1
|
Feder KA, Byrne L, Miller SM, Sodder S, Saloner B. Beliefs and Attitudes about Vermont's Buprenorphine Decriminalization Law among Clinicians Who Prescribe Buprenorphine. Subst Use Misuse 2023; 59:150-153. [PMID: 37752786 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2023.2262014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND On June 1, 2021, Vermont repealed all criminal penalties for possessing 224 milligrams or less of buprenorphine. We examined the potential impact of decriminalization with a survey of Vermont clinicians who prescribed buprenorphine within the past year. METHODS All 638 Vermont clinicians with a waiver to prescribe buprenorphine were emailed the survey by Vermont Department of Health; 117 responded. We estimated the prevalence of the following four outcomes, for all responding clinicians and stratified by clinician demographics and practice characteristics: awareness of decriminalization, beliefs about the effects of decriminalization, support for decriminalization, and changes in practice resulting from decriminalization. RESULTS 72 (62%) prescribers correctly stated that Vermont does not have criminal penalties for buprenorphine possession. 107 (91%) support decriminalization. 56 (48%) believe that, because buprenorphine is decriminalized, their patients are more likely to give, sell, or trade the buprenorphine that is prescribed to them to someone else. However, only 5 providers (4%) said they now prescribe to fewer patients. CONCLUSION The great majority of Vermont clinicians who prescribe buprenorphine support its decriminalization and have not changed their prescribing practices because of decriminalization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth A Feder
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Lauren Byrne
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Samantha M Miller
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Shereen Sodder
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Brendan Saloner
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Grande LA, Cundiff D, Greenwald MK, Murray M, Wright TE, Martin SA. Evidence on Buprenorphine Dose Limits: A Review. J Addict Med 2023; 17:509-516. [PMID: 37788601 PMCID: PMC10547105 DOI: 10.1097/adm.0000000000001189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES As overdose deaths from fentanyl continue to increase, optimizing use of medications for opioid use disorder has become increasingly important. Buprenorphine is a highly effective medication for reducing the risk of overdose death, but only if a patient remains in treatment. Shared decision making between prescribers and patients is important to establish a dose that meets each patient's treatment needs. However, patients frequently face a dose limit of 16 or 24 mg/d based on dosing guidelines on the Food and Drug Administration's package label. METHODS This review discusses patient-centered goals and clinical criteria for determining dose adequacy, reviews the history of buprenorphine dose regulation in the United States, examines pharmacological and clinical research results with buprenorphine doses up to 32 mg/d, and evaluates whether diversion concerns justify maintaining a low buprenorphine dose limit. RESULTS Pharmacological and clinical research results consistently demonstrate buprenorphine's dose-dependent benefits up to at least 32 mg/d, including reductions in withdrawal symptoms, craving, opioid reward, and illicit use while improving retention in care. Diverted buprenorphine is most often used to treat withdrawal symptoms and reduce illicit opioid use when legal access to it is limited. CONCLUSIONS In light of established research and profound harms from fentanyl, the Food and Drug Administration's current recommendations on target dose and dose limit are outdated and causing harm. An update to the buprenorphine package label with recommended dosing up to 32 mg/d and elimination of the 16 mg/d target dose would improve treatment effectiveness and save lives.
Collapse
|
3
|
Scott G, Turner S, Lowry N, Hodge A, Ashraf W, McClean K, Kelleher M, Mitcheson L, Marsden J. Patients' perceptions of self-administered dosing to opioid agonist treatment and other changes during the COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative study. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e069857. [PMID: 36944465 PMCID: PMC10032386 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-069857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES During the COVID-19 pandemic, addiction treatment services received official guidance asking them to limit face-to-face contact with patients and to prescribe opioid agonist treatment (OAT) medication flexibly. With the aim for most patients to receive take-home supplies for self-administration rather than attendance for observed daily dosing. DESIGN This was a theory-driven, clinically applied qualitative study, with data for thematic analysis collected by semi-structured, audio-recorded, telephone interviews. PARTICIPANTS Twenty-seven adults (aged ≥18 years) enrolled in sublingual (tablet) buprenorphine and oral (liquid) methadone OAT. SETTING Community addictions centre in the London Borough of Lambeth operated by South London and Maudsley NHS Trust. RESULTS Three major themes were identified: (1) dissatisfaction and perceived stigma with OAT medication dispensing arrangements before the pandemic; (2) positive adaptations in response to COVID-19 by services; (3) participants recommended that, according to preference and evidence of adherence, OAT should be personalised to offer increasing medication supplies for self-administration from as early as 7 days after commencement of maintenance prescribing. CONCLUSIONS In an applied qualitative study of patients enrolled in OAT during the COVID-19 pandemic, participants endorsed their opportunity to take medication themselves at home and with virtual addiction support. Most patients described a preference for self-administration with increased dispensing supplies, from as early as 7 days into maintenance treatment, if they could demonstrate adherence to their prescription.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gemma Scott
- Lambeth Addiction, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Sophie Turner
- Lambeth Addiction, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Natalie Lowry
- Lambeth Addiction, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Department of Addictions, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Annette Hodge
- Lambeth Addiction, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Waniya Ashraf
- Lambeth Addiction, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Katie McClean
- Lambeth Addiction, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Mike Kelleher
- Lambeth Addiction, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Luke Mitcheson
- Lambeth Addiction, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - John Marsden
- Lambeth Addiction, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Department of Addictions, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Atkins N, Mukhida K. The relationship between patients’ income and education and their access to pharmacological chronic pain management: A scoping review. Can J Pain 2022; 6:142-170. [PMID: 36092247 PMCID: PMC9450907 DOI: 10.1080/24740527.2022.2104699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Atkins
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain Management and Perioperative Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Karim Mukhida
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain Management and Perioperative Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Adzrago D, Paola AD, Zhu J, Betancur A, Wilkerson JM. Association between Prescribers’ Perceptions of the Utilization of Medication for Opioid Use Disorder and Opioid Dependence Treatability. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10091733. [PMID: 36141345 PMCID: PMC9498711 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10091733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) has been proven to be effective, yet the perceptions or beliefs of prescribers of MOUD may have a substantial impact on their prescribing and dispensing of MOUD and their patients’ accessibility and utilization of MOUD services. We examined the associations of the perceptions of medical and pharmacy professionals regarding MOUD with sociodemographic characteristics, personal experiences with substance use disorders, and perceptions of opioid treatment. Method: Data were collected via telephone or online survey from March to August 2021, in Texas, to assess medical and pharmacy professionals’ perceptions of MOUD. Our sample included 542 participants who completed the survey. A multinomial logistic regression analysis was conducted to assess perceptions of MOUD, its use, and their correlates. Results: The participants had a mean age of 35 years (SD = 7.13) and had worked, on average, 6.90 years (SD = 5.37) in their current positions. The majority of the participants were males (50.93%) and medical professionals (82.01%). More than one third of the participants believed MOUD did not lead to abstinence or recovery (36.16%). Those who had personal experiences with a substance use disorder were more likely to believe that MOUD could be a replacement drug for previously misused substance(s) (RRR = 2.06, 95% CI = 1.19, 3.59) and that MOUD did not lead to abstinence or recovery (RRR = 2.34, 95% CI = 1.40, 3.91). However, the risk ratio values were lower for those who believed that a stigma against MOUD was a barrier for patients initiating and adhering to MOUD (MOUD is a replacement drug for previously misused substances (initiation RRR = 0.43, 95% CI = 0.19, 0.93 and adhering RRR = 0.30, 95% CI = 0.13, 0.71) or MOUD does not lead to abstinence or recovery (initiation RRR = 0.26, 95% CI = 0.13, 0.54 and adhering RRR = 0.36, 95% CI = 0.17, 0.78)). The various perceptions of the utilization of MOUD were not statistically different between medical and pharmacy professionals. Conclusion: Perceptions, experience with substance use disorder, and stigma against the utilization of MOUD influenced negative perceptions about MOUD. An innovative strategy is needed to improve medical and pharmacy professionals’ perceptions of MOUD, while efforts are being made to promote the use of MOUD for patients with opioid use disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Adzrago
- Center for Health Promotion and Prevention Research, CDC Prevention Research Center, School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Angela Di Paola
- AIDS Program, Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Jialing Zhu
- Center for Health Promotion and Prevention Research, CDC Prevention Research Center, School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Alejandro Betancur
- Center for Health Promotion and Prevention Research, CDC Prevention Research Center, School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - J. Michael Wilkerson
- Center for Health Promotion and Prevention Research, CDC Prevention Research Center, School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), Houston, TX 77030, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Janzow GE, Harding C, Flores M, Borodovsky J, Steinkamp J, Marsch LA, Schuman-Olivier Z. Assessing the feasibility, usability and acceptability of the MySafeRx platform among individuals in outpatient buprenorphine treatment: Lessons learned from a pilot randomized controlled trial. DRUG AND ALCOHOL DEPENDENCE REPORTS 2022; 3:100045. [PMID: 36845988 PMCID: PMC9949338 DOI: 10.1016/j.dadr.2022.100045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Background Increasing buprenorphine/naloxone (B/N) access for opioid use disorder (OUD) is essential yet ensuring adherence and preventing diversion remains challenging. This study examines the feasibility, usability, and acceptability of MySafeRx, a mobile platform integrating motivational coaching, adherence monitoring, and electronic dispensing during office-based B/N treatment. Methods In this multi-site randomized controlled trial, MySafeRx provided coaching and supervised self-administration of B/N by mobile recovery coaches (MRCs) via videoconference. Referred adults (ages 18-65) with OUD were randomized to 1) 42-days of adjunctive MySafeRx treatment (n = 13) or 2) a standard care control group (n = 14). Results The randomized sample was 63% female and 100% White. Twelve of 13 MySafeRx participants completed at least one MRC session. The mean system usability score reported by MySafeRx participants was 78.4 (n = 12). Participants indicated they would recommend MySafeRx to a friend (mean= 4.1 of 5), and that the dispenser (4.1 of 5) and videoconferencing (4.2 of 5) were easy to use. The MRC component had the highest acceptability (4.4 of 5). MRCs observed B/N self-administration for an average of 64.3% of the required study days (men: 68.9%; women: 57.9%). On average, men (n = 4) met with MRCs on 32±14 days versus 47±6 days for women (n = 8). Exploratory analyses did not show significant differences between intervention and control groups. Conclusions Despite the small sample, this study supports usability and acceptability of MySafeRx. Increased adherence monitoring, even with remote coaching had limited appeal, which impacted feasibility due to slow recruitment, especially as community prescribing with relaxed monitoring requirements became more widespread.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Grace E. Janzow
- Cambridge Health Alliance, Harvard Medical School, Department of Psychiatry, 1035 Cambridge Street, Suite 21A – CMC, Cambridge, MA 02141, United States
| | - Cassandra Harding
- Cambridge Health Alliance, Harvard Medical School, Department of Psychiatry, 1035 Cambridge Street, Suite 21A – CMC, Cambridge, MA 02141, United States
| | - Michael Flores
- Cambridge Health Alliance, Harvard Medical School, Department of Psychiatry, 1035 Cambridge Street, Suite 21A – CMC, Cambridge, MA 02141, United States
| | - Jacob Borodovsky
- Center for Technology and Behavioral Health, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College, EverGreen Center, Suite 315, NH 03766, Lebanon
| | - Jackson Steinkamp
- Cambridge Health Alliance, Harvard Medical School, Department of Psychiatry, 1035 Cambridge Street, Suite 21A – CMC, Cambridge, MA 02141, United States
| | - Lisa A. Marsch
- Center for Technology and Behavioral Health, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College, EverGreen Center, Suite 315, NH 03766, Lebanon
| | - Zev Schuman-Olivier
- Cambridge Health Alliance, Harvard Medical School, Department of Psychiatry, 1035 Cambridge Street, Suite 21A – CMC, Cambridge, MA 02141, United States
- Center for Technology and Behavioral Health, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College, EverGreen Center, Suite 315, NH 03766, Lebanon
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Video directly observed therapy for patients receiving office-based buprenorphine - A pilot randomized controlled trial. Drug Alcohol Depend 2021; 227:108917. [PMID: 34399136 PMCID: PMC8464515 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2021.108917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We conducted a pilot study to assess feasibility of using video directly-observed therapy (DOT) for patients initiating buprenorphine to evaluate whether it is associated with better opioid use disorder (OUD) outcomes when compared to treatment-as-usual (TAU). METHODS Pilot randomized controlled trial of adult patients with OUD initiating buprenorphine treatment (n = 78) at two sites (Seattle, WA and Boston, MA) from January 2019 to May 2020. Intervention was video DOT using a HIPAA-compliant smartphone application to record taking daily buprenorphine. Study smartphones, text reminders to upload a video, and calendar summaries of video DOT adherence were provided. Main outcomes were 1) percentage of 12 weekly urine drug tests (UDT) negative for illicit opioids and 2) engagement in treatment at week 12 (i.e., having an active prescription for buprenorphine within the last 7 days). RESULTS Of 78 enrolled, 20 (26 %) were female; 29 (37 %) non-white; and 31 (40 %) homeless. The mean (standard deviation) percentage of doses confirmed by video was 31 % (34 %). In intention-to-treat analysis, the average percentage of weekly opioid negative UDT was 50 % (95 % CI: 40-63 %) in the intervention arm versus 64 % (95 % CI: 55-74 %) among controls; RR = 0.78 (95 % CI: 0.60-1.02, p = 0.07). Engagement at week 12 was 69 % (95 % CI: 56-86 %) v. 82 % (95 % CI: 71-95 %) in the intervention vs. TAU arms, respectively; RR = 0.84 (95 % CI: 0.65-1.10, p = 0.20). CONCLUSIONS The video DOT intervention did not result in improvements in illicit opioid use and treatment engagement compared to TAU. The study was limited by low rates of intervention use. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrails.gov, NCT03779997, Registered on December 19, 2018.
Collapse
|
8
|
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research has shown that medications, especially opioid agonist treatments, are an effective way to treat opioid use disorder (OUD); however, negative attitudes held by health professionals contribute to their underutilization. Methods: A 23-year review of studies that examined health professionals' attitudes toward medications for OUD (MOUD) was conducted to describe the current state of knowledge and to inform future research and interventions. Results: Studies examined attitudes toward the use of methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone among various types of health professionals: prescribers, non-prescribing clinicians, pharmacists, and administrators. The characteristics and findings of the included studies were reviewed and synthesized. Findings indicate that attitudes toward MOUD affect access and utilization by influencing prescribing practices, referrals, and adoption within programs. Exposure, knowledge, and treatment orientation were found to be important factors related to attitudes toward MOUD across multiple studies of various types of health professionals. Conclusions: To increase access and utilization, continued efforts are needed to increase positive attitudes toward MOUD among various types of health professionals. Findings indicate that interventions should seek to increase knowledge about MOUD and foster interprofessional communication related to MOUD, especially between prescribers and behavioral health providers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aaron R Brown
- Department of Social Work, College of Health & Human Sciences, Western Carolina University, Cullowhee, North Carolina, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Elarabi HF, Shawky M, Mustafa N, Radwan D, Elarasheed A, Yousif Ali A, Osman M, Kashmar A, Al Kathiri H, Gawad T, Kodera A, Al Jneibi M, Adem A, Lee AJ, Marsden J. Effectiveness of incentivised adherence and abstinence monitoring in buprenorphine maintenance: a pragmatic, randomised controlled trial. Addiction 2021; 116:2398-2408. [PMID: 33404141 DOI: 10.1111/add.15394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Buprenorphine (BUP) maintenance treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD) begins with supervised daily dosing. We estimated the clinical effectiveness of a novel incentivised medication adherence and abstinence monitoring protocol in BUP maintenance to enable contingent access to increasing take-home medication supplies. DESIGN Two-arm, single-centre, pragmatic, randomised controlled trial of outpatient BUP maintenance, with during-treatment follow-ups at 4 weeks, 8 weeks, 12 weeks and 16 weeks. SETTING Inpatient and outpatient addictions treatment centre in the United Arab Emirates. PARTICIPANTS Adults with OUD, voluntarily seeking treatment. INTERVENTIONS The experimental condition was 16 weeks BUP maintenance with incentivised adherence and abstinence monitoring (I-AAM) giving contingent access to 7-day, then 14-day, then 21-day and 28-day medication supply. The control, treatment-as-usual (TAU) was 16 weeks BUP maintenance, with contingent access to 7-day then 14-day supply. MEASUREMENTS The primary outcome was number of negative urine drug screens (UDS) for opioids, with non-attendance or otherwise missed UDS, imputed as positive for opioids. The secondary outcome was retention in treatment (continuous enrolment to the 16-week endpoint). FINDINGS Of 182 patients screened, 171 were enrolled and 141 were randomly assigned to I-AAM (70 [49.6%]) and to TAU (71 [50.4%]. Follow-up rates at 4 weeks, 8 weeks, 12 weeks and 16 weeks were 91.4%, 85.7%, 71.0%, 60.0% respectively in I-AAM and 84.5%, 83.1%, 69.0%, 56.3% in TAU. By intention-to-treat, the absolute difference in percentage negative UDS for opioids was 76.7% (SD = 25.0%) in I-AAM versus 63.5% (SD = 34.7%) in TAU (mean difference = 13.3%; 95% CI = 3.2%-23.3%; Cohen's d = 0.44; 95% CI = 0.10-0.87). In I-AAM, 40 participants (57.1%) were retained versus 33 (46.4%) in TAU (odds ratio = 1.54; 95% CI = 0.79-2.98). CONCLUSIONS Buprenorphine maintenance with incentivised therapeutic drug monitoring to enable contingent access to increasing take-home medication supplies increased abstinence from opioids compared with buprenorphine maintenance treatment-as-usual, but it did not appear to increase treatment retention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hesham Farouk Elarabi
- National Rehabilitation Centre, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.,Addictions Department, Division of Academic Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, UK
| | - Mansour Shawky
- National Rehabilitation Centre, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.,Department of Neuropsychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Assuit University, Egypt
| | - Nael Mustafa
- National Rehabilitation Centre, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Doaa Radwan
- National Rehabilitation Centre, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.,Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Ain Shams University, Egypt
| | | | | | - Mona Osman
- World Health Organization, Eastern Mediterranean Regional Office, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Kashmar
- National Rehabilitation Centre, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Tarek Gawad
- National Rehabilitation Centre, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.,Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Egypt
| | - Ayman Kodera
- National Rehabilitation Centre, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Abdu Adem
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, P.O.Box 127788, Abu Dhabi, United Arab, Emirates
| | - Amanda J Lee
- Medical Statistics Team, University of Aberdeen, UK
| | - John Marsden
- Addictions Department, Division of Academic Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Gandhi P, Rouhani S, Park JN, Urquhart GJ, Allen ST, Morales KB, Green TC, Sherman SG. Alternative use of buprenorphine among people who use opioids in three U.S. Cities. Subst Abus 2021; 43:364-370. [PMID: 34214403 PMCID: PMC11216848 DOI: 10.1080/08897077.2021.1942395] [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: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Background: Buprenorphine is an effective treatment for opioid use disorder, yet some persons are concerned with its "alternative use" (i.e., any use unintended by the prescriber). There is limited evidence on the factors associated with alternative use of buprenorphine (AUB); in this study, we examined correlates of recent (past 6 months) AUB. Methods: Multivariable logistic regression was used to analyze survey data from a multi-site, cross-sectional study of people who use drugs (PWUD) (N = 334) in Baltimore, Maryland; Boston, Massachusetts; and Providence, Rhode Island. Results: One-fifth (20%) of the sample reported recent AUB. In adjusted analyses, significant negative correlates of AUB were female gender (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.48, 95% confidence intervals [CI] 0.24-0.95), recent emergency room visit (aOR 0.45, 95% CI 0.23-0.89), and recent injection drug use (aOR 0.41, 95% CI 0.19-0.88). Significant positive correlates were alternative use of other prescription opioids (aOR 8.32, 95% CI 4.22-16.38), three or more overdoses in the past year (aOR 3.74, 95% CI 1.53-9.17), recent buprenorphine use as prescribed (aOR 2.50, 95% CI 1.12-5.55), and recent residential rehabilitation treatment (aOR 3.71, 95% CI 1.50-9.16). Conclusions: Structural and behavioral correlates of AUB may help identify PWUD at high risk of overdose with unmet treatment needs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Priyal Gandhi
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Saba Rouhani
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Ju Nyeong Park
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Glenna J. Urquhart
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Sean T. Allen
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Kenneth B. Morales
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Traci C. Green
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI
- COBRE on Opioids and Overdose at Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI; Opioid Policy Research Collaborative, Heller School of Social Policy and Management, Brandeis University, Waltham, MA, United States
| | - Susan G. Sherman
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Andraka-Christou B, Totaram R, Randall-Kosich O. Stigmatization of medications for opioid use disorder in 12-step support groups and participant responses. Subst Abus 2021; 43:415-424. [PMID: 34214400 DOI: 10.1080/08897077.2021.1944957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Background: 12-step groups are the most common approach to managing opioid use disorder (OUD) in the U.S. Medications for OUD (MOUD) are the most effective tool for preventing opioid misuse and relapse. Previous research has identified stigma of MOUD in 12-step groups. Objectives: We sought to identify how MOUD stigma is operationalized in 12-step groups and to identify responses to stigma. Methods: We recruited individuals with both MOUD experience and 12-step group experience from three syringe exchange programs in the U.S. using snowball sampling. We conducted individual telephone semi-structured interviews during 2018 and 2019. We coded data in Dedoose software and conducted thematic analysis using iterative categorization. Results: We recruited 30 individuals meeting our inclusion criteria. The following stigma operationalization methods were identified: prohibiting people using MOUD from speaking at meetings; encouraging shortened duration of MOUD treatment; refusing to sponsor people using MOUD; and refusing to let people using MOUD claim recovery time. Responses to stigma included the following: feeling shame; feeling anger; shopping around for different groups, leaving the group, or forming a new group; not revealing MOUD utilization or only telling a sponsor; speaking out on behalf of MOUD; and using cognitive approaches to avoid stigma internalization. Cognitive approaches included believing that anti-MOUD stigma is contrary to 12-step principles; disregarding statements as inaccurate based on one's experience of MOUD benefits; and accepting that all groups of humans have some ignorant people. Conclusion: Healthcare systems should help address MOUD stigma experienced by patients in 12-step groups, such as by offering non-12-step alternative groups and encouraging MOUD healthcare providers to prepare patients for potential stigma they may face. Some stigma response options, like shopping around for different groups, may not be feasible in rural areas or for participants newer to recovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Andraka-Christou
- Department of Health Management and Informatics, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, USA.,Department of Internal Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, USA
| | - Rachel Totaram
- Department of Health Management and Informatics, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Cioe K, Biondi BE, Easly R, Simard A, Zheng X, Springer SA. A systematic review of patients' and providers' perspectives of medications for treatment of opioid use disorder. J Subst Abuse Treat 2020; 119:108146. [PMID: 33138929 PMCID: PMC7609980 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsat.2020.108146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Revised: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The opioid epidemic is a public health crisis. Medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) include: 1) buprenorphine, 2) methadone, and 3) extended-release naltrexone (XR-NTX). Research should investigate patients' and providers' perspectives of MOUD since they can influence prescription, retention, and recovery. METHODS This systematic review focused on patients' and providers' perceptions of MOUD. The review eligibility criteria included inclusion of the outcome of interest, in English, and involving persons ≥18 years. A PubMed database search yielded 1692 results; we included 152 articles in the final review. RESULTS There were 63 articles about buprenorphine, 115 articles about methadone, and 16 about naltrexone. Misinformation and stigma associated with MOUD were common patient themes. Providers reported lack of training and resources as barriers to MOUD. CONCLUSION This review suggests that patients have significant misinformation regarding MOUD. Due to the severity of the opioid epidemic, research must consider the effects of patients' and providers' perspectives on treatment for OUD, including the effects on the type of MOUD prescribed, patient retention and adherence, and ultimately the number of patients treated for OUD, which will aid in curbing the opioid epidemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katharine Cioe
- Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine, 370 Bassett Road, North Haven, CT 06473, United States of America
| | - Breanne E Biondi
- Yale School of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, AIDS Program, United States of America
| | - Rebecca Easly
- Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine, 370 Bassett Road, North Haven, CT 06473, United States of America
| | - Amanda Simard
- Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine, 370 Bassett Road, North Haven, CT 06473, United States of America
| | - Xiao Zheng
- Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, United States of America
| | - Sandra A Springer
- Yale School of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, AIDS Program, United States of America; Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, Yale University School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, United States of America.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Jacobson N, Horst J, Wilcox-Warren L, Toy A, Knudsen HK, Brown R, Haram E, Madden L, Molfenter T. Organizational Facilitators and Barriers to Medication for Opioid Use Disorder Capacity Expansion and Use. J Behav Health Serv Res 2020; 47:439-448. [PMID: 32347426 PMCID: PMC7578054 DOI: 10.1007/s11414-020-09706-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) is a key strategy for addressing the opioid use disorder crisis, yet gaps in MOUD provision impede this strategy's benefits. The research reported here sought to understand what distinguishes low- and high-performing organizations in building and using capacity to provide MOUD. As part of a mixed methods MOUD implementation trial, semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted with personnel from low- and high-performing MOUD-providing organizations. Seventeen individuals from 17 organizations were interviewed. Findings demonstrate the importance of individual, organization, and community-level factors in supporting the building and use of MOUD capacity. Low- and high-performing organizations showed different patterns of facilitators and barriers during the implementation process. The key difference between low- and high-performing organizations was the level of organizational functioning. A better understanding of an organization's assets and deficits at the individual, organizational, and community levels would allow decision-makers to tailor their approaches to MOUD implementation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nora Jacobson
- University of Wisconsin, Institute for Clinical and Translational Research, Signe Skott Cooper Hall, 701 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI, 53703, USA.
| | - Julie Horst
- University of Wisconsin Center for Health Enhancement Systems Studies, Mechanical Engineering Building, 1513 University Ave, Madison, WI, 53703, USA
| | - Liam Wilcox-Warren
- University of Wisconsin Center for Health Enhancement Systems Studies, Mechanical Engineering Building, 1513 University Ave, Madison, WI, 53703, USA
| | - Alex Toy
- University of Wisconsin Center for Health Enhancement Systems Studies, Mechanical Engineering Building, 1513 University Ave, Madison, WI, 53703, USA
| | - Hannah K Knudsen
- Robert Straus Behavioral Science Laboratory, University of Kentucky, 845 Angliana Avenue, Lexington, KY, 40508, USA
| | - Randy Brown
- University of Wisconsin Center for Health Enhancement Systems Studies, Mechanical Engineering Building, 1513 University Ave, Madison, WI, 53703, USA
| | - Eric Haram
- Haram Counseling, 66 Baribeau Dr Ste 8, Brunswick, ME, 04011, USA
| | - Lynn Madden
- Yale School of Medicine, APT Foundation, One Long Wharf Drive, Suite 321, New Haven, CT, 06511, USA
| | - Todd Molfenter
- University of Wisconsin Center for Health Enhancement Systems Studies, Mechanical Engineering Building, 1513 University Ave, Madison, WI, 53703, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Schramm ZA, Leroux BG, Radick AC, Ventura AS, Klein JW, Samet JH, Saxon AJ, Kim TW, Tsui JI. Video directly observed therapy intervention using a mobile health application among opioid use disorder patients receiving office-based buprenorphine treatment: protocol for a pilot randomized controlled trial. Addict Sci Clin Pract 2020; 15:30. [PMID: 32736660 PMCID: PMC7393902 DOI: 10.1186/s13722-020-00203-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Office-based buprenorphine treatment of opioid use disorder (OUD) does not typically include in-person directly observed therapy (DOT), potentially leading to non-adherence. Video DOT technologies may safeguard against this issue and thus enhance likelihood of treatment success. We describe the rationale and protocol for the Trial of Adherence Application for Buprenorphine treatment (TAAB) study, a pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) to evaluate the effects of video DOT delivered via a smartphone app on office-based buprenorphine treatment outcomes, namely illicit opioid use and retention. METHODS Participants will be recruited from office-based opioid addiction treatment programs in outpatient clinics at two urban medical centers and randomized to either video DOT (intervention) delivered via a HIPAA-compliant, asynchronous, mobile health (mHealth) technology platform, or treatment-as-usual (control). Eligibility criteria are: 18 years or older, prescribed sublingual buprenorphine for a cumulative total of 28 days or less from the office-based opioid treatment program, and able to read and understand English. Patients will be considered ineligible if they are unable or unwilling to use the intervention, provide consent, or complete weekly study visits. All participants will complete 13 in-person weekly visits and be followed via electronic health record data capture at 12- and 24-weeks post-randomization. Data gathered include the following: demographics; current and previous treatment for OUD; self-reported diversion of prescribed buprenorphine; status of their mental and physical health; and self-reported lifetime and past 30-day illicit substance use. Participants provide urine samples at each weekly visit to test for illicit drugs and buprenorphine. The primary outcome is percentage of weekly urines that are negative for opioids over the 12-weeks. The secondary outcome is engagement in treatment at week 12. DISCUSSION Video DOT delivered through mHealth technology platform offers possibility of improving patients' buprenorphine adherence by providing additional structure and accountability. The TAAB study will provide important preliminary estimates of the impact of this mHealth technology for patients initiating buprenorphine, as well as the feasibility of study procedures, thus paving the way for further research to assess feasibility and generate preliminary data for design of a future Phase III trial. Trial Registration ClinicalTrails.gov, NCT03779997, Registered on December 19, 2018.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zachery A Schramm
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Mailbox 359780, 325 Ninth Avenue, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA
| | - Brian G Leroux
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Andrea C Radick
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Mailbox 359780, 325 Ninth Avenue, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Alicia S Ventura
- Clinical Addiction Research and Education (CARE) Unit, Section of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jared W Klein
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Mailbox 359780, 325 Ninth Avenue, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA
| | - Jeffrey H Samet
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Clinical Addiction Research and Education (CARE) Unit, Section of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Andrew J Saxon
- Center of Excellence in Substance Abuse Treatment and Education, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - 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, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Judith I Tsui
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Mailbox 359780, 325 Ninth Avenue, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Richard EL, Schalkoff CA, Piscalko HM, Brook DL, Sibley AL, Lancaster KE, Miller WC, Go VF. "You are not clean until you're not on anything": Perceptions of medication-assisted treatment in rural Appalachia. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2020; 85:102704. [PMID: 32173274 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2020.102704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Revised: 01/19/2020] [Accepted: 02/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is an evidence-based strategy to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). However, MAT-related stigma reduces MAT uptake, which is particularly low in rural areas. To date, perceptions and attitudes towards MAT in rural settings have not been described. OBJECTIVE This qualitative study aims to characterize perceptions and attitudes towards MAT and the environmental factors contributing to these views in Appalachian Ohio. METHODS From February to July 2018, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 34 stakeholders (12 healthcare professionals, 12 substance use treatment providers, 7 law enforcement agents and judicial officials, and 3 members of relevant organizations) in three rural counties in Appalachian Ohio. Interviews were transcribed, coded, and analyzed to characterize the risk environment and participants' perceptions and attitudes towards MAT. RESULTS Participants expressed or described pervasive MAT-related stigma in the region. Participants consistently described three elements of the environment affecting stigma: (1) a "conservative" culture in which abstinence is necessary to be in recovery successfully, (2) fear of medication diversion and abuse, and (3) drug court policies that keep MAT out of the criminal justice system. CONCLUSION MAT-related stigma will need to be addressed to tackle the opioid epidemic through evidence-based treatment effectively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emma L Richard
- Division of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.
| | - Christine A Schalkoff
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Hannah M Piscalko
- Division of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Daniel L Brook
- Division of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Adams L Sibley
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Kathryn E Lancaster
- Division of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - William C Miller
- Division of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Vivian F Go
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Andrilla CHA, Jones KC, Patterson DG. Prescribing Practices of Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants Waivered to Prescribe Buprenorphine and the Barriers They Experience Prescribing Buprenorphine. J Rural Health 2020; 36:187-195. [DOI: 10.1111/jrh.12404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- C. Holly A. Andrilla
- WWAMI Rural Health Research CenterDepartment of Family MedicineUniversity of Washington School of Medicine Seattle Washington
| | - Kendall C. Jones
- WWAMI Rural Health Research CenterDepartment of Family MedicineUniversity of Washington School of Medicine Seattle Washington
| | - Davis G. Patterson
- WWAMI Rural Health Research CenterDepartment of Family MedicineUniversity of Washington School of Medicine Seattle Washington
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Chen J. Therapy without a prescription: buprenorphine/naloxone diversion and the therapeutic assemblage in Taiwan. SOCIOLOGY OF HEALTH & ILLNESS 2020; 42:596-609. [PMID: 31837048 PMCID: PMC7079079 DOI: 10.1111/1467-9566.13045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Buprenorphine/naloxone (B/N) therapy is a prescription pharmacotherapy for opioid dependence. For certain health service providers, when B/N escapes supervision and diverts into the hands of people for whom it is unintended, it can pose serious risks even if it may still have therapeutic benefits. The line between therapy and diversion is thus a problematic one. By qualitatively analysing archival review and in-depth interviews, this study uses the concept of a therapeutic assemblage to understand the relationships among government, knowledge, and professionals that surround the regulation of B/N in Taiwan. The therapeutic assemblage is characterised by the partitioning of administration, the loose regulation of prescription, the exclusion of addiction treatment from National Health Insurance (NHI), and the materiality and technicality of therapies. These elements contribute to the therapeutic assemblage's different territorial modes as reflected in the substance schedules that allow for diversion. This is the first grounded work in Asia that empirically examines and theoretically explains the diversion of B/N from an assemblage perspective. It suggests establishing new associations by incorporating addiction treatment into NHI. Lastly, it addresses the analytic purchase of the assemblage approach in unveiling and problematising unintended outcomes of an intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jia‐shin Chen
- Institute of Science, Technology and SocietyNational Yang‐Ming UniversityTaipeiTaiwan
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Lapham G, Boudreau DM, Johnson EA, Bobb JF, Matthews AG, McCormack J, Liu D, Samet JH, Saxon AJ, Campbell CI, Glass JE, Rossom RC, Murphy MT, Binswanger IA, Yarborough BJH, Bradley KA, Ahmedani B, Amoroso PJ, Arnsten JH, Bart G, Braciszewski JM, Cunningham CO, Hechter RC, Horigian VE, Liebschutz JM, Loree AM, Matson TE, McNeely J, Merrill JO, Northrup TF, Schwartz RP, Stotts AL, Szapocznik J, Thakral M, Tsui JI, Zare M. Prevalence and treatment of opioid use disorders among primary care patients in six health systems. Drug Alcohol Depend 2020; 207:107732. [PMID: 31835068 PMCID: PMC7158756 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2019.107732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2019] [Revised: 10/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The U.S. experienced nearly 48,000 opioid overdose deaths in 2017. Treatment of opioid use disorder (OUD) with buprenorphine is a recommended part of primary care, yet little is known about current U.S. practices in this setting. This observational study reports the prevalence of documented OUD and OUD treatment with buprenorphine among primary care patients in six large health systems. METHODS Adults with ≥2 primary care visits during a three-year period (10/1/2013-9/30/2016) in six health systems were included. Data were obtained from electronic health record and claims data, with measures, assessed over the three-year period, including indicators for documented OUD from ICD 9 and 10 codes and OUD treatment with buprenorphine. The prevalence of OUD treatment was adjusted for age, gender, race/ethnicity, and health system. RESULTS Among 1,368,604 primary care patients, 13,942 (1.0 %) had documented OUD, and among these, 21.0 % had OUD treatment with buprenorphine. For those with documented OUD, the adjusted prevalence of OUD treatment with buprenorphine varied across demographic and clinical subgroups. OUD treatment was lower among patients who were older, women, Black/African American and Hispanic (compared to white), non-commercially insured, and those with non-cancer pain, mental health disorders, greater comorbidity, and more opioid prescriptions, emergency department visits or hospitalizations. CONCLUSIONS Among primary care patients in six health systems, one in five with an OUD were treated with buprenorphine, with disparities across demographic and clinical characteristics. Less buprenorphine treatment among those with greater acute care utilization highlights an opportunity for systems-level changes to increase OUD treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gwen Lapham
- Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute, United States; University of Washington, Department of Health Services, United States.
| | - Denise M Boudreau
- Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute.,University of Washington Department of Pharmacy
| | | | | | | | | | - David Liu
- National Institute on Drug Abuse Center for Clinical Trials Network
| | - Jeffrey H Samet
- Boston University & Boston Medical Center Department of Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine
| | - Andrew J Saxon
- Veteran Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System Center of Excellence in Substance Abuse Treatment and Education.,University of Washington Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences
| | | | - Joseph E Glass
- Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute.,University of Washington Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences
| | | | - Mark T Murphy
- Multicare Health System MultiCare Tacoma Central Family Medicine
| | - Ingrid A Binswanger
- Kaiser Permanente Colorado Institute for Health Research.,Colorado Permanente Medical Group, Denver, Colorado
| | | | - Katharine A Bradley
- Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute.,University of Washington Department of Health Services.,University of Washington Department of Medicine
| | - Brian Ahmedani
- Henry Ford Health System Center for Health Policy & Health Services Research
| | - Paul J Amoroso
- Multicare Health System MultiCare Institute for Research and Innovation
| | - Julia H Arnsten
- Montefiore Medical Center Department of Medicine.,Montefiore Medical Center Division of General Internal Medicine.,Albert Einstein College of Medicine Department of Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine
| | | | | | - Chinazo O Cunningham
- Montefiore Medical Center Department of Medicine.,Albert Einstein College of Medicine Department of Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine
| | - Rulin C Hechter
- Kaiser Permanente Southern California Department of Research and Evaluation
| | - Viviana E Horigian
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Department of Public Health Sciences
| | - Jane M Liebschutz
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine Division of General Internal Medicine, Center for Research on Health Care
| | - Amy M Loree
- Henry Ford Health System Center for Health Policy & Health Services Research
| | | | - Jennifer McNeely
- New York University School of Medicine, Department of Population Health and Department of Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine and Clinical Innovation
| | | | - Thomas F Northrup
- McGovern Medical School at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
| | | | - Angela L Stotts
- McGovern Medical School at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
| | - José Szapocznik
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Department of Public Health Sciences
| | - Manu Thakral
- University of Massachusetts Boston College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Judith I Tsui
- University of Washington Division of General Internal Medicine
| | - Mohammad Zare
- McGovern Medical School at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Sokol R, Albanese M, Chew A, Early J, Grossman E, Roll D, Sawin G, Wu DJ, Schuman-Olivier Z. Building a Group-Based Opioid Treatment (GBOT) blueprint: a qualitative study delineating GBOT implementation. Addict Sci Clin Pract 2019; 14:47. [PMID: 31882001 PMCID: PMC6935085 DOI: 10.1186/s13722-019-0176-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Group-Based Opioid Treatment (GBOT) has recently emerged as a mechanism for treating patients with opioid use disorder (OUD) in the outpatient setting. However, the more practical "how to" components of successfully delivering GBOT has received little attention in the medical literature, potentially limiting its widespread implementation and utilization. Building on a previous case series, this paper delineates the key components to implementing GBOT by asking: (a) What are the core components to GBOT implementation, and how are they defined? (b) What are the malleable components to GBOT implementation, and what conceptual framework should providers use in determining how to apply these components for effective delivery in their unique clinical environment? METHODS To create a blueprint delineating GBOT implementation, we integrated findings from a previously conducted and separately published systematic review of existing GBOT studies, conducted additional literature review, reviewed best practice recommendations and policies related to GBOT and organizational frameworks for implementing health systems change. We triangulated this data with a qualitative thematic analysis from 5 individual interviews and 2 focus groups representing leaders from 5 different GBOT programs across our institution to identify the key components to GBOT implementation, distinguish "core" and "malleable" components, and provide a conceptual framework for considering various options for implementing the malleable components. RESULTS We identified 6 core components to GBOT implementation that optimize clinical outcomes, comply with mandatory policies and regulations, ensure patient and staff safety, and promote sustainability in delivery. These included consistent group expectations, team-based approach to care, safe and confidential space, billing compliance, regular monitoring, and regular patient participation. We identified 14 malleable components and developed a novel conceptual framework that providers can apply when deciding how to employ each malleable component that considers empirical, theoretical and practical dimensions. CONCLUSION While further research on the effectiveness of GBOT and its individual implementation components is needed, the blueprint outlined here provides an initial framework to help office-based opioid treatment sites implement a successful GBOT approach and hence potentially serve as future study sites to establish efficacy of the model. This blueprint can also be used to continuously monitor how components of GBOT influence treatment outcomes, providing an empirical framework for the ongoing process of refining implementation strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Randi Sokol
- Malden Family Medicine Center, 195 Canal St, Malden, MA 02148 USA
| | - Mark Albanese
- Outpatient Addiction Services, 26 Central St, Somerville, MA 02143 USA
| | - Aaronson Chew
- Malden Family Medicine Center, 195 Canal St, Malden, MA 02148 USA
| | - Jessica Early
- Malden Family Medicine Center, 195 Canal St, Malden, MA 02148 USA
| | - Ellie Grossman
- Somerville Hospital Primary Care, 236 Highland Avenue, Somerville, MA 02143 USA
| | - David Roll
- Revere Care Center, 454 Broadway, Revere, MA 02151 USA
| | - Greg Sawin
- Malden Family Medicine Center, 195 Canal St, Malden, MA 02148 USA
| | - Dominic J. Wu
- Malden Family Medicine Center, 195 Canal St, Malden, MA 02148 USA
| | - Zev Schuman-Olivier
- Center for Mindfulness and Compassion, 1035 Cambridge Street, Suite 21, Cambridge, MA 02141 USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Leece P, Khorasheh T, Corace K, Strike C, Bayoumi AM, Taha S, Marks E, Pach B, Ahamad K, Grennell E, Holowaty M, Manson H, Straus SE. Barriers and facilitators to buprenorphine use for opioid agonist treatment: protocol for a scoping review. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e032285. [PMID: 31843837 PMCID: PMC6924699 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-032285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In the context of the opioid crisis in North America, the benefits of evidence-based opioid agonist treatments such as buprenorphine/naloxone have not been optimised due to low uptake. Numerous factors contribute to the underuse of buprenorphine, and theory-informed approaches to identify and address implementation barriers and facilitators are needed. This scoping review aims to characterise the barriers and facilitators at the patient, healthcare professional, organisation and system level according to the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF), and identify gaps to inform practice and policy. METHODS AND ANALYSIS We will conduct a scoping review using established methods and follow the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for scoping reviews. We will identify English and French-language peer-reviewed literature by searching five electronic bibliographic databases (MEDLINE, Embase, PsychINFO, CINAHL, and SocINDEX), from inception and use Google, websites of key organisations, and two or more custom search engines to identify relevant grey literature. Eligible records will be quantitative or qualitative studies that examine barriers and facilitators to buprenorphine use at the patient, healthcare professional, organisation and system level, and involve participants with diagnosis of opioid use disorder or professionals involved in their care. Two reviewers will be involved in independently screening, reviewing and charting the data and calibration exercises will be conducted at each stage. We will conduct descriptive analysis for the charted data, and deductively code barriers and facilitators using the TDF. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION As a scoping review of the literature, this study does not require ethics approval. Our dissemination strategy will focus on developing tailored activities to meet the needs of diverse knowledge user audiences. Barriers and facilitators mapped to the TDF can be linked to evidence-based strategies for change to improve buprenorphine use and access, and enable practice to reduce opioid-related harms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Leece
- Health Promotion, Chronic Disease and Injury Prevention, Public Health Ontario, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Triti Khorasheh
- Health Promotion, Chronic Disease and Injury Prevention, Public Health Ontario, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kimberly Corace
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Carol Strike
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ahmed M Bayoumi
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sheena Taha
- Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Elisabeth Marks
- Knowledge Services, Public Health Ontario, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Beata Pach
- Knowledge Services, Public Health Ontario, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Keith Ahamad
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Erin Grennell
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Melissa Holowaty
- Department of Family Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Heather Manson
- Health Promotion, Chronic Disease and Injury Prevention, Public Health Ontario, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sharon E Straus
- Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Buprenorphine in the United States: Motives for abuse, misuse, and diversion. J Subst Abuse Treat 2019; 104:148-157. [PMID: 31370979 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsat.2019.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2018] [Revised: 07/11/2019] [Accepted: 07/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Opioid use disorder (OUD) and its consequences are a major public health concern. The partial agonist buprenorphine is a safe and effective treatment for OUD, but concerns about abuse, misuse, and diversion of buprenorphine have been raised. This narrative review examined the rates and motives for use of illicit buprenorphine in the United States. Findings from the 17 included studies suggest the majority of study participants using illicit buprenorphine do so for reasons related to misuse (to manage opioid withdrawal symptoms or achieve or maintain abstinence from other opioids). A smaller percentage of study respondents reported using buprenorphine for reasons related to abuse (to get high). There appears to be a gap between need for buprenorphine and access to adequate treatment. Attenuation of policy-related barriers and adoption of appropriate buprenorphine use by the treatment community are critical tools in the continued effort to reduce the burdens associated with OUD.
Collapse
|
22
|
Lin LA, Lofwall MR, Walsh SL, Gordon AJ, Knudsen HK. Perceptions and practices addressing diversion among US buprenorphine prescribers. Drug Alcohol Depend 2018; 186:147-153. [PMID: 29573649 PMCID: PMC5911230 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2018.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2017] [Revised: 01/22/2018] [Accepted: 01/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While there has been a dramatic increase in prescribing of buprenorphine for the treatment of opioid use disorder in the US, little is known about prescribers' attitudes and practices regarding buprenorphine diversion and how they relate to prescriber characteristics. METHODS A national random sample of buprenorphine prescribers (N = 1174) completed surveys from July 2014 to January 2017. Analyses examined relationships between prescriber and practice characteristics and prescriber perceptions and approaches regarding diversion. RESULTS Among this sample of buprenorphine prescribers, 79.0% (N = 898) reported assessing all patients for risk of buprenorphine diversion and misuse. A third of prescribers described diversion as a significant or very significant concern in their community. The majority of prescribers reported seeing patients on average at least every other week during the first 60 days of treatment, and the majority reported testing urine for buprenorphine to assess for diversion. Perceptions of diversion being a greater problem in their community (AOR 1.212, 95% CI 1.073-1.369) and use of medication counts (AOR 1.006, 95% CI 1.003-1.009) were associated with increased likelihood of terminating patients when diversion was suspected, while having expertise in addiction (AOR 0.526, 95% CI 0.406-0.682) or psychiatry (AOR 0.714, 95% CI 0.558-0.914) were associated with decreased odds of terminating treatment for suspected diversion. CONCLUSIONS Buprenorphine prescribers report diversion is an important issue, and most prescribers report that they assess patients for diversion, though specific practices differ based on prescriber and practice characteristics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lewei Allison Lin
- University of Michigan, Department of Psychiatry, 2800 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; VA Center for Clinical Management Research (CCMR), Department of Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, 2800 Plymouth Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
| | - Michelle R Lofwall
- University of Kentucky, Department of Behavioral Science and Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, 845 Angliana Avenue, Lexington, KY 40508, USA
| | - Sharon L Walsh
- University of Kentucky, Department of Behavioral Science and Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, 845 Angliana Avenue, Lexington, KY 40508, USA
| | - Adam J Gordon
- University of Utah, Division of Epidemiology, Department of Medicine, 295 Chipeta Way, Salt Lake City UT 84132, USA; VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, Informatics, Decision-Enhancement and Analytic Sciences Center (IDEAS 2.0) and Section of Addiction Medicine, 500 Foothill Drive, Salt Lake City, UT 84148, USA
| | - Hannah K Knudsen
- University of Kentucky, Department of Behavioral Science and Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, 845 Angliana Avenue, Lexington, KY 40508, USA
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Hagemeier NE, Tudiver F, Brewster S, Hagy EJ, Ratliff B, Hagaman A, Pack RP. Interprofessional prescription opioid abuse communication among prescribers and pharmacists: A qualitative analysis. Subst Abus 2017; 39:89-94. [PMID: 28799863 DOI: 10.1080/08897077.2017.1365803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prescribers and community pharmacists commonly perceive prescription opioid abuse to be a problem in their practice settings and communities. Both cohorts have expressed support for interventions that improve interprofessional communication and reduce prescription opioid abuse. The objective of this study was to describe prescription opioid abuse-related communication among and between prescribers and community pharmacists in South Central Appalachia. METHODS The investigators conducted five focus groups with 35 Appalachian Research Network practice-based research network providers between February and October, 2014. Two prescriber-specific, two pharmacist-specific, and one interprofessional (prescribers and pharmacists) focus groups were conducted, recorded, and transcribed. Data collection and analysis occurred iteratively. Emerging themes were inductively derived and refined. Five member-checking interviews were conducted to validate themes. RESULTS Providers noted several factors that influence intraprofessional and interprofessional communication, including level of trust, role perceptions, conflict history and avoidance, personal relationships, and prescription monitoring program use. Indirect communication approaches via patients, office staff, and voicemail systems were common. Direct pharmacist to prescriber and prescriber to pharmacist communication was described as rare and often perceived to be ineffective. Prescriber to pharmacist communication was reported by prescribers to have decreased after implementation of state prescription monitoring programs. Difficult or uncomfortable conversations were often avoided by providers. CONCLUSIONS Interprofessional and intraprofessional prescription opioid abuse communication is situational and influenced by multiple factors. Indirect communication and communication avoidance are common. Themes identified in this study can inform development of interventions that improve providers' intra- and interprofessional communication skills.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas E Hagemeier
- a Department of Pharmacy Practice , East Tennessee State University Gatton College of Pharmacy , Johnson City , Tennessee , USA
| | - Fred Tudiver
- b Department of Family Medicine , East Tennessee State University Quillen College of Medicine , Johnson City , Tennessee , USA
| | - Scott Brewster
- c Department of Pharmacy Practice , East Tennessee State University Gatton College of Pharmacy , Johnson City , Tennessee , USA
| | - Elizabeth J Hagy
- c Department of Pharmacy Practice , East Tennessee State University Gatton College of Pharmacy , Johnson City , Tennessee , USA
| | - Brittany Ratliff
- c Department of Pharmacy Practice , East Tennessee State University Gatton College of Pharmacy , Johnson City , Tennessee , USA
| | - Angela Hagaman
- d Department of Community and Behavioral Health , East Tennessee State University College of Public Health , Johnson City , Tennessee , USA
| | - Robert P Pack
- e Department of Community and Behavioral Health , East Tennessee State University College of Public Health , Johnson City , Tennessee , USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Dunn KE, Tompkins DA, Bigelow GE, Strain EC. Efficacy of Tramadol Extended-Release for Opioid Withdrawal: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Psychiatry 2017; 74:885-893. [PMID: 28700791 PMCID: PMC5710234 DOI: 10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2017.1838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Opioid use disorder (OUD) is a significant public health problem. Supervised withdrawal (ie, detoxification) from opioids using clonidine or buprenorphine hydrochloride is a widely used treatment. OBJECTIVE To evaluate whether tramadol hydrochloride extended-release (ER), an approved analgesic with opioid and nonopioid mechanisms of action and low abuse potential, is effective for use in supervised withdrawal settings. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS A randomized clinical trial was conducted in a residential research setting with 103 participants with OUD. Participants' treatment was stabilized with morphine, 30 mg, administered subcutaneously 4 times daily. A 7-day taper using clonidine (n = 36), tramadol ER (n = 36), or buprenorphine (n = 31) was then instituted, and patients were crossed-over to double-blind placebo during a post-taper period. The study was conducted from October 25, 2010, to June 23, 2015. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Retention, withdrawal symptom management, concomitant medication utilization, and naltrexone induction. Results were analyzed over time and using area under the curve for the intention-to-treat and completer groups. RESULTS Of the 103 participants, 88 (85.4%) were men and 43 (41.7%) were white; mean (SD) age was 28.9 (10.4) years. Buprenorphine participants (28 [90.3%]) were significantly more likely to be retained at the end of the taper compared with clonidine participants (22 [61.1%]); tramadol ER retention was intermediate and did not differ significantly from that of the other groups (26 [72.2%]; χ2 = 8.5, P = .01). Time-course analyses of withdrawal revealed significant effects of phase (taper, post taper) for the Clinical Opiate Withdrawal Scale (COWS) score (taper mean, 5.19 [SE, .26]; post-taper mean, 3.97 [SE, .23]; F2,170 = 3.6, P = .03) and Subjective Opiate Withdrawal Scale (SOWS) score (taper mean,8.81 [SE, .40]; post-taper mean, 4.14 [SE, .30]; F2,170 = 15.7, P < .001), but no group effects or group × phase interactions. Analyses of area under the curve of SOWS total scores showed significant reductions (F2,159 = 17.7, P < .001) in withdrawal severity between the taper and post-taper periods for clonidine (taper mean, 13.1; post-taper mean, 3.2; P < .001) and tramadol ER (taper mean, 7.4; post-taper mean, 2.8; P = .03), but not buprenorphine (taper mean, 6.4; post-taper mean, 7.4). Use of concomitant medication increased significantly (F2,159 = 30.7, P < .001) from stabilization to taper in the clonidine (stabilization mean, 0.64 [SE, .05]; taper mean, 1.54 [SE, .10]; P < .001) and tramadol ER (stabilization mean, 0.53 [SE, .05]; taper mean, 1.19 [SE, .09]; P = .003) groups and from stabilization to post taper in the buprenorphine group (stabilization mean, 0.46 [SE, .05] post-taper mean, 1.17 [SE, .09]; P = .006), suggesting higher withdrawal for those groups during those periods. Naltrexone initiation was voluntary and the percentage of participants choosing naltrexone therapy within the clonidine (8 [22.2%]), tramadol ER (7 [19.4%]), or buprenorphine (3 [9.7%]) groups did not differ significantly (χ2 = 2.5, P = .29). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE The results of this trial suggest that tramadol ER is more effective than clonidine and comparable to buprenorphine in reducing opioid withdrawal symptoms during a residential tapering program. Data support further examination of tramadol ER as a method to manage opioid withdrawal symptoms. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT01188421.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kelly E. Dunn
- Behavioral Pharmacology Research Unit, Department of
Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore,
Maryland
| | - D. Andrew Tompkins
- Behavioral Pharmacology Research Unit, Department of
Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore,
Maryland
| | - George E. Bigelow
- Behavioral Pharmacology Research Unit, Department of
Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore,
Maryland
| | - Eric C. Strain
- Behavioral Pharmacology Research Unit, Department of
Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore,
Maryland
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Kermack A, Flannery M, Tofighi B, McNeely J, Lee JD. Buprenorphine prescribing practice trends and attitudes among New York providers. J Subst Abuse Treat 2017; 74:1-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsat.2016.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2016] [Revised: 10/07/2016] [Accepted: 10/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
26
|
Gunderson EW. Recognizing Potential Buprenorphine Medication Misuse: Product Packaging Does Not Degrade With Laundering. Subst Abus 2016; 36:161-5. [PMID: 25811238 DOI: 10.1080/08897077.2015.1007201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Expanded office-based buprenorphine opioid dependence treatment is associated with medication misuse and diversion consequences. Recurrent early refill requests may indicate misuse or diversion, although further research is needed on how to effectively recognize and address the issue in clinical practice. In the current study, patient report of damaged medication from laundering prompted evaluation of laundering on degradation of buprenorphine-containing product packages and contents. METHODS Four buprenorphine product packaging approaches were assessed: 3 buprenorphine/naloxone placebo demonstration products (Suboxone and Bunavail film in foil wrappers and Zubsolv tablet in a blister pack) and Rexam-manufactured Screw-Loc closure pill container filled with a chewable aspirin as a surrogate for generic buprenorphine and buprenorphine/naloxone products. Two experimental laundering conditions, wash machine alone (W) and washer/dryer (W+D), were compared with unlaundered control (C) condition. Standard laundering settings were based on patient presentation. Products from the 2 experimental conditions and the control condition were labeled A, B, or C with counterbalanced assignment prior to visual examination of packaging and contents by the investigator who was blinded to condition. RESULTS Packaging and contents remained intact for all products across experimental conditions, with only minor cosmetic effects compared with control. The W+D Suboxone film had 1-2 mm curling of the wrapper corners. Zubsolv blister packs had slight paper label fading (W+D > W). Bunavail W+D foil had an indentation outlining the inner film. The W+D bottle tablet had a ˜1 mm nick on one edge. No other differences were noted. After implementing more structured treatment and reviewing the results with the patient, he endorsed fabricating the laundering story to get additional medication. CONCLUSIONS Laundering is an unlikely cause of damaged buprenorphine-containing medication packaged in foil wrappers (Suboxone, Bunavail), blister pack (Zubsolv), or prescription pill bottle (generic buprenorphine or buprenorphine/naloxone products). Patient reports of such may indicate medication misuse or diversion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erik W Gunderson
- a Department of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioral Sciences, Department of Medicine , University of Virginia , Charlottesville , Virginia , USA
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Gatewood AK, Van Wert MJ, Andrada AP, Surkan PJ. Academic physicians' and medical students' perceived barriers toward bystander administered naloxone as an overdose prevention strategy. Addict Behav 2016; 61:40-6. [PMID: 27235991 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2016.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2015] [Revised: 05/02/2016] [Accepted: 05/16/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To identify perceived barriers to the prescription of naloxone to third-party contacts of opiate users. DESIGN Qualitative descriptive study. SETTING Two academic hospitals in Baltimore, MD, USA. PARTICIPANTS Thirty medical providers, including both physicians and medical students. MEASUREMENTS Qualitative; in-depth interviews and focus groups analyzed using line-by-line, focused, and axial coding based on methods adapted from grounded theory. FINDINGS Academic physicians and medical students cited three categories of barriers to naloxone prescription related to drug, provider, and patient characteristics. Concerns about naloxone itself included inability to prevent addictive behaviors, duration of action, medical risks, expiration date, and route of administration. Concerns about medical providers included lack of knowledge or experience, medical community common practices and norms, insufficient provision of third-party education, physician and clinic scheduling practices, worry about insulting patients, and fear of being viewed as enabling drug abuse. Concerns about patients included increased risk-taking behaviors, opiate withdrawal symptoms, potential repeat overdose related to withdrawal-discomfort, decreased contact with medical providers, and stigma. CONCLUSIONS Minimizing barriers to naloxone provision may increase acceptability and prescription practice in the medical community. Addressing these barriers from multiple provider perspectives is critical to advance naloxone prescription as a harm reduction strategy, which has the potential to prevent opiate overdoses.
Collapse
|
28
|
Farmer CM, Lindsay D, Williams J, Ayers A, Schuster J, Cilia A, Flaherty MT, Mandell T, Gordon AJ, Stein BD. Practice Guidance for Buprenorphine for the Treatment of Opioid Use Disorders: Results of an Expert Panel Process. Subst Abus 2015; 36:209-16. [PMID: 25844527 DOI: 10.1080/08897077.2015.1012613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although the number of physicians credentialed to prescribe buprenorphine has increased over time, many credentialed physicians may be reluctant to treat individuals with opioid use disorders due to discomfort with prescribing buprenorphine. Although prescribing physicians are required to complete a training course, many have questions about buprenorphine and treatment guidelines have not been updated to reflect clinical experience in recent years. We report on an expert panel process to update and expand buprenorphine guidelines. METHODS We identified candidate guidelines through expert opinion and a review of the literature and used a modified RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method to assess the validity of the candidate guidelines. An expert panel completed 2 rounds of rating, with a meeting to discuss the guidelines between the first and second ratings. RESULTS Through the rating process, expert panel members rated 90 candidate guideline statements across 8 domains, including candidacy for buprenorphine treatment, dosing of buprenorphine, psychosocial counseling, and treatment of co-occurring depression and anxiety. A total of 65 guideline statements (72%) were rated as valid. Expert panel members had agreement in some areas, such as the treatment of co-occurring mental health problems, but disagreement in others, including the appropriate dosing of buprenorphine given patient complexities. CONCLUSIONS Through an expert panel process, we developed an updated and expanded set of buprenorphine treatment guidelines; this additional guidance may increase credentialed physicians' comfort with prescribing buprenorphine to patients with opioid use disorders. Future efforts should focus on appropriate dosing guidance and ensuring that guidelines can be adapted to a variety of practice settings.
Collapse
|
29
|
Abstract
Medication-assisted treatment of opioid use disorder with physiological dependence at least doubles rates of opioid-abstinence outcomes in randomized, controlled trials comparing psychosocial treatment of opioid use disorder with medication versus with placebo or no medication. This article reviews the current evidence for medication-assisted treatment of opioid use disorder and also presents clinical practice imperatives for preventing opioid overdose and the transmission of infectious disease. The evidence strongly supports the use of agonist therapies to reduce opioid use and to retain patients in treatment, with methadone maintenance remaining the gold standard of care. Combined buprenorphine/naloxone, however, also demonstrates significant efficacy and favorable safety and tolerability in multiple populations, including youth and prescription opioid-dependent individuals, as does buprenorphine monotherapy in pregnant women. The evidence for antagonist therapies is weak. Oral naltrexone demonstrates poor adherence and increased mortality rates, although the early evidence looks more favorable for extended-release naltrexone, which has the advantages that it is not subject to misuse or diversion and that it does not present a risk of overdose on its own. Two perspectives-individualized treatment and population management-are presented for selecting among the three available Food and Drug Administration-approved maintenance therapies for opioid use disorder. The currently unmet challenges in treating opioid use disorder are discussed, as are the directions for future research.
Collapse
|
30
|
Abstract
This paper is the thirty-sixth consecutive installment of the annual review of research concerning the endogenous opioid system. It summarizes papers published during 2013 that studied the behavioral effects of molecular, pharmacological and genetic manipulation of opioid peptides, opioid receptors, opioid agonists and opioid antagonists. The particular topics that continue to be covered include the molecular-biochemical effects and neurochemical localization studies of endogenous opioids and their receptors related to behavior, and the roles of these opioid peptides and receptors in pain and analgesia; stress and social status; tolerance and dependence; learning and memory; eating and drinking; alcohol and drugs of abuse; sexual activity and hormones, pregnancy, development and endocrinology; mental illness and mood; seizures and neurologic disorders; electrical-related activity and neurophysiology; general activity and locomotion; gastrointestinal, renal and hepatic functions; cardiovascular responses; respiration and thermoregulation; and immunological responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Bodnar
- Department of Psychology and Neuropsychology Doctoral Sub-Program, Queens College, City University of New York, Flushing, NY 11367, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Fox AD, Chamberlain A, Sohler NL, Frost T, Cunningham CO. Illicit buprenorphine use, interest in and access to buprenorphine treatment among syringe exchange participants. J Subst Abuse Treat 2014; 48:112-6. [PMID: 25205666 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsat.2014.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2014] [Revised: 07/19/2014] [Accepted: 07/29/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Poor access to buprenorphine maintenance treatment (BMT) may contribute to illicit buprenorphine use. This study investigated illicit buprenorphine use and barriers to BMT among syringe exchange participants. Computer-based interviews conducted at a New York City harm reduction agency determined: prior buprenorphine use; barriers to BMT; and interest in BMT. Of 102 opioid users, 57 had used illicit buprenorphine and 32 had used prescribed buprenorphine. When illicit buprenorphine users were compared to non-users: barriers to BMT ("did not know where to get treatment") were more common (64 vs. 36%, p<0.01); mean levels of interest in BMT were greater (3.37 ± 1.29 vs. 2.80 ± 1.34, p=0.03); and more participants reported themselves likely to initiate treatment (82 vs. 50%, p<0.01). Illicit buprenorphine users were interested in BMT but did not know where to go for treatment. Addressing barriers to BMT could reduce illicit buprenorphine use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aaron D Fox
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA; Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY 10467, USA.
| | | | - Nancy L Sohler
- Sophie Davis School of Biomedical Education, City College of the City University of New York, New York, NY, 10027, USA
| | - Taeko Frost
- Washington Heights CORNER Project, New York, NY, 10033, USA
| | - Chinazo O Cunningham
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA; Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY 10467, USA
| |
Collapse
|