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Mercadante S. Influence of aging on opioid dosing for perioperative pain management: a focus on pharmacokinetics. JOURNAL OF ANESTHESIA, ANALGESIA AND CRITICAL CARE 2024; 4:51. [PMID: 39085914 PMCID: PMC11292879 DOI: 10.1186/s44158-024-00182-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
The older population continues to grow in all countries, and surgeons are encountering older patients more frequently. The management of postoperative pain in older patients can be a difficult task. Opioids are the mainstay of perioperative pain control. This paper assesses some pharmacokinetic age-related aspects and their relationship with the use of opioids in the perioperative period. Changes in body composition and organ function, and pharmacokinetics in older patients, as well as characteristics of opioids commonly used in the perioperative period are described. Specific problems, dose titration, and patient-controlled analgesia in the elderly are also reviewed. Opioids can be safety used in perioperative period, even in the elderly. The choice of drugs and doses can be individualized according to the surgery, opioid pharmacokinetics, comorbidities, and routes of administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastiano Mercadante
- Main Regional Center for Pain Relief and Supportive/Palliative Care, La Maddalena Cancer Center, Palermo, 90146, Italy.
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Collins JT, Walsh DA, Gladman JRF, Patrascu M, Husebo BS, Adam E, Cowley A, Gordon AL, Ogliari G, Smaling H, Achterberg W. The Difficulties of Managing Pain in People Living with Frailty: The Potential for Digital Phenotyping. Drugs Aging 2024; 41:199-208. [PMID: 38401025 PMCID: PMC10925563 DOI: 10.1007/s40266-024-01101-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
Pain and frailty are closely linked. Chronic pain is a risk factor for frailty, and frailty is a risk factor for pain. People living with frailty also commonly have cognitive impairment, which can make assessment of pain and monitoring of pain management even more difficult. Pain may be sub-optimally treated in people living with frailty, people living with cognitive impairment and those with both these factors. Reasons for sub-optimal treatment in these groups are pharmacological (increased drug side effects, drug-drug interactions, polypharmacy), non-pharmacological (erroneous beliefs about pain, ageism, bidirectional communication challenges), logistical (difficulty in accessing primary care practitioners and unaffordable cost of drugs), and, particularly in cognitive impairment, related to communication difficulties. Thorough assessment and characterisation of pain, related sensations, and their functional, emotional, and behavioural consequences ("phenotyping") may help to enhance the assessment of pain, particularly in people with frailty and cognitive impairment, as this may help to identify who is most likely to respond to certain types of treatment. This paper discusses the potential role of "digital phenotyping" in the assessment and management of pain in people with frailty. Digital phenotyping is concerned with observable characteristics in digital form, such as those obtained from sensing-capable devices, and may provide novel and more informative data than existing clinical approaches regarding how pain manifests and how treatment strategies affect it. The processing of extensive digital and usual data may require powerful algorithms, but processing these data could lead to a better understanding of who is most likely to benefit from specific and targeted treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jemima T Collins
- University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham, UK
- Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK
| | - David A Walsh
- University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham, UK
- Sherwood Forest Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Nottinghamshire, UK
- Pain Centre Versus Arthritis, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | | | - Monica Patrascu
- Centre for Elderly and Nursing Home Medicine, University of Bergen, 5007, Bergen, Norway
- Neuro-SysMed Center, University of Bergen, 5007, Bergen, Norway
- Complex Systems Laboratory, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 60042, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Bettina S Husebo
- Centre for Elderly and Nursing Home Medicine, University of Bergen, 5007, Bergen, Norway
- Neuro-SysMed Center, University of Bergen, 5007, Bergen, Norway
| | - Esmee Adam
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Alison Cowley
- University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK
| | - Adam L Gordon
- University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham, UK
- University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Trust, Derby, UK
| | - Giulia Ogliari
- Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK
| | - Hanneke Smaling
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Wilco Achterberg
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands.
- LUMC Center for Medicine for Older People (LCO), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.
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Cammarota S, Conti V, Corbi G, Di Gregorio L, Dolce P, Fogliasecca M, Iannaccone T, Manzo V, Passaro V, Toraldo B, Valente A, Citarella A. Predictors of Opioid Prescribing for Non-Malignant Low Back Pain in an Italian Primary Care Setting. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10163699. [PMID: 34441993 PMCID: PMC8397205 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10163699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This study explores which patient characteristics could affect the likelihood of starting low back pain (LBP) treatment with opioid analgesics vs. Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) in an Italian primary care setting. Through the computerized medical records of 65 General Practitioners, non-malignant LBP subjects who received the first pain intensity measurement and an NSAID or opioid prescription, during 2015–2016, were identified. Patients with an opioid prescription 1-year before the first pain intensity measurement were excluded. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to determine predictive factors of opioid prescribing. Results were reported as Odds Ratios (ORs) with a 95% confidence interval (CI), with p < 0.05 indicating statistical significance. A total of 505 individuals with LBP were included: of those, 72.7% received an NSAID prescription and 27.3% an opioid one (64% of subjects started with strong opioid). Compared to patients receiving an NSAID, those with opioid prescriptions were younger, reported the highest pain intensity (moderate pain OR = 2.42; 95% CI 1.48–3.96 and severe pain OR = 2.01; 95% CI 1.04–3.88) and were more likely to have asthma (OR 3.95; 95% CI 1.99–7.84). Despite clinical guidelines, a large proportion of LBP patients started with strong opioid therapy. Asthma, younger age and pain intensity were predictors of opioid prescribing when compared to NSAIDs for LBP treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Cammarota
- LinkHealth Health Economics, Outcomes & Epidemiology s.r.l., 80143 Naples, Italy; (M.F.); (A.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-333-532-0054
| | - Valeria Conti
- Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacogenetics Unit, University Hospital “San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d’Aragona”, 84084 Salerno, Italy; (V.C.); (T.I.); (V.M.)
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, 84081 Baronissi, Italy;
| | - Graziamaria Corbi
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, “Vincenzo Tiberio”, University of Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy;
- Italian Society of Gerontology and Geriatrics (SIGG), 50122 Florence, Italy
| | - Luigi Di Gregorio
- Parmenide Medical Cooperative, 84084 Salerno, Italy; (L.D.G.); (V.P.)
| | - Pasquale Dolce
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80138 Naples, Italy;
| | - Marianna Fogliasecca
- LinkHealth Health Economics, Outcomes & Epidemiology s.r.l., 80143 Naples, Italy; (M.F.); (A.C.)
| | - Teresa Iannaccone
- Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacogenetics Unit, University Hospital “San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d’Aragona”, 84084 Salerno, Italy; (V.C.); (T.I.); (V.M.)
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, 84081 Baronissi, Italy;
| | - Valentina Manzo
- Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacogenetics Unit, University Hospital “San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d’Aragona”, 84084 Salerno, Italy; (V.C.); (T.I.); (V.M.)
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, 84081 Baronissi, Italy;
| | - Vincenzo Passaro
- Parmenide Medical Cooperative, 84084 Salerno, Italy; (L.D.G.); (V.P.)
| | | | - Alfredo Valente
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, 84081 Baronissi, Italy;
| | - Anna Citarella
- LinkHealth Health Economics, Outcomes & Epidemiology s.r.l., 80143 Naples, Italy; (M.F.); (A.C.)
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Tapentadol Versus Tramadol: A Narrative and Comparative Review of Their Pharmacological, Efficacy and Safety Profiles in Adult Patients. Drugs 2021; 81:1257-1272. [PMID: 34196947 PMCID: PMC8318929 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-021-01515-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
We conducted a narrative review of the literature to compare the pharmacological, efficacy and safety profiles of tapentadol and tramadol, and to assess the clinical interest of tapentadol in adult patients. Tapentadol and tramadol share a mixed mechanism of action, including both mu-agonist and monoaminergic properties. Tapentadol is approximately two to three times more potent than tramadol and two to three times less potent than morphine. It has no identified analgesically active metabolite and is not significantly metabolised by cytochrome P450 enzymes, thus overcoming some limitations of tramadol, including the potential for pharmacokinetic drug-drug interactions and interindividual variability due to genetic polymorphisms of cytochrome P450 enzymes. The toxicity profiles of tramadol and tapentadol are similar; however tapentadol is likely to result in less exposure to serotoninergic adverse effects (nausea, vomiting, hypoglycaemia) but cause more opioid adverse effects (constipation, respiratory depression, abuse) than tramadol. The safety of tapentadol in real-world conditions remains poorly documented, particularly in at-risk patient subgroups and also in the ability to assess the risk associated with its residual serotonergic activity (serotonin syndrome, seizures). Because of an earlier market introduction, more real-world safety data are available for tramadol, including data from at-risk patient subgroups. The level of evidence on the efficacy of both tramadol and tapentadol for the treatment of chronic pain is globally low. The trials published to date show overall that tapentadol does not provide a clinically significant analgesic improvement compared to existing treatments, for which the safety profile is much better known. In conclusion, tapentadol is not a first-line opioid but represents an additional analgesic in the therapeutic choices, which some patients may benefit from after careful examination of their clinical situation, co-morbidities and co-medications.
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Abstract
Aim: The review aimed to identify factors influencing opioid prescribing as regular pain-management medication for older people. Background: Chronic pain occurs in 45%–85% of older people, but appears to be under-recognised and under-treated. However, strong opiate prescribing is more prevalent in older people, increasing at the fastest rate in this age group. Methods: This review included all study types, published 1990–2017, which focused on opioid prescribing for pain management among older adults. Arksey and O’Malley’s framework was used to scope the literature. PubMed, EBSCO Host, the UK Drug Database, and Google Scholar were searched. Data extraction, carried out by two researchers, included factors explaining opioid prescribing patterns and prescribing trends. Findings: A total of 613 papers were identified and 53 were included in the final review consisting of 35 research papers, 10 opinion pieces and 8 grey literature sources. Factors associated with prescribing patterns were categorised according to whether they were patient-related, prescriber-driven, or system-driven. Patient factors included age, gender, race, and cognition; prescriber factors included attitudes towards opioids and judgements about ‘normal’ pain; and policy/system factors related to the changing policy landscape over the last three decades, particularly in the USA. Conclusions: A large number of context-dependent factors appeared to influence opioid prescribing for chronic pain management in older adults, but the findings were inconsistent. There is a gap in the literature relating to the UK healthcare system; the prescriber and the patient perspective; and within the context of multi-morbidity and treatment burden.
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Edmonds KP, Saunders IM, Willeford A, Ajayi TA, Atayee RS. Emerging Challenges to the Safe and Effective Use of Methadone for Cancer-Related Pain in Paediatric and Adult Patient Populations. Drugs 2019; 80:115-130. [PMID: 31820362 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-019-01234-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Methadone continues to be an important medication for the treatment of paediatric and adult cancer-related pain. Appropriate patient selection to ensure safe and effective treatment by a team of clinicians who appreciate and are familiar with methadone and its unique pharmacology is crucial. Unlike morphine and other more common opioids, methadone is purported to have involvement with delta-opioid receptor and higher affinity as an N-methyl-D-aspartate-receptor antagonist. Clinically this gives it the advantage of being effective for both nociceptive and neuropathic pain, but also may be useful in the setting of tolerance to other opioids. Methadone also comes in multiple available formulations that can be administrated through a variety of routes beyond the oral route. Challenges with methadone in treating cancer-related pain include drug interactions specifically as it relates to new targeted cancer therapies. Recent guidelines recommend electrocardiogram monitoring with methadone and there is potential for additive cardiac toxicity in the oncology setting. Appropriate dosing of methadone for pain management given age, organ dysfunction, and patients who are on methadone maintenance therapy are also key factors. This article aims to provide clinicians with evidence and clinical practice guidelines for safe and appropriate use of methadone including indication, initiation, and monitoring given its complexity for management of pain in the dynamic oncology setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle P Edmonds
- Doris A. Howell Palliative Care Teams, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Ila M Saunders
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Department of Pharmacy, University of California San Diego Health, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Andrew Willeford
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Department of Pharmacy, University of California San Diego Health, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Toluwalase A Ajayi
- Digital Medicine, Scripps Research Translational Institute, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Rabia S Atayee
- Doris A. Howell Palliative Care Teams, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA.
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA.
- Department of Pharmacy, University of California San Diego Health, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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A retrospective review of pain management in Tasmanian residential aged care facilities. BJGP Open 2019; 3:bjgpopen18X101629. [PMID: 31049410 PMCID: PMC6480854 DOI: 10.3399/bjgpopen18x101629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The management of pain by GPs for residents of aged care facilities (ACFs) is very common. Aim To measure the prevalence and assess the management of pain in ACF residents, particularly those with dementia. Design & setting A retrospective review of ACF residents' medical records was undertaken at five southern Tasmanian (Australia) ACFs. Method Data extracted included results of the most recent assessment of pain and its management, frequency and treatment of pain incidents in the previous 7 days, demographics, and medical and medication history. Univariate analysis was used to identify variables associated with increased frequency of pain episodes. Results The final analysis included 477 residents. At least one episode of pain in the preceding 7 days was documented in 25.6% (n = 122) of residents' notes. Pain episodes were most commonly managed by analgesics (45.5%), massage (40.7%), and heatpacks (13.8%). Residents with dementia were not less likely to have pain identified during the past week (14% versus 20%; P = 0.09), but they were much less likely to have pain identified on their most recent pain assessment (P = 0.03). Conclusion GPs should carefully consider the suitability of using 'as required' analgesics. Furthermore, on admission to an ACF, GPs need to ensure a patient's medical history includes all pain or potentially pain-causing conditions, to ensure that a resident's pain assessment is complete. This is especially necessary for those with dementia, to ensure that staff remain vigilant about the possibility of the resident experiencing pain.
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Differences between Transdermal Fentanyl and Buprenorphine in the Elderly Hospice Patients. PAIN RESEARCH AND TREATMENT 2018; 2018:8610538. [PMID: 30410797 PMCID: PMC6205095 DOI: 10.1155/2018/8610538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2018] [Accepted: 07/25/2018] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Opioids are the most important drugs in treating pain in palliative care patients. Transdermal formulations are especially useful due to their noninvasive nature and minimal interference in daily life. However, studies have shown a controversial relationship of opioids to survival and a rise in deaths associated with the use of transdermal opioids. Although applying precise doses is paramount, we have no clear recommendations for the exact equianalgesic ratio for buprenorphine patch and no recommendation for the type of transdermal opioid to use in hospice. Methods We analyzed the differences between the transdermal fentanyl and buprenorphine group by analyzing patient characteristics and evaluating the differences in survival in hospice patients over the age of 65, from 2013 to 2017. Results A total of 292 patients (75.8%) used fentanyl patch and 93 (24.1%) were on buprenorphine patch. Patients had virtually the same characteristics in both groups. However, when using a 1:100 buprenorphine equianalgesic ratio, there were significant differences in initial and final doses, and it seems that a 1:80 conversion rate is more accurate for elderly hospice patients. Finally, there was no difference in survival between the two groups using transdermal opioids, with or without adjuvant analgesics. Discussion There were no differences in survival between the group using transdermal fentanyl and the group using buprenorphine in the elderly hospice population. Although adjuvant NSAIDs could be useful in the treatment of pain in terminal cancer, they do not affect survival or reduce the opioid doses, while a 1:80 equianalgesic ratio of buprenorphine might be the most appropriate in this population.
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Erdal A, Flo E, Aarsland D, Ballard C, Slettebo DD, Husebo BS. Efficacy and Safety of Analgesic Treatment for Depression in People with Advanced Dementia: Randomised, Multicentre, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial (DEP.PAIN.DEM). Drugs Aging 2018; 35:545-558. [PMID: 29725986 PMCID: PMC5999156 DOI: 10.1007/s40266-018-0546-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Background Chronic pain and depression often co-occur, and pain may exacerbate depression in people with dementia. Objective The objective of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of analgesic treatment for depression in nursing home patients with advanced dementia and clinically significant depressive symptoms. Methods We conducted a multicentre, parallel-group, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in 47 nursing homes, including 162 nursing home patients aged ≥ 60 years with dementia (Mini-Mental State Examination ≤ 20) and depression (Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia ≥ 8). Patients were randomised to receive active analgesic treatment (paracetamol or buprenorphine transdermal system) or identical placebo for 13 weeks. The main outcome measure was the change in depression (Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia) from baseline to 13 weeks, assessed using linear mixed models with fixed effects for time, intervention and their interaction in the models. Secondary outcomes were to assess whether any change in depression was secondary to change in pain (Mobilisation-Observation-Behaviour-Intensity-Dementia-2 Pain Scale) and adverse events. Results The mean depression change was − 0.66 (95% confidence interval − 2.27 to 0.94) in the active group (n = 80) and − 3.30 (− 4.68 to −1.92) in the placebo group (n = 82). The estimated treatment effect was 2.64 (0.55–4.72, p = 0.013), indicating that analgesic treatment had no effect on depressive symptoms from baseline to 13 weeks while placebo appeared to ameliorate depressive symptoms. There was no significant reduction in pain in the active treatment group (paracetamol and buprenorphine combined) vs. placebo; however, a subgroup analysis demonstrated a significant reduction in pain for paracetamol vs. placebo [by − 1.11 (− 2.16 to − 0.06, p = 0.037)] from week 6 to 13 without a change in depression. Buprenorphine did not have significant effects on depression [3.04 (− 0.11 to 6.19), p = 0.059] or pain [0.47 (− 0.77 to 1.71), p = 0.456] from 0 to 13 weeks. Thirty-five patients were withdrawn from the study because of adverse reactions, deterioration or death: 25 (31.3%) during active treatment [23 (52.3%) who received buprenorphine], and ten (12.2%) in the placebo group. The most frequently occurring adverse events were psychiatric (17 adverse reactions) and neurological (14 adverse reactions). Conclusion Analgesic treatment did not reduce depression while placebo appeared to improve depressive symptoms significantly by comparison, possibly owing to the adverse effects of active buprenorphine. The risk of adverse events warrants caution when prescribing buprenorphine for people with advanced dementia. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02267057 (registered 7 July, 2014) and Norwegian Medicines Agency EudraCT 2013-002226-23. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1007/s40266-018-0546-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ane Erdal
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, Centre for Elderly and Nursing Home Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.
| | - Elisabeth Flo
- Department of Clinical Psychology, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Dag Aarsland
- Department of Old Age Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | | | - Dagrun D Slettebo
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, Centre for Elderly and Nursing Home Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Bettina S Husebo
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, Centre for Elderly and Nursing Home Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,Department of Health and Care, Municipality of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
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Erdal A, Flo E, Aarsland D, Selbaek G, Ballard C, Slettebo DD, Husebo BS. Tolerability of buprenorphine transdermal system in nursing home patients with advanced dementia: a randomized, placebo-controlled trial (DEP.PAIN.DEM). Clin Interv Aging 2018; 13:935-946. [PMID: 29805252 PMCID: PMC5960239 DOI: 10.2147/cia.s161052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Buprenorphine transdermal system is increasingly prescribed in people with advanced dementia, but no clinical trial has investigated the safety and factors associated with discontinuation due to adverse events in this population. Patients and methods One hundred sixty-two people with advanced dementia and significant depression from 47 nursing homes were included and randomized to active analgesic treatment (acetaminophen/buprenorphine) or identical placebo for 13 weeks. In this secondary analysis, the main outcomes were time to and reasons for discontinuation of buprenorphine due to adverse events. Change in daytime activity as measured by actigraphy was a secondary outcome. Results Of the 44 patients who received active buprenorphine 5 µg/hour, 52.3% (n=23) discontinued treatment due to adverse events compared to 13.3% (6 of 45) in the placebo group (p<0.001). Psychiatric and neurological adverse events were the most frequently reported causes of discontinuation (69.6%, n=16). Concomitant use of antidepressants significantly increased the risk of discontinuation (HR 23.2, 95% CI: 2.95–182, p=0.003). Adjusted for age, sex, cognitive function, pain and depression at baseline, active buprenorphine was associated with 24.0 times increased risk of discontinuation (Cox model, 95% CI: 2.45–235, p=0.006). Daytime activity dropped significantly during the second day of active treatment (−21.4%, p=0.005) and decreased by 12.9% during the first week (p=0.053). Conclusion Active buprenorphine had significantly higher risk of discontinuation compared with placebo in people with advanced dementia and depression, mainly due to psychiatric and neurological adverse events. Daytime activity dropped significantly during the first week of treatment. Concomitant use of antidepressants further reduced the tolerability of buprenorphine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ane Erdal
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, Centre for Elderly and Nursing Home Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Elisabeth Flo
- Department of Clinical Psychology, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Dag Aarsland
- Department of Old Age Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.,Centre for Age-Related Medicine, Stavanger University Hospital, Stavanger, Norway
| | - Geir Selbaek
- Centre for Old Age Psychiatric Research, Innlandet Hospital Trust, Ottestad, Norway.,National Advisory Unit on Aging and Health, Tønsberg, Norway.,Institute of Health and Society, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Clive Ballard
- Exeter Medical School, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Dagrun D Slettebo
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, Centre for Elderly and Nursing Home Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Bettina S Husebo
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, Centre for Elderly and Nursing Home Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,Municipality of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
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Tevik K, Selbæk G, Engedal K, Seim A, Krokstad S, Helvik AS. Use of alcohol and drugs with addiction potential among older women and men in a population-based study. The Nord-Trøndelag Health Study 2006-2008 (HUNT3). PLoS One 2017; 12:e0184428. [PMID: 28886172 PMCID: PMC5590962 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0184428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2016] [Accepted: 08/23/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Little is known about the consumption habits of older adults in Norway with respect to alcohol and the use of drugs with addiction potential, such as benzodiazepines, z-hypnotics and opioids, among regular drinkers. We studied the prevalence of self-reported consumption of alcohol on a regular basis in community-living older men and women (≥ 65 years). Furthermore, we investigated the prevalence of dispensed prescribed drugs with addiction potential in older men and women who were regular drinkers. Methods We used data from the Nord-Trøndelag Health Study 2006–2008 (HUNT3). Of 12,361 older adults in the HUNT3 study, 11,545 had answered the alcohol consumption item and were included in our study. Regular drinkers were defined as consuming alcohol one or more days a week. Data on dispensed drugs with addiction potential were drawn from the Norwegian Prescription Database. Addiction potential was defined as at least one prescription for benzodiazepines, z-hypnotics or opioids during one year for a minimum of two consecutive years. Results In total 28.2% of older Norwegian adults were regular drinkers. Men in the study were more likely to be regular drinkers than women. Drugs with addiction potential were used by 32.4% of participants, and were more commonly used by women. Nearly 12% of participants used benzodiazepines, 19% z-hypnotics and 12.4% opioids. Among regular drinkers, 29% used drugs with addiction potential, which was also more common among women. Adjusted for age, gender and living situation, use of z-hypnotics was associated with regular alcohol intake, while use of opioids was associated with no regular alcohol intake. Conclusion The prevalence of the use of drugs with addiction potential was high in a Norwegian population of older adults who reported regular consumption of alcohol. Strategies should be developed to reduce or prevent alcohol consumption among older adults who use drugs with addiction potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kjerstin Tevik
- Norwegian National Advisory Unit on Ageing and Health, Vestfold Hospital Trust, Tønsberg, Norway
- Department of Public Health and General Practice, Faculty of Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
- * E-mail:
| | - Geir Selbæk
- Norwegian National Advisory Unit on Ageing and Health, Vestfold Hospital Trust, Tønsberg, Norway
- Research Centre for Old Age Psychiatric Research, Innlandet Hospital Trust, Ottestad, Norway
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Knut Engedal
- Norwegian National Advisory Unit on Ageing and Health, Vestfold Hospital Trust, Tønsberg, Norway
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Arnfinn Seim
- Department of Public Health and General Practice, Faculty of Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
| | - Steinar Krokstad
- HUNT Research Centre, Department of Public Health and General Practice, Faculty of Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Levanger, Norway
- Psychiatric Department, Levanger Hospital, Nord-Trøndelag Hospital Trust, Levanger, Norway
| | - Anne-S. Helvik
- Norwegian National Advisory Unit on Ageing and Health, Vestfold Hospital Trust, Tønsberg, Norway
- Department of Public Health and General Practice, Faculty of Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
- St. Olavs University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
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12
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Everyday Health among Older People: A Comparison between Two Countries with Variant Life Conditions. J Aging Res 2017; 2017:2720942. [PMID: 28875042 PMCID: PMC5569869 DOI: 10.1155/2017/2720942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2017] [Revised: 07/09/2017] [Accepted: 07/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
This study described health factors of importance for everyday health, such as pain, tiredness, and sleeping problems, in a cross-national context. Data for persons 60+ years were obtained from the Poverty and Health in Aging study, Bangladesh, and the Swedish National Study on Aging and Care-Blekinge. The strongest associations with everyday health in Sweden were found for pain and tiredness, while in Bangladesh they were financial status, tiredness, and sleeping problems. As similarities were found regarding the associations of tiredness on everyday health, tiredness may be a universal predictor of everyday health in older adults irrespective of country context.
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Guerriero F. Guidance on opioids prescribing for the management of persistent non-cancer pain in older adults. World J Clin Cases 2017; 5:73-81. [PMID: 28352631 PMCID: PMC5352962 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v5.i3.73] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2016] [Revised: 10/25/2016] [Accepted: 12/13/2016] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Many older adults suffer from persistent pain but prevalence studies consistently showed high levels of untreated or under-treated pain in old population. Both persistent pain and pain under-treatment adversely affect independence and quality of life in geriatric patients. Pain management is challenging in this age-group because of the declining organ function, the presence of concurrent diseases and polypharmacy. For all the above reasons, persistent pain in the elderly should be considered a geriatric syndrome per se and effective approaches are warranted. Current guidelines and consensus statements recommend opioid therapy for older adults with moderate-to-severe persistent pain or functional impairment and diminished quality of life due to pain. However clinicians and patients themselves have some concerns about opioids use. Age-related decline in organs functions and warnings about risk of addiction and drug misuse/abuse also in geriatric patients need particular attention for safe prescribing. On the basis of clinical evidence, these practical recommendations will help to improve the competence on opioid role in persistent pain management and the likelihood of a successful analgesic trial in older patients.
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A Nationwide Retrospective Study of Opioid Management Patterns in 2,468 Patients with Spinal Pain in Korea. Asian Spine J 2016; 10:1122-1131. [PMID: 27994790 PMCID: PMC5165004 DOI: 10.4184/asj.2016.10.6.1122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2016] [Revised: 11/18/2016] [Accepted: 11/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Retrospective patient data collection and investigator survey. PURPOSE To investigate patterns of opioid treatment for pain caused by spinal disorders in Korea. OVERVIEW OF LITERATURE Opioid analgesic prescription and adequacy of consumption measures in Korea have markedly increased in the past decade, suggesting changing patterns in pain management practice; however, there is lack of integrated data specific to Korean population. METHODS Patient data were collected from medical records at 34 university hospitals in Korea. Outpatients receiving opioids for pain caused by spinal disorders were included in the study. Treatment patterns, including opioid types, doses, treatment duration, outcomes, and adverse drug reactions (ADRs), were evaluated. Investigators were interviewed on their perceptions of opioid use for spinal disorders. RESULTS Among 2,468 analyzed cases, spinal stenosis (42.8%) was the most common presentation, followed by disc herniation (24.2%) and vertebral fracture (17.5%). In addition, a greater proportion of patients experienced severe pain (73.9%) rather than moderate (19.9%) or mild (0.7%) pain. Oxycodone (51.9%) and fentanyl (50.8%) were the most frequently prescribed opioids; most patients were prescribed relatively low doses. The median duration of opioid treatment was 84 days. Pain relief was superior in patients with longer treatment duration (≥2 months) or with nociceptive pain than in those with shorter treatment duration or with neuropathic or mixed-type pain. ADRs were observed in 8.6% of cases. According to the investigators' survey, "excellent analgesic effect" was a perceived advantage of opioids, while safety concerns were a disadvantage. CONCLUSIONS Opioid usage patterns in patients with spinal disorders are in alignment with international guidelines for spinal pain management. Future prospective studies may address the suitability of opioids for spinal pain treatment by using appropriate objective measurement tools.
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Prostran M, Vujović KS, Vučković S, Medić B, Srebro D, Divac N, Stojanović R, Vujović A, Jovanović L, Jotić A, Cerovac N. Pharmacotherapy of Pain in the Older Population: The Place of Opioids. Front Aging Neurosci 2016; 8:144. [PMID: 27378916 PMCID: PMC4909762 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2016.00144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2016] [Accepted: 06/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Pain is a common symptom in older people. It is possible that pain is underreported in older persons due to an incorrect belief that it is an inevitable part of aging. Opioid analgesics are potent medications, with confirmed efficacy for the treatment of moderate to severe pain. These drugs are commonly used in older persons. However, there is insufficient evidence regarding safety of opioids in older patients. One of the reasons for this is the lack of randomized, controlled clinical trials. People of advanced age often have comorbidites and use other prescription drugs, as well as over-the-counter (OTC) compounds, thus making them more suceptible to the risk of interactions with opioids. Significant pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic changes that occur with advancing age increase the risk of adverse effects of opioids. There are also some discrepancies between guidelines, which recommend the use of lower doses of opioids in older patients, and the findings in the literature which suggest that pain is often undertreated in this age group. It seems that there are significant variations in the tolerability of different opioid analgesics in older people. Morphine, fentanyl, oxycodone, and buprenorphine are still the preferred evidence-based choices for add-on opioid therapy for these patients. However, the safety and efficacy of other opioids in older patients, especially if comorbidities and polypharmacy are present, is still questionable. This review addresses the most important aspects of the use of opioids in older persons, focusing on pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, adverse effects, and interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milica Prostran
- Department of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Katarina Savić Vujović
- Department of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Sonja Vučković
- Department of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Branislava Medić
- Department of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Dragana Srebro
- Department of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Nevena Divac
- Department of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Radan Stojanović
- Department of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade Belgrade, Serbia
| | | | - Lepa Jovanović
- Institute for Gerontology and Palliative Care Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ana Jotić
- Clinic for Otorhinolaryngology and Maxillofacial Surgery, Clinical Centre of Serbia, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Nataša Cerovac
- Clinic for Neurology and Psychiatry for Children and Youth, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade Belgrade, Serbia
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16
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Abstract
Persistent pain affects the elderly disproportionally, occurring in 50% of elderly community-dwelling patients and 80% of aged care residents. The management of pain in the elderly and frail patient is complicated because of the risks posed by changes in pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, polypharmacy, and drug-disease interactions. Trials evaluating the efficacy of analgesics have often excluded elderly patients and universally excluded frail patients; therefore, the true efficacy and side-effect profiles in these population groups are largely unknown, especially for long-term use. A stepwise approach is recommended to managing pain, commencing with paracetamol and adding on opioids when needed to manage pain. However, because of the short duration of clinical trials, exclusion of frail patients, and minimal inclusion of elderly patients, the decision as to which opioid should be added on to paracetamol is a difficult one. This article reviews the evidence surrounding a newer opioid, tapentadol. Tapentadol acts on both the mu receptors and on neuronal reuptake of noradrenaline, and has no significant analgesically active metabolites, which theoretically presents some advantages, particularly in comparison with tramadol. However, the evidence to support tapentadol is weak and the trials were often methodologically poor and sponsored almost universally by the drug company. Currently, there is insufficient evidence to support the use of tapentadol over other opioids, which have been on the market longer, are less expensive, and have better established safety profiles. As a first-line agent after the failure of paracetamol alone, morphine, oxycodone, fentanyl, or buprenorphine are still the preferred evidence-based choices for add-on opioid therapy for elderly or frail patients.
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17
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Skaer TL. Dosing considerations with transdermal formulations of fentanyl and buprenorphine for the treatment of cancer pain. J Pain Res 2014; 7:495-503. [PMID: 25170278 PMCID: PMC4145844 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s36446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Opioids continue to be first-line pharmacotherapy for patients suffering from cancer pain. Unfortunately, subtherapeutic dosage prescribing of pain medications remains common, and many cancer patients continue to suffer and experience diminished quality of life. A large variety of therapeutic options are available for cancer pain patients. Analgesic pharmacotherapy is based on the patient’s self-report of pain intensity and should be tailored to meet the requirements of each individual. Most, if not all, cancer pain patients will ultimately require modifications in their opioid pharmacotherapy. When changes in a patient’s medication regimen are needed, adequate pain control is best maintained through appropriate dosage conversion, scheduling immediate release medication for withdrawal prevention, and providing as needed dosing for breakthrough pain. Transdermal opioids are noninvasive, cause less constipation and sedation when compared to oral opioids, and may improve patient compliance. A relative potency of 100:1 is recommended when converting the patient from oral morphine to transdermal fentanyl. Based on the limited data available, there is significant interpatient variability with transdermal buprenorphine and equipotency recommendations from oral morphine of 75:1–110:1 have been suggested. Cancer patients may require larger transdermal buprenorphine doses to control their pain and may respond better to a more aggressive 75–100:1 potency ratio. This review outlines the prescribing of transdermal fentanyl and transdermal buprenorphine including how to safely and effectively convert to and use them for those with cancer pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracy L Skaer
- College of Pharmacy, Washington State University, Spokane, WA, USA
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18
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Gadzhanova S, Bell JS, Roughead EE. What analgesics do older people use prior to initiating oxycodone for non-cancer pain? A retrospective database study. Drugs Aging 2014; 30:921-6. [PMID: 24002742 DOI: 10.1007/s40266-013-0115-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increased oxycodone use has been associated with adverse drug events, non-medical use and overdose deaths. OBJECTIVES To explore patterns of non-opioid, weak opioid and strong opioid use prior to initiation of oxycodone for non-cancer pain in a predominantly older Australian population. METHODS A retrospective study was conducted using the Australian Government Department of Veterans' Affairs administrative claims database. Analgesic use 12 months prior to incident dispensing of oxycodone was determined for people in the community and in residential aged-care facilities (RACFs). Log-binomial regression was used to compute adjusted rate ratios (RRs) and 95 % confidence intervals (95 % CIs) for the use of other analgesics prior to initiating oxycodone. RESULTS Of 10,791 people who initiated oxycodone in 2010, 26 % in community settings and 13 % in RACFs were not dispensed other analgesics in the 12 months prior to initiating oxycodone. Thirty-four percent and 20 % of those in community settings and RACFs, respectively, were not dispensed other analgesics in the previous 4 months. Co-morbidity had little impact on prior analgesic use. Each additional co-morbid condition was associated with a 1.4 % increased likelihood (RR 1.014, 95 % CI 1.012-1.016; p < 0.0001) and a 1.2 % increased likelihood (RR 1.012, 95 % CI 1.009-1.015; p < 0.0001) of being dispensed another analgesic prior to initiating oxycodone in community and RACF settings, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Oxycodone is frequently initiated for non-cancer pain without first trialing other analgesics. This highlights the need for prescribing practices to be reviewed in light of increasing concerns about adverse drugs events and death due to oxycodone, particularly in older people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svetla Gadzhanova
- Quality Use of Medicines and Pharmacy Research Centre, Sansom Institute, School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
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Gras-Miralles B, Cremonini F. A critical appraisal of lubiprostone in the treatment of chronic constipation in the elderly. Clin Interv Aging 2013; 8:191-200. [PMID: 23439964 PMCID: PMC3578442 DOI: 10.2147/cia.s30729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic constipation is a common disorder in the general population, with higher prevalence in the elderly, and is associated with worse quality of life and with greater health care utilization. Lubiprostone is an intestinal type-2 chloride channel activator that increases intestinal fluid secretion, small intestinal transit, and stool passage. Lubiprostone is currently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of chronic idiopathic constipation and of irritable bowel syndrome with predominant constipation. This review outlines current approaches and limitations in the treatment of chronic constipation in the elderly and discusses the results, limitations, and applicability of randomized, controlled trials of lubiprostone that have been conducted in the general and elderly population, with additional focus on the use of lubiprostone in constipation in Parkinson's disease and in opioid-induced constipation, two clinical entities that can be comorbid in elderly patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Gras-Miralles
- Gastroenterology Department, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Filippo Cremonini
- Gastroenterology Department, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Southern Nevada VA Healthcare System, Las Vegas, NV, USA
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20
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Pergolizzi JV. Treatment of Chronic Pain in Older People: Evidence-Based Choice of Strong-Acting Opioids. Drugs Aging 2012; 29:993-5; author reply 997-8. [DOI: 10.1007/s40266-012-0025-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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