreated OUDs are significant, OUD is a treatable illness. This article reviews the epidemiology of OUD and its complications, screening, diagnosis, treatment, and harm reduction interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Wakeman
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston
- Department of Quality, Patient Experience, and Equity, Mass General Brigham, Boston
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14
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Giannitrapani KF, Holliday JR, Dawson AW, Huynh AK, Hamilton AB, Timko C, Hoggatt KJ. Provider perceptions of challenges to identifying women Veterans with hazardous substance use. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:300. [PMID: 35246113 PMCID: PMC8895644 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-07640-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Approximately one-third of women Veterans Health Administration (VHA) users have substance use disorders (SUD). Early identification of hazardous substance use in this population is critical for the prevention and treatment of SUD. We aimed to understand challenges to identifying women Veterans with hazardous substance use to improve future referral, evaluation, and treatment efforts. METHODS Design: We conducted a secondary analysis of semi-structured interviews conducted with VHA interdisciplinary women's SUD providers at VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System. PARTICIPANTS Using purposive and snowball sampling we interviewed 17 VHA providers from psychology, social work, women's health, primary care, and psychiatry. APPROACH Our analytic approach was content analysis of provider perceptions of identifying hazardous substance use in women Veterans. RESULTS Providers noted limitations across an array of existing identification methodologies employed to identify women with hazardous substance use and believed these limitations were abated through trusting provider-patient communication. Providers emphasized the need to have a process in place to respond to hazardous use when identified. Provider level factors, including provider bias, and patient level factors such as how they self-identify, may impact identification of women Veterans with hazardous substance use. Tailoring language to be sensitive to patient identity may help with identification in women Veterans with hazardous substance use or SUD who are not getting care in VHA but are eligible as well as those who are not eligible for care in VHA. CONCLUSIONS To overcome limitations of existing screening tools and processes of identifying and referring women Veterans with hazardous substance use to appropriate care, future efforts should focus on minimizing provider bias, building trust in patient-provider relationships, and accommodating patient identities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karleen F Giannitrapani
- Center for Innovation to Implementation (Ci2i), VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, United States of America.
- Department of Primary Care and Population Health, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, United States of America.
| | - Jesse R Holliday
- Center for Innovation to Implementation (Ci2i), VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, United States of America
| | - Andrew W Dawson
- Center for Innovation to Implementation (Ci2i), VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, United States of America
- Mind and Society Center, Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
| | - Alexis K Huynh
- Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation & Policy, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
| | - Alison B Hamilton
- Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation & Policy, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
| | - Christine Timko
- Center for Innovation to Implementation (Ci2i), VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, United States of America
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, United States of America
| | - Katherine J Hoggatt
- San Francisco VA Health Care System, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
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