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Beck K, Pallot K, Amri M. A scoping review on barriers and facilitators to harm reduction care among youth in British Columbia, Canada. Harm Reduct J 2024; 21:189. [PMID: 39444020 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-024-01063-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 10/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Progressive harm reduction policies have been implemented in British Columbia, Canada. However, youth who use drugs face barriers to receiving harm reduction care, resulting in increasing opioid-related hospitalizations and drug toxicity deaths. This scoping review collates peer-reviewed evidence to understand the barriers and facilitators faced by youth who use drugs when accessing harm reduction programming in British Columbia, Canada. METHODS This scoping review entailed conducting a systematic search of relevant databases to identify relevant articles. Articles were included if they: (i) contained youth falling between the ages of 12 and 26 years old; (ii) explored accessibility, barriers, and/or facilitators to harm reduction care or related topics; (iii) were empirical research articles using primary data (i.e., reviews, grey literature, theoretical or conceptual papers, books, etc. were excluded); and (iv) were available in the English language, given the geographic focus on British Columbia. RESULTS A total of 398 sources were identified and ultimately, data from 13 sources were charted and extracted. When investigating barriers to harm reduction care among youth, four themes emerged: self-stigma, service navigation, service delivery, and negative provider interactions. Furthermore, in exploring factors that facilitate harm reduction care for youth, four themes surfaced: ability to meet basic needs, positive provider interactions, social networks, and risk mitigation guidance. CONCLUSIONS The expansion of harm reduction services in 2016 did not fully address accessibility challenges faced by youth who use drugs. Barriers continue to hinder harm reduction engagement, while supportive networks, positive provider interactions, and the ability to meet basic needs facilitated sustained access. Tailored policy interventions rooted in equity are crucial to improving access to harm reduction services for youth who use drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kassey Beck
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
| | - Katija Pallot
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
| | - Michelle Amri
- The W. Maurice Young Centre for Applied Ethics, School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada.
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Badshah I, Anwar M, Murtaza B, Khan MI. Molecular mechanisms of morphine tolerance and dependence; novel insights and future perspectives. Mol Cell Biochem 2024; 479:1457-1485. [PMID: 37470850 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-023-04810-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Drug addiction is a devastating condition that poses a serious burden on the society. The use of some drugs like morphine for their tremendous analgesic properties is also accompanied with developing tolerance, dependence and the withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms are frequently severe enough to reinforce the person in recovery to start over the use of drug again and hinder the clinical use of drugs like morphine for chronic pain. Research into opioid receptors and related molecular pathways has seen resurgence in the wake of the growing opioid epidemic. The current study provides a comprehensive scientific exploration of the molecular mechanisms and underlying signalling in morphine tolerance and dependence. It also critically evaluates current therapeutic approaches, shedding light on their efficacy and limitations, and future prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ismail Badshah
- Riphah Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, G-7/4 Campus, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Maira Anwar
- Riphah Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, G-7/4 Campus, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Babar Murtaza
- Riphah Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, G-7/4 Campus, Islamabad, Pakistan.
| | - Muhammad Imran Khan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Pak Austria Fachhochschule: Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology, Haripur, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan.
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Sason A, Adelson M, Schreiber S, Peles E. Fentanyl abuse proportion in methadone maintenance treatment, and patients' knowledge about its risks. J Psychiatr Res 2024; 173:254-259. [PMID: 38554621 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2024.03.047] [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] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Fentanyl is not yet routinely monitored among methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) patients in Israel. We aimed 1. to evaluate urine fentanyl proportion changes over 3 years and characterize patients' characteristics 2. To study patients' self-report on fentanyl usage, and compare knowledge about fentanyl risk, before and following brief educational intervention. METHODS Fentanyl in the urine of all current MMT patients was tested every 3 months year between 2021 and 2023, and patients with positive urine fentanyl were characterized. Current patients were interviewed using a fentanyl knowledge questionnaire (effects, indications, and risks) before and following an explanation session. RESULTS Proportion of fentanyl ranged between 9.8 and 15.1%, and patients with urine positive for fentanyl (September 2023) were characterized as having positive urine for pregabalin, cocaine, and benzodiazepine (logistic regression). Of the current 260 patients (87% compliance), 78(30%) self-reported of fentanyl lifetime use ("Ever"), and 182 "never" use. The "Ever" group had higher Knowledge scores than the "Never", both groups improved following the explanatory session (repeated measure). The "Ever" group patients were found with urine positive for cannabis and benzodiazepine on admission to MMT, they were younger, did not manage to gain take-home dose privileges and had a higher fentanyl knowledge score (logistic regression). CONCLUSIONS In the absence of routine fentanyl tests, a high knowledge score, shorter duration in MMT, benzodiazepine usage on admission, and current cannabis usage, may hint of the possibility of fentanyl abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anat Sason
- Dr. Miriam & Sheldon G. Adelson Clinic for Drug Abuse, Treatment & Research, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Miriam Adelson
- Dr. Miriam & Sheldon G. Adelson Clinic for Drug Abuse, Treatment & Research, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Shaul Schreiber
- Dr. Miriam & Sheldon G. Adelson Clinic for Drug Abuse, Treatment & Research, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel; Tel Aviv University Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Tel Aviv, Israel; Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Einat Peles
- Dr. Miriam & Sheldon G. Adelson Clinic for Drug Abuse, Treatment & Research, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel; Tel Aviv University Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Tel Aviv, Israel; Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
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Dickson-Gomez J, Krechel S, Ohlrich J, Montaque HDG, Weeks M, Li J, Havens J, Spector A. "They make it too hard and too many hoops to jump": system and organizational barriers to drug treatment during epidemic rates of opioid overdose. Harm Reduct J 2024; 21:52. [PMID: 38413972 PMCID: PMC10900746 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-024-00964-5] [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: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The United States is currently facing an opioid overdose crisis. Research suggests that multiple interventions are needed to reduce overdose deaths including increasing access and retention to medications to treat opioid use disorders (MOUD, i.e., methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone) and increasing the distribution and use of naloxone, a medication that can reverse the respiratory depression that occurs during opioid overdoses. However, barriers to MOUD initiation and retention persist and discontinuations of MOUD carry a heightened risk of overdose. Many times, MOUD is not sought as a first line of treatment by people with opioid use disorder (OUD), many of whom seek treatment from medically managed withdrawal (detox) programs. Among those who do initiate MOUD, retention is generally low. The present study examines the treatment experiences of people who use opioids in three states, Connecticut, Kentucky, and Wisconsin. METHODS We conducted in-depth interviews with people who use opioids in a rural, urban, and suburban area of three states: Connecticut, Kentucky and Wisconsin. Data analysis was collaborative and key themes were identified through multiple readings, coding of transcripts and discussion with all research team members. RESULTS Results reveal a number of systemic issues that reduce the likelihood that people initiate and are retained on MOUD including the ubiquity of detox as a first step in drug treatment, abstinence requirements and requiring patients to attend group treatment. MOUD-related stigma was a significant factor in the kinds of treatment participants chose and their experiences in treatment. CONCLUSIONS Interventions to reduce MOUD stigma are needed to encourage MOUD as a first course of treatment. Eliminating abstinence-based rules for MOUD treatment may improve treatment retention and decrease overdose risk.
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Tang X, Xiong W, Chen W, Wang C, Wang H, Li B, Zhang Z, Ling L. Benefits and challenges experienced by participants on long-term methadone maintenance treatment in China: a qualitative study. BMC Med 2024; 22:18. [PMID: 38185665 PMCID: PMC10773040 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-023-03203-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) has been implemented in China for nearly two decades, with a significant decrease in the number of participants in recent years. However, there is a lack of comprehensive research focusing on the long-term effectiveness in the context of this decline, especially from the perspectives of MMT participants themselves. This study aims to address this gap by examining the benefits and challenges experienced by long-term MMT participants in China, to uncover potential causes of the decrease in participant numbers and to improve the effectiveness of the program. METHODS We conducted semi-structured interviews with 21 long-term MMT participants (treatment duration ≥ 5 years) recruited through purposive sampling from 6 MMT clinics in the Guangdong Province, China, between December 2021 and August 2022. Thematic analysis was employed to analyze the transcribed interviews. Two analysts independently coded the data, and a third researcher double-coded 20% of transcripts to ensure intercoder reliability. RESULTS Overall, participants corroborated the notable decline in MMT participants during their long-term MMT, citing death, arrest, and self-perceived abstinence from heroin, as their perceived driving factors. They reported positive changes in their health, family relationships, and social functioning. However, they identified economic hardship as their greatest challenge associated with MMT, further exacerbated by other barriers including the conflict of clinic opening hours and working schedules, discrimination from employers, and COVID-19-related restrictions. Additionally, participants identified issues with dose adjustment and emergency treatment continuation. CONCLUSIONS This study outlines the overall improvement in the quality of life of long-term MMT participants. However, it highlights the need for official guidelines for dose adjustment and emergency treatment continuation as well as the provision of health education, job referrals, and flexibility of clinic opening times to facilitate the return to society receiving participants. Establishing a follow-up mechanism for those receiving MMT is also recommended to prevent relapses to heroin and other illicit substances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xijia Tang
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, No.74 Zhongshan 2Nd Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China, 510080
| | - Wenxue Xiong
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, No.74 Zhongshan 2Nd Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China, 510080
| | - Wen Chen
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, No.74 Zhongshan 2Nd Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China, 510080
| | - Chijie Wang
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, No.74 Zhongshan 2Nd Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China, 510080
| | - Hexuan Wang
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, No.74 Zhongshan 2Nd Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China, 510080
| | - Boyu Li
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, No.74 Zhongshan 2Nd Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China, 510080
| | - Zirong Zhang
- School of Mathematics, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Li Ling
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, No.74 Zhongshan 2Nd Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China, 510080.
- Clinical Research Design Division, Clinical Research Center, Sun-Yat Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China, 510120.
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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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