1
|
Chayama KL, Ng C, Ivsins A, Small W, Knight R, McNeil R. "Everybody looks at it as drug use instead of pain management": Experiences of chronic pain and its management among older people living with HIV who use drugs in Vancouver, British Columbia. Drug Alcohol Depend 2024; 262:111399. [PMID: 39029372 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2024.111399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic pain is a common comorbidity among people living with HIV (PLHIV) who use drugs. However, in-depth understanding of how chronic pain is managed among PLHIV who use drugs remains limited, especially in the aging population. We sought to explore how older PLHIV who use drugs manage chronic pain and situate these experiences within their social and structural contexts. METHODS This study draws on semi-structured, in-depth interviews conducted with 27 PLHIV who use drugs and were living with chronic pain in Vancouver, Canada. Participants were recruited through outreach at an integrated HIV care facility and from an open prospective cohort study of PLHIV who use drugs. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and coded. Salient themes were identified using an inductive-deductive approach to coding. RESULTS Three themes emerged from our data analysis. First, chronic pain influenced daily life and functioning, including ability to manage HIV and other health conditions. Second, provider-related barriers, including anti-drug stigma and discrimination, impeded access to pain management. Third, illicit drugs were often used to self-manage pain. CONCLUSIONS This study advances our understanding of the everyday experiences of living with chronic pain among older PLHIV who use drugs. Inadequately managed pain may contribute to an array of health- and drug-related harms among this population. Our findings underscore the need for equitable access to pain care, and safer alternatives to the toxic illicit drug supply in the context of the illicit drug poisoning epidemic, to relieve suffering and improve quality of life for older PLHIV who use drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Koharu Loulou Chayama
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9, Canada; Interdisciplinary Studies Graduate Program, University of British Columbia, 6371 Crescent Road, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z2, Canada
| | - Cara Ng
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9, Canada
| | - Andrew Ivsins
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 2775 Laurel Street, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9, Canada
| | - Will Small
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9, Canada; Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6, Canada
| | - Rod Knight
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9, Canada; École de Santé Publique de l'Université de Montréal, 7101 ave du Parc, Montréal, QC H3N 1×9, Canada
| | - Ryan McNeil
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9, Canada; Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, 330 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06519, United States; Program in Addiction Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, 367 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06520, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Stone BM. Development of the Enthusiastic Substance Use Attitudes Scale: Preliminary Evidence of a Novel Maintenance Factor. Subst Use Misuse 2024; 59:494-509. [PMID: 38269533 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2023.2280592] [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: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Background: Expectancies, motives, and attitudes toward substances are cognitive factors that partially account for substance use; however, existing measures tend to have monotonous phrasing, diverging from the enthusiastic attitude toward the perceived benefits of substance use exhibited by those who use substances regularly in informal settings. Objective: I aimed to characterize a new cognitive maintenance factor that precedes substance use by creating a brief, multidimensional measure to capture this tone nuance, which I called the Enthusiastic Substance Use Attitudes Scale (ESUAS). Method: Undergraduate students (n = 198) between ages 18 and 62 (M = 19.15, SD = 3.65; 66.2% women; 71.71% White) completed the study for course credit. Results: I used exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses to reduce a 90-item item pool based on a comprehensive qualitative thematic analysis of social media, traditional media, and the scientific literature to an 18-item hierarchical bifactor model. This model contained nine specific factors, which are (1) sociability, (2) enjoyment, (3) physical health, (4) mental health, (5) relaxation, (6) personal growth, (7) performance enhancement, (8) boredom, and (9) life processing; two general factors, which are (1) substance-induced emotion regulation and (2) substance-based assistance; and a higher-order single factor above the nine specific factors - resulting in twelve highly internally consistent, empirically supported scales. Further, the ESUAS demonstrated excellent structural, convergent, divergent, incremental, and diagnostic validity. The degree of enthusiasm towards substance use positively related to substance use disorder symptomology, polysubstance use, neuroticism, and difficulty with regulating emotions while negatively relating to one's psychological quality of life and agreeableness. Conclusion: The ESUAS may be an effective tool for professionals to characterize these enthusiastic attitudes further and measure a more ecologically valid view of the perceived benefits of substance use among those who use substances, thereby developing a more compassionate, non-stigmatizing understanding within the general public, advancing medicinal uses of illicit substances, and improving conceptualizations and treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bryant M Stone
- Department of Mental Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
- Department of Psychology, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, Illinois, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Reddon H, Lake S, Socias ME, Hayashi K, DeBeck K, Walsh Z, Milloy MJ. Cannabis use to manage opioid cravings among people who use unregulated opioids during a drug toxicity crisis. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2023; 119:104113. [PMID: 37481875 PMCID: PMC10817207 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2023.104113] [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: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Accumulating evidence has indicated that cannabis substitution is often used as a harm reduction strategy among people who use unregulated opioids (PWUO) and people living with chronic pain. We sought to investigate the association between cannabis use to manage opioid cravings and self-reported changes in opioid use among structurally marginalized PWUO. METHODS The data were collected from a cross-sectional questionnaire administered to PWUO in Vancouver, Canada. Binary logistic regression was used to analyze the association between cannabis use to manage opioid cravings and self-reported changes in unregulated opioid use. RESULTS A total of 205 people who use cannabis and opioids were enrolled in the present study from December 2019 to November 2021. Cannabis use to manage opioid cravings was reported by 118 (57.6%) participants. In the multivariable analysis, cannabis use to manage opioid cravings (adjusted Odds Ratio [aOR] = 2.13, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.07, 4.27) was significantly associated with self-reported reductions in opioid use. In the sub-analyses of pain, cannabis use to manage opioid cravings was only associated with self-assessed reductions in opioid use among people living with moderate to severe pain (aOR = 4.44, 95% CI: 1.52, 12.97). In the sub-analyses of males and females, cannabis use to manage opioid cravings was only associated with self-assessed reductions in opioid use among females (aOR = 8.19, 95% CI: 1.20, 55.81). CONCLUSIONS These findings indicate that cannabis use to manage opioid cravings is a prevalent motivation for cannabis use among PWUO and is associated with self-assessed reductions in opioid use during periods of cannabis use. Increasing the accessibility of cannabis products for therapeutic use may be a useful supplementary strategy to mitigate exposure to unregulated opioids and associated harm during the ongoing drug toxicity crisis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hudson Reddon
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada.
| | - Stephanie Lake
- UCLA Center for Cannabis and Cannabinoids, Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles, California, CA 90025, USA; Department of Psychiatry, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, CA 90025, USA
| | - Maria Eugenia Socias
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Kanna Hayashi
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9, Canada; Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
| | - Kora DeBeck
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9, Canada; School of Public Policy, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC V6B 5K3, Canada
| | - Zach Walsh
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9, Canada; University of British Columbia, Department of Psychology, Kelowna, BC, V1V 1V7, Canada
| | - M-J Milloy
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Loh J, Buxton J, Kaida A, Voon P, Grant C, Milloy MJ. Estimating the prevalence and correlates of pain among people living with HIV who use unregulated drugs in a Canadian setting. J Opioid Manag 2023; 19:225-237. [PMID: 37145925 PMCID: PMC10811581 DOI: 10.5055/jom.2023.0778] [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: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Although prevalent among people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) (PLWH) and people who use unregulated drugs (PWUD), pain and its possible links to substance use patterns and engagement in HIV treatment remains poorly characterized. We sought to evaluate the prevalence and correlates of pain among a cohort of PLWH who use un-regulated drugs. Between December 2011 and November 2018, 709 participants were recruited, and data were analyzed using generalized linear mixed-effects (GLMM). At baseline, 374 (53 percent) individuals reported moderate-to-extreme pain in the previous 6 months. In a multivariable model, pain was significantly associated with nonmedical prescrip-tion-opioid use (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 1.63, 95 percent confidence interval (CI): 1.30-2.05), nonfatal overdose (AOR = 1.46, 95 percent CI: 1.11-1.93), self-managing pain (AOR = 2.25, 95 percent CI: 1.94-2.61), requesting pain medication in the previous 6 months (AOR = 2.01, 95 percent CI: 1.69-2.38), and ever being diagnosed with a mental illness (AOR = 1.47, 95 percent CI: 1.11-1.94). Establishing accessible pain management interventions that address the complex intersection of pain, drug use, and HIV-infection has potential to improve quality of life outcomes among this population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jane Loh
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Jane Buxton
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Angela Kaida
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, Canada
| | - Pauline Voon
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Cameron Grant
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, Canada
| | - M-J Milloy
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Nelson EUE. Structural violence and barriers to pain management during an opioid crisis: accounts of women who use drugs in Nigeria. HEALTH SOCIOLOGY REVIEW : THE JOURNAL OF THE HEALTH SECTION OF THE AUSTRALIAN SOCIOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION 2022; 31:232-246. [PMID: 34229585 DOI: 10.1080/14461242.2021.1950024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Chronic pain management among marginalised populations have been extensively researched in North America, particularly amidst the opioid crisis. But little published research exists on this subject from Africa. This study explored experiences and management of chronic pain among marginalised women in the context of regulation of opioid prescribing using data from 16 qualitative interviews with women who use drugs (WWUD) in Uyo, Nigeria. Chronic pain was exacerbated by structural and everyday violence that acted to marginalise women and create a context of risk for inadequately managed pain. Participants experienced difficulty accessing biomedical pain management due to structural and systemic barriers, including cost, restrictions on opioid prescribing, stigma and other discriminatory practices, communication barriers and lack of social support. Restrictions on opioid prescribing and systemic discriminations against marginalised WWUD encouraged reliance on informal sources for falsified and substandard medications for pain treatment, which increased the risk of harm. Findings highlight a need for multi-component responses that address structural and systemic barriers to pain management, including improving access to opioid medications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ediomo-Ubong Ekpo Nelson
- Centre for Research and Information on Substance Abuse, University Post Office, Uyo, Nigeria
- International Blue Cross, Uyo, Nigeria
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Boucher LM, Shoemaker ES, Liddy CE, Leonard L, MacPherson PA, Presseau J, Martin A, Pineau D, Lalonde C, Diliso N, Lafleche T, Fitzgerald M, Kendall CE. "The Drug Use Unfortunately isn't all Bad": Chronic Disease Self-Management Complexity and Strategy Among Marginalized People Who Use Drugs. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2022; 32:871-886. [PMID: 35324352 PMCID: PMC9189593 DOI: 10.1177/10497323221083353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Self-management programs improve health outcomes and self-management is recommended for chronic conditions. Yet chronic disease self-management supports have rarely been applied to people who use drugs (PWUD). Thus, our objective was to explore self-management experiences among marginalized PWUD. We used community-based participatory methods and conducted qualitative interviews. Participants self-identified as having long-term and past year experience using non-prescribed drugs, one other chronic condition, and socioeconomic marginalization. We analyzed the data using reflexive thematic analysis. Although many participants considered drug use a chronic health issue, self-medicating with non-prescribed drugs was also a key self-management strategy to address other health issues. Participants also described numerous other strategies, including cognitive and behavioral tactics. These findings highlight the need for a safe supply of pharmaceutical-grade drugs to support self-management among marginalized PWUD. Self-management supports should also be tailored to address relevant topics (e.g., harm reduction, withdrawal), include creative activities, and not hinder PWUD's agency.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M. Boucher
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- C.T. Lamont Primary Health Care Research Centre, Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Lisa M. Boucher, Elisabeth Bruyere Research Institute, 43 Bruyere Street, Annex E, Ottawa, ON K1N 5C7, Canada.
| | - Esther S. Shoemaker
- C.T. Lamont Primary Health Care Research Centre, Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Clare E. Liddy
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- C.T. Lamont Primary Health Care Research Centre, Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Lynne Leonard
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Paul A. MacPherson
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Justin Presseau
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Alana Martin
- Somerset West Community Health Centre, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Centretown Community Health Centre, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- The CDSM Among PWUD Study’s Community Advisory Committee, Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Dave Pineau
- The CDSM Among PWUD Study’s Community Advisory Committee, Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Christine Lalonde
- Centretown Community Health Centre, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- The CDSM Among PWUD Study’s Community Advisory Committee, Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Nic Diliso
- The CDSM Among PWUD Study’s Community Advisory Committee, Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Terry Lafleche
- The CDSM Among PWUD Study’s Community Advisory Committee, Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Sandy Hill Community Health Centre, Ottawa, ONCanada
| | - Michael Fitzgerald
- C.T. Lamont Primary Health Care Research Centre, Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Claire E. Kendall
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- C.T. Lamont Primary Health Care Research Centre, Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Beliveau CM, McMahan VM, Arenander J, Angst MS, Kushel M, Torres A, Santos GM, Coffin PO. Stimulant use for self-management of pain among safety-net patients with chronic non-cancer pain. Subst Abus 2022; 43:179-186. [PMID: 33798030 PMCID: PMC8791072 DOI: 10.1080/08897077.2021.1903654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic pain affects one-fifth of US adults. Reductions in opioid prescribing have been associated with increased non-prescription opioid use and, chronologically, increased stimulant (methamphetamine and cocaine) use. While non-prescription opioid use is commonly attributed to pain self-management, the role of stimulants in managing pain is unclear. METHODS We analyzed baseline data from a longitudinal study of patients with chronic non-cancer pain in an urban safety-net healthcare system who had been prescribed an opioid for ≥3 of the last 12 months, and had a history of non-prescription opioid, cocaine, or amphetamine use (N = 300). We estimated the prevalence and identified correlates of stimulant use to treat pain among a subgroup of patients who reported past-year stimulant use (N = 105). Data sources included computer-assisted questionnaire (demographics, substance use, pain), clinical exam and procedures (pain, pain tolerance), and chart abstraction (opioid prescriptions). We conducted bivariate analyses to assess associations between demographics, pain characteristics, non-opioid therapies, substance use, opioid prescriptions, and self-reported symptoms, with reporting using stimulants to treat pain. Demographic variables and those with significant bivariate associations were included in a multivariable logistic regression model. RESULTS Fifty-two percent of participants with past-year stimulant use reported using stimulants in the past year to treat pain. Participants who used stimulants for pain reported slightly higher average pain in the past 3 months (median of 8 (IQR: 6-8) vs 7 (7-9) out of 10, p = 0.049). In the multivariable analysis, female gender (AOR= 3.20, 95% CI: 1.06-9.63, p = 0.039) and higher score on the Douleur Neuropathique 4 neuropathic pain questionnaire (AOR = 1.34, 95% CI: 1.05-1.70, p = 0.017) were associated with past-year stimulant use to treat pain. CONCLUSION Stimulants may be used for pain self-management, particularly for neuropathic pain and among women. Our findings suggest an underexplored motivation for stimulant use in an era of reduced access to prescribed opioids.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cathleen M. Beliveau
- Center on Substance Use and Health, San Francisco Department of Public Health, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Vanessa M. McMahan
- Center on Substance Use and Health, San Francisco Department of Public Health, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Justine Arenander
- Center on Substance Use and Health, San Francisco Department of Public Health, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Martin S. Angst
- Department of Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Margot Kushel
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Andrea Torres
- Center on Substance Use and Health, San Francisco Department of Public Health, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Glenn-Milo Santos
- Center on Substance Use and Health, San Francisco Department of Public Health, San Francisco, CA, USA.,University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Phillip O. Coffin
- Center on Substance Use and Health, San Francisco Department of Public Health, San Francisco, CA, USA.,University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Vogel M, Choi F, Westenberg JN, Cabanis M, Nikoo N, Nikoo M, Hwang SW, Somers J, Schütz CG, Krausz M. Chronic Pain among Individuals Experiencing Homelessness and Its Interdependence with Opioid and Other Substance Use and Mental Illness. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 19:ijerph19010005. [PMID: 35010263 PMCID: PMC8751035 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19010005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/18/2021] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Chronic pain and substance use disorders are serious conditions that are prevalent among homeless populations. The aim of this study was to examine the association between chronic pain and substance use among individuals experiencing homelessness and mental illness. We analyzed cross-sectional data from two sites of the At Home/Chez Soi study (Vancouver and Toronto) using bivariate statistics and multivariate logistic regression. Substance use and chronic pain parameters were assessed with the Maudsley Addiction Profile and purpose-designed short instruments. The sample comprised 828 participants. Mean age was 42.4 years and 54% reported chronic pain. In bivariate analysis, chronic pain was significantly associated with use of opioids and stimulants, daily substance use, polysubstance use and injecting as route of administration. In multivariate analysis, only daily substance use (OR: 1.46, 95% CI: 1.02-2.09) and injecting (OR: 1.81, 95% CI: 1.08-3.05) remained as significant associated factors, whereas neither use of opioids nor use of stimulants specifically were significantly associated with chronic pain. Among participants with chronic pain, daily substance users (50% vs. 22%, p < 0.001) and injectors (66% vs. 24%, p < 0.001) were more likely to use non-prescribed medication for pain. Participants with daily substance use were less likely to receive professional treatment (52% vs. 64%, p = 0.017) and prescribed pain medication (42% vs. 54%, p = 0.023). Our findings suggest an association of chronic pain with patterns related to severity of substance use rather than to specific substance use in homeless persons with mental illness. Interventions aiming at prevention and treatment of chronic pain in this population should consider severity of substance use and associated risk behavior over use of specific substances.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marc Vogel
- Psychiatric Services Thurgovia, Division of Substance Use Disorders, 8596 Münsterlingen, Switzerland
- Center for Addiction Disorder, University of Basel Psychiatric Clinics, 4002 Basel, Switzerland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +41-71-686-41-41
| | - Fiona Choi
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 2A1, Canada; (F.C.); (J.N.W.); (N.N.); (M.N.); (C.G.S.); (M.K.)
| | - Jean N. Westenberg
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 2A1, Canada; (F.C.); (J.N.W.); (N.N.); (M.N.); (C.G.S.); (M.K.)
- Clinic for Addiction Medicine and Addictive Behavior, Klinikum Stuttgart, 70174 Stuttgart, Germany;
| | - Maurice Cabanis
- Clinic for Addiction Medicine and Addictive Behavior, Klinikum Stuttgart, 70174 Stuttgart, Germany;
| | - Nooshin Nikoo
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 2A1, Canada; (F.C.); (J.N.W.); (N.N.); (M.N.); (C.G.S.); (M.K.)
| | - Mohammadali Nikoo
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 2A1, Canada; (F.C.); (J.N.W.); (N.N.); (M.N.); (C.G.S.); (M.K.)
| | - Stephen W. Hwang
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, ON M5B 1W8, Canada;
| | - Julian Somers
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, BC V5A 1S6, Canada;
| | - Christian G. Schütz
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 2A1, Canada; (F.C.); (J.N.W.); (N.N.); (M.N.); (C.G.S.); (M.K.)
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences (CHEOS), The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6Z IY6, Canada
- BC Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Provincial Health Services Agency, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | - Michael Krausz
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 2A1, Canada; (F.C.); (J.N.W.); (N.N.); (M.N.); (C.G.S.); (M.K.)
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences (CHEOS), The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6Z IY6, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Sanchez DP, Tookes H, Pastar I, Lev-Tov H. Wounds and Skin and Soft Tissue Infections in People Who Inject Drugs and the Utility of Syringe Service Programs in Their Management. Adv Wound Care (New Rochelle) 2021; 10:571-582. [PMID: 33913781 PMCID: PMC8312019 DOI: 10.1089/wound.2020.1243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Significance: Opioid use disorder and transition to injection drug use (IDU) are an urgent, nationwide public health crisis. Wounds and skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs) are common complications of IDU that disproportionately affect people who inject drugs (PWID) and are a major source of morbidity and mortality for this population. Critical Issues: Injections in a nonsterile environment and reusing or sharing needles facilitates bacterial inoculation, with subsequent risk of serious complications such as sepsis, gangrene, amputation, and death. PWID are susceptible to infections with a wide spectrum of organisms beyond common culprits of SSTI, including Clostridium and Bacillus spp., as well as Candida. Recent Advances: Syringe services programs (SSPs) are cost-effective and successful in reducing harms associated with IDU. SSPs provide new equipment to PWID and aid in discarding used equipment. SSPs aim to reduce the risks of unhygienic injecting practices, which are associated with transmission of infections and blood-borne pathogens. Future Directions: Concurrently run SSPs and wound care clinics are uniquely positioned to facilitate care to PWID. Providing new, sterile equipment as well as early wound care intervention can reduce morbidity and mortality as well as health care expenditures by reducing the number of SSTI and injection-related wounds that require hospital admission. Establishment of wound care clinics as part of an SSP represents an untapped potential to reduce harm.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela P. Sanchez
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
- Department of Dermatology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Hansel Tookes
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Irena Pastar
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Hadar Lev-Tov
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Lyons T, Krüsi A, Edgar E, Machat S, Kerr T, Shannon K. The Impacts of Intersecting Stigmas on Health and Housing Experiences of Queer Women Sex Workers in Vancouver, Canada. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2021; 68:957-972. [PMID: 31774383 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2019.1694337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to qualitatively explore how queer women sex workers' experiences of stigma impacted health and housing access in Vancouver, Canada. In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with 56 queer women sex workers in Vancouver, Canada between June 2012 and May 2013. Participants described sexual stigma in the form of discriminatory comments about their sexuality, and in the form of barriers to housing and complexities in maintaining their relationships in supported housing environments. Enacted stigma was also experienced, particularly drug use-related stigma, in healthcare settings. Consequently, some participants reported felt stigma in the form of hiding their sexuality and relationships to mitigate stigma and to gain access to services. Participants experienced a variety of stigma related to drug use, housing insecurity, and sexuality; thereby demonstrating the intersecting dimensions of stigma and structural oppressions in the lives of the queer women sex workers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tara Lyons
- Centre for Gender & Sexual Health Equity, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Criminology, Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Andrea Krüsi
- Centre for Gender & Sexual Health Equity, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | | | - Sylvia Machat
- Centre for Gender & Sexual Health Equity, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Thomas Kerr
- Centre for Gender & Sexual Health Equity, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Kate Shannon
- Centre for Gender & Sexual Health Equity, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Ivsins A, Boyd J, Mayer S, Collins A, Sutherland C, Kerr T, McNeil R. "It's Helped Me a Lot, Just Like to Stay Alive": a Qualitative Analysis of Outcomes of a Novel Hydromorphone Tablet Distribution Program in Vancouver, Canada. J Urban Health 2021; 98:59-69. [PMID: 33118145 PMCID: PMC7592642 DOI: 10.1007/s11524-020-00489-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
North America is experiencing an overdose crisis driven by fentanyl, related analogues, and fentanyl-adulterated drugs. In response, there have been increased calls for "safe supply" interventions based on the premise that providing a safer alternative (i.e., pharmaceutical drugs of known quality/quantity, non-adulterated, with user agency in consumption methods) to the street drug supply will limit people's use of fentanyl-adulterated drugs and reduce overdose events. This study examined outcomes of a hydromorphone tablet distribution program intended to prevent overdose events among people who use drugs (PWUD) at high risk of fatal overdose. Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with 42 people enrolled in the hydromorphone distribution program. Additionally, over 100 h of ethnographic observation were undertaken in and around the study site. Transcripts were coded using NVivo and based on categories extracted from the interview guides and those identified during initial interviews and ethnographic fieldwork. Analysis focused on narratives around experiences with the program, focusing on program-related outcomes. Our analysis identified the following positive outcomes of being enrolled in the hydromorphone tablet distribution program: (1) reduced street drug use and overdose risk, (2) improvements to health and well-being, (3) improvements in co-management of pain, and (4) economic improvements. Our findings indicate that the hydromorphone distribution program not only is effective in responding to the current overdose crisis by reducing people's use of illicit drugs but also addresses inequities stemming from the intersection of drug use and social inequality. Safe supply programs should be further implemented and evaluated in both urban and rural setting across North America as a strategy to reduce exposure to the toxic drug supply and fatal overdose.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Ivsins
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 1045 Howe St Suite 400, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6Z 2A9, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 317 - 2194 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Jade Boyd
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 1045 Howe St Suite 400, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6Z 2A9, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 317 - 2194 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Samara Mayer
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 1045 Howe St Suite 400, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6Z 2A9, Canada
| | - Alexandra Collins
- Brown University School of Public Health, 121 S Main St, Providence, RI, 02903, USA
| | - Christy Sutherland
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 1045 Howe St Suite 400, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6Z 2A9, Canada
- PHS Community Services, 9 E Hastings St, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6A 1M9, Canada
| | - Thomas Kerr
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 1045 Howe St Suite 400, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6Z 2A9, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 317 - 2194 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Ryan McNeil
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 1045 Howe St Suite 400, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6Z 2A9, Canada.
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 317 - 2194 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z3, Canada.
- Program in Addiction Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, 333 Cedar St, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA.
- General Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, 333 Cedar St, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Comassetto MO, Hugo FN, Neves M, Hilgert JB. Dental Pain in Homeless Adults in Porto Alegre, Brazil. Int Dent J 2021; 71:206-213. [PMID: 34024330 PMCID: PMC9275110 DOI: 10.1111/idj.12626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To evaluate the association of dental pain with time living on the street in a sample of homeless people in the city of Porto Alegre, Brazil. Methods A cross-sectional study was carried out with homeless people who accessed social services in 2017. A questionnaire was administered covering socioeconomic variables and including questions about general health, use of tobacco/alcohol/drugs, use of dental services and history of dental pain. The decayed, missing, and filled teeth (DMFT) index was calculated in an oral examination. The association between socioeconomic characteristics, health status, time of homelessness and dental pain was evaluated using chi-square, t-, and Mann-Whitney tests. Results A total sample of 214 homeless people was surveyed. Most were male (76.2%), had a low level of education (67.6%) and experienced many episodes of dental pain during life (91.0%). The last episode of pain was moderate or intense (79.7%) and do-it-yourself measures for pain relief were preferred (62.3%). Individuals who were homeless for longer than 1 year had more dental pain in the past (P < 0.001), more frequency of a recent episode of dental pain (P = 0.03), and sought a dentist or healthcare service to relieve pain less frequently (P = 0.03). Conclusions Dental pain is frequent in the context of homelessness and does not necessarily result in seeking dental services, even where there is universal oral health care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcela Obst Comassetto
- Graduate Program in Dentistry, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Fernando Neves Hugo
- Graduate Program in Dentistry, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Matheus Neves
- Department of Preventive and Social Dentistry, School of Dentistry, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Juliana Balbinot Hilgert
- Graduate Program in Dentistry, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil; Graduate Program in Epidemiology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Voon P, Wang L, Nosova E, Hayashi K, Milloy MJ, Wood E, Kerr T. Pain and Barriers to Accessing Health Services Among People Who Use Drugs. Pain Manag Nurs 2020; 22:133-140. [PMID: 33358486 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmn.2020.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/21/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The opioid overdose crisis underscores the need for health services among people who use drugs (PWUD) with concurrent pain. AIMS Investigating the effect of pain on barriers to accessing health services among PWUD. DESIGN Prospective cohort study. SETTINGS A setting of universal access to no-cost medical care in Vancouver, Canada from June 2014 to May 2016. PARTICIPANTS/SUBJECTS PWUD who completed at least one study interview. METHODS Data derived from interviewer-administered questionnaires were used for multivariable generalized linear mixed-effects multiple regression (GLMM) analyses. RESULTS Among 1,348 PWUD, 469 (34.8%) reported barriers to accessing health services at least once during the study period. The median average pain severity was 3 (IQR: 0-6) out of 10. A dose-response relationship was observed between greater pain and increased odds of reporting barriers to accessing health services (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 1.59, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.15-2.21, p = .005 for mild versus no pain; AOR: 1.76, 95% CI: 1.30-2.37, p < .001 for moderate versus no pain; AOR: 2.55, 95% CI: 1.92-3.37, p < .001 for severe versus no pain). Common barriers included poor treatment by health professionals, socio-structural barriers such as transportation or mobility, and long wait lists or wait times. CONCLUSIONS Pain may be a significant risk factor associated with increased barriers to accessing health services among PWUD. Attention to pain management may improve access to health services, and reducing barriers to health services may conversely improve pain management and its related risks and harms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Voon
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
| | - Linwei Wang
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Centre for Urban Health Solutions, St Michael's Hospital, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ekaterina Nosova
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Kanna Hayashi
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - M-J Milloy
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Evan Wood
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Thomas Kerr
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Kaboré JL, Dassieu L, Roy É, Jutras-Aswad D, Bruneau J, Pagé MG, Choinière M. Prevalence, Characteristics, and Management of Chronic Noncancer Pain Among People Who Use Drugs: A Cross-Sectional Study. PAIN MEDICINE 2020; 21:3205-3214. [PMID: 32869088 DOI: 10.1093/pm/pnaa232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Most studies on chronic noncancer pain (CNCP) in people who use drugs (PWUD) are restricted to people attending substance use disorder treatment programs. This study assessed the prevalence of CNCP in a community-based sample of PWUD, identified factors associated with pain, and documented strategies used for pain relief. METHODS This was a cross-sectional study nested in an ongoing cohort of PWUD in Montreal, Canada. Questionnaires were administered to PWUD seen between February 2017 and January 2018. CNCP was defined as pain lasting three or more months and not associated with cancer. RESULTS A total of 417 PWUD were included (mean age = 44.6 ± 10.6 years, 84% men). The prevalence of CNCP was 44.8%, and the median pain duration (interquartile range) was 12 (5-18) years. The presence of CNCP was associated with older age (>45 years old; odds ratio [OR] = 1.8, 95% CI = 1.2-2.7), male sex (OR = 2.3, 95% CI = 1.2-4.2), poor health condition (OR = 1.9, 95% CI = 1.3-3.0), moderate to severe psychological distress (OR = 2.9, 95% CI = 1.8-4.7), and less frequent cocaine use (OR = 0.5, 95% CI = 0.3-0.9). Among CNCP participants, 20.3% used pain medication from other people, whereas 22.5% used alcohol, cannabis, or illicit drugs to relieve pain. Among those who asked for pain medication (N = 24), 29.2% faced a refusal from the doctor. CONCLUSIONS CNCP was common among PWUD, and a good proportion of them used substances other than prescribed pain medication to relieve pain. Close collaboration of pain and addiction specialists as well as better pain assessment and access to nonpharmacological treatments could improve pain management in PWUD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Luc Kaboré
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Research Centre of the Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Lise Dassieu
- Research Centre of the Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Élise Roy
- Addiction Research and Study Program, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Longueuil, Quebec, Canada
| | - Didier Jutras-Aswad
- Research Centre of the Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry and Addiction, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Julie Bruneau
- Research Centre of the Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Family Medicine and Emergency Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - M Gabrielle Pagé
- Research Centre of the Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Manon Choinière
- Research Centre of the Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Bicket MC, Park JN, Torrie A, Allen ST, Weir BW, Sherman SG. Factors associated with chronic pain and non-medical opioid use among people who inject drugs. Addict Behav 2020; 102:106172. [PMID: 31704433 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2019.106172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Revised: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/09/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite rising morbidity and mortality from the opioid epidemic and other addictions, people who inject drugs (PWID) remain understudied regarding pain outcomes. Data among PWID regarding chronic pain and drug use, including non-medical use of opioids, is largely unknown. We examined the prevalence of chronic pain and drug use for pain in this population. METHODS Standardized surveys captured self-report of demographics, chronic pain, and non-prescription drug use in 203 PWID in an urban syringe services program between April and November 2016. Chronic pain was defined as self-report of chronic pain diagnosis or persistent pains over the past 6 months. RESULTS Overall, 47% (95% CI, 40%-54%) of PWID reported chronic pain, while 35% (95% CI, 29%-42%) reported non-prescription drug use of any type for pain. Among those with chronic pain, drug use to treat pain was commonly reported (76%; 95% CI, 66%-83%). Non-medical opioid use did not differ among PWID with or without chronic pain or drug use for pain. A multivariable logistic regression model showed chronic pain was more likely among non-Hispanic whites and those with arthritis, older age, and homelessness. CONCLUSIONS Chronic pain serves as an important factor in the persistence of drug use in more than one-third of PWID in this sample. The high prevalence of chronic pain with drug use for pain suggests that proper pain management is likely to be an essential component of preventing or regressing injection drug use in PWID, with data needed on effective interventions for this population.
Collapse
|
16
|
Buttram ME, Surratt HL. Factors Associated with Gabapentin Misuse among People Who Inject Drugs in Appalachian Kentucky. Subst Use Misuse 2020; 55:2364-2370. [PMID: 32917119 PMCID: PMC7643539 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2020.1817082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Gabapentin is misused to potentiate the euphoric effects of opioids, self-treat physical pain, and moderate opioid withdrawal symptoms. Because examinations of gabapentin misuse among people who inject drugs (PWID) are scant, the aim of this study is to identify factors associated with gabapentin misuse among this population. Methods: Data are drawn from a study examining the uptake of syringe service programs (SSPs) in Appalachian Kentucky. The sample includes 324 PWID who were age 18 and over and reported past month drug injection. Logistic regression models were constructed to examine recent (past 90 days) gabapentin misuse. Results: Participants are female (50.0%); Hispanic (2.2%), Black (1.5%), white (90.7%), and other race/ethnicity (4.6%). Mean age is 37. Participants reporting gabapentin misuse had higher odds of reporting (mis)use of marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, prescription opioids, benzodiazepines, prescription stimulants, fentanyl, and buprenorphine (p < .042); severe substance use disorder (p < .000); and recent physical pain (p < .003). In multivariable models, findings related to misuse of prescription opioids and buprenorphine; severe substance use disorder; and recent physical pain or discomfort, remained significant (p < .042). Conclusions: This is one of the first studies to examine gabapentin misuse among PWID. It is possible that individuals reporting recent gabapentin misuse are attempting to self-treat physical pain when healthcare is limited. Gabapentin may also be misused to achieve desired central nervous system effects and to potentiate opioid highs. Syringe service programs can educate PWID about the potential dangers of polydrug use involving gabapentin and to connect PWID with needed healthcare services.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mance E Buttram
- Center for Applied Research on Substance Use and Health Disparities, Nova Southeastern University, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Hilary L Surratt
- Department of Behavioral Science, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Lake S, Walsh Z, Kerr T, Cooper ZD, Buxton J, Wood E, Ware MA, Milloy MJ. Frequency of cannabis and illicit opioid use among people who use drugs and report chronic pain: A longitudinal analysis. PLoS Med 2019; 16:e1002967. [PMID: 31743343 PMCID: PMC6863529 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1002967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2019] [Accepted: 10/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ecological research suggests that increased access to cannabis may facilitate reductions in opioid use and harms, and medical cannabis patients describe the substitution of opioids with cannabis for pain management. However, there is a lack of research using individual-level data to explore this question. We aimed to investigate the longitudinal association between frequency of cannabis use and illicit opioid use among people who use drugs (PWUD) experiencing chronic pain. METHODS AND FINDINGS This study included data from people in 2 prospective cohorts of PWUD in Vancouver, Canada, who reported major or persistent pain from June 1, 2014, to December 1, 2017 (n = 1,152). We used descriptive statistics to examine reasons for cannabis use and a multivariable generalized linear mixed-effects model to estimate the relationship between daily (once or more per day) cannabis use and daily illicit opioid use. There were 424 (36.8%) women in the study, and the median age at baseline was 49.3 years (IQR 42.3-54.9). In total, 455 (40%) reported daily illicit opioid use, and 410 (36%) reported daily cannabis use during at least one 6-month follow-up period. The most commonly reported therapeutic reasons for cannabis use were pain (36%), sleep (35%), stress (31%), and nausea (30%). After adjusting for demographic characteristics, substance use, and health-related factors, daily cannabis use was associated with significantly lower odds of daily illicit opioid use (adjusted odds ratio 0.50, 95% CI 0.34-0.74, p < 0.001). Limitations of the study included self-reported measures of substance use and chronic pain, and a lack of data for cannabis preparations, dosages, and modes of administration. CONCLUSIONS We observed an independent negative association between frequent cannabis use and frequent illicit opioid use among PWUD with chronic pain. These findings provide longitudinal observational evidence that cannabis may serve as an adjunct to or substitute for illicit opioid use among PWUD with chronic pain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Lake
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Zach Walsh
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Thomas Kerr
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Ziva D. Cooper
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Jane Buxton
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Evan Wood
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Mark A. Ware
- Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Québec, Canada
- Department of Anesthesia, McGill University, Montreal, Québec, Canada
| | - M. J. Milloy
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Bechara A, Berridge KC, Bickel WK, Morón JA, Williams SB, Stein JS. A Neurobehavioral Approach to Addiction: Implications for the Opioid Epidemic and the Psychology of Addiction. Psychol Sci Public Interest 2019; 20:96-127. [PMID: 31591935 PMCID: PMC7001788 DOI: 10.1177/1529100619860513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Two major questions about addictive behaviors need to be explained by any worthwhile neurobiological theory. First, why do people seek drugs in the first place? Second, why do some people who use drugs seem to eventually become unable to resist drug temptation and so become "addicted"? We will review the theories of addiction that address negative-reinforcement views of drug use (i.e., taking opioids to alleviate distress or withdrawal), positive-reinforcement views (i.e., taking drugs for euphoria), habit views (i.e., growth of automatic drug-use routines), incentive-sensitization views (i.e., growth of excessive "wanting" to take drugs as a result of dopamine-related sensitization), and cognitive-dysfunction views (i.e., impaired prefrontal top-down control), including those involving competing neurobehavioral decision systems (CNDS), and the role of the insula in modulating addictive drug craving. In the special case of opioids, particular attention is paid to whether their analgesic effects overlap with their reinforcing effects and whether the perceived low risk of taking legal medicinal opioids, which are often prescribed by a health professional, could play a role in the decision to use. Specifically, we will address the issue of predisposition or vulnerability to becoming addicted to drugs (i.e., the question of why some people who experiment with drugs develop an addiction, while others do not). Finally, we review attempts to develop novel therapeutic strategies and policy ideas that could help prevent opioid and other substance abuse.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Bechara
- Department of Psychology, University of Southern California
- Brain and Creativity Institute, University of Southern California
| | | | - Warren K. Bickel
- Addiction Recovery Research Center & Center for Transformational Research on Health Behaviors, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech Carilion, Roanoke, Virginia
| | - Jose A. Morón
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine
- Washington University Pain Center, Washington University School of Medicine
| | - Sidney B. Williams
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine
- Washington University Pain Center, Washington University School of Medicine
| | - Jeffrey S. Stein
- Addiction Recovery Research Center & Center for Transformational Research on Health Behaviors, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech Carilion, Roanoke, Virginia
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Cheng T, Nosova E, Small W, Hogg RS, Hayashi K, DeBeck K. A gender-based analysis of nonmedical prescription opioid use among people who use illicit drugs. Addict Behav 2019; 97:42-48. [PMID: 31146150 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2019.05.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2018] [Revised: 03/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research investigating the unique impacts associated with engaging in nonmedical prescription opioid use (NMPOU) among males and females who also use illicit drugs is needed. METHODS Data were collected between 2013 and 2017 from two linked prospective cohort studies in Vancouver: the At-Risk Youth Study and Vancouver Injection Drug Users Study. Generalized estimating equations were used to identify factors associated with engaging in NMPOU among females and males separately. RESULTS Among 1459 participants, 534 were female (37%). Similar proportions of females (46%) and males (48%) engaged in NMPOU at their first visit during the study period. In multivariable analyses, factors associated with NMPOU among both males and females included heroin use, overdose, drug dealing, and difficulty accessing health and social services. Among females, those who engaged in NMPOU were more likely to report Caucasian or white ethnicity, cocaine use, crystal methamphetamine use, and sex work; among males, those who engaged in NMPOU were older, reported crack use and engaged in binge drug use (all p < 0.05). CONCLUSION The prevalence of NMPOU was similar among males and females who use illicit drugs in Vancouver, and NMPOU was independently associated with markers of vulnerability among both genders. Findings highlight the need for a comprehensive public health approach to address NMPOU that integrates overdose prevention and reversal services, employment opportunities, and better access to services for both women and men.
Collapse
|
20
|
Dassieu L, Kaboré JL, Choinière M, Arruda N, Roy É. Understanding the link between substance use and chronic pain: A qualitative study among people who use illicit drugs in Montreal, Canada. Drug Alcohol Depend 2019; 202:50-55. [PMID: 31301552 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2019.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2019] [Revised: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lise Dassieu
- Université de Sherbrooke, Addiction Research and Study Program, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, 150 Place Charles-Le Moyne, Longueuil, Québec, J4K 0A8, Canada; Research Center of the Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Saint-Antoine Building, 850 Saint-Denis St, Montreal, Quebec, H2X 0A9, Canada.
| | - Jean-Luc Kaboré
- Research Center of the Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Saint-Antoine Building, 850 Saint-Denis St, Montreal, Quebec, H2X 0A9, Canada; Université de Montréal, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Pavillon Roger-Gaudry, C.P. 6128, succursale Centre-ville, Montreal, Quebec, H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Manon Choinière
- Research Center of the Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Saint-Antoine Building, 850 Saint-Denis St, Montreal, Quebec, H2X 0A9, Canada; Université de Montréal, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Pavillon Roger-Gaudry, C.P. 6128, succursale Centre-ville, Montreal, Québec, H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Nelson Arruda
- Université de Sherbrooke, Addiction Research and Study Program, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, 150 Place Charles-Le Moyne, Longueuil, Québec, J4K 0A8, Canada
| | - Élise Roy
- Université de Sherbrooke, Addiction Research and Study Program, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, 150 Place Charles-Le Moyne, Longueuil, Québec, J4K 0A8, Canada; Institut National de Santé Publique du Québec, 190 Crémazie Blvd. East, Montreal, Quebec, H2P 1E2, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Koller G, Schwarzer A, Halfter K, Soyka M. Pain management in opioid maintenance treatment. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2019; 20:1993-2005. [DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2019.1652270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Gabi Koller
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Andreas Schwarzer
- Department of Pain Medicine, BG University Hospital Bergmannsheil, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Kathrin Halfter
- Institute for Medical Informatics, Biometry and Epidemiology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University München, Munich, Germany
| | - Michael Soyka
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
- Medical Park Chiemseeblick, Bernau, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Prangnell A, Voon P, Shulha H, Nosova E, Shoveller J, Milloy MJ, Kerr T, Hayashi K. The relationship between childhood emotional abuse and chronic pain among people who inject drugs in Vancouver, Canada. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2019; 93:119-127. [PMID: 31103834 PMCID: PMC6658124 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2019.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2018] [Revised: 04/19/2019] [Accepted: 05/05/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND People who inject drugs (PWID) often contend with chronic pain as a result of illness and trauma, and such pain is known to have significant impacts on mental health, quality of life, and substance use behaviours. Although PWID are also known to have high rates of childhood trauma, little is known about how childhood emotional abuse may be associated with chronic pain in this population. OBJECTIVE We undertook this study to explore emotional abuse and chronic pain among PWID. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING This study comprised a total of 1459 participants in Vancouver, Canada between June 2014 and November 2016. METHODS We employed multivariable generalized estimating equations with data derived from two prospective cohort studies of community-recruited PWID to examine the relationship between childhood emotional abuse and chronic pain in the past six months. RESULTS Among eligible participants, 591 (40.5%) reported childhood emotional abuse, and 760 (52.1%) reported chronic pain in the previous six months. In a multivariable analysis, experiencing childhood emotional abuse remained independently associated with chronic pain (adjusted odds ratio: 1.25; 95% confidence interval: 1.01-1.53) after adjustment for a range of socio-demographic and drug use confounders. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that childhood emotional abuse may have lasting relationships with chronic pain among PWID, potentially through established physiological and psychological mechanisms. Current chronic pain treatment may benefit from the evaluation of life course vulnerabilities that may be amenable to earlier interventions. Further, increased availability of effective trauma-informed chronic pain treatment is needed among this vulnerable population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amy Prangnell
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2A9, Canada; School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z9, Canada.
| | - Pauline Voon
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2A9, Canada; School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z9, Canada.
| | - Hennady Shulha
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2A9, Canada.
| | - Ekaterina Nosova
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2A9, Canada.
| | - Jean Shoveller
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2A9, Canada; School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z9, Canada.
| | - M-J Milloy
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2A9, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada.
| | - Thomas Kerr
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2A9, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada.
| | - Kanna Hayashi
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2A9, Canada; Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Nonviral Injection-Related Injuries in Persons Who Inject Drugs: Skin and Soft Tissue Infection, Vascular Damage, and Wounds. Adv Skin Wound Care 2019; 32:301-310. [DOI: 10.1097/01.asw.0000559612.06067.55] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
24
|
Cheng T, Small W, Dong H, Nosova E, Hayashi K, DeBeck K. An age-based analysis of nonmedical prescription opioid use among people who use illegal drugs in Vancouver, Canada. Subst Abuse Treat Prev Policy 2018; 13:41. [PMID: 30482215 PMCID: PMC6260714 DOI: 10.1186/s13011-018-0180-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2018] [Accepted: 11/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nonmedical prescription opioid use (NMPOU) is a serious public health problem in North America. At a population-level, previous research has identified differences in the prevalence and correlates of NMPOU among younger versus older age groups; however, less is known about age-related differences in NMPOU among people who use illegal drugs. METHODS Data were collected between 2013 and 2015 from two linked prospective cohort studies in Vancouver, Canada: the At-Risk Youth Study (ARYS) and the Vancouver Injection Drug Users Study (VIDUS). Factors independently associated with NMPOU among younger (ARYS) and older (VIDUS) participants were examined separately using bivariate and multivariate generalized estimating equations. RESULTS A total of 1162 participants were included. Among 405 eligible younger participants (Median age = 25; Inter-Quartile Range [IQR]: 22-28), 40% (n = 160) reported engaging in NMPOU at baseline; among 757 older participants (Median age = 48, IQR: 40-55), 35% (n = 262) reported engaging in NMPOU at baseline. In separate multivariate analyses of younger and older participants, NMPOU was positively and independently associated with heroin use (younger: Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR] = 3.12, 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 2.08-4.68; older: AOR = 2.79, 95% CI: 2.08-3.74), drug dealing (younger: AOR = 2.22, 95% CI: 1.58-3.13; older: AOR = 1.87, 95% CI: 1.40-2.49), and difficulty accessing services (younger: AOR = 1.47, 95% CI: 1.04-2.09; older: AOR = 1.74, 95% CI: 1.32-2.29). Among the youth cohort only, NMPOU was associated with younger age (AOR = 1.12, 95% CI: 1.05-1.19), crack use (AOR = 1.56, 95% CI: 1.06-2.30), and binge drug use (AOR = 1.41, 95% CI: 1.00-1.97); older participants who engaged in NMPOU were more likely to report crystal methamphetamine use (AOR = 1.97, 95% CI: 1.46-2.66), non-fatal overdose (AOR = 1.76, 95% CI: 1.20-2.60) and sex work (AOR = 1.49, 95% CI: 1.00-2.22). DISCUSSION The prevalence of NMPOU is similar among younger and older people who use drugs, and independently associated with markers of vulnerability among both age groups. Adults who engage in NMPOU are at risk for non-fatal overdose, which highlights the need for youth and adult-specific strategies to address NMPOU that include better access to health and social services, as well as a range of addiction treatment options for opioid use. Findings also underscore the importance of improving pain treatment strategies tailored for PWUD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tessa Cheng
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Blusson Hall, Room 11300, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6 Canada
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Providence Health Care, 400-1045 Howe St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9 Canada
| | - Will Small
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Blusson Hall, Room 11300, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6 Canada
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Providence Health Care, 400-1045 Howe St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9 Canada
- Centre for Applied Research in Mental Health and Addiction, SFU Faculty of Health Sciences, 515 W. Hastings Street, Vancouver, BC V6B 5K3 Canada
| | - Huiru Dong
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Providence Health Care, 400-1045 Howe St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9 Canada
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3 Canada
| | - Ekaterina Nosova
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Providence Health Care, 400-1045 Howe St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9 Canada
| | - Kanna Hayashi
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Blusson Hall, Room 11300, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6 Canada
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Providence Health Care, 400-1045 Howe St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9 Canada
| | - Kora DeBeck
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Providence Health Care, 400-1045 Howe St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9 Canada
- School of Public Policy, Simon Fraser University, 515 West Hastings Street, Suite 3271, Vancouver, BC V6B 5K3 Canada
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Voon P, Greer AM, Amlani A, Newman C, Burmeister C, Buxton JA. Pain as a risk factor for substance use: a qualitative study of people who use drugs in British Columbia, Canada. Harm Reduct J 2018; 15:35. [PMID: 29976203 PMCID: PMC6034304 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-018-0241-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2018] [Accepted: 06/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background People who use drugs have a significantly higher prevalence of chronic non-cancer pain compared to the general population, yet little is known about how various policy, economic, physical, and social environments may serve as risk or protective factors in the context of concurrent pain and substance use. Therefore, this study sought to explore perspectives, risks, and harms associated with pain among people who use drugs. Methods Thirteen focus group interviews were held across British Columbia, Canada, from July to September 2015. In total, 83 people who had lived experience with substance use participated in the study. Using an interpretive description approach, themes were conceptualized according to the Rhodes’ Risk Environment and patient-centered care frameworks. Results Participants described how their experiences with inadequately managed pain in various policy, economic, physical, and social environments reinforced marginalization, such as restrictive policies, economic vulnerability, lack of access to socio-physical support systems, stigma from health professionals, and denial of pain medication leading to risky self-medication. Principles of patient-centered care were often not upheld, from a lack of recognition of patients as experts in understanding their unique pain needs and experiences, to an absence of shared power and decision-making, which often resulted in distrust of the patient-provider relationship. Conclusions Various risk environments and non-patient-centered interactions may contribute to an array of health and social harms in the context of inadequately managed pain among people who use drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Voon
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 400 - 1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2A9, Canada.,School of Population and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Z3, Canada
| | - Alissa M Greer
- School of Population and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Z3, Canada.,British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, 655 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4R4, Canada
| | - Ashraf Amlani
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, 655 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4R4, Canada
| | - Cheri Newman
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, 655 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4R4, Canada
| | - Charlene Burmeister
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, 655 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4R4, Canada
| | - Jane A Buxton
- School of Population and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Z3, Canada. .,British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, 655 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4R4, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Voon P, Buxton JA, Wood E, Montaner JS, Kerr T. Dose-response relationship between functional pain interference and nonmedical analgesic use: Findings from a nationally representative Canadian survey. Can J Pain 2018; 2:103-112. [PMID: 35005370 PMCID: PMC8730557 DOI: 10.1080/24740527.2018.1452147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Background Despite the epidemic of nonmedical analgesic use (NMAU) in North America, there is a scarcity of research quantifying the effect of pain on NMAU. Aims This study sought to investigate the relationship between NMAU and functional pain interference, defined as the perceived level of interference in performing activities of daily living due to pain, in a population-based sample of the general Canadian population. Methods Data from the 2012 Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS)–Mental Health, a nationally representative cross-sectional survey, were used to conduct bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses. Results The weighted prevalences of pain and NMAU were 20.6% and 6.6%, respectively. After adjusting for age, sex, education, culture/race, and chronic mental health diagnosis, a dose–response relationship was observed between higher functional pain interference and increased odds of NMAU, ranging from 1.61 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.22–2.12) to 2.98 (95% CI, 2.21–4.01) from the lowest to the highest levels of functional pain interference. Elevated odds of NMAU were also observed among younger respondents aged 20–29 years and 15–19 years, respondents with a chronic mental illness diagnosis, and males. Secondary analyses revealed that the dose–response relationship between greater function pain interference and increased odds of NMAU persisted within subgroups with and without mental illness, as well as within subgroups aged 40 to 69. Conclusions These findings highlight the potential role of pain on increasing NMAU and the need for targeted strategies to reduce harms of NMAU among high-risk subgroups such as young adults.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Voon
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,School of Population and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jane A Buxton
- School of Population and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Harm Reduction Program, BC Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Evan Wood
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Julio S Montaner
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Thomas Kerr
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Ho J, DeBeck K, Milloy MJ, Dong H, Wood E, Kerr T, Hayashi K. Increasing availability of illicit and prescription opioids among people who inject drugs in a Canadian setting, 2010-2014. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF DRUG AND ALCOHOL ABUSE 2017; 44:368-377. [PMID: 29048952 PMCID: PMC5882238 DOI: 10.1080/00952990.2017.1376678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2017] [Accepted: 08/29/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nonmedical use of prescription opioid and illicit opioid has been increasing at an alarming rate in North America over the past decade. OBJECTIVE We sought to examine the temporal trends and correlates of the availability of illicit and prescription opioids among people who inject drugs (PWID) in Vancouver, Canada. METHODS Data were derived from three prospective cohort studies of PWID in Vancouver between 2010 and 2014. In semiannual interviews, participants reported the availability of five sets of illicit and prescription opioids: (1) heroin; (2) Percocet (oxycodone/acetaminophen), Vicodin (hydrocodone/acetaminophen), or Demerol (meperidine); (3) Dilaudid (hydromorphone); (4) Morphine; (5) oxycontin/OxyNEO (controlled-release oxycodone). We defined perceived availability as immediate (e.g., available within 10 minutes) versus no availability/available after 10 minutes. The trend and correlation of immediate availability were identified by multivariable generalized estimating equations logistic regression. RESULTS Among 1584 participants, of which 564 (35.6%) were female, the immediate availability of all illicit and prescribed opioids (except for oxycontin/OxyNEO) increased over time, independent of potential confounders. The Adjusted Odds Ratios of immediate availability associated with every calendar year increase were between 1.09 (95% confidence interval 1.05-1.12) (morphine and Dilaudid) and 1.13 (95% confidence interval 1.09-1.17) (Percocet/Vicodin/Demerol) (all p-values <0.05). CONCLUSION The availability of most prescription opioids had continued to increase in recent years among our sample of PWID in Vancouver. Concurrent increases in the availability of heroin were also observed, raising concerns regarding combination of both illicit and prescription opioid use among PWID that could potentially increase the risk of overdose.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joel Ho
- Department of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Health Sciences Centre, GC425-820 Sherbrook Street, Winnipeg, MB, R3T 2N2
| | - Kora DeBeck
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul’s Hospital,608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, CANADA, V6Z 1Y6
- School of Public Policy, Simon Fraser University, 515 West Hastings St –Suite 3271, Vancouver, BC, V6B 5K3 Canada
| | - M-J Milloy
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul’s Hospital,608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, CANADA, V6Z 1Y6
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul’s Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6Z 1Y6
| | - Huiru Dong
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul’s Hospital,608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, CANADA, V6Z 1Y6
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia,5804 Fairview Avenue, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z3
| | - Evan Wood
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul’s Hospital,608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, CANADA, V6Z 1Y6
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul’s Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6Z 1Y6
| | - Thomas Kerr
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul’s Hospital,608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, CANADA, V6Z 1Y6
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul’s Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6Z 1Y6
| | - Kanna Hayashi
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul’s Hospital,608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, CANADA, V6Z 1Y6
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Blusson Hall, Room 11300, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6 Canada
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Li F, Xu YM, Zhu JH, Lu J, Zhong BL. Pain of methadone-maintained heroin addicts: lonelier individuals feel more intense pain. Oncotarget 2017; 8:79948-79952. [PMID: 29108376 PMCID: PMC5668109 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.20387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2017] [Accepted: 08/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Managing pain in patients with heroin addiction is challenging, because most pain medications are addictive. A promising way to relieve pain of heroin addicts is to identify and address modifiable psychosocial factors associated with pain. This study examined the association between loneliness and pain intensity in Chinese heroin addicts receiving methadone maintenance treatment (MMT). A consecutive sample of 603 heroin addicts were recruited from three MMT clinics in Wuhan, China. Loneliness was assessed with a single question, and socio-demographic and clinical data were collected with a standardized questionnaire. Pain intensity was assessed with the five-point Verbal Rating Scale. Multiple ordinary logistic regression was used to control for potential confounders that may bias the loneliness-pain relationship. There was a significant and positive correlation between pain intensity and loneliness scores among methadone-maintained heroin addicts (r = 0.453, P < 0.001). After controlling for potential socio-demographic and clinical confounders, an increase in the level of loneliness was significantly associated with an increase in pain intensity (OR = 1.22, P = 0.042). Loneliness is significantly associated with pain of methadone-maintained heroin addicts. Psychosocial interventions aimed at reducing loneliness might prevent or reduce pain of patients receiving MMT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fu Li
- Affiliated Wuhan Mental Health Center (The Ninth Clinical School), Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Yan-Min Xu
- Affiliated Wuhan Mental Health Center (The Ninth Clinical School), Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Jun-Hong Zhu
- Affiliated Wuhan Mental Health Center (The Ninth Clinical School), Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Jin Lu
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Bao-Liang Zhong
- Affiliated Wuhan Mental Health Center (The Ninth Clinical School), Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Ti L, Milloy MJ, Turje RB, Montaner J, Wood E, Kerr T. The impact of an HIV/AIDS adult integrated health program on leaving hospital against medical advice among HIV-positive people who use illicit drugs. J Public Health (Oxf) 2017; 39:e33-e39. [PMID: 27412179 PMCID: PMC5896585 DOI: 10.1093/pubmed/fdw057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Leaving hospital against medical advice (AMA) is a major source of avoidable morbidity, mortality and healthcare expenditure. The objective of this study was to assess the impact of an innovative HIV/AIDS adult integrated health program on leaving hospital AMA among HIV-positive people who use illicit drugs (PWUD). Methods Using generalized estimating equations, we examined the relationship between being a participant of the Dr. Peter Centre (DPC), a specialty HIV/AIDS-focused adult integrated health program, and leaving hospital AMA among a cohort of HIV-positive PWUD patients. Results Between July 2005 and July 2011, 181 HIV-positive PWUD who experienced ≥1 hospitalization were recruited into the study. Of the 406 hospital admissions among these individuals, 73 (39.9%) participants left the hospital AMA. In a multivariable model adjusted for confounders, being a participant of the DPC was independently associated with lower odds of leaving hospital AMA (adjusted odds ratio = 0.42; 95% confidence interval: 0.19-0.89). Conclusions Our findings suggest that the provision of a broad range of clinical, harm reduction and support services through an innovative HIV/AIDS-focused adult integrated health program operating in proximity to a hospital may curb the rate at which individuals leave hospital prematurely.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lianping Ti
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, 1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, CanadaV6Z 1Y6
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 2775 Laurel Street, Vancouver, BC, CanadaV5Z 1M9
| | - M.-J. Milloy
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, 1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, CanadaV6Z 1Y6
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 2775 Laurel Street, Vancouver, BC, CanadaV5Z 1M9
| | | | - Julio Montaner
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, 1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, CanadaV6Z 1Y6
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 2775 Laurel Street, Vancouver, BC, CanadaV5Z 1M9
| | - Evan Wood
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, 1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, CanadaV6Z 1Y6
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 2775 Laurel Street, Vancouver, BC, CanadaV5Z 1M9
| | - Thomas Kerr
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, 1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, CanadaV6Z 1Y6
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 2775 Laurel Street, Vancouver, BC, CanadaV5Z 1M9
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Dahlman D, Kral AH, Wenger L, Hakansson A, Novak SP. Physical pain is common and associated with nonmedical prescription opioid use among people who inject drugs. SUBSTANCE ABUSE TREATMENT PREVENTION AND POLICY 2017; 12:29. [PMID: 28558841 PMCID: PMC5450090 DOI: 10.1186/s13011-017-0112-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2017] [Accepted: 05/19/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Background People who inject drugs (PWID) often have poor health and lack access to health care. The aim of this study was to examine whether PWID engage in self-treatment through nonmedical prescription opioid use (NMPOU). We describe the prevalence and features of self-reported physical pain and its association with NMPOU. Methods PWID (N = 702) in San Francisco, California (age 18+) were recruited to complete interviewer administered surveys between 2011 and 2013. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to examine the associations among self-reported pain dimensions (past 24-h average pain, pain interference with functional domains) and NMPOU, controlling for age, sex, psychiatric illness, opioid substitution treatment, homelessness, street heroin use and unmet healthcare needs. Results Almost half of the sample reported pain, based on self-reported measures in the 24 h before their interview. The most common pain locations were to their back and lower extremities. Past 24-h NMPOU was common (14.7%) and associated with past 24 h average pain intensity on a 10 point self-rating scale (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.15, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.21–3.80), and past 24 h pain interference with general activity (AOR 1.82 [95% CI 1.04–3.21]), walking ability (AOR 2.52 [95% CI 1.37–4.63]), physical ability (AOR 2.01 [95% CI 1.16–3.45]), sleep (AOR 1.98 [95% CI 1.13–3.48]) and enjoyment of life (AOR 1.79 [95% CI 1.02–3.15]). Conclusion Both pain and NMPOU are common among PWID, and highly correlated in this study. These findings suggest that greater efforts are needed to direct preventive health and services toward this population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Disa Dahlman
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Division of Psychiatry, Lund University, Lund, Sweden. .,Malmo Addiction Centre, Clinical Research Unit, Sodra Forstadsg. 35, plan 4, SE-205 02, Malmo, Sweden.
| | - Alex H Kral
- Behavioral and Urban Health Program, RTI International, San Francisco, USA
| | - Lynn Wenger
- Behavioral and Urban Health Program, RTI International, San Francisco, USA
| | - Anders Hakansson
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Division of Psychiatry, Lund University, Lund, Sweden.,Malmo Addiction Centre, Clinical Research Unit, Sodra Forstadsg. 35, plan 4, SE-205 02, Malmo, Sweden
| | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Goodman A, Fleming K, Markwick N, Morrison T, Lagimodiere L, Kerr T. "They treated me like crap and I know it was because I was Native": The healthcare experiences of Aboriginal peoples living in Vancouver's inner city. Soc Sci Med 2017; 178:87-94. [PMID: 28214449 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2017.01.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2016] [Revised: 01/03/2017] [Accepted: 01/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
There is growing evidence that Aboriginal peoples often experience healthcare inequalities due to racism. However, research exploring the healthcare experiences of Aboriginal peoples who use illicit substances is limited, and research rarely accounts for how multiple accounts of stigma intersect and contribute to the experiences of marginalized populations. Our research aimed to explore the healthcare experiences of Aboriginal peoples who use illicit drugs and or illicit alcohol (APWUID/A) living in Vancouver's inner city. Using Indigenous methodologies, a community research team comprised of APWUID/A led the study design, data collection and analysis. Peer-facilitated talking circles explored community members' experiences accessing healthcare services and patient-provider encounters. Using an intersectionality framework, our research demonstrated how healthcare inequalities among Aboriginal peoples are perpetuated by systemic racism and discrimination. Stigmatizing racial stereotypes were perceived to negatively influence individual attitudes and clinical practice. Participants' experiences of medical dismissal often resulted in disengagement from care or delay in care. The findings suggest healthcare providers must understand the structural and historical forces that influence racial disparities in healthcare and personal attitudes in clinical practice. Adequate clinical protocols for pain management within the context of illicit substance use are urgently needed. The valuation of Aboriginal peoples and cultures within healthcare is paramount to addressing the health gap between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Canadians.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Goodman
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Kim Fleming
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Nicole Markwick
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Tracey Morrison
- Western Aboriginal Harm Reduction Society, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Louise Lagimodiere
- Western Aboriginal Harm Reduction Society, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Thomas Kerr
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
| | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Lake S, Milloy MJ, Dong H, Hayashi K, Wood E, Kerr T, DeBeck K. Initiation into prescription opioid injection and associated trends in heroin use among people who use illicit drugs. Drug Alcohol Depend 2016; 169:73-79. [PMID: 27780105 PMCID: PMC5140695 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2016.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2016] [Revised: 10/06/2016] [Accepted: 10/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Prescription opioid (PO) injection among people who use illicit drugs (PWUD) is an ongoing concern, yet little is known about drug use trajectories associated with initiating PO injection, including potential associations with heroin use. This study aimed to identify predictors of PO injection initiation among PWUD, and examine trends in heroin use before and after initiating PO injection. METHODS Data were merged from three cohorts of PWUD recruited between September 2005 and November 2015. Predictors of PO injection initiation were identified using extended Cox regression models. Trends in heroin use pre- and post-initiation were examined with McNemar's test and compared to matched controls with linear growth curve models. RESULTS Among 1580 participants, 247 initiated PO injection yielding an incidence density of 3.9 (95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 3.4-4.4) per 100 person-years. In a multivariable analysis, independent predictors of PO injection initiation included heroin injection (Adjusted Hazard Ratio [AHR]=4.39, 95% CI: 3.24-5.95) and non-injection PO use (AHR=1.99, 95% CI: 1.25-3.17). In a sub-analysis, compared to matched controls, PO injection corresponded with elevated heroin use post-initiation (p≤0.05). DISCUSSION In this study, heroin use and non-injection PO use strongly predicted PO injection initiation. Those who initiated PO injecting had elevated heroin use patterns post-initiation compared to controls. These findings suggest that transitioning to PO injection does not appear to be a substitute for heroin use among PWUD. These findings highlight the importance of addressing PO injection in harm reduction and treatment settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Lake
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada; School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - M-J Milloy
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Huiru Dong
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Kanna Hayashi
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Evan Wood
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Thomas Kerr
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Kora DeBeck
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada; School of Public Policy, Simon Fraser University, Suite 3271-515 West Hastings Street, Vancouver, BC, V6B 5K3, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Kennedy MC, Kerr T, DeBeck K, Dong H, Milloy MJ, Wood E, Hayashi K. Seeking prescription opioids from physicians for nonmedical use among people who inject drugs in a Canadian setting. Am J Addict 2016; 25:275-82. [PMID: 27143485 DOI: 10.1111/ajad.12380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2015] [Revised: 03/12/2016] [Accepted: 04/19/2016] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Despite the high prevalence of prescription opioid (PO) misuse, little is known about the phenomenon of seeking POs for nonmedical use among high-risk populations, such as people who inject drugs (PWID). We therefore sought to examine the prevalence and correlates of seeking POs from a physician for nonmedical use among PWID in Vancouver, Canada. METHODS Cross-sectional data from two open prospective cohort studies of PWID in Vancouver were collected between June 2013 and May 2014 (n = 1252). Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with seeking POs from physicians for nonmedical use. RESULTS Of 1252 participants, 458 individuals (36.6%) reported ever trying to get a PO prescription from a physician for nonmedical use and, of these, 343 (74.9%, comprising 27.4% of the total sample) reported ever being successful. Variables independently and positively associated with PO-seeking behavior included older age (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.02), Caucasian ethnicity (AOR = 1.38), having ever overdosed (AOR = 1.32), having ever participated in methadone maintenance therapy (AOR = 1.90), having ever dealt drugs (AOR = 1.65), and having ever been refused a prescription for pain medication (AOR = 2.02) (all p < .05). DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS We observed that PO-seeking behavior was common among this sample of PWID and associated with several markers of higher intensity drug use. SCIENTIFIC SIGNIFICANCE Our findings highlight the need to identify evidence-based public health and clinical strategies to mitigate PO misuse among PWID without compromising care for PWID with legitimate medical concerns. (Am J Addict 2016;25:275-282).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mary Clare Kennedy
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Thomas Kerr
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Kora DeBeck
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,School of Public Policy, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Huiru Dong
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - M-J Milloy
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Evan Wood
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Kanna Hayashi
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Lake S, Hayashi K, Buxton J, Milloy MJ, Dong H, Wood E, Montaner J, Kerr T. The effect of prescription opioid injection on the risk of non-fatal overdose among people who inject drugs. Drug Alcohol Depend 2015; 156:297-303. [PMID: 26454837 PMCID: PMC4633348 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2015.09.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2015] [Revised: 09/23/2015] [Accepted: 09/24/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Prescription opioid (PO) use by people who inject drugs (PWID) is a growing public health concern. Non-fatal overdose remains a leading source of morbidity among PWID, however, little is known about the relationship between PO injection and non-fatal overdose in this population. In this study we sought to examine the impact of PO injection on non-fatal overdose among PWID from Vancouver, Canada. METHODS Data were derived from two open prospective cohorts of PWID for the period of December, 2005 to May, 2014. Multivariable generalized estimating equations were used to examine the odds of overdose among those who injected: POs; heroin; and POs and heroin. RESULTS In total, 1660 PWID (33.7% women) participated in this study. In multivariable analyses, in comparison to those who were injecting non-opioid drugs, exclusive PO injection was not significantly associated with non-fatal overdose (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 1.17, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.74-1.86). The odds of non-fatal overdose were elevated for heroin injection (AOR: 1.72, 95% CI: 1.31-2.27), but were greatest for those who injected both heroin and POs (AOR: 2.46, 95% CI: 1.83-3.30). DISCUSSION Compared to injecting non-opioids, injecting POs exclusively did not increase risk of non-fatal overdose; however, injecting both POs and heroin doubled the risk. This may reflect consistencies in drug potency and composition when POs are used, as well as unique characteristics of exclusive PO injectors. Our findings call for the continued scale-up of evidence-based overdose prevention interventions for people who inject opioids, including POs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Lake
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada; School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Kanna Hayashi
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Jane Buxton
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - M-J Milloy
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Huiru Dong
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Evan Wood
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Julio Montaner
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Thomas Kerr
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Ti L, Milloy MJ, Buxton J, McNeil R, Dobrer S, Hayashi K, Wood E, Kerr T. Factors Associated with Leaving Hospital against Medical Advice among People Who Use Illicit Drugs in Vancouver, Canada. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0141594. [PMID: 26509447 PMCID: PMC4624845 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0141594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2015] [Accepted: 10/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Leaving hospital against medical advice (AMA) is common among people who use illicit drugs (PWUD) and is associated with severe health-related harms and costs. However, little is known about the prevalence of and factors associated with leaving AMA among PWUD. METHODS Data were collected through two Canadian prospective cohort studies involving PWUD between September 2005 and July 2011 and linked to a hospital admission/discharge database. Bivariable and multivariable generalized estimating equations were used to examine factors associated with leaving hospital AMA among PWUD who were hospitalized. RESULTS Among 488 participants who experienced at least one hospitalization, 212 (43.4%) left the hospital AMA at least once during the study period. In multivariable analyses, factors positively and significantly associated with leaving hospital AMA included: unstable employment (AOR = 1.92; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.22-3.03); recent incarceration (AOR = 1.63; 95%CI: 1.07-2.49); ≥ daily heroin injection (AOR = 1.49; 95%CI: 1.05-2.11); and younger age per year younger (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.04; 95%CI: 1.02-1.06). CONCLUSIONS We found a substantial proportion of PWUD in this setting left hospital AMA and that various markers of risk and vulnerability were associated with this phenomenon. Our findings highlight the need to address substance abuse issues early following hospital admission. These findings further suggest a need to develop novel interventions to minimize PWUD leaving hospital prematurely.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lianping Ti
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul’s Hospital, 1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6Z 1Y6
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 2775 Laurel Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada V5Z 1M9
| | - M-J Milloy
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul’s Hospital, 1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6Z 1Y6
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 2775 Laurel Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada V5Z 1M9
| | - Jane Buxton
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6T 1Z3
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, 655 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, Canada V5Z 4R4
| | - Ryan McNeil
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul’s Hospital, 1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6Z 1Y6
| | - Sabina Dobrer
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul’s Hospital, 1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6Z 1Y6
| | - Kanna Hayashi
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul’s Hospital, 1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6Z 1Y6
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 2775 Laurel Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada V5Z 1M9
| | - Evan Wood
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul’s Hospital, 1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6Z 1Y6
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 2775 Laurel Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada V5Z 1M9
| | - Thomas Kerr
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul’s Hospital, 1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6Z 1Y6
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 2775 Laurel Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada V5Z 1M9
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Voon P, Hayashi K, Milloy MJ, Nguyen P, Wood E, Montaner J, Kerr T. Pain Among High-Risk Patients on Methadone Maintenance Treatment. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2015; 16:887-94. [PMID: 26101814 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2015.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2015] [Revised: 05/28/2015] [Accepted: 06/06/2015] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
The complexity of treating concurrent pain and opioid dependence among many methadone-maintained individuals presents a major challenge in many clinical settings. Furthermore, recent expert guidelines have called for increased research on the safety of methadone in the context of chronic pain. This study explores the prevalence and correlates of pain among a prospective cohort of people who use illicit drugs in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, who reported enrollment in methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) between 2011 and 2014. Among the 823 participants eligible for this analysis, 338 (40.9%) reported moderate pain and 91 (11.1%) reported extreme pain at the first study visit. In multivariable, generalized, linear mixed model analyses, higher pain severity was positively and independently associated with self-managing pain (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 2.15, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.77-2.60), patient perception of methadone dose being too low (AOR 1.82, 95% CI 1.41-2.34), older age (AOR 1.31, 95% CI 1.13-1.51), having a physical disability (AOR 4.59, 95% CI 3.73-5.64), having ever been diagnosed with a mental illness (AOR 1.44, 95% CI 1.13-1.84), white ethnicity (AOR 1.42, 95% CI 1.10-1.83), and marijuana use (AOR 1.25, 95% CI 1.02-1.52). These findings suggest several areas for clinical intervention, particularly related to patient education and alternative analgesic approaches for MMT patients experiencing pain. Perspective: To better understand the complexity of concurrent pain and opioid dependency among individuals on methadone maintenance treatment, this article describes the prevalence and correlates of higher pain severity among methadone-maintained people who use illicit drugs. Patients on methadone with comorbid pain may benefit from education and alternative analgesic approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Voon
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada; School of Population and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Kanna Hayashi
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - M-J Milloy
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Paul Nguyen
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Evan Wood
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Julio Montaner
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Thomas Kerr
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Voon P, Callon C, Nguyen P, Dobrer S, Montaner JSG, Wood E, Kerr T. Denial of prescription analgesia among people who inject drugs in a Canadian setting. Drug Alcohol Rev 2014; 34:221-8. [PMID: 25521168 DOI: 10.1111/dar.12226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2014] [Accepted: 10/05/2014] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND AIMS Despite the high prevalence of pain among people who inject drugs (PWIDs), clinicians may be reluctant to prescribe opioid-based analgesia to those with a history of drug use or addiction. We sought to examine the prevalence and correlates of PWIDs reporting being denied of prescription analgesia (PA). We also explored reported reasons for and actions taken after being denied PA. DESIGN AND METHODS Using data from two prospective cohort studies of PWIDs, multivariate logistic regression was used to identify the prevalence and correlates of reporting being denied PA. Descriptive statistics were used to characterise reasons for denials and subsequent actions. RESULTS Approximately two-thirds (66.5%) of our sample of 462 active PWIDs reported having ever been denied PA. We found that reporting being denied PA was significantly and positively associated with having ever been enrolled in methadone maintenance treatment (adjusted odds ratio 1.76, 95% confidence interval 1.11-2.80) and daily cocaine injection (adjusted odds ratio 2.38, 95% confidence interval 1.00-5.66). The most commonly reported reason for being denied PA was being accused of drug seeking (44.0%). Commonly reported actions taken after being denied PA included buying the requested medication off the street (40.1%) or obtaining heroin to treat pain (32.9%). DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS These findings highlight the challenges of addressing perceived pain and the need for strategies to prevent high-risk methods of self-managing pain, such as obtaining diverted medications or illicit substances for pain. Such strategies may include integrated pain management guidelines within methadone maintenance treatment and other substance use treatment programs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Voon
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Beauchamp GA, Winstanley EL, Ryan SA, Lyons MS. Moving beyond misuse and diversion: the urgent need to consider the role of iatrogenic addiction in the current opioid epidemic. Am J Public Health 2014; 104:2023-9. [PMID: 25211712 PMCID: PMC4202970 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2014.302147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/22/2014] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
An epidemic of drug overdose deaths has led to calls for programs and policies to limit misuse and diversion of opioid medications. Any parallel call to consider the risk of iatrogenic addiction when treating pain has been muted in comparison. We have moved beyond questions of nonmedical use, abuse, and diversion to highlight the role of prescription opioids in causing addiction even when prescribed and used appropriately. Unfortunately, current evidence is insufficient, and a rapid expansion of longitudinal research is urgently needed to guide clinicians in balancing the need for opioids with the risk of adverse consequences. Meanwhile, medical education should place greater emphasis on the abuse liability of prescription opioids, and providers should endeavor to attenuate risk when possible.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gillian A Beauchamp
- Gillian A. Beauchamp, Shawn A. Ryan, and Michael S. Lyons are with the Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH. Erin L. Winstanley is with Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine and the James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy, University of Cincinnati
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|