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Åhman A, Karlsson A, Berge J, Håkansson A. Mortality, morbidity, and predictors of death among amphetamine-type stimulant users - a longitudinal, nationwide register study. Addict Behav Rep 2024; 19:100553. [PMID: 38800761 PMCID: PMC11127464 DOI: 10.1016/j.abrep.2024.100553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Use of amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS) contributes substantially to the global burden of disease. Large-scale follow-up studies of morbidity and mortality in ATS users are few. This study analysed morbidity, mortality, and potential predictors of all-cause mortality in a nationwide cohort of patients with ATS use disorder. Methods Data was acquired from national Swedish registers. All Swedish residents 18 years or older, with a registered ATS use diagnosis in 2013-2014 were included (N = 5,018) and followed until December 31, 2017. Comorbid diagnoses and causes of death were assessed and potential predictors of all-cause mortality were examined through Cox regression. Results Median age at inclusion was 36.6 years (interquartile range 27.4---48.1) and 70.5 % were men. The crude mortality rate was 24.6 per 1,000 person-years. The adjusted all-cause standardized mortality ratio was 12.4 (95 % CI [11.34-13.55]). The most common cause of death was overdose (28.9 %). Multiple drug use (hazard ratio 1.39, 95 % CI [1.14-1.70], p = 0.004), anxiety (hazard ratio 1.39, 95 % CI [1.11-1.72], p = 0.014), viral hepatitis (hazard ratio 1.85, 95 % CI [1.50-2.29], p = 0.004), and liver disease (hazard ratio 2.41, 95 % CI [1.55-3.74], p = 0.004) were predictors of all-cause mortality. Conclusions Multiple drug use, anxiety disorders, viral hepatitis and liver diseases were identified as risk factors for death. Our findings call for better screening, prevention, and treatment of somatic and psychiatric comorbidity among ATS users to reduce mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Åhman
- Lund University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Psychiatry, Lund, Sweden
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, BMC F12, Sölvegatan 19, 221 84 Lund, Sweden
| | - A. Karlsson
- Lund University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Psychiatry, Lund, Sweden
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, BMC F12, Sölvegatan 19, 221 84 Lund, Sweden
| | - J. Berge
- Lund University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Psychiatry, Lund, Sweden
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, BMC F12, Sölvegatan 19, 221 84 Lund, Sweden
| | - A. Håkansson
- Lund University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Psychiatry, Lund, Sweden
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, BMC F12, Sölvegatan 19, 221 84 Lund, Sweden
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Rosenblum D, Ondocsin J, Mars SG, Cauchon D, Ciccarone D. Estimating changes in overdose death rates from increasing methamphetamine supply in Ohio: Evidence from crime lab data. DRUG AND ALCOHOL DEPENDENCE REPORTS 2024; 11:100238. [PMID: 38745681 PMCID: PMC11091496 DOI: 10.1016/j.dadr.2024.100238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Background We investigate the relationship between the supply of methamphetamine and overdose death risk in Ohio. Ohio and the overall US have experienced a marked increase in overdose deaths from methamphetamine combined with fentanyl over the last decade. The increasing use of methamphetamine may be increasing the risk of overdose death. However, if people are using it to substitute away from more dangerous synthetic opioids, it may reduce the overall risk of overdose death. Methods Ohio's Bureau of Criminal Investigation's crime lab data include a detailed list of the content of drug samples from law enforcement seizures, which are used as a proxy for drug supply. We use linear regressions to estimate the relationship between the proportion of methamphetamine in lab samples and unintentional drug overdose death rates from January 2015 through September 2021. Results Relatively more methamphetamine in crime lab data in a county-month has either no statistically significant relationship with overdose death rates (in small and medium population counties) or a negative and statistically significant relationship with overdose death rates (in large population counties). Past overdose death rates do not predict future increases in methamphetamine in crime lab data. Conclusions The results are consistent with a relatively higher supply of methamphetamine reducing the general risk of overdose death, possibly due to substitution away from more dangerous synthetic opioids. However, the supply of methamphetamine appears unrelated to the past illicit drug risk environment. The non-lethal and yet serious health effects of MA use were not explored and, thus, even if the presence of MA reduces the population-level overdose mortality rate, the rise of other adverse health effects may counteract any public health benefits of fewer deaths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Rosenblum
- Department of Economics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Jeffrey Ondocsin
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Sarah G. Mars
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Daniel Ciccarone
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
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The ASAM/AAAP Clinical Practice Guideline on the Management of Stimulant Use Disorder. J Addict Med 2024; 18:1-56. [PMID: 38669101 PMCID: PMC11105801 DOI: 10.1097/adm.0000000000001299] [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: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
The American Society of Addiction Medicine/American Academy of Addiction Psychiatry (ASAM/AAAP) Clinical Practice Guideline on the Management of Stimulant Use Disorder provides guidance on evidence-based strategies for the treatment of stimulant use disorders (StUDs), stimulant intoxication, and stimulant withdrawal, as well as secondary and tertiary prevention of harms associated with stimulant use. The Clinical Guideline Committee (CGC) comprised experts from ASAM and AAAP representing a range of clinical settings and patient populations. The guideline was developed following modified GRADE methodology. The process included a systematic literature review as well as several targeted supplemental searches. The CGC utilized Evidence to Decision tables to review available evidence and rate the strength of each recommendation. The clinical practice guideline was revised based on external stakeholder review. Key takeaways included: Contingency management represents the current standard of care for treatment of StUDs; Pharmacotherapies may be utilized off-label to treat StUDs; Acute stimulant intoxication can result in life-threatening complications that should be addressed in an appropriate level of care; Secondary and tertiary prevention strategies should be used to reduce harms related to risky stimulant use.
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Hatch MA, Laschober TC, Ertl MM, Paschen-Wolff MM, Norman G, Wright L, Tross S. Program Director Reports of COVID-19 Lockdown-Driven Service Changes in Community-Based STI Clinics and Syringe Services Programs in the Southeastern U.S. AIDS EDUCATION AND PREVENTION : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR AIDS EDUCATION 2024; 36:129-140. [PMID: 38648174 DOI: 10.1521/aeap.2024.36.2.129] [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] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic strained the U.S. health care system, posing logistical challenges for community-based programs. This study surveyed 11 program directors in sexually transmitted infection (STI) clinics and syringe services programs (SSPs) that served people who use substances and are at risk for HIV in five southeastern U.S. states. Brief survey questions asked about programs' use of in-person and telehealth services. Results indicated widespread reduction of in-person services and concomitant adoption of telehealth services. In STI clinics, telehealth replaced in-person visits for all but urgent treatment of active symptoms. In SSPs, in-person contact continued or increased from pre-pandemic volumes. In both programs, the most salient telehealth use barrier was limited device or internet access and limited technological ease. Services were sustained through innovative adaptations. This snapshot of response to the early COVID-19 lockdown phase offers actionable guidance about service preparedness for future public health catastrophes in community-based programs serving vulnerable populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary A Hatch
- Addictions, Drug & Alcohol Institute, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Tanja C Laschober
- Addictions, Drug & Alcohol Institute, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Melissa M Ertl
- Department of Psychology, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Margaret M Paschen-Wolff
- Division on Substance Use Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center at New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York
| | - Gaia Norman
- Addictions, Drug & Alcohol Institute, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Lynette Wright
- Addictions, Drug & Alcohol Institute, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Susan Tross
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, Division of Gender, Sexuality, and Health, Department of Psychiatry, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, New York, New York
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Hatch MA, Laschober TC, Paschen-Wolff M, Ertl MM, Nelson CM, Wright L, Lancaster C, Feaster DJ, Forrest D, Hankey C, Monger M, Fegley JP, Irving R, Young C, Rose J, Spector A, Dresser L, Moran L, Jelstrom E, Tross S. PrEP for people who use opioids: A NIDA clinical trials network survey study in Southern U.S. cities where HIV incidence is high. Drug Alcohol Depend 2024; 257:111133. [PMID: 38447393 PMCID: PMC11131129 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2024.111133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND People who use opioids (PWUO) are at increased risk for HIV. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is effective but underutilized as HIV prevention among PWUO. This study examined predictors of willingness to take daily oral PrEP and long-acting injectable (LAI) PrEP among PWUO across eight Southern urban cities with high HIV incidence. METHODS HIV-negative PWUO (N = 308) seeking services in community-based programs participated in this cross-sectional survey study. Measures included demographics, sexual risk behavior, substance use frequency, and awareness of and willingness to take oral and injectable PrEP. Data were analyzed using mixed-effects models. RESULTS Willingness to take daily oral and LAI PrEP was moderately high (69.16% and 62.02%, respectively). Half had heard of PrEP, but only 4% had ever taken it. Only education and condomless vaginal sex predicted willingness to take oral PrEP. Only education predicted willingness to take LAI PrEP. Polysubstance use was prevalent, with substantial proportions of PWUO reporting frequent use of injection drugs (opioids or stimulants, 79.5%), non-injection opioids (73.3%), non-injection stimulants (71.1%), cannabis (62.6%), and hazardous drinking (29.6%). About 20% reported past-year condomless anal sex, and one-third reported past-year condomless vaginal sex. CONCLUSIONS PWUO in this study were amenable to PrEP, particularly in light of education and condomless vaginal sex. Careful consideration for matching PrEP messaging to the PWUO audience is needed. PrEP promotion should expand beyond men who have sex with men to include groups such as these predominantly heterosexual, polysubstance-using PWUO with HIV risk who were open to both formulations of PrEP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary A Hatch
- University of Washington Addictions, Drug & Alcohol Institute, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Seattle, WA 98185, USA.
| | - Tanja C Laschober
- University of Washington Addictions, Drug & Alcohol Institute, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Seattle, WA 98185, USA
| | - Margaret Paschen-Wolff
- Division on Substance Use Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center at New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Melissa M Ertl
- University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, Department of Psychology, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - C Mindy Nelson
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Department of Public Health Sciences, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Lynette Wright
- University of Washington Addictions, Drug & Alcohol Institute, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Seattle, WA 98185, USA
| | - Chloe Lancaster
- University of South Florida, Department of Leadership, Policy, and Lifelong Learning, Tampa, FL 33620, USA
| | - Daniel J Feaster
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Department of Public Health Sciences, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - David Forrest
- University of Miami, Department of Anthropology, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Colby Hankey
- Aspire Health Partners, HIV Services, Orlando, FL 32804, USA
| | - Mauda Monger
- My Brother's Keeper, 710 Avignon Dr, Ridgeland, MS 39157, USA
| | - Joshua P Fegley
- CrescentCare, 330 Tulane Ave, 1st Floor, New Orleans, LA 70119, USA
| | - Rhonda Irving
- Capitol Area Reentry Program, Baton Rouge, LA 70807, USA
| | - Cynthia Young
- Capitol Area Reentry Program, Baton Rouge, LA 70807, USA
| | - Juliana Rose
- Gateway Community Services, Research Department, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Anya Spector
- Stella and Charles Guttman Community College, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Landhing Moran
- Center for the Clinical Trials Network, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | | | - Susan Tross
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, Division of Gender, Sexuality, and Health, Department of Psychiatry, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
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Tran AD, Grebely J, Chambers M, Degenhardt L, Farrell M, Bajis S, Larance B. Health utility among people who regularly use opioids in Australia. Drug Alcohol Rev 2024. [PMID: 38403293 DOI: 10.1111/dar.13823] [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: 03/12/2023] [Revised: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Studies of health utilities among people who use opioids have mostly been based on in-treatment populations. We aim to report utility-based quality of life by participants' socio-demographic, drug and treatment characteristics, and to examine the determinants of health utility among people who use opioids regularly. METHODS Cross-sectional study of participants who used opioids regularly, recruited across New South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania in 2018-2019. Differences in European Quality of Life (EQ-5D-5L) heath utility scores between socio-demographic and clinical subgroups were assessed using non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis test by rank. To address the unique distribution of EQ-5D-5L health utility scores in the current sample, a two-part model was applied to assess factors associated with health utility. RESULTS Among 402 participants enrolled in the study, 385 (96%) completed the EQ-5D-5L questionnaire. The mean health utility of the total sample was 0.63 (SD 0.29). Participants who previously received opioid agonist treatment [OAT] (adj marginal effect (ME) -0.11; 95% confidence interval [CI] -0.20 to -0.02) and those currently in OAT (adj ME -0.13; 95% CI -0.22 to -0.06) reported lower health utility than those who had never received OAT. Participants who used both pharmaceutical opioids and benzodiazepines had lower health utility compared to no pharmaceutical opioids and no benzodiazepines use (adj ME -0.17; 95% CI -0.28 to -0.07). DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Findings provide important health utility data for economic evaluations, useful for guiding allocation of resources for treatment strategies among people who use opioids. Lower health utilities among those using benzodiazepines and pharmaceutical opioids suggests interventions targeting these subgroups may be beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anh Dam Tran
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Mark Chambers
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Louisa Degenhardt
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Michael Farrell
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Sahar Bajis
- Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Briony Larance
- School of Psychology, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
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Åhman A, Wingren CJ, Håkansson A. Causes and circumstances of death in stimulant and opioid use-A comparative study. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0297838. [PMID: 38324514 PMCID: PMC10849257 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0297838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
AIMS To investigate the individual characteristics, causes and circumstances around deaths in stimulant use, and to examine how individuals who died with stimulants in their body differ from individuals who died with opioids in their body. METHODS This study includes individuals who died during the years 2000-2018 and underwent a forensic autopsy at Forensic Medicine in Lund, Skåne County, Sweden. All individuals over 18 years of age with stimulants (n = 310), opioids (n = 2,039) or both stimulants and opioids (n = 385) in the body at the time of death, were included. The three groups were assessed regarding gender, age, place of death, BMI, other substances detected in forensic toxicological analysis, organ weights and underlying and contributing causes of death. The data were analysed by frequency and proportion calculations, cross-tabulations and comparisons of medians. RESULTS The median age at death of the study population (n = 2,734) was 45.5 years (interquartile range ☯IQR] 32-60 years) and 73.2% were men. The most common cause of death in the stimulant group was suicide (26.8%), higher proportion compared to the opioid group (20.8%) (p = 0.017) and in the polysubstance group accidental poisoning (38.2%), higher proportion compared to the opioid group (18.0%) (p<0.001). Death by transport accidents was significantly associated with the stimulant group (p<0.001) as well as death by other accidents (p = 0.016). CONCLUSIONS Individuals who died with stimulants in their body died at a higher rate from suicide, transport accidents and other accidents, compared to individuals who died with opioids in their body. This study indicates the need to identify and prevent psychiatric conditions, elevated suicide risk, and risk-taking behaviors among people who use stimulants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ada Åhman
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Psychiatry, Lund, Sweden
| | - Carl Johan Wingren
- Unit for Forensic Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Malmö, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Copenhagen University, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anders Håkansson
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Psychiatry, Lund, Sweden
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Rademeyer KM, R Nass S, Jones AM, Ohene-Nyako M, Hauser KF, McRae M. Fentanyl dysregulates neuroinflammation and disrupts blood-brain barrier integrity in HIV-1 Tat transgenic mice. J Neurovirol 2024; 30:1-21. [PMID: 38280928 DOI: 10.1007/s13365-023-01186-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2023] [Revised: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/29/2024]
Abstract
Opioid overdose deaths have dramatically increased by 781% from 1999 to 2021. In the setting of HIV, opioid drug abuse exacerbates neurotoxic effects of HIV in the brain, as opioids enhance viral replication, promote neuronal dysfunction and injury, and dysregulate an already compromised inflammatory response. Despite the rise in fentanyl abuse and the close association between opioid abuse and HIV infection, the interactive comorbidity between fentanyl abuse and HIV has yet to be examined in vivo. The HIV-1 Tat-transgenic mouse model was used to understand the interactive effects between fentanyl and HIV. Tat is an essential protein produced during HIV that drives the transcription of new virions and exerts neurotoxic effects within the brain. The Tat-transgenic mouse model uses a glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)-driven tetracycline promoter which limits Tat production to the brain and this model is well used for examining mechanisms related to neuroHIV. After 7 days of fentanyl exposure, brains were harvested. Tight junction proteins, the vascular cell adhesion molecule, and platelet-derived growth factor receptor-β were measured to examine the integrity of the blood brain barrier. The immune response was assessed using a mouse-specific multiplex chemokine assay. For the first time in vivo, we demonstrate that fentanyl by itself can severely disrupt the blood-brain barrier and dysregulate the immune response. In addition, we reveal associations between inflammatory markers and tight junction proteins at the blood-brain barrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kara M Rademeyer
- Department of Pharmacotherapy and Outcomes Science, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, 23298, U.S.A
| | - Sara R Nass
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, U.S.A
| | - Austin M Jones
- Department of Pharmacotherapy and Outcomes Science, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, 23298, U.S.A
| | - Michael Ohene-Nyako
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, U.S.A
| | - Kurt F Hauser
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, U.S.A
| | - MaryPeace McRae
- Department of Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, 22908, U.S.A..
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Foot C, Korthuis PT, Tsui JI, Luo SX, Chan B, Cook RR. Associations between stimulant use and return to illicit opioid use following initiation onto medication for opioid use disorder. Addiction 2024; 119:149-157. [PMID: 37712113 PMCID: PMC11139042 DOI: 10.1111/add.16334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
AIM The aim of this study was to estimate how ongoing stimulant use affects return to illicit opioid use after initiation onto medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD). DESIGN This was a secondary analysis of pooled data from two clinical trials comparing buprenorphine (BUP-NX) and extended-release naltrexone (XR-NTX). SETTING Thirteen opioid treatment programs and HIV clinics across 10 states in the United States from 2014 to 2019 took part in this study. PARTICIPANTS A total of 528 participants who initiated MOUD as part of trial participation were included. Nearly half (49%) were between 30 and 49 years of age, 69% were male and 66% were non-Hispanic White. MEASUREMENTS The primary outcome was first self-reported day of non-prescribed opioid use following MOUD initiation, and the exposure of interest was daily stimulant use (methamphetamine, amphetamines or cocaine). Both were defined using time-line follow-back. Among participants reporting at least 1 day of illicit opioid use, we also examined relapse to ongoing use, defined as (1) 7 days of continuous opioid use or (2) 4 consecutive weeks with self-reported opioid use, one or more positive urine drug screens (UDS) for opioids or one or more missing UDS. FINDINGS Forty-seven per cent of participants reported stimulant use following MOUD initiation, 58% returned to illicit opioid use and 66% of those relapsed to ongoing use. Stimulant use was strongly associated with increased risk of misusing opioids after MOUD initiation when measured daily [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) = 9.23, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 6.80-12.50, P < 0.001] and over a 7-day period (aHR = 1.27 for each additional day, CI = 1.18-1.37, P < 0.001). Using stimulants weekly or more often was associated with increased likelihood of relapse to ongoing opioid use compared with less than weekly or no stimulant use (adjusted odds ratio = 2.30, CI = 1.05-5.39, P = 0.044). CONCLUSIONS People initiated on medication for opioid use disorder who subsequently use stimulants appear to be more likely to return to and continue using non-prescribed opioids compared with those without stimulant use. The association appears to be stronger among patients who initiate buprenorphine compared with those who initiate extended-release naltrexone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Canyon Foot
- Department of Medicine, Section of Addiction Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Philip T. Korthuis
- Department of Medicine, Section of Addiction Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Judith I. Tsui
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Sean X. Luo
- Division on Substance Use Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Brian Chan
- Department of Medicine, Section of Addiction Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Ryan R. Cook
- Department of Medicine, Section of Addiction Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
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Shulman M, Greiner M, Bisaga A. Commentary on Foot et al.: Clinical considerations in addressing comorbid stimulant use in opioid use disorder. Addiction 2024; 119:158-159. [PMID: 37853655 DOI: 10.1111/add.16374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Matisyahu Shulman
- New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Miranda Greiner
- New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Adam Bisaga
- New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
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11
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Glicksberg L, Casey BK, Dempsey SK. Classical stimulants in Dallas County: A retrospective review of toxicological, seized drug, and demographical data from 2017 to 2022. J Forensic Sci 2023; 68:2093-2102. [PMID: 37650474 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.15373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Cocaine and methamphetamine remain highly abused drugs in the United States due to their euphoric effects. This study examines classical stimulant casework, defined as cases positive for methamphetamine and/or cocaine, received by the Toxicology Laboratory and the Drug Analysis Laboratory at the Dallas County Southwestern Institute of Forensic Sciences from local law enforcement agencies and/or the Office of the Medical Examiner (OME) between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2022. Methamphetamine positivity increased from 10.4% to 20.3% in the Toxicology Laboratory over the 6 years, whereas cocaine positivity remained relatively stable at approximately 17%. Similarly, in the Drug Analysis Laboratory, the methamphetamine positivity rate changed from 24.8% to 33.2%, whereas cocaine identification remained stable at approximately 20%. Blood concentrations of methamphetamine in OME cases ranged from 10.1-42,740.0 ng/mL while they were lower in DWI casework ranging from 10.2-2385.0 ng/mL. The blood concentration trends of cocaine were similar to methamphetamine, with OME casework ranging higher (10.0-24,501.0 ng/mL) than DWI casework (10.2-371.6 ng/mL). Polydrug use was evident for both methamphetamine and cocaine in postmortem cases, and the top three most frequently co-occurring drug/drug class were opioids/opiates, cannabinoids, and ethanol. The results from this study aid in the understanding of historical usage trends of cocaine and methamphetamine in Dallas County and how those trends have changed over time as newer stimulant drugs have emerged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay Glicksberg
- Dallas County Southwestern Institute of Forensic Sciences, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Brittany K Casey
- Dallas County Southwestern Institute of Forensic Sciences, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Sara K Dempsey
- Dallas County Southwestern Institute of Forensic Sciences, Dallas, Texas, USA
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Høj SB, Minoyan N, Zang G, Larney S, Bruneau J. Gender, sexual orientation identity, and initiation of amphetamine injecting among people who inject drugs: Examination of an expanding drug era in Montreal, Canada, 2011-19. Drug Alcohol Depend 2023; 251:110956. [PMID: 37716286 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2023.110956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 08/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Amphetamine injection is expanding in North America and has been associated with male homosexuality among people who inject drugs (PWID). Applying subcultural evolution theory, we examined overall and gender-stratified trends in amphetamine injection and assessed sexual orientation as a gender-specific predictor of initiation among PWID in Montreal, Canada. METHODS Data were from HEPCO, an open prospective cohort of PWID. Gender and sexual orientation were self-identified at enrolment. Interviewer-administered questionnaires at three-monthly (HCV RNA-negative participants) or yearly (RNA-positive) intervals captured past three-month amphetamine injection and covariates. Annual prevalence and linear trends in amphetamine injection were estimated using GEE. Incidence was computed among naïve individuals and hazard ratios for initiation estimated using gender-stratified, time-varying Cox regression models. RESULTS 803 participants contributed 8096 observations between March 2011 and December 2019. Annual prevalence of amphetamine injecting increased from 3.25% [95%CI: 2.06-4.43%] to 12.7% [9.50-16.0] (trend p<0.001). Bivariate Cox regression models suggested similar and divergent predictors of initiation by gender. Incidence was 3.27 per 100 person-years [95%CI: 2.51-4.18] among heterosexual men, 7.18 [3.50-13.2] among gay/bisexual men, 1.93 [0.78-4.02] among heterosexual women and 5.30 [1.69-12.8] among gay/bisexual women. Among men, gay/bisexual identity doubled risk of initiation after adjusting for age, ethnicity, calendar year (aHR 2.16 [1.07-4.36]) and additional covariates (2.56 [1.24-5.30]). Among women, evidence for an association with gay/bisexual identity was inconclusive (aHR 2.63 [0.62-11.2]) and sample size precluded further adjustment CONCLUSIONS: Prevalence of amphetamine injection among PWID increased four-fold from 2011 to 2019, with elevated risk of initiation in gay and bisexual men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stine Bordier Høj
- Research Centre, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, 900 Rue Saint Denis, Montreal H2X 0A9, Canada.
| | - Nanor Minoyan
- Research Centre, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, 900 Rue Saint Denis, Montreal H2X 0A9, Canada; Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Université de Montréal, 7101 Avenue du Parc, Montreal H3N 1X9, Canada
| | - Geng Zang
- Research Centre, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, 900 Rue Saint Denis, Montreal H2X 0A9, Canada
| | - Sarah Larney
- Research Centre, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, 900 Rue Saint Denis, Montreal H2X 0A9, Canada; Department of Family Medicine and Emergency Medicine, Université de Montréal, 2900 Boulevard Édouard-Montpetit, Montreal H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Julie Bruneau
- Research Centre, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, 900 Rue Saint Denis, Montreal H2X 0A9, Canada; Department of Family Medicine and Emergency Medicine, Université de Montréal, 2900 Boulevard Édouard-Montpetit, Montreal H3T 1J4, Canada.
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MacDonald M, Cheng C, Wang T, McCormack D, Kolla G, Cahill TM, Gomes T. Trends in varying modes of drug use in opioid toxicity deaths in Ontario from 2017 to 2021. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2023:104197. [PMID: 37741701 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2023.104197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preliminary data indicate a shift toward inhalation instead of injection in opioid toxicity deaths. Understanding changing modes of drug use is essential to addressing the North American drug toxicity crisis driven primarily by unregulated fentanyl. This study aims to comprehensively characterize this shift across Ontario, Canada. METHODS We conducted a population-based repeated cross-sectional study of accidental opioid toxicity deaths in Ontario from July 1, 2017 to June 30, 2021. For each quarter of the study period, the number and percent of deaths by mode of drug use (inhalation only, injection only, both or other) were reported. Descriptive characteristics were reported in the last two years of the study. RESULTS There were 6687 accidental opioid toxicity deaths in Ontario over the study period, with a 62.1 % increase in the quarterly number of deaths observed. The prevalence of deaths where inhalation was the only mode of drug use almost doubled, rising from 22.0 % to 43.5 %. There was a corresponding 64.4 % decrease in opioid toxicity deaths with indication of injection alone (29.0 % to 10.3 %). CONCLUSIONS This study reveals a shift in mode of drug use toward inhalation that is increasingly contributing to opioid toxicity deaths in Ontario. Understanding the shifts in patterns of opioid use serves to provide essential insights into more effective harm reduction and treatment approaches to address the drug toxicity crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martha MacDonald
- Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute of St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Clare Cheng
- Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute of St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | - Gillian Kolla
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | | | - Tara Gomes
- Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute of St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; ICES, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute for Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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14
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Eide D, McDonald R, Hamina A, Clausen T, Odsbu I, Skurtveit S. Prescription high-risk polysubstance use among opioid maintenance treatment patients. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2023:104196. [PMID: 37741700 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2023.104196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Among individuals receiving buprenorphine or methadone as opioid maintenance treatment (OMT), concomitant use of other central nervous system depressants, including prescription drugs, can increase risk of overdose. We aimed to 1) determine the prevalence of use of high-risk prescription drugs (opioid analgesics, benzodiazepines, benzodiazepine-related drugs, and gabapentinoids) among OMT patients, 2) calculate its associations with different mental health and pain-related diagnoses, and 3) compare prevalence of concomitant use with the general population. METHODS A national sample comprising all individuals filling at least one prescription of OMT drugs in Norway in 2019 was formed. Healthcare registry data were linked to investigate high-risk prescription drug use and different diagnoses. We calculated one-year prevalence of use, amount dispensed in defined daily doses (DDDs), and the number of prescribers for the different high-risk prescription drugs. Logistic regression was used to determine associations (adjusted odds ratios; aOR, 95% confidence intervals (CIs)) between diagnoses and use. Prevalence of use was calculated both in the OMT patient sample and the general population. RESULTS Among the OMT patient sample (n=7,299), 47.6% (n=3,476) filled prescriptions for benzodiazepines. For each high-risk prescription drug group, there was a median of 1-2 prescribers. Musculoskeletal diagnoses were the strongest factor for concomitant high-risk prescription drug use for both males (aOR 3.23, CI: 2.72-3.85) and females (aOR 3.07, CI: 2.42- 3.90). The 1-year prevalence of benzodiazepine use was 11.4 times higher for males and 7.1 times higher for females in OMT than the general population. The amount in DDDs was higher for every drug for OMT patients than the general population, particularly for benzodiazepines. CONCLUSIONS OMT patients frequently filled prescriptions for high-risk drugs, and in higher dosages than the general population. However, we found little evidence of 'doctor shopping.' Given that these prescription drugs carry overdose risk, particularly when combined with OMT drugs, our findings emphasize the continued need for education and caution to both prescribers and patients on their concomitant use with OMT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Desiree Eide
- Norwegian Centre for Addiction Research University of Oslo, 166 Kirkeveien 0450 Oslo, Norway.
| | - Rebecca McDonald
- Norwegian Centre for Addiction Research University of Oslo, 166 Kirkeveien 0450 Oslo, Norway
| | - Aleksi Hamina
- Norwegian Centre for Addiction Research University of Oslo, 166 Kirkeveien 0450 Oslo, Norway
| | - Thomas Clausen
- Norwegian Centre for Addiction Research University of Oslo, 166 Kirkeveien 0450 Oslo, Norway
| | - Ingvild Odsbu
- Department of Chronic Diseases Norwegian Institute of Public Health, PO Box 222 Skøyen 0213 Oslo, Norway
| | - Svetlana Skurtveit
- Norwegian Centre for Addiction Research University of Oslo, 166 Kirkeveien 0450 Oslo, Norway; Department of Chronic Diseases Norwegian Institute of Public Health, PO Box 222 Skøyen 0213 Oslo, Norway
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Kaminski P, Perry BL, Green HD. Comparing professional communities: Opioid prescriber networks and Public Health Preparedness Districts. Harm Reduct J 2023; 20:120. [PMID: 37658379 PMCID: PMC10474636 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-023-00840-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Problem opioid use and opioid-related drug overdoses remain a major public health concern despite attempts to reduce and monitor opioid prescriptions and increase access to office-based opioid treatment. Current provider-focused interventions are implemented at the federal, state, regional, and local levels but have not slowed the epidemic. Certain targeted interventions aimed at opioid prescribers rely on populations defined along geographic, political, or administrative boundaries; however, those boundaries may not align well with actual provider-patient communities or with the geographic distribution of high-risk opioid use. Instead of relying exclusively on commonly used geographic and administrative boundaries, we suggest augmenting existing strategies with a social network-based approach to identify communities (or clusters) of providers that prescribe to the same set of patients as another mechanism for targeting certain interventions. To test this approach, we analyze 1 year of prescription data from a commercially insured population in the state of Indiana. The composition of inferred clusters is compared to Indiana's Public Health Preparedness Districts (PHPDs). We find that in some cases the correspondence between provider networks and PHPDs is very high, while in other cases the overlap is low. This has implications for whether an intervention is reaching its intended provider targets efficiently and effectively. Assessing the best intervention targeting strategy for a particular outcome could facilitate more effective interventions to tackle the ongoing opioid use epidemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Kaminski
- Department of Sociology, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA.
- Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA.
| | - Brea L Perry
- Department of Sociology, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Harold D Green
- Indiana University School of Public Health, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
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Tsui JI, Whitney BM, Korthuis PT, Chan B, Pho MT, Jenkins WD, Young AM, Cooper HLF, Friedmann PD, Stopka TJ, de Gijsel D, Miller WC, Go VF, Westergaard R, Brown R, Seal DW, Zule WA, Feinberg J, Smith GS, Mixson LS, Fredericksen R, Crane HM, Delaney JA. Methamphetamine use and utilization of medications for opioid use disorder among rural people who use drugs. Drug Alcohol Depend 2023; 250:110911. [PMID: 37549545 PMCID: PMC10599300 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2023.110911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Methamphetamine use is common among persons with opioid use disorder. This study evaluated associations between methamphetamine use and treatment with agonist medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD, specifically buprenorphine, and/or methadone) in U.S. rural communities. METHODS The Rural Opioid Initiative (ROI) is a consortium spanning 10 states and 65 rural counties that included persons who reported past 30-day use of opioids and/or injection drug use between 1/2018 and 3/2020. Analyses were restricted to participants who had ever used opioids and had data on past 30-day methamphetamine use. Multivariable models examined the relationship between methamphetamine use and utilization of agonist MOUD. RESULTS Among 2899 participants, 2179 (75.2%) also reported recent methamphetamine use. Persons with methamphetamine use compared to those without were younger, more likely to have injected drugs, be unhoused, criminal justice involved, and less likely to have health insurance. Adjusted for age, sex, race, and study site, recent methamphetamine use was associated with lower relative odds of past 30-day methadone treatment (aOR=0.66; 95% CI: 0.45-0.99) and fewer methadone treatment days (aIRR=0.76; 0.57-0.99), but not past 30-day buprenorphine receipt (aOR=0.90; 0.67-1.20), buprenorphine treatment days in past 6 months: aIRR=0.88; 0.69-1.12) or perceived inability to access buprenorphine (aOR=1.12; 0.87-1.44) or methadone (aOR=1.06; 0.76-1.48). CONCLUSION Methamphetamine use is common among persons who use opioids in rural U.S. areas and negatively associated with current treatment and retention on methadone but not buprenorphine. Future studies should examine reasons for this disparity and reduce barriers to methadone for persons who use opioids and methamphetamine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith I Tsui
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, 1959 NE Pacific Street, Seattle, WA 98195-6420, USA.
| | - Bridget M Whitney
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, 1959 NE Pacific Street, Seattle, WA 98195-6420, USA
| | - P Todd Korthuis
- Department of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, 3270 Southwest Pavilion Loop OHSU Physicians Pavilion, Suite 350, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Brian Chan
- Department of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, 3270 Southwest Pavilion Loop OHSU Physicians Pavilion, Suite 350, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Mai T Pho
- University of Chicago, 5841 S. Maryland Avenue, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Wiley D Jenkins
- Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL 62794, USA
| | - April M Young
- University of Kentucky, 760 Press Avenue Suite 280, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Hannah L F Cooper
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Grace Crum Rollins Building 1518 Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Peter D Friedmann
- Office of Research, UMass Chan Medical School - Baystate and Baystate Health, 3601 Main Street, 3rd Floor, Springfield, MA 01199, USA
| | - Thomas J Stopka
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, 136 Harrison Avenue, Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - David de Gijsel
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Section of Infectious Disease and International Health, Lebanon, NH, USA
| | - William C Miller
- The Ohio State University, 346 Cunz Hall 1841 Neil Ave, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Vivian F Go
- University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, 363 Rosenau Hall CB# 7440, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Ryan Westergaard
- University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1685 Highland Avenue, 5th Floor, Madison, WI 53705-2281, USA
| | - Randall Brown
- University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1685 Highland Avenue, 5th Floor, Madison, WI 53705-2281, USA
| | - David W Seal
- Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, 1440 Canal Street, Suite 2210, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - William A Zule
- RTI International, 3040 E. Cornwallis Road, PO Box 12194, Research Triangle Park, NC 2709-2194, USA
| | - Judith Feinberg
- West Virginia University, 930 Chestnut Ridge Road, PO Box 9156, Morgantown, WV 26505, USA
| | - Gordon S Smith
- West Virginia University, 930 Chestnut Ridge Road, PO Box 9156, Morgantown, WV 26505, USA
| | - L Sarah Mixson
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, 1959 NE Pacific Street, Seattle, WA 98195-6420, USA
| | - Rob Fredericksen
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, 1959 NE Pacific Street, Seattle, WA 98195-6420, USA
| | - Heidi M Crane
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, 1959 NE Pacific Street, Seattle, WA 98195-6420, USA
| | - Joseph A Delaney
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, 1959 NE Pacific Street, Seattle, WA 98195-6420, USA
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Russell C, Law J, Imtiaz S, Rehm J, Le Foll B, Ali F. The impact of methamphetamine use on medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) treatment retention: a scoping review. Addict Sci Clin Pract 2023; 18:48. [PMID: 37587456 PMCID: PMC10433668 DOI: 10.1186/s13722-023-00402-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND An emerging public health threat of methamphetamine/opioid co-use is occurring in North America, including increases in overdoses related to concomitant methamphetamine/opioid use. This presents a potential risk to established treatments for opioid use disorder (i.e., medications for opioid use disorder [MOUD]). To date, few studies have examined the impact of methamphetamine use on MOUD-related outcomes, and no studies have synthesized data on MOUD retention. METHODS A scoping review was undertaken to examine the impact of methamphetamine use on MOUD retention. All original published research articles were searched in Embase, MEDLINE, PsychINFO, CINAHL, Scopus, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and Cochrane Protocols, and Google scholar databases. Data were extracted into a standardized data extraction chart. Findings were presented narratively. RESULTS All eight included studies demonstrated an increased likelihood of treatment discontinuation or dropout among patients enrolled in MOUD who used methamphetamine. The frequency of methamphetamine use was also associated with MOUD dropout, in that those who used methamphetamine more often were more likely to discontinue MOUD. The definitions and measurements of MOUD retention varied considerably, as did the magnitude of effect size. CONCLUSIONS Results indicate that methamphetamine use has an undesirable impact on MOUD retention and results in an increased risk of treatment discontinuation or dropout. Strategies to identify concurrent methamphetamine use among individuals engaging in MOUD and educate them on the increased risk for dropout should be undertaken. Further research is needed to understand how MOUD retention among patients with concomitant opioid and methamphetamine use can be improved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cayley Russell
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) & Ontario Node, Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Canadian Research Initiative in Substance Misuse (CRISM), 33 Ursula Franklin St., Toronto, ON, M5S 2S1, Canada.
| | - Justine Law
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) & Ontario Node, Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Canadian Research Initiative in Substance Misuse (CRISM), 33 Ursula Franklin St., Toronto, ON, M5S 2S1, Canada
| | - Sameer Imtiaz
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) & Ontario Node, Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Canadian Research Initiative in Substance Misuse (CRISM), 33 Ursula Franklin St., Toronto, ON, M5S 2S1, Canada
| | - Jürgen Rehm
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) & Ontario Node, Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Canadian Research Initiative in Substance Misuse (CRISM), 33 Ursula Franklin St., Toronto, ON, M5S 2S1, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 1A1, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 1A1, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science (IMS), University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 1A1, Canada
- Institut Für Klinische Psychologie Und Psychotherapie, Technische Universität Dresden, Chemnitzer Str. 46, 01187, Dresden, Germany
- Department of International Health Projects, Institute for Leadership and Health Management, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Bol'shaya, Pirogovskaya Ulitsa, 19c1, Moscow, Russia, 119146
- Center for Interdisciplinary Addiction Research (ZIS), Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Bernard Le Foll
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 1A1, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology & Department of Family and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 1A1, Canada
- Translational Addiction Research Lab, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, M5S 2S1, Canada
- Waypoint Research Institute, Waypoint Center for Mental Health Care, Penetanguishene, ON, L9M 1G3, Canada
| | - Farihah Ali
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) & Ontario Node, Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Canadian Research Initiative in Substance Misuse (CRISM), 33 Ursula Franklin St., Toronto, ON, M5S 2S1, Canada
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Wagner KD, Marks C, Fiuty P, Harding RW, Page K. A qualitative study of interest in and preferences for potential medications to treat methamphetamine use disorder. Addict Sci Clin Pract 2023; 18:47. [PMID: 37587515 PMCID: PMC10433563 DOI: 10.1186/s13722-023-00401-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION We examined acceptability of and preferences for potential medications for treating methamphetamine use disorder (MUD) among people who use methamphetamine and examined how benefits and drawbacks of methamphetamine use affect perceived acceptability and preferences. METHODS We conducted qualitative interviews as part of a larger study in 2019-2020. The interview assessed patterns of substance use (including methamphetamine), benefits and drawbacks of methamphetamine use, and interest in a medication to treat MUD. Analysis used an inductive thematic approach, guided by three primary questions: (1) would participants be interested in taking a potential medication for MUD?; (2) what effects would they would like from such a medication?; and (3) what would their ideal treatment route and schedule be (e.g. daily pill, monthly injection)?. RESULTS We interviewed 20 people reporting methamphetamine use in the past 3 months (10 from Reno, Nevada, USA and 10 from Rio Arriba County, New Mexico, USA). Seven used exclusively methamphetamine, while thirteen used other substances in addition to methamphetamine. Most were enthusiastic about a potential medication to treat MUD. Of those who were not interested (n = 5), all indicated no current concerns about their methamphetamine use. Perceived functional benefits of methamphetamine use (i.e., energy, counteracting opioid sedation, and improved social and emotional wellbeing) informed preferences for a replacement-type medication that would confer the same benefits while mitigating drawbacks (e.g., psychosis, hallucinations, withdrawal). Opinions on preferred dosing varied, with some preferring longer acting medications for convenience, while others preferred daily dosing that would align with existing routines. CONCLUSION Participants were excited about a potential for a medication to treat MUD. Their preferences were informed by the functional role of methamphetamine in their lives and a desire to maintain the stimulant effects while mitigating harms of illicit methamphetamine. Treatment outcomes that emphasize functioning and wellbeing, rather than abstinence, should be explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karla D Wagner
- School of Public Health, University of Nevada, 1664 N. Virginia St. MC 0274, Reno, NV, 89557, USA.
| | - Charles Marks
- School of Public Health, University of Nevada, 1664 N. Virginia St. MC 0274, Reno, NV, 89557, USA
| | - Phillip Fiuty
- The Mountain Center Harm Reduction Center, 1000 North Paseo de Onate, Española, NM, USA
| | - Robert W Harding
- School of Public Health, University of Nevada, 1664 N. Virginia St. MC 0274, Reno, NV, 89557, USA
| | - Kimberly Page
- University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, 1 University of New Mexico, MSC10 5550, Albuquerque, NM, 87131-0001, USA
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Price O, Sutherland R, Man N, Bruno R, Dietze P, Salom C, Akhurst J, Peacock A. Trends and psychosocial correlates of same day polysubstance use among people who inject drugs in Australia, 2012-2022. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2023:104150. [PMID: 37541925 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2023.104150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polysubstance use is associated with negative health and social outcomes among people who inject drugs. We aimed to describe trends in polysubstance use and identify psychosocial correlates and associated drug use risk behaviours. We defined polysubstance use as intentional same day use of more than one of three drug classes: opioids, other non-opioid depressants (hereafter 'depressants'), and stimulants. METHODS We used 10 years (2012-2022, excluding 2020) of data from annual surveys in Australian capital cities with people who inject drugs (N=5657) to construct five mutually exclusive polysubstance use profiles: opioid-depressant, opioid-stimulant, stimulant-depressant, opioid-stimulant-depressant, and single drug class use. We examined time trends using the Mann Kendall test and identified correlates using multinomial logistic regression. RESULTS Same day polysubstance use was relatively common among this sample (43.6%). Opioid-depressant use was the most frequent polysubstance use profile, but this decreased over the study period (32.6% to 13.3%, p<0.001). This aligned with observed decreases in use of pharmaceutical opioids (p<0.001), opioid agonist treatment (p=0.007), and benzodiazepines (p=0.001). There was no evidence for any trend in the other polysubstance use profiles, although single drug class use increased (51.9% to 64.7%, p=0.031). The different polysubstance use profiles were variously associated with psychosocial factors, including unstable housing and very high psychological distress, and other drug use risk behaviours, including non-fatal overdose, receptive and/or distributive needle sharing, and reusing one's own needles. CONCLUSION Same day polysubstance use has remained relatively common among this sample over time, although the typology has changed. Collectively, our findings point to diverse drug use patterns among people who inject drugs and reiterate the need for a range of harm reduction, treatment, and support options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia Price
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Rachel Sutherland
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Nicola Man
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Raimondo Bruno
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; School of Psychological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Paul Dietze
- Behaviours and Health Risks, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia; National Drug Research Institute, Curtin University, Melbourne, Australia; School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne Australia
| | - Caroline Salom
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Institute for Social Science Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Jane Akhurst
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Amy Peacock
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; School of Psychological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
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Kratina-Hathaway Z, Radick AC, Leroux BG, Blalock K, Kim TW, Darnton J, Saxon AJ, Samet JH, Tsui JI. Methamphetamine use and illicit opioid use during buprenorphine treatment. JOURNAL OF SUBSTANCE USE AND ADDICTION TREATMENT 2023; 151:208934. [PMID: 37811395 PMCID: PMC10554569 DOI: 10.1016/j.josat.2022.208934] [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] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Although methamphetamine use is rising in the United States, its impacts on patient outcomes among persons undergoing treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD) remain unclear. This study aims to assess the association between baseline methamphetamine/amphetamine (MA/A) use and subsequent illicit opioid use among patients with OUD initiating buprenorphine in an office-based setting. Methods We conducted a secondary analysis of a pilot randomized controlled trial of a behavioral mobile health intervention for buprenorphine adherence conducted over a 12-week study period at two clinic sites. The study defined baseline MA/A use by a positive urine drug test (UDT) and/or self-report of use within the past 30-days. Separate Poisson regression models with robust standard errors evaluated associations between MA/A and: i) illicit opioid use measured by weekly UDT (primary) and ii) self-reported past 30-day use at end of study (secondary). Other secondary outcomes included buprenorphine positive UDTs throughout the study and retention in OUD treatment at both weeks 12 and 24 post-randomization. Results At baseline, 28 (36%) of the 78 participants had MA/A use and use was associated with a statistically significant increase in risk of testing positive for illicit opioids on UDT during the study follow-up period (adjusted relative risk (aRR)=1.54; 95% CI=1.09-2.17; p=0.015), as well as an increased risk for reported past 30-day illicit opioid use at week 12 (aRR=3.86; 95% CI=1.47-10.18; P=0.006). The study found no significant associations between MA/A use and buprenorphine positive UDT or retention in OUD treatment. Conclusions In this sample of patients initiating buprenorphine, methamphetamine/amphetamine use at baseline was associated with illicit opioid use over a 12-week period. These findings demonstrate how co-use of methamphetamine can impede attainment of ideal OUD treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoë Kratina-Hathaway
- University of Washington School of Medicine, 1959 NE Pacific St., Seattle, WA 98195
| | - Andrea C. Radick
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Harborview Medical Center, Patricia Steel Building, 401 Broadway, Seattle, WA 98104
| | - Brian G. Leroux
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Washington, 1959 NE Pacific Street, Seattle, WA 98195
| | - Kendra Blalock
- Comagine Health, 10700 Meridian Ave N #100, Seattle, WA 98133
| | - Theresa W. Kim
- Clinical Addiction Research and Education (CARE) Unit, Section of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center, 801 Massachusetts Avenue, 1st Floor, Boston, MA 02118
| | - James Darnton
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Harborview Medical Center, Patricia Steel Building, 401 Broadway, Seattle, WA 98104
| | - Andrew J. Saxon
- Center of Excellence in Substance Addiction Treatment and Education, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, 1660 S. Columbian Way (MC: S-116-ATC), Seattle, WA 98108
| | - Jeffrey H. Samet
- Clinical Addiction Research and Education (CARE) Unit, Section of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center, 801 Massachusetts Avenue, 1st Floor, Boston, MA 02118
| | - Judith I. Tsui
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Harborview Medical Center, Patricia Steel Building, 401 Broadway, Seattle, WA 98104
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Bach P, Ti L, Hayashi K, Cui Z, Milloy MJ, Fairbairn N. Trends in cocaine and crystal methamphetamine injection over time in a Canadian setting between 2008 and 2018. JOURNAL OF SUBSTANCE USE AND ADDICTION TREATMENT 2023; 151:208982. [PMID: 36848997 PMCID: PMC10805263 DOI: 10.1016/j.josat.2023.208982] [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: 01/25/2022] [Revised: 01/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Unregulated stimulant use is rising globally, though trends in use of cocaine and crystal methamphetamine (CM), the two most commonly used unregulated stimulants in North America, are poorly characterized in many settings. In this study we examined patterns and associations between the injection of cocaine and CM over time in an urban Canadian setting. METHODS The study collected data from two prospective cohorts of people who inject drugs in Vancouver, Canada, between 2008 and 2018. We applied a time series analysis, using multivariable linear regression to detect relationships between reported CM and cocaine injection and year, controlling for covariates. The study used cross-correlation to evaluate the relative trajectories of each substance over time. RESULTS Among 2056 participants, per annum rates of reported injection cocaine use declined significantly over the duration of this study from 45 % to 18 % (p < 0.001), while rates of CM injection increased from 17 % to 32 % (p < 0.001). Multivariable linear regression showed that recent CM injection was negatively associated with recent cocaine injection (β = -0.609, 95 % CI = -0.750, -0.467). Cross-correlation demonstrated that injection CM use was associated with a decrease in the likelihood of cocaine injection 12 months later (p = 0.002). CONCLUSIONS These findings demonstrate an epidemiological shift in patterns of injection stimulant use, with rising CM injection associated with a corresponding decrease in cocaine injection over time. Strategies are urgently needed that help to treat and reduce harm among the growing population of people who inject CM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paxton Bach
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 2775 Laurel Street, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9, Canada; British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Suite 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9, Canada.
| | - Lianping Ti
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 2775 Laurel Street, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9, Canada; British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Suite 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9, Canada
| | - Kanna Hayashi
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Suite 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9, Canada; Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6, Canada
| | - Zishan Cui
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 2775 Laurel Street, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9, Canada; British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Suite 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9, Canada
| | - M-J Milloy
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 2775 Laurel Street, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9, Canada; British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Suite 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9, Canada
| | - Nadia Fairbairn
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 2775 Laurel Street, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9, Canada; British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Suite 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9, Canada
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22
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Ondocsin J, Holm N, Mars SG, Ciccarone D. The motives and methods of methamphetamine and 'heroin' co-use in West Virginia. Harm Reduct J 2023; 20:88. [PMID: 37438812 PMCID: PMC10339587 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-023-00816-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Opioid and methamphetamine co-use is increasing across the USA with overdoses involving these drugs also rising. West Virginia (WV) has led the US in opioid overdose death rates since at least 2013 and rising co-use of methamphetamine with opioids has played a greater role in deaths over the last 5 years. METHODS This study used rapid ethnography to examine methods and motivations behind opioids and methamphetamine co-use from the viewpoint of their consumers. Participants (n = 30) were people who injected heroin/fentanyl also using methamphetamine who participated in semi-structured interviews. RESULTS We found multiple methods of co-using opioids and methamphetamine, whether alternately or simultaneously and in varying order. Most prioritized opioids, with motives for using methamphetamine forming three thematic categories: 'intrinsic use', encompassing both inherent pleasure of combined use greater than using both drugs separately or for self-medication of particular conditions; 'opioid assisting use' in which methamphetamine helped people manage their existing heroin/fentanyl use; and 'reluctant or indifferent use' for social participation, reflecting methamphetamine's low cost and easy availability. CONCLUSIONS Methamphetamine serves multiple functions among people using opioids in WV. Beliefs persist that methamphetamine can play a role in preventing and reversing opioid overdose, including some arguments for sequential use being protective of overdose. 'Reluctant' uptake attests to methamphetamine's social use and the influence of supply. The impact on overdose risk of the many varied co-use patterns needs further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeff Ondocsin
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of California, 500 Parnassus Avenue, MU3E, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA.
| | - Nicole Holm
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of California, 500 Parnassus Avenue, MU3E, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Sarah G Mars
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of California, 500 Parnassus Avenue, MU3E, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Daniel Ciccarone
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of California, 500 Parnassus Avenue, MU3E, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
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23
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Kristensen K, Williams LD, Kaplan C, Pineros J, Lee E, Kaufmann M, Mackesy-Amiti ME, Boodram B. A Novel Index Measure of Housing-related Risk as a Predictor of Overdose among Young People Who Inject Drugs and Injection Networks. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-3083889. [PMID: 37461549 PMCID: PMC10350242 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3083889/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
Background For people who inject drugs (PWID), housing instability due to decreasing housing affordability and other factors (e.g., loss of housing due to severed relational ties, evictions due to drug use) results in added pressure on an already vulnerable population. Research has shown that housing instability is associated with overdose risk among PWID. However, the construct of housing instability has often been operationalized as a single dimension (e.g., housing type, homelessness, transience). We propose a multi-dimensional measure of housing instability risk and examine its association with drug overdose to promote a more holistic examination of housing status as a predictor of overdose. Methods The baseline data from a network-based, longitudinal study of young PWID and their networks living in metropolitan Chicago, Illinois was analyzed to examine the relationship between a housing instability risk index-consisting of five dichotomous variables assessing housing instability-and lifetime overdose count using negative binomial regression. Results We found a significant positive association between the housing instability risk score and lifetime overdose count after adjusting for 12 variables. Conclusions Our results support the practical utility of a multi-dimensional measure of housing instability risk in predicting overdose and highlight the importance of taking a holistic approach to addressing housing instability when designing interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Eunhye Lee
- University of Illinois Chicago School of Public Health
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24
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Reid MC, Oliphant-Wells T, Moreno C, Ketchum J, Fitzpatrick T, McMahan VM, Glick SN. High levels of interest in access to free safer smoking equipment to reduce injection frequency among people who inject drugs in Seattle, Washington. DRUG AND ALCOHOL DEPENDENCE REPORTS 2023; 7:100163. [PMID: 37214756 PMCID: PMC10193167 DOI: 10.1016/j.dadr.2023.100163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Background Drug use route transition interventions promote safer consumption by facilitating a switch from injection to safer routes such as smoking or oral consumption. Methods We performed a descriptive analysis using data from questions about "free, clean equipment for smoking" heroin, methamphetamine and/or crack from the Seattle 2018 National HIV Behavioral Surveillance survey of people who inject drugs (N = 555). We estimated the proportion of respondents with access to free safer smoking equipment, and among these participants, the proportion who reported that this access reduced their injection frequency. Among respondents without access to free safer smoking equipment, we described the proportion who were interested in getting access, and whether they thought this access would reduce their injection frequency. Results Among participants who reported prior year heroin (n = 495), methamphetamine (n = 372), or crack (n = 88) injection, 11%, 11% and 12% reported access to free safer smoking equipment, respectively. Of those with access, the proportion that reported that access reduced their injection frequency ranged from 12% to 44%. Among participants without access, 28% who used heroin, 45% who used methamphetamine, and 49% who used crack were interested in access. Of interested participants, a majority reported that they thought this access would reduce their frequency of injection. Conclusions Access to free safer smoking equipment was limited. Many participants were interested in getting free safer smoking equipment and reported that this access may reduce their injection frequency. Safer smoking equipment is a harm reduction strategy that should be available to reduce risks from opioid and stimulant injection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molly C. Reid
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | | | - Jake Ketchum
- Public Health - Seattle & King County, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | | | - Sara N. Glick
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Public Health - Seattle & King County, Seattle, WA, USA
- School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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25
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Daniulaityte R, Ruhter L, Juhascik M, Silverstein S. Attitudes and experiences with fentanyl contamination of methamphetamine: exploring self-reports and urine toxicology among persons who use methamphetamine and other drugs. Harm Reduct J 2023; 20:54. [PMID: 37081499 PMCID: PMC10118220 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-023-00782-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are growing concerns about illicitly manufactured fentanyl (IMF) contamination of methamphetamine. This study aims to characterize the lay views and experiences with IMF-contaminated methamphetamine (IMF/meth) and identify participants with unknown IMF exposures through urine toxicology analysis. METHODS Between December-2019 and November-2021, structured interviews were conducted with 91 individuals who reported past 30-day use of methamphetamine and resided in Dayton, Ohio, USA. Lab-based urine toxicology analyses were conducted to identify fentanyl/analogs, methamphetamine, and other drugs. Bivariate analyses were conducted to identify characteristics associated with attitudes and experiences with IMF/meth, and unknown IMF exposures. RESULTS The majority (95.6%) of the study participants were non-Hispanic white, and 52.7% were female. Past 30-day use of methamphetamine was reported on a mean of 18.7 (SD 9.1) days, and 62.6% also reported past 30-day use of heroin/IMF. Most (76.9%) had a history of an unintentional drug-related overdose, but 38.5% rated their current risk for an opioid overdose as none. Besides fentanyl (71.9%), toxicology analysis identified nine fentanyl analogs/metabolites (e.g., 42.7% acetyl fentanyl, 19.0% fluorofentanyl, 5.6% carfentanil), and 12.4% tested positive for Xylazine. The majority (71.4%) believed that IMF/meth was common, and 59.3% reported prior exposures to IMF/meth. 11.2% tested positive for IMF but reported no past 30-day heroin/IMF use (unknown exposure to IMF). Views that IMF/meth was common showed association with homelessness (p = 0.04), prior overdose (p = 0.028), and greater perceived risk of opioid overdose (p = 0.019). Self-reported exposure to IMF/meth was associated with homelessness (p = 0.007) and obtaining take-home naloxone (p = 0.025). Individuals with unknown IMF exposure (test positive for IMF, no reported past 30-day heroin/IMF use) were older (49.9 vs. 41.1 years, p < 0.01), and reported more frequent past 30-day use of methamphetamine (24.4 vs. 18.0 days, p < 0.05). They indicated lower perceived risk of opioid overdose (0.1 vs. 1.9, scale from 0 = "none" to 4 = "high," p < 0.001). DISCUSSION This study suggests a need for targeted interventions for people who use methamphetamine and expansion of drug checking and other harm reduction services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raminta Daniulaityte
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, 425 N 5Th Street, ABC 121, Phoenix, AZ, 85004, USA.
| | - Lance Ruhter
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, 425 N 5Th Street, ABC 121, Phoenix, AZ, 85004, USA
| | - Matthew Juhascik
- Montgomery County Coroner's Office and Crime Laboratory, Dayton, OH, USA
| | - Sydney Silverstein
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Center for Interventions, Treatment, and Addictions Research, Boonshoft School of Medicine, Wright State University, Dayton, OH, USA
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26
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Broady TR, Brener L, Caruana T, Cama E, Treloar C. Factors associated with sharing equipment among people who inject drugs: The role of community attachment in harm reduction and health promotion. Drug Alcohol Rev 2023; 42:561-568. [PMID: 36729689 DOI: 10.1111/dar.13606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sharing injecting equipment is a major route of transmission for blood borne viruses such as hepatitis C and HIV. Although needle and syringe programs are widely available throughout metropolitan Australia, rates of sharing equipment have not significantly changed in recent years. This study aimed to identify factors associated with recent equipment sharing among people who inject drugs in Australia. METHODS A paper-based survey was distributed via peer-based organisations between June and November 2018 and was completed by 603 participants. Survey questions addressed recent injecting experiences, equipment sharing, community attachment, stigma and wellbeing. Participants who had recently shared injecting equipment were compared with those who had not shared any equipment using multivariable logistic regression. RESULTS Recent equipment sharing was associated with recent heroin use, experiencing any past-year stigma related to injecting drug use, and higher levels of attachment to a community of people who inject drugs. An interaction effect showed increased community attachment was associated with increased odds of sharing equipment among young participants, but with decreased odds of sharing equipment among older participants. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Community networks of people who inject drugs can play important roles in harm reduction initiatives. While being connected with a community of people who inject drugs increased the odds of sharing injecting equipment, this community connection also increases opportunities for social support, sharing information and mitigating the negative effects of stigma. Collaboratively and meaningfully engaging with communities of people who inject drugs has the potential to increase the reach and effectiveness of health promotion services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy R Broady
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Loren Brener
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Theresa Caruana
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Elena Cama
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Carla Treloar
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Uhl GR. Selecting the appropriate hurdles and endpoints for pentilludin, a novel antiaddiction pharmacotherapeutic targeting the receptor type protein tyrosine phosphatase D. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1031283. [PMID: 37139308 PMCID: PMC10149857 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1031283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Substance use disorders provide challenges for development of effective medications. Use of abused substances is likely initiated, sustained and "quit" by complex brain and pharmacological mechanisms that have both genetic and environmental determinants. Medical utilities of prescribed stimulants and opioids provide complex challenges for prevention: how can we minimize their contribution to substance use disorders while retaining medical benefits for pain, restless leg syndrome, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, narcolepsy and other indications. Data required to support assessments of reduced abuse liability and resulting regulatory scheduling differs from information required to support licensing of novel prophylactic or therapeutic anti-addiction medications, adding further complexity and challenges. I describe some of these challenges in the context of our current efforts to develop pentilludin as a novel anti-addiction therapeutic for a target that is strongly supported by human and mouse genetic and pharmacologic studies, the receptor type protein tyrosine phosphatase D (PTPRD).
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Affiliation(s)
- George R. Uhl
- Departments of Neurology and Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Neurology Service, VA Maryland Healthcare System, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
- *Correspondence: George R. Uhl
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28
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Hámor PU, Knackstedt LA, Schwendt M. The role of metabotropic glutamate receptors in neurobehavioral effects associated with methamphetamine use. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2023; 168:177-219. [PMID: 36868629 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2022.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Metabotropic glutamate (mGlu) receptors are expressed throughout the central nervous system and act as important regulators of drug-induced neuroplasticity and behavior. Preclinical research suggests that mGlu receptors play a critical role in a spectrum of neural and behavioral consequences arising from methamphetamine (meth) exposure. However, an overview of mGlu-dependent mechanisms linked to neurochemical, synaptic, and behavioral changes produced by meth has been lacking. This chapter provides a comprehensive review of the role of mGlu receptor subtypes (mGlu1-8) in meth-induced neural effects, such as neurotoxicity, as well as meth-associated behaviors, such as psychomotor activation, reward, reinforcement, and meth-seeking. Additionally, evidence linking altered mGlu receptor function to post-meth learning and cognitive deficits is critically evaluated. The chapter also considers the role of receptor-receptor interactions involving mGlu receptors and other neurotransmitter receptors in meth-induced neural and behavioral changes. Taken together, the literature indicates that mGlu5 regulates the neurotoxic effects of meth by attenuating hyperthermia and possibly through altering meth-induced phosphorylation of the dopamine transporter. A cohesive body of work also shows that mGlu5 antagonism (and mGlu2/3 agonism) reduce meth-seeking, though some mGlu5-blocking drugs also attenuate food-seeking. Further, evidence suggests that mGlu5 plays an important role in extinction of meth-seeking behavior. In the context of a history of meth intake, mGlu5 also co-regulates aspects of episodic memory, with mGlu5 stimulation restoring impaired memory. Based on these findings, we propose several avenues for the development of novel pharmacotherapies for Methamphetamine Use Disorder based on the selective modulation mGlu receptor subtype activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter U Hámor
- Department of Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States; Center for Addiction Research and Education, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States; Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Lori A Knackstedt
- Department of Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States; Center for Addiction Research and Education, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Marek Schwendt
- Department of Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States; Center for Addiction Research and Education, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States.
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Zhang M, Li J, Fan J, Feng D, Li Q, Tang S, Li J. Cross-border Activities Associated With Pattern of Amphetamine-type Stimulants Usage Among Drug Users in Southwest of China. INQUIRY : A JOURNAL OF MEDICAL CARE ORGANIZATION, PROVISION AND FINANCING 2023; 60:469580231206608. [PMID: 37902428 PMCID: PMC10617300 DOI: 10.1177/00469580231206608] [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: 06/03/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023]
Abstract
Cross-border activities are possibly associated with the use of amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS), this study was to explore poly-substance of ATS use and influencing factors among ATS use populations in southwest China. A cross-sectional study was conducted by response driven and continuous samplings from January to July 2021. Descriptive, univariate and logistic regression were carried out. ATS users accounted for 95.6% of the target population, of whom one-third had cross-border experiences with 4.1% of the cross-border purchase of drugs. ATS users were mainly over 31 years old (53.9%), male (98.7%), minority (79.1%), and unmarried (72.7%). Cross-border users consumed more ketamine (8%) and methamphetamine (40%) (P < .05). After adjusting for socioeconomic-demographic factors, cross-border activity [OR: 0.336 (0.141, 0.799)], occupation [OR: 0.273 (0.080, 0.929)], injecting drug behavior [OR: 6.239 (1. 087, 35.811)], frequency [OR: 0.251 (0.073, 0.859)], and ATS use location [OR: 2.915 (1.040, 8.168)] were possible factors influencing ATS use patterns (P < .05). Cross-border activity may be associated with polydrug use, especially predominantly methamphetamine use, among ATS users along the Southwest border. It implied that the focus of drug prevention and control in border areas should be on cross-border populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingmei Zhang
- School of Public Health, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Drug Addiction Medicine, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Jiashuang Li
- School of Public Health, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Jianhua Fan
- Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture, Jinghong, Yunnan, China
| | - Dongli Feng
- The Centre for Disease Control and Prevention in Jinghong, Jinghong, Yunnan, China
| | - Qun Li
- Department of Clinical Skills Centre, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Songyuan Tang
- School of Public Health, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Jing Li
- School of Public Health, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Drug Addiction Medicine, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
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Galanter M, White WL, Hunter B. Narcotics Anonymous members in recovery from methamphetamine use disorder. Am J Addict 2023; 32:54-59. [PMID: 36428292 PMCID: PMC10099615 DOI: 10.1111/ajad.13362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Methamphetamine use disorder (MUD) is a major public health problem, but there are no evidence-based, best-practice, pharmacologic, or behavioral treatments for it. Narcotics Anonymous (NA) may provide an option for referral for such patients. METHODS Two waves of surveys were sent to a sample of NA members to evaluate demographic, drug use, and NA-related issues. Of 4445 responses received from US residents, 647 listed themselves as abstinent from their worst drug problem, methamphetamine. Twelve possible sources of support were scored by these latter respondents for how important each was for their own recovery. RESULTS Methamphetamine respondents were longstanding NA members, with their first NA meeting 30.2 years ago, 84.3% having served as sponsors for other members, and with little current craving (0.65 out of 10). Although now abstinent for an average of 13.4 years, at some point over the course of the membership, 47.4% had experienced a relapse, for an average of 16.7 months. In a factor analysis of resources scored, 29.6% of the variance fell under NA social and 29.2% spiritual; and 11.8% under outside professional support. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS NA served as a resource for supporting abstinence for some members with MUD. They scored social resources of NA support higher than both spiritual and outside institutional ones. SCIENTIFIC SIGNIFICANCE NA can serve as a community-based resource for MUD. Determining the nature of recovery that members with MUD have in NA can be useful for further research of socially grounded support for recovery in substance use disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Galanter
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - William L White
- Research Division, Chestnut Health Systems, Punta Gorda, Florida, USA
| | - Brooke Hunter
- Research Division, Chestnut Health Systems, Normal, Illinois, USA
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Jones CM, Han B, Seth P, Baldwin G, Compton WM. Increases in methamphetamine injection among treatment admissions in the U.S. Addict Behav 2023; 136:107492. [PMID: 36156454 PMCID: PMC9809156 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2022.107492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Revised: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prior research indicates rising methamphetamine use and harms in the U.S., potentially related to increases in methamphetamine injection. To date, research on trends and correlates of methamphetamine injection is limited. METHODS Analysis of trends and correlates of methamphetamine injection among treatment admissions among persons aged ≥ 12 whose primary substance of use at admission is methamphetamine. Data are from the Treatment Episode Data Set. Analyses includes descriptive statistics, trend analyses, and multilevel multivariable logistic regression. RESULTS Primary methamphetamine treatment admissions increased from 138,379 in 2010 to 201,021 in 2019. Among primary methamphetamine admissions, injection as the usual route of use increased from 24,821 (18.0 % of admissions) in 2010 to 55,951 (28.2 % of admissions) in 2019. Characteristics associated with increased adjusted odds of reporting methamphetamine injection included: males (aOR = 1.13, 95 % CI = 1.10-1.15); admission age 25-34 years (aOR = 1.23, 95 % CI = 1.19-1.28) and 35-44 years (aOR = 1.12, 95 % CI = 1.08-1.17) compared to age 18-24; dependent living (aOR = 1.33, 95 % CI = 1.29-1.37) and homelessness (aOR = 1.58, 95 % CI = 1.54-1.63) compared to independent living; part-time employment (aOR = 1.08, 95 % CI = 1.02-1.14), unemployment (aOR = 1.39, 95 % CI = 1.34-1.44) and not in labor force (aOR = 1.43, 95 % CI = 1.37-1.49) compared to full-time employment; one to ≥ four prior treatment admissions (aORs ranging from 1.19 to 1.94) compared to no prior admissions; also reporting use of cocaine (aOR = 1.10, 95 % CI = 1.05-1.16), heroin (aOR = 3.52, 95 % CI = 3.40-3.66), prescription opioids (aOR = 1.61, 95 % CI = 1.54-1.67), or benzodiazepines (aOR = 1.42, 95 % CI = 1.32-1.52) at treatment admission. CONCLUSIONS Findings lend further evidence to a resurgence of methamphetamine use that is intertwined with the ongoing opioid crisis in the U.S. Efforts to expand evidence-based prevention, treatment, and response efforts, particularly to populations at highest risk, are urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher M Jones
- National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States.
| | - Beth Han
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Puja Seth
- National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Grant Baldwin
- National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Wilson M Compton
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
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Grieb SM, Harris R, Rosecrans A, Zook K, Sherman SG, Greenbaum A, Lucas GM, Page KR. Awareness, perception and utilization of a mobile health clinic by people who use drugs. Ann Med 2022; 54:138-149. [PMID: 36799361 PMCID: PMC8741230 DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2021.2022188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION People who use drugs (PWUD) face a multitude of barriers to accessing healthcare and other services. Mobile health clinics (MHC) are an innovative, cost-effective health care delivery approach that increases healthcare access to vulnerable populations and medically underserved areas. There is limited understanding, however, of how PWUD perceive and experience MHCs. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 31 PWUD - 16 who had received care (clients) on an MHC (The Spot) and 15 who had not (non-clients) - to explore their perceptions and utilization of an MHC partnered with a mobile syringe services program in Baltimore, Maryland. Data analysis of the text was conducted using an iterative thematic constant comparison process informed by grounded theory. RESULTS Clients and non-clients, once aware of the MHC, had positive perceptions of The Spot and its benefits for their individual health as well as for the wellbeing of their community. These sentiments among clients were largely driven by access to low-barrier buprenorphine and service delivery without stigma around drug use. However, lack of general awareness of the spot and specific service offering were barriers to its use among non-clients. DISCUSSION MHCs provide an important opportunity to engage PWUD in healthcare and to expand buprenorphine use; however, even with accessibility near where PWUD access injection equipment, barriers to its use remain. Peer dissemination may be able to facilitate program information sharing and recruitment.KEY MESSAGESPeople who use drugs perceive a mobile health clinic in their neighbourhood as a benefit to their communities and themselves by improving access to healthcare services, providing access to low-threshold buprenorphine dispensation, and offering services without drug use stigma.People who use drugs learned about a mobile health clinic in their neighbourhood largely through word-of-mouth. As a result, people received limited information about the mobile health clinic services creating a barrier to its use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne M Grieb
- Department of Pediatrics, Center for Child and Community Health Research, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Robert Harris
- Baltimore City Health Department, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Amanda Rosecrans
- Baltimore City Health Department, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Katie Zook
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Susan G Sherman
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Gregory M Lucas
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kathleen R Page
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Palis H, Xavier C, Dobrer S, Desai R, Sedgemore KO, Scow M, Lock K, Gan W, Slaunwhite A. Concurrent use of opioids and stimulants and risk of fatal overdose: A cohort study. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:2084. [PMCID: PMC9664696 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14506-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Stimulant use has been rising among people with opioid use disorder in recent years in North America, alongside a parallel rise in illicit drug toxicity (overdose) deaths. This study aimed to examine the association between stimulant use and overdose mortality.
Methods
Data from a universal health insurance client roster were used to identify a 20% random general population sample (aged ≥12) in British Columbia, Canada between January 1 2015 and December 31 2018 (N = 1,089,682). Provincial health records were used to identify people who used opioids and/or stimulants. Fatal overdose observed during follow-up (January 12,015- December 312,018) was retrieved from Vital Statistics Death Registry and BC Coroners Service Data. Potential confounders including age, sex, health region, comorbidities and prescribed medications were retrieved from the provincial client roster and health records.
Results
We identified 7460 people who used stimulants and or opioids. During follow-up there were 272 fatal overdose events. People who used both opioids and stimulants had more than twice the hazard of fatal overdose (HR: 2.02, 95% CI: 1.47-2.78, p < 0.001) compared to people who used opioids only. The hazard of death increased over time among people who used both opioids and stimulants.
Conclusions
There is an urgent need to prioritize the service needs of people who use stimulants to reduce overdose mortality in British Columbia. Findings have relevance more broadly in other North American settings, where similar trends in opioid and stimulant polysubstance use have been observed.
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Liu LJW, Crispo JAG, Bach P, Ansell DR, Thibault D, Willis AW, Cragg JJ. Amphetamine-related care in the USA, 2003-2014: cross-sectional analyses examining inpatient trends and factors associated with hospitalisation outcomes. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e059898. [PMID: 36127119 PMCID: PMC9490607 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-059898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Although amphetamine use is a growing health problem in the USA, there are limited data on amphetamine-related hospitalisations. The primary objective of our study was to examine trends in amphetamine-related hospitalisations in the USA between 2003 and 2014, including by age and sex. Our secondary objectives were to examine whether demographic, clinical and care setting characteristics were associated with select outcomes of amphetamine-related hospitalisations, including in-hospital mortality, prolonged length of stay and leaving against medical advice. DESIGN, SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS Using the 2003-2014 National Inpatient Sample, we estimated the rate of amphetamine-related hospitalisations for each year in the USA among individuals 18+ years of age, stratified by age and sex. Subgroup analyses examined hospitalisations due to amphetamine causes. Unconditional logistic regression modelling was used to estimate the adjusted odds of admission outcomes for sociodemographic, clinical and hospital indicators. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOMES Our primary outcome was amphetamine-related hospitalisations between 2003 and 2014; secondary outcomes included in-hospital mortality, prolonged length of stay and leaving against medical advice. RESULTS Amphetamine-related hospitalisation rates increased from 27 to 69 per 100 000 population between 2003 and 2014. Annual rates were consistently greater among younger (18-44 years) individuals and men. Regional differences were observed, with admission to Western hospitals being associated with increased mortality (adjusted OR, AOR 5.07, 95% CI 1.22 to 21.04) and shorter (0-2 days) lengths of stay (AOR 0.70, 95% CI 0.58 to 0.83) compared with Northeast admissions. Males (AOR 1.26, 95% CI 1.15 to 1.38; compared with females) and self-pay (AOR 2.30, 95% CI 1.90 to 2.79; compared with private insurance) were associated with leaving against medical advice. CONCLUSIONS Increasing rates of amphetamine-related hospitalisation risk being overshadowed by other public health crises. Regional amphetamine interventions may offer the greatest population health benefits. Future studies should examine long-term outcomes among patients hospitalised for amphetamine-related causes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa J W Liu
- Collaboration for Outcomes Research and Evaluation (CORE), The University of British Columbia Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries (ICORD), The University of British Columbia Faculty of Medicine, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - James A G Crispo
- Collaboration for Outcomes Research and Evaluation (CORE), The University of British Columbia Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Human Sciences Division, Northern Ontario School of Medicine University, Sudbury, Ontario, Canada
| | - Paxton Bach
- Department of Medicine, The University of British Columbia Faculty of Medicine, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Dominique R Ansell
- Emergency Department, Health Sciences North, Sudbury, Ontario, Canada
- Clinical Sciences Division, Northern Ontario School of Medicine University, Sudbury, Ontario, Canada
| | - Dylan Thibault
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Allison W Willis
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jacquelyn J Cragg
- Collaboration for Outcomes Research and Evaluation (CORE), The University of British Columbia Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries (ICORD), The University of British Columbia Faculty of Medicine, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Ivsins A, Fleming T, Barker A, Mansoor M, Thakarar K, Sue K, McNeil R. The practice and embodiment of "goofballs": A qualitative study exploring the co-injection of methamphetamines and opioids. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2022; 107:103791. [PMID: 35830749 PMCID: PMC10894463 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2022.103791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2022] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polysubstance use is common among people who use drugs, including the co-use of stimulants and opioids. Research suggests the practice of simultaneous co-injection of methamphetamines and opioids, often referred to as "goofballs", is increasing. As a relatively unique drug use practice, little qualitative research currently exists on goofball injecting. This study explores the practice and embodied experiences of goofball injecting. METHODS This article draws on in-depth interviews conducted across two qualitative studies undertaken in Vancouver, Canada's Downtown Eastside neighbourhood examining changing dynamics in relation to stimulant use and experiences with an overdose prevention site-based safer supply intervention, respectively. Interviews containing discussions of goofball use (n=29) were extracted from each study and merged into a single qualitative dataset. Data were analysed thematically and focused on the practices and embodied experiences of goofball injection. RESULTS Our analysis uncovered how goofball injection represented a complex drug use practice driven by the desire to achieve particular embodied experiences not attainable by using either drug individually. We identified three distinct practices of goofball use: 1) to alter or enhance the effects of opioids; 2) to alter or enhance the effects of methamphetamines; and 3) to balance out the effects of both drugs. CONCLUSION Our study fills an important gap in the polysubstance use literature specifically exploring the co-injection of methamphetamines and opioids. Our findings highlight the need to implement and expand interventions and services attentive to polysubstance use and the role of pleasure in drug taking practices, including expanding non-medicalized opioid and stimulant safer supply initiatives across North America.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Ivsins
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada.
| | - Taylor Fleming
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9, Canada; Interdisciplinary Studies Graduate Program, University of British Columbia, 270-2357 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Allison Barker
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Manal Mansoor
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Kinna Thakarar
- Maine Medical Center/Tufts University School of Medicine. 41 Donald B Dean Drive, South Portland ME 04106, United States
| | - Kimberly Sue
- School of Medicine, Yale University, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06510, United States
| | - Ryan McNeil
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada; School of Medicine, Yale University, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06510, United States
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Ray B, Hedden BJ, Carroll JJ, Del Pozo B, Wagner K, Kral AH, O'Donnell D, Victor G, Huynh P. Prevalence and correlates of incarceration following emergency medical services response to overdose. Drug Alcohol Depend 2022; 238:109571. [PMID: 35868181 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2022.109571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To describe the prevalence of incarceration among survivors of non-fatal overdose addressed through an emergency medical services (EMS) response, and compare incarceration by whether the emergency was for opioid-involved or stimulant-involved overdose. METHODS Administrative records on 192,113 EMS incidents and 70,409 jail booking events occurring between January 1, 2019 and December 31, 2020 in Indianapolis, Indiana were record-linked at the event level. Incarceration taking place within 6-hours of an EMS incident was associated with that incident. Logistic regression was used to calculate adjusted odds ratios (AOR) of incarceration after an overdose. RESULTS Among all EMS incidents, 2.6% were followed by incarceration. For overdose EMS incidents, the prevalence of incarceration was 10.0%. Overdose incidents had higher odds than non-overdose incidents of leading to a charge of felony, booked on a warrant, and transferred to another law enforcement agency upon release. Prevalence of incarceration following a stimulant-involved overdose was 21.3%, compared to 9.3% for opioid-involved overdose survivors. Compared to persons from other EMS incidents, overdose survivors had greater odds of incarceration (AOR=3.48, 95% confidence interval (CI)= 3.22, 3.75, p < .001), with opioid-involved overdoses (AOR=3.03, 95% CI=2.76, 3.33, p < .001) and stimulant-involved overdoses (AOR=6.70, 95% CI=5.26, 8.55, p < .001) leading to higher odds of incarceration. CONCLUSION Incarceration in county jail followed one in ten overdose-involved EMS responses. As illicit drug consumption increasingly involves stimulants, the frequency of incarceration following these events is likely to increase. Policy changes and interventions are needed to reduce incarceration after overdose emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bradley Ray
- RTI International, Division for Applied Justice Research, 3040 Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA.
| | - Bethany J Hedden
- Center for Behavioral Health and Justice, Wayne State University, School of Social Work, 5447 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Jennifer J Carroll
- North Carolina State University, Department of Sociology and Anthropology, 10 Current Drive, Suite 334, Raleigh, NC 27606-8017, USA
| | - Brandon Del Pozo
- The Warren Alpert School of Medicine of Brown University, 222 Richmond St, Providence, RI 02903, USA
| | - Karla Wagner
- University of Nevada, Reno, School of Public Health, 1644 N. Virginia St., Reno, NV 89557, USA
| | | | - Daniel O'Donnell
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis Emergency Medical Services, 3930 Georgetown Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46254, USA
| | - Grant Victor
- Rutgers University, School of Social Work, 120 Albany St, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
| | - Phil Huynh
- Center for Behavioral Health and Justice, Wayne State University, School of Social Work, 5447 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
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Gray AC, Neitzke-Spruill L, Hughes C, O'Connell DJ, Anderson TL. Opioid-stimulant trends in overdose toxicology by race, ethnicity, & gender: An analysis in Delaware, 2013-2019. J Ethn Subst Abuse 2022:1-30. [PMID: 35973048 DOI: 10.1080/15332640.2022.2109790] [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: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
Recent upticks of stimulant presence in overdose deaths suggest the opioid epidemic is morphing, which raises questions about what drugs are involved and who is impacted. We investigate annual and growth rate trends in combined opioid-stimulant overdose toxicology between 2013 and 2019 for White, Black, and Hispanic male and female decedents in Delaware. During these years, toxicology shifted to illegal drugs for all with fentanyl leading the increase and opioid-cocaine combinations rising substantially. While combined opioid-cocaine toxicology grew among Black and Hispanic Delawareans, White males continue to report the highest rates overall. These findings depart from historical patterns and may challenge existing opioid epidemic policies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Daniel J O'Connell
- Center for Drug and Health Studies, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware
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Tsui JI, Campbell ANC, Pavlicova M, Choo TH, Lee JD, Cook RR, Shulman M, Nunes EV, Rotrosen J. Methamphetamine/amphetamine use over time among persons with opioid use disorders treated with buprenorphine/naloxone versus extended-release naltrexone. Drug Alcohol Depend 2022; 236:109469. [PMID: 35605529 PMCID: PMC10796081 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2022.109469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Methamphetamine use is increasing among persons with opioid use disorder (OUD). The study aims were to describe methamphetamine/amphetamine (MA/A) use among patients treated for OUD with buprenorphine/naloxone (BUP-NX) or extended-release naltrexone (XR-NTX), and to explore associations between treatment arm and MA/A use. METHODS Secondary analysis of data from a multi-site, open-label, randomized controlled trial of XR-NTX versus BUP-NX for 24 weeks. The outcome variable was MA/A use defined by either positive urine drug toxicology or self-report. The main predictor was treatment assignment (BUP-NX v. XR-NTX). Longitudinal mixed-effects logistic regression models were fit to model the odds of MA/A use during the study. Additional predictors included study visit and baseline MA/A use. RESULTS Among the sample of 570 participants with OUD, baseline use of MA/A was observed in 105 (18.4%). There was no significant treatment effect over the study period, though BUP-NX subjects, on average, had about half the odds of MA/A use compared to XR-NTX subjects (OR=0.50; p = 0.051). In the same model, baseline MA/A use and study visit were both significantly associated with MA/A use over time. CONCLUSION In this sample of treated OUD patients, nearly a fifth of participants had MA/A use at baseline and the frequency of use did not decline over time: in fact, the odds of use slightly increased for each later visit. These secondary analyses found no significant difference in MA/A use between BUP-NX and XR-NTX treatment arms, however, the observation of less MA/A in the buprenorphine arm merits further investigation. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02032433).
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith I Tsui
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, 1959 NE Pacific Street, Seattle, WA 98195-6420, USA.
| | - Aimee N C Campbell
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center and New York State Psychiatric Institute, 1051 Riverside Dr, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Martina Pavlicova
- Department of Biostatistics, Columbia University, 722 West 168th St., New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Tse-Hwei Choo
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center and New York State Psychiatric Institute, 1051 Riverside Dr, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Joshua D Lee
- Department of Medicine, New York University, 550 First Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Ryan R Cook
- Department of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Rd, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Matisyahu Shulman
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center and New York State Psychiatric Institute, 1051 Riverside Dr, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Edward V Nunes
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center and New York State Psychiatric Institute, 1051 Riverside Dr, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - John Rotrosen
- Psychiatry, New York University, 550 First Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA
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Sarker A, Al-Garadi MA, Ge Y, Nataraj N, Jones CM, Sumner SA. Signals of increasing co-use of stimulants and opioids from online drug forum data. Harm Reduct J 2022; 19:51. [PMID: 35614501 PMCID: PMC9131693 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-022-00628-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Despite recent rises in fatal overdoses involving multiple substances, there is a paucity of knowledge about stimulant co-use patterns among people who use opioids (PWUO) or people being treated with medications for opioid use disorder (PTMOUD). A better understanding of the timing and patterns in stimulant co-use among PWUO based on mentions of these substances on social media can help inform prevention programs, policy, and future research directions. This study examines stimulant co-mention trends among PWUO/PTMOUD on social media over multiple years. Methods We collected publicly available data from 14 forums on Reddit (subreddits) that focused on prescription and illicit opioids, and medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD). Collected data ranged from 2011 to 2020, and we also collected timelines comprising past posts from a sample of Reddit users (Redditors) on these forums. We applied natural language processing to generate lexical variants of all included prescription and illicit opioids and stimulants and detect mentions of them on the chosen subreddits. Finally, we analyzed and described trends and patterns in co-mentions. Results Posts collected for 13,812 Redditors showed that 12,306 (89.1%) mentioned at least 1 opioid, opioid-related medication, or stimulant. Analyses revealed that the number and proportion of Redditors mentioning both opioids and/or opioid-related medications and stimulants steadily increased over time. Relative rates of co-mentions by the same Redditor of heroin and methamphetamine, the substances most commonly co-mentioned, decreased in recent years, while co-mentions of both fentanyl and MOUD with methamphetamine increased. Conclusion Our analyses reflect increasing mentions of stimulants, particularly methamphetamine, among PWUO/PTMOUD, which closely resembles the growth in overdose deaths involving both opioids and stimulants. These findings are consistent with recent reports suggesting increasing stimulant use among people receiving treatment for opioid use disorder. These data offer insights on emerging trends in the overdose epidemic and underscore the importance of scaling efforts to address co-occurring opioid and stimulant use including harm reduction and comprehensive healthcare access spanning mental-health services and substance use disorder treatment. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12954-022-00628-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abeed Sarker
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, School of Medicine, Emory University, 101 Woodruff Circle, Suite 4101, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
| | - Mohammed Ali Al-Garadi
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, School of Medicine, Emory University, 101 Woodruff Circle, Suite 4101, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Yao Ge
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, School of Medicine, Emory University, 101 Woodruff Circle, Suite 4101, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Nisha Nataraj
- National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, 30341, USA
| | - Christopher M Jones
- National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, 30341, USA
| | - Steven A Sumner
- National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, 30341, USA
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Meyers-Pantele SA, Mittal ML, Jain S, Sun S, Rammohan I, Fairbairn N, Milloy MJ, DeBeck K, Hayashi K, Werb D. The influence of poly-drug use patterns on the association between opioid agonist treatment engagement and injecting initiation assistance. Subst Abuse Treat Prev Policy 2022; 17:39. [PMID: 35590419 PMCID: PMC9118611 DOI: 10.1186/s13011-022-00470-6] [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] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence suggests people who inject drugs (PWID) prescribed opioid agonist treatment (OAT) are less likely to provide injection drug use (IDU) initiation assistance. We investigated the association between OAT engagement and providing IDU initiation assistance across poly-drug use practices in Vancouver, Canada. METHODS Preventing Injecting by Modifying Existing Responses (PRIMER) is a prospective study seeking to identify structural interventions that reduce IDU initiation. We employed data from linked cohorts of PWID in Vancouver and extended the findings of a latent profile analysis (LPA). Multivariable logistic regression models were performed separately for the six poly-drug use LPA classes. The outcome was recently assisting others in IDU initiation; the independent variable was recent OAT engagement. RESULTS Among participants (n = 1218), 85 (7.0%) reported recently providing injection initiation assistance. When adjusting for age and sex, OAT engagement among those who reported a combination of high-frequency heroin and methamphetamine IDU and low-to-moderate-frequency prescription opioid IDU and methamphetamine non-injection drug use (NIDU) was associated with lower odds of IDU initiation assistance provision (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR]: 0.18, 95% CI: 0.05-0.63, P = 0.008). Significant associations were not detected among other LPA classes. CONCLUSIONS Our findings extend evidence suggesting that OAT may provide a population-level protective effect on the incidence of IDU initiation and suggest that this effect may be specific among PWID who engage in high-frequency methamphetamine and opioid use. Future research should seek to longitudinally investigate potential causal pathways explaining the association between OAT and initiation assistance provision among PWID to develop tailored intervention efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie A Meyers-Pantele
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0507, USA
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Maria Luisa Mittal
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0507, USA
- School of Medicine, Universidad Xochicalco, Tijuana, BC, Mexico
| | - Sonia Jain
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Shelly Sun
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Indhu Rammohan
- Centre on Drug Policy Evaluation, St. Michael's Hospital, 30 Bond Street, Toronto, ON, M5B 1W8, Canada
| | - Nadia Fairbairn
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - M-J Milloy
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Kora DeBeck
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- School of Public Policy, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Kanna Hayashi
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Dan Werb
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0507, USA.
- Centre on Drug Policy Evaluation, St. Michael's Hospital, 30 Bond Street, Toronto, ON, M5B 1W8, Canada.
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Corser J, Palis H, Fleury M, Lamb J, Lock K, McDougall J, Mehta A, Newman C, Spence H, Buxton JA. Identifying behaviours for survival and wellness among people who use methamphetamine with opioids in British Columbia: a qualitative study. Harm Reduct J 2022; 19:46. [PMID: 35590375 PMCID: PMC9118627 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-022-00630-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background British Columbia (BC) has been in a state of public health emergency since 2016, due to the unprecedented numbers of fatal and non-fatal drug toxicity (i.e. overdose) events. Methamphetamine detection in illicit drug toxicity deaths increased from 14% in 2012 to 43% in 2020 suggesting a concerning trend of concurrent methamphetamine and opioid use in BC, consistent with rising patterns identified across North America. People who use methamphetamine concurrently with opioids face an elevated risk of harm. This study aimed to identify behaviours for survival and wellness practiced by people who concurrently use methamphetamine and opioids. Methods One-on-one semi-structured interviews were conducted by peer research assistants in person and by telephone. Thematic analysis was carried out to identify patterns in behaviours participants described as important to their safety in the context of concurrent use of methamphetamine and opioids. Results Participants (n = 22) were distributed across the province with at least four participants from each of the five geographic health regions: 64% self-identified as men, and 50% self-identified as Indigenous. Daily methamphetamine use was reported by 72.7% of participants, and 67.3% reported using alone either often or always. Participants made several considerations and adaptations in order to balance the perceived benefits and risks of their use of methamphetamine with opioids. Two overarching themes were identified to describe how participants adapted their use for survival and wellness. The first was personal safety behaviours which included self-regulation and self-care behaviours. The second was interpersonal safety behaviours which included using alongside peers, and engaging with peer-led services (e.g. community outreach organizations) and public health-led services (e.g. overdose prevention sites) to reduce the risk of harm. Participants identified many gaps in available services to meet their diverse needs. Conclusions This manuscript identified diversity in participants’ methamphetamine and opioid use (i.e. frequency, route of administration), and a range of behaviours that were performed to improve wellness and survival while using methamphetamine and opioids. Harm reduction and treatment responses must be robust and adaptable to respond to the diversity of patterns of substance use among people who use methamphetamine and opioids concurrently, so as to not perpetuate harm and leave people behind.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Corser
- BC Centre for Disease Control, 655 W 12th Ave, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4R4, Canada
| | - Heather Palis
- BC Centre for Disease Control, 655 W 12th Ave, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4R4, Canada
| | - Mathew Fleury
- Faculty of Health Sciences, SFU, Blusson Hall, Room 11300, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada.,First Nations Health Authority, 1166 Alberni St, Vancouver, BC, V6E 1A5, Canada
| | - Jess Lamb
- PEEP- BC Centre for Disease Control, 655 W 12th Ave, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4R4, Canada
| | - Kurt Lock
- BC Centre for Disease Control, 655 W 12th Ave, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4R4, Canada
| | - Jenny McDougall
- PEEP- BC Centre for Disease Control, 655 W 12th Ave, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4R4, Canada
| | - Amiti Mehta
- BC Centre for Disease Control, 655 W 12th Ave, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4R4, Canada
| | - Cheri Newman
- PEEP- BC Centre for Disease Control, 655 W 12th Ave, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4R4, Canada
| | - Heather Spence
- KANDU - Kelowna Area Network of Drug Users, Kelowna, Canada
| | - Jane A Buxton
- BC Centre for Disease Control, 655 W 12th Ave, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4R4, Canada. .,School of Population and Public Health, UBC, 2206 E Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada.
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Steinberg A, Mehta A, Papamihali K, Lukac CD, Young S, Graham B, Lock K, Fleury M, Buxton JA. Motivations for concurrent use of uppers and downers among people who access harm reduction services in British Columbia, Canada: findings from the 2019 Harm Reduction Client Survey. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e060447. [PMID: 35501101 PMCID: PMC9062822 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-060447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION An increase in crystal methamphetamine (methamphetamine) use during the overdose epidemic is being observed in British Columbia (BC), Canada, and across North America. Concurrent use (ie, using uppers and downers one after the other or together) can increase the risk of fatal and non-fatal opioid overdose. OBJECTIVES We investigated motivations for concurrent use of uppers and downers, specifically how (eg, in what order) and why people use concurrently, to identify potential interventions to prevent overdose and other harms. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS The 2019 Harm Reduction Client Survey was administered across 22 harm reduction supply distribution sites in BC (n=621). This thematic analysis examined 307 responses by people who affirmed concurrent use to classify order and reasons for using uppers and downers concurrently. RESULTS Of the 307 people who responded 'yes' to concurrent use, 179 (58.3%) used downers then uppers, 76 (24.8%) used uppers then downers and 184 (59.9%) mixed uppers and downers together. Four main reasons for concurrent use emerged: self-medication, availability and preference, drug effects/properties, and financial and life situation. People who mixed drugs together predominantly wanted to achieve desired drug effects/properties, such as a specific high or balancing stimulating and sedating effects. CONCLUSIONS The ongoing rise in overdoses in BC is multifactorial, and the recent parallel increases in methamphetamine use and concurrent use with opioids may contribute. Qualitative interviews may further elucidate reasons for concurrent use. Addressing reasons for concurrent use identified in this study through harm reduction strategies and education may affect the rates of overdose morbidity and mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail Steinberg
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Amiti Mehta
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Kristi Papamihali
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Christine D Lukac
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sara Young
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Brittany Graham
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Kurt Lock
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Mathew Fleury
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Jane A Buxton
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Whiteside LK, Huynh L, Morse S, Hall J, Meurer W, Banta-Green CJ, Scheuer H, Cunningham R, McGovern M, Zatzick DF. The Emergency Department Longitudinal Integrated Care (ED-LINC) intervention targeting opioid use disorder: A pilot randomized clinical trial. J Subst Abuse Treat 2022; 136:108666. [PMID: 34952745 PMCID: PMC9056018 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsat.2021.108666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Opioid use disorder (OUD) and related comorbid conditions are highly prevalent among patients presenting to emergency department (ED) settings. Research has developed few comprehensive disease management strategies for at-risk patients presenting to the ED that both decrease illicit opioid use and improve initiation and retention in medication treatment for OUD (MOUD). METHODS The research team conducted a pilot pragmatic clinical trial that randomized 40 patients presenting to a single ED to a collaborative care intervention (n = 20) versus usual care control (n = 20) conditions. Interviewers blinded to patient intervention and control group status followed-up with participants at 1, 3, and 6 months after presentation to the ED. The 3-month Emergency Department Longitudinal Integrated Care (ED-LINC) collaborative care intervention for patients at risk for OUD included: 1) a Brief Negotiated Interview at bedside, 2) overdose education and facilitation of MOUD, 3) longitudinal proactive care management, 4) utilization of the statewide health information exchange platform for 24/7 tracking of recurrent ED utilization, and 5) weekly caseload supervision that incorporated measurement-based care treatment assessment with stepped-up care for patients with recalcitrant symptoms. RESULTS Overall, the ED-LINC intervention was feasibly delivered and acceptable to patients. The pilot study achieved >80% follow-up rates at 1, 3, and 6 months. In adjusted longitudinal mixed model regression analyses, no statistically significant differences existed in days of opioid use over the past 30 days for ED-LINC intervention patients when compared to patients receiving usual care (incidence-rate ratio (IRR) 1.50, 95% CI 0.54-4.16). The unadjusted mean number of days of illicit opioid use decreased at the 1-month and 3-month follow-up time points for both groups. ED-LINC intervention patients had increased rates of MOUD initiation compared to control patients (50% versus 30%); intervention versus control comparisons did not achieve statistical significance, although power to detect significant differences in the pilot was limited. CONCLUSIONS The ED-LINC intervention for patients with OUD can be feasibly implemented and warrants testing in larger scale, adequately powered randomized pragmatic clinical trial investigations. CLINICALTRIALS gov NCT03699085.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren K Whiteside
- Department of Emergency Medicine & Harborview Injury Prevention and Research Center, University of Washington School of Medicine, 325 9th Ave., Seattle, WA 98104-2499, United States of America.
| | - Ly Huynh
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, 325 9th Ave., Seattle, WA 98104-2499, United States of America.
| | - Sophie Morse
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, 325 9th Ave., Seattle, WA 98104-2499, United States of America.
| | - Jane Hall
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, 325 9th Ave., Seattle, WA 98104-2499, United States of America.
| | - William Meurer
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, 1500 E Medical Center Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-5303, United States of America.
| | - Caleb J Banta-Green
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington School of Medicine, 325 9th Ave., Seattle, WA 98104-2499, United States of America.
| | - Hannah Scheuer
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington School of Medicine, 325 9th Ave., Seattle, WA 98104-2499, United States of America.
| | - Rebecca Cunningham
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, North Campus Research Complex, 2800 Plymouth Rd Bldg. 10-G080, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2800, United States of America.
| | - Mark McGovern
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences and Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 1520 Page Mill Road Suite 158, MC 5721, Stanford, CA 94305, United States of America.
| | - Douglas F Zatzick
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences & Harborview Injury Prevention and Research Center, University of Washington School of Medicine, 325 9th Ave., Seattle, WA 98104-2499, United States of America.
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Hazani HM, Naina Mohamed I, Muzaimi M, Mohamed W, Yahaya MF, Teoh SL, Pakri Mohamed RM, Mohamad Isa MF, Abdulrahman SM, Ramadah R, Kamaluddin MR, Kumar J. Goofballing of Opioid and Methamphetamine: The Science Behind the Deadly Cocktail. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:859563. [PMID: 35462918 PMCID: PMC9021401 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.859563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Globally, millions of people suffer from various substance use disorders (SUD), including mono-and polydrug use of opioids and methamphetamine. Brain regions such as the cingulate cortex, infralimbic cortex, dorsal striatum, nucleus accumbens, basolateral and central amygdala have been shown to play important roles in addiction-related behavioral changes. Clinical and pre-clinical studies have characterized these brain regions and their corresponding neurochemical changes in numerous phases of drug dependence such as acute drug use, intoxication, craving, withdrawal, and relapse. At present, many studies have reported the individual effects of opioids and methamphetamine. However, little is known about their combined effects. Co-use of these drugs produces effects greater than either drug alone, where one decreases the side effects of the other, and the combination produces a prolonged intoxication period or a more desirable intoxication effect. An increasing number of studies have associated polydrug abuse with poorer treatment outcomes, drug-related deaths, and more severe psychopathologies. To date, the pharmacological treatment efficacy for polydrug abuse is vague, and still at the experimental stage. This present review discusses the human and animal behavioral, neuroanatomical, and neurochemical changes underlying both morphine and methamphetamine dependence separately, as well as its combination. This narrative review also delineates the recent advances in the pharmacotherapy of mono- and poly drug-use of opioids and methamphetamine at clinical and preclinical stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanis Mohammad Hazani
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, The National University of Malaysia, Cheras, Malaysia
| | - Isa Naina Mohamed
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, The National University of Malaysia, Cheras, Malaysia
| | - Mustapha Muzaimi
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kota Bharu, Malaysia
| | - Wael Mohamed
- Basic Medical Science Department, Kulliyyah of Medicine, International Islamic University Malaysia, Kuantan, Malaysia
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom, Egypt
| | - Mohamad Fairuz Yahaya
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, National University of Malaysia, Cheras, Malaysia
| | - Seong Lin Teoh
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, National University of Malaysia, Cheras, Malaysia
| | | | | | | | - Ravi Ramadah
- National Anti-Drugs Agency Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Mohammad Rahim Kamaluddin
- Centre for Research in Psychology and Human Well-Being, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, The National University of Malaysia, Bangi, Malaysia
| | - Jaya Kumar
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, The National University of Malaysia, Cheras, Malaysia
- *Correspondence: Jaya Kumar,
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Development of a Genus-Universal Nucleotide Signature for the Identification and Supervision of Ephedra-Containing Products. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27072342. [PMID: 35408741 PMCID: PMC9000813 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27072342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Ephedra plants generally contain ephedrine alkaloids, which are the critical precursor compounds of methamphetamine (METH). METH could cause serious physical and mental damage, and therefore Ephedra materials are strictly in supervision internationally. However, unlawful utilization of Ephedra herbs and its products still exist. Thus, it is imperative to establish a universal method for monitoring Ephedra ingredients in complex mixtures and processed products. In this study, 224 ITS2 sequences representing 59 taxa within Ephedra were collected, and a 23-bp genus-level nucleotide signature (GTCCGGTCCGCCTCGGCGGTGCG) was developed for the identification of the whole genus. The specific primers MH-1F/1R were designed, and 125 individuals of twelve Ephedra species/varieties were gathered for applicability verification of the nucleotide signature. Additionally, seven batches of Chinese patent medicines containing Ephedra herbs were used to test the application of the nucleotide signature in complex and highly processed materials. The results demonstrated that the 23-bp molecular marker was unique to Ephedra and conserved within the genus. It can be successfully utilized for the detection of Ephedra components in complex preparations and processed products with severe DNA degradation. The method developed in this study could undoubtedly serve as a strong support for the supervision of illegal circulation of Ephedra-containing products.
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Lukac CD, Steinberg A, Papamihali K, Mehta A, Lock K, Buxton JA. Correlates of concurrent use of stimulants and opioids among people who access harm reduction services in British Columbia, Canada: Findings from the 2019 Harm Reduction Client Survey. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2022; 102:103602. [DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2022.103602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/22/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Karamouzian M, Pilarinos A, Hayashi K, Buxton JA, Kerr T. Latent patterns of polysubstance use among people who use opioids: A systematic review. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2022; 102:103584. [DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2022.103584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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48
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Jawa R, Stein MD, Anderson B, Liebschutz JM, Stewart C, Phillips KT, Barocas JA. Behavioral Risk Factors for HIV Infection in Hospitalized Persons Who Co-use Stimulants and Opioids. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:1047-1055. [PMID: 34510289 PMCID: PMC8435119 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03460-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
We investigated the association of 90-day opioid and stimulant co-use and HIV risk behaviors in a cross-sectional analysis of hospitalized HIV-negative people who inject drugs (PWID). We compared those injecting opioids alone to two sub-groups who co-used opioids with (1) cocaine, (2) amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS), on sex and injection drug risk behaviors assessed via the Risk Assessment Battery (RAB), where a higher score indicates a higher risk. Of 197 participants who injected opioids, 53% co-used cocaine only, 5% co-used ATS only, 18% co-used both cocaine and ATS, 24% co-used neither stimulant. PWID who injected opioids alone had a mean RAB drug risk score of 5.98 points and sex risk score of 2.16 points. Compared to PWID who injected opioids alone, PWID who co-used stimulants had higher mean drug risk RAB scores: cocaine, b = 2.84 points [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.01; 4.67]; ATS, b = 3.43 points (95% CI 1.29; 5.57). Compared to PWID who injected opioids alone, cocaine co-use was associated with higher sex RAB scores b = 1.06 points (95% CI 0.32; 1.79). Overall, we found a significant association between stimulant co-use and higher HIV sex and drug risk scores.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raagini Jawa
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Boston Medical Center, 801 Massachusetts Ave, 2nd Floor, Boston, MA, 02118, USA.
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Michael D Stein
- Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Behavioral Medicine and Addictions Research, Butler Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Bradley Anderson
- Behavioral Medicine and Addictions Research, Butler Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Jane M Liebschutz
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Center for Research On Health Care, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | - Kristina T Phillips
- Center for Integrated Health Care Research, Kaiser Permanente Honolulu, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Joshua A Barocas
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Boston Medical Center, 801 Massachusetts Ave, 2nd Floor, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
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49
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Townsend T, Kline D, Rivera-Aguirre A, Bunting AM, Mauro PM, Marshall BDL, Martins SS, Cerdá M. Racial/Ethnic and Geographic Trends in Combined Stimulant/Opioid Overdoses, 2007-2019. Am J Epidemiol 2022; 191:599-612. [PMID: 35142341 PMCID: PMC9077116 DOI: 10.1093/aje/kwab290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
In the United States, combined stimulant/opioid overdose mortality has risen dramatically over the last decade. These increases may particularly affect non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic populations. We used death certificate data from the US National Center for Health Statistics (2007-2019) to compare state-level trends in overdose mortality due to opioids in combination with 1) cocaine and 2) methamphetamine and other stimulants (MOS) across racial/ethnic groups (non-Hispanic White, non-Hispanic Black, Hispanic, and non-Hispanic Asian American/Pacific Islander). To avoid unstable estimates from small samples, we employed principles of small area estimation and a Bayesian hierarchical model, enabling information-sharing across groups. Black Americans experienced severe and worsening mortality due to opioids in combination with both cocaine and MOS, particularly in eastern states. Cocaine/opioid mortality increased 575% among Black people versus 184% in White people (Black, 0.60 to 4.05 per 100,000; White, 0.49 to 1.39 per 100,000). MOS/opioid mortality rose 16,200% in Black people versus 3,200% in White people (Black, 0.01 to 1.63 per 100,000; White, 0.09 to 2.97 per 100,000). Cocaine/opioid overdose mortality rose sharply among Hispanic and Asian Americans. State-group heterogeneity highlighted the importance of data disaggregation and methods to address small sample sizes. Research to understand the drivers of these trends and expanded efforts to address them are needed, particularly in minoritized groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarlise Townsend
- Correspondence to Dr. Tarlise Townsend, Center for Opioid Epidemiology and Policy, Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, 180 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10016 (e-mail: )
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50
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Konefal S, Sherk A, Maloney-Hall B, Young M, Kent P, Biggar E. Polysubstance use poisoning deaths in Canada: an analysis of trends from 2014 to 2017 using mortality data. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:269. [PMID: 35144586 PMCID: PMC8830122 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-12678-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Over the past decade, rates of drug poisoning deaths have increased dramatically in Canada. Current evidence suggests that the non-medical use of synthetic opioids, stimulants and patterns of polysubstance use are major factors contributing to this increase. Methods Counts of substance poisoning deaths involving alcohol, opioids, other central nervous system (CNS) depressants, cocaine, and CNS stimulants excluding cocaine, were acquired from the Canadian Vital Statistics Death Database (CVSD) for the years 2014 to 2017. We used joinpoint regression analysis and the Cochrane-Armitage trend test for proportions to examine changes over time in crude mortality rates and proportions of poisoning deaths involving more than one substance. Results Between 2014 and 2017, the rate of substance poisoning deaths in Canada almost doubled from 6.4 to 11.5 deaths per 100,000 population (Average Annual Percent Change, AAPC: 23%, p < 0.05). Our analysis shows this was due to increased unintentional poisoning deaths (AAPC: 26.6%, p < 0.05) and polysubstance deaths (AAPC: 23.0%, p < 0.05). The proportion of unintentional poisoning deaths involving polysubstance use increased significantly from 38% to 58% among males (p < 0.0001) and 40% to 55% among females (p < 0.0001). Polysubstance use poisonings involving opioids and CNS stimulants (excluding cocaine) increased substantially during the study period (males AAPC: 133.1%, p < 0.01; females AAPC: 118.1%, p < 0.05). Conclusions Increases in substance-related poisoning deaths between 2014 and 2017 were associated with polysubstance use. Increased co-use of stimulants with opioids is a key factor contributing to the epidemic of opioid deaths in Canada. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-022-12678-z.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Konefal
- Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Adam Sherk
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, Victoria, B.C., Canada
| | | | - Matthew Young
- Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,Gambling Research Exchange Ontario, Guelph, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Psychology, Carleton University , Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Pam Kent
- Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Emily Biggar
- Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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