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Thornton JD, Varisco T, Patel H, Shrestha M, Wanat M, Schaefer E, Leslie D, Zhao H, Saadi RA, Shen C. Characterising incident opioid use among incident users of prescription sedative hypnotics: A national cohort study. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e082339. [PMID: 38816043 PMCID: PMC11138274 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-082339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate co-prescribing of sedatives hypnotics and opioids. DESIGN Retrospective study evaluating the association of patient characteristics and comorbidities with coprescribing. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS Using the national Merative MarketScan Database between 2005 and 2018, we identified patients who received an incident sedative prescription with or without subsequent, incident opioid prescriptions within a year of the sedative prescription in the USA. OUTCOME MEASURES Coprescription of sedative-hypnotics and opioids. RESULTS A total of 2 632 622 patients (mean (SD) age, 43.2 (12.34) years; 1 297 356 (62.5%) female) received incident prescriptions for sedatives over the course of the study period. The largest proportion of sedative prescribing included benzodiazepines (71.1%); however, z-drugs (19.9%) and barbiturates (9%) were also common. About 557 845 (21.2%) patients with incident sedatives also received incident opioid prescriptions. About 59.2% of these coprescribed patients received opioids coprescription on the same day. Multivariate logistic regression findings showed that individuals with a comorbidity index score of 1, 2 or ≥3 (aOR 1.19 (95% CI 1.17 to 1.21), 1.17 (95% C 1.14 to 1.19) and 1.25 (95% C 1.2 to 1.31)) and substance use disorder (1.21 (95% C 1.19 to 1.23)) were more likely to be coprescribed opioids and sedatives. The likelihood of receiving both opioid and sedative prescriptions was lower for female patients (aOR 0.93; 95% CI 0.92 to 0.94), and those receiving a barbiturate (aOR 0.3; 95% CI 0.29 to 0.31) or z-drugs (aOR 0.67; 95% CI 0.66 to 0.68) prescriptions at the index date. CONCLUSIONS Coprescription of sedatives with opioids was associated with the presence of comorbidities and substance use disorder, gender and types of sedatives prescribed at the index date. Additionally, more than half of the coprescribing occurred on the same day which warrants further evaluation of current prescribing and dispensing best practice guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Douglas Thornton
- Department of Pharmaceutical Health Outcomes and Policy, University of Houston College of Pharmacy, Houston, Texas, USA
- Prescription Drug Misuse Education and Research (PREMIER) Center, University of Houston College of Pharmacy, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Tyler Varisco
- Department of Pharmaceutical Health Outcomes and Policy, University of Houston College of Pharmacy, Houston, Texas, USA
- Prescription Drug Misuse Education and Research (PREMIER) Center, University of Houston College of Pharmacy, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Harshil Patel
- Prescription Drug Misuse Education and Research (PREMIER) Center, University of Houston College of Pharmacy, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Mina Shrestha
- Prescription Drug Misuse Education and Research (PREMIER) Center, University of Houston College of Pharmacy, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Matthew Wanat
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Translational Research, University of Houston College of Pharmacy, Houston, Texas, USA
- Prescription Drug Misuse Education and Research (PREMIER) Center, University of Houston College of Pharmacy, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Eric Schaefer
- The Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Douglas Leslie
- Center for Applied Studies in Health Economics, The Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Hui Zhao
- Department of Health Services Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Randa Al Saadi
- Prescription Drug Misuse Education and Research (PREMIER) Center, University of Houston College of Pharmacy, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Chan Shen
- Division of Outcomes Research and Quality, The Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
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Åhman A, Wingren CJ, Håkansson A. Causes and circumstances of death in stimulant and opioid use-A comparative study. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0297838. [PMID: 38324514 PMCID: PMC10849257 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0297838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
AIMS To investigate the individual characteristics, causes and circumstances around deaths in stimulant use, and to examine how individuals who died with stimulants in their body differ from individuals who died with opioids in their body. METHODS This study includes individuals who died during the years 2000-2018 and underwent a forensic autopsy at Forensic Medicine in Lund, Skåne County, Sweden. All individuals over 18 years of age with stimulants (n = 310), opioids (n = 2,039) or both stimulants and opioids (n = 385) in the body at the time of death, were included. The three groups were assessed regarding gender, age, place of death, BMI, other substances detected in forensic toxicological analysis, organ weights and underlying and contributing causes of death. The data were analysed by frequency and proportion calculations, cross-tabulations and comparisons of medians. RESULTS The median age at death of the study population (n = 2,734) was 45.5 years (interquartile range ☯IQR] 32-60 years) and 73.2% were men. The most common cause of death in the stimulant group was suicide (26.8%), higher proportion compared to the opioid group (20.8%) (p = 0.017) and in the polysubstance group accidental poisoning (38.2%), higher proportion compared to the opioid group (18.0%) (p<0.001). Death by transport accidents was significantly associated with the stimulant group (p<0.001) as well as death by other accidents (p = 0.016). CONCLUSIONS Individuals who died with stimulants in their body died at a higher rate from suicide, transport accidents and other accidents, compared to individuals who died with opioids in their body. This study indicates the need to identify and prevent psychiatric conditions, elevated suicide risk, and risk-taking behaviors among people who use stimulants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ada Åhman
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Psychiatry, Lund, Sweden
| | - Carl Johan Wingren
- Unit for Forensic Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Malmö, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Copenhagen University, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anders Håkansson
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Psychiatry, Lund, Sweden
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Olds ML, Jones AW. Preanalytical factors influencing the results of ethanol analysis in postmortem specimens. J Anal Toxicol 2024; 48:9-26. [PMID: 37804205 DOI: 10.1093/jat/bkad078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Excessive drinking and drunkenness are underlying factors in many fatal accidents, which make the quantitative determination of ethanol in postmortem (PM) specimens an essential part of all unnatural death investigations. The same analytical methods are used to determine ethanol in blood taken from living and deceased persons although the interpretation of the results is more complicated in medical examiner cases owing to various preanalytical factors. The biggest problem is that under anaerobic conditions ethanol can be produced naturally in decomposed bodies by microbial activity and fermentation of blood glucose. Ways are needed to differentiate antemortem ingestion of ethanol from PM synthesis. One approach involves the determination of ethanol in alternative specimens, such as bile, cerebrospinal fluid, vitreous humor and/or urine, and comparison of results with blood alcohol concentration (BAC). Another approach involves the analysis of various alcohol biomarkers, such as ethyl glucuronide, ethyl sulfate and/or phosphatidylethanol or the urinary metabolites of serotonin 5-hydroxytryptophol/5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HTOL/5-HIAA). If ethanol had been produced in the body by microbial activity, the blood samples should also contain other low-molecular volatiles, such as acetaldehyde, n-propanol and/or n-butanol. The inclusion of 1-2% w/v sodium or potassium fluoride, as an enzyme inhibitor, in all PM specimens is essential to diminish the risk of ethanol being generated after sampling, such as during shipment and storage prior to analysis. Furthermore, much might be gained if the analytical cut-off for reporting positive BAC was raised from 0.01 to 0.02 g% when PM blood is analyzed. During putrefaction low BACs are more often produced after death than high BACs. Therefore, when the cadaver is obviously decomposed, a pragmatic approach would be to subtract 0.05 g% from the mean analytical result. Any remaining BAC is expected to give a more reliable indication of whether alcohol had been consumed before death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria L Olds
- Fort Worth Police Department, Crime Laboratory, East Lancaster Ave, Fort Worth, TX 3616, United States
| | - Alan W Jones
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology, University of Linköping, Linköping 58183, Sweden
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Hedayatyaghoobi M, Azizmohammad Looha M, Shafiee A, Jafarabady K, Safari O, Alirezaei A, Bakhtiyari M. Association between opioid abuse and COVID-19 susceptibility: a propensity score matched study. BMC Infect Dis 2023; 23:851. [PMID: 38053042 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-023-08842-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Opioid use disorder (OUD) has been associated with adverse health outcomes, and its potential impact on COVID-19 outcomes is of significant concern. This study aimed to assess the susceptibility and clinical outcomes of hospitalized COVID-19 patients with OUD using a propensity score-matched design. METHODS A historical cohort study was conducted in Alborz province, Iran, during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic. Patients aged 18 years and above with confirmed COVID-19 were included in the study. OUD was defined as a compulsive urge to use opioids or opioid-derivative drugs. Non-opioid abusers with COVID-19 were selected as the control group. Data on demographics, clinical characteristics, laboratory factors, comorbidities, and vital signs were collected. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to balance the groups and assess the impact of OUD on ICU admission, mortality, the need for intubation, and the severity of pulmonary involvement on CT scans. RESULTS A total of 442 patients were included in the study, with 351 discharged and 34 deceased. The PSM analysis showed that OUD was not significantly associated with ICU admission (OR: 1.87, 95% CI: 0.22-2.91, p = 0.631). However, opium users had an increased risk of mortality (OR: 2.38, 95% CI: 1.30-4.35, p = 0.005) and a higher likelihood of requiring intubation (OR: 3.57, 95% CI: 1.38-9.39, p = 0.009) compared to non-opioid abusers. The severity of pulmonary involvement on CT scans did not show a significant association with OUD. CONCLUSION OUD among hospitalized COVID-19 patients was associated with an increased risk of mortality and the need for intubation. These findings highlight the importance of addressing OUD as a potential risk factor in the management and treatment of COVID-19 patients. Further research is warranted to explore the underlying mechanisms and develop appropriate interventions to mitigate the impact of OUD on COVID-19 outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mehdi Azizmohammad Looha
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Arman Shafiee
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Kyana Jafarabady
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Omid Safari
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Amirhesam Alirezaei
- Department of Nephrology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mahmood Bakhtiyari
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran.
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran.
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Helmer P, Rodemers P, Hottenrott S, Leppich R, Helwich M, Pryss R, Kranke P, Meybohm P, Winkler BE, Sammeth M. Evaluating blood oxygen saturation measurements by popular fitness trackers in postoperative patients: A prospective clinical trial. iScience 2023; 26:108155. [PMID: 37876822 PMCID: PMC10590865 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.108155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Blood oxygen saturation is an important clinical parameter, especially in postoperative hospitalized patients, monitored in clinical practice by arterial blood gas (ABG) and/or pulse oximetry that both are not suitable for a long-term continuous monitoring of patients during the entire hospital stay, or beyond. Technological advances developed recently for consumer-grade fitness trackers could-at least in theory-help to fill in this gap, but benchmarks on the applicability and accuracy of these technologies in hospitalized patients are currently lacking. We therefore conducted at the postanaesthesia care unit under controlled settings a prospective clinical trial with 201 patients, comparing in total >1,000 oxygen blood saturation measurements by fitness trackers of three brands with the ABG gold standard and with pulse oximetry. Our results suggest that, despite of an overall still tolerable measuring accuracy, comparatively high dropout rates severely limit the possibilities of employing fitness trackers, particularly during the immediate postoperative period of hospitalized patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Helmer
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Care, Emergency and Pain Medicine, University Hospital Würzburg, Oberdürrbacher Str. 6, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Philipp Rodemers
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Care, Emergency and Pain Medicine, University Hospital Würzburg, Oberdürrbacher Str. 6, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Sebastian Hottenrott
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Care, Emergency and Pain Medicine, University Hospital Würzburg, Oberdürrbacher Str. 6, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Robert Leppich
- Department of Software Engineering, Faculty of Computer Science, University Würzburg, Am Hubland, 97074 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Maja Helwich
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Care, Emergency and Pain Medicine, University Hospital Würzburg, Oberdürrbacher Str. 6, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Rüdiger Pryss
- Institute for Clinical Epidemiology and Biometry, University Würzburg, Josef-Schneider-Str. 2, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Peter Kranke
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Care, Emergency and Pain Medicine, University Hospital Würzburg, Oberdürrbacher Str. 6, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Patrick Meybohm
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Care, Emergency and Pain Medicine, University Hospital Würzburg, Oberdürrbacher Str. 6, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Bernd E. Winkler
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Care, Emergency and Pain Medicine, University Hospital Würzburg, Oberdürrbacher Str. 6, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Michael Sammeth
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Care, Emergency and Pain Medicine, University Hospital Würzburg, Oberdürrbacher Str. 6, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
- Department of Applied Sciences and Health, Coburg University, Friedrich-Streib-Str. 2, 96450 Coburg, Germany
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6
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Kusic DM, Heil J, Zajic S, Brangan A, Dairo O, Heil S, Feigin G, Kacinko S, Buono RJ, Ferraro TN, Rafeq R, Haroz R, Baston K, Bodofsky E, Sabia M, Salzman M, Resch A, Madzo J, Scheinfeldt LB, Issa JPJ, Jelinek J. Postmortem toxicology findings from the Camden Opioid Research Initiative. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0292674. [PMID: 37910493 PMCID: PMC10619848 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0292674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The United States continues to be impacted by decades of an opioid misuse epidemic, worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic and by the growing prevalence of highly potent synthetic opioids (HPSO) such as fentanyl. In instances of a toxicity event, first-response administration of reversal medications such as naloxone can be insufficient to fully counteract the effects of HPSO, particularly when there is co-occurring substance use. In an effort to characterize and study this multi-faceted problem, the Camden Opioid Research Initiative (CORI) has been formed. The CORI study has collected and analyzed post-mortem toxicology data from 42 cases of decedents who expired from opioid-related toxicity in the South New Jersey region to characterize substance use profiles. Co-occurring substance use, whether by intent or through possible contamination of the illicit opioid supply, is pervasive among deaths due to opioid toxicity, and evidence of medication-assisted treatment is scarce. Nearly all (98%) of the toxicology cases show the presence of the HPSO, fentanyl, and very few (7%) results detected evidence of medication-assisted treatment for opioid use disorder, such as buprenorphine or methadone, at the time of death. The opioid toxicity reversal drug, naloxone, was detected in 19% of cases, but 100% of cases expressed one or more stimulants, and sedatives including xylazine were detected in 48% of cases. These results showing complex substance use profiles indicate that efforts at mitigating the opioid misuse epidemic must address the complications presented by co-occurring stimulant and other substance use, and reduce barriers to and stigmas of seeking effective medication-assisted treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dara M. Kusic
- Research, Coriell Institute for Medical Research, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Jessica Heil
- Clinical Research Office, Cooper University Health Care, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Stefan Zajic
- Research, Coriell Institute for Medical Research, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Andrew Brangan
- Coriell Institute for Medical Research, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Oluseun Dairo
- Coriell Institute for Medical Research, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Stacey Heil
- Coriell Institute for Medical Research, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Gerald Feigin
- Office of the Medical Examiner, Gloucester County Health Department, Sewell, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Sherri Kacinko
- Forensic Toxicology, NMS Labs, Horsham, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Russell J. Buono
- Biomedical Sciences, Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Thomas N. Ferraro
- Biomedical Sciences, Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Rachel Rafeq
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Cooper University Health Care, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Rachel Haroz
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Cooper University Health Care, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Kaitlan Baston
- Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Elliot Bodofsky
- Neurological Institute, Cooper University Health Care, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Michael Sabia
- Anesthesiology, Cooper University Health Care, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Matthew Salzman
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Cooper University Health Care, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Alissa Resch
- Research, Coriell Institute for Medical Research, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Jozef Madzo
- Research, Coriell Institute for Medical Research, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
- Biomedical Sciences, Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Laura B. Scheinfeldt
- Research, Coriell Institute for Medical Research, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
- Biomedical Sciences, Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Jean-Pierre J. Issa
- Research, Coriell Institute for Medical Research, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
- Biomedical Sciences, Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Jaroslav Jelinek
- Research, Coriell Institute for Medical Research, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
- Biomedical Sciences, Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
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Andersen FD, Steffensen SC, Vistisen ST, Pinilla E, Pedersen TM, Matchkov V, Simonsen U, Andersen CU. Combined effects of methadone and quetiapine on respiratory rate, haemodynamic variables, and temperature in conscious rats. Addict Biol 2023; 28:e13320. [PMID: 37644895 DOI: 10.1111/adb.13320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Fatal poisonings where both methadone and quetiapine are detected post-mortem occurs frequently in legal autopsy cases. It is unclear whether quetiapine increases the risk of fatal methadone poisoning or if it is merely detected due to widespread use. We hypothesized that methadone and quetiapine would have additive toxic effects on respiratory rate, blood pressure, and the QTc-interval. To investigate this hypothesis, we used telemetry implants for measurements of respiratory rate, haemodynamic variables, the velocity of blood pressure changes, temperature, and movement in conscious, freely moving male Wistar rats aged 12-13 weeks. The combined effects of three accumulative i.p. doses of methadone (2.5, 10, 15 mg/kg) and quetiapine (3, 10, 30 mg/kg) were compared to rats treated with the same doses of each drug alone, and a vehicle-treated group in a randomized investigator blinded study. No additive effects of quetiapine and methadone on respiratory rate, haemodynamic variables, or movement were observed. However, body temperature was significantly lower by approximately 1.5°C on average in the group treated with both methadone and quetiapine (15 + 30 mg/kg) compared to the other groups. This indicates a synergistic effect of quetiapine and methadone on thermoregulation, which may increase the risk of fatal poisoning. We suggest studying this finding further in human settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Simon Comerma Steffensen
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences/AnimalPhysiology, Central University of Venezuela, Venezuela
| | | | | | | | | | - Ulf Simonsen
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Denmark
| | - Charlotte Uggerhøj Andersen
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Aarhus University, Denmark
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark
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8
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Mazzotti MC, Teti G, Giorgetti A, Carano F, Pelletti G, Pascali JP, Falconi M, Pelotti S, Fais P. Insights in opiates toxicity: impairment of human vascular mesenchymal stromal cells. Int J Legal Med 2023:10.1007/s00414-023-02961-y. [PMID: 36786894 PMCID: PMC10247844 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-023-02961-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
The most common pulmonary findings in opiate-related fatalities are congestion and oedema, as well as acute and/or chronic alveolar haemorrhage, the cause of which is thought to be a damage to the capillary endothelium related to ischemia. Human vascular mesenchymal stromal cells (vMSCs) play a fundamental role in tissue regeneration and repair after endothelial cell injury, and they express opioid receptors. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of in vitro morphine exposure on the physiological activity and maintenance of human vMSCs. vMSCs were obtained from abdominal aorta fragments collected during surgery repair and were exposed to incremental doses (0.1 mM, 0.4 mM, 0.8 mM and 1 mM) of morphine sulphate for 7 days. The effect was investigated through cell viability assessment, proliferation assay, reactive oxygen species (ROS) detection assay, senescence-associated β-galactosidase assay, senescent-related markers (p21WAF1/CIP1 and p16INK4) and the apoptosis-related marker caspase 3. Moreover, an ultrastructural analysis by transmission electron microscopy and in vitro vascular differentiation were evaluated. Results showed a decrease of the cellular metabolic activity, a pro-oxidant and pro-senescence effect, an increase in intracellular ROS and the activation of the apoptosis signalling, as well as ultrastructural modifications and impairment of vascular differentiation after morphine treatment of vMSC. Although confirmation studies are required on real fatal opiate intoxications, the approach based on morphological and immunofluorescence methodologies may have a high potential also as a useful tool or as a complementary method in forensic pathology. The application of these techniques in the future may lead to the identification of new markers and morphological parameters useful as complementary investigations for drug-related deaths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Carla Mazzotti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Unit of Legal Medicine, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 49, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Gabriella Teti
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, via Irnerio 48, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Arianna Giorgetti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Unit of Legal Medicine, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 49, 40126, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Francesco Carano
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, via Irnerio 48, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Guido Pelletti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Unit of Legal Medicine, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 49, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Jennifer Paola Pascali
- Department of Cardiologic, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35127, Padua, Italy
| | - Mirella Falconi
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, via Irnerio 48, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Susi Pelotti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Unit of Legal Medicine, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 49, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Paolo Fais
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Unit of Legal Medicine, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 49, 40126, Bologna, Italy
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Swenson JD, Conrad KM, Pace NL, Phillips K, Saltzman CL. Scheduled, Simultaneous Dosing of Pregabalin, Celecoxib, and Acetaminophen Markedly Reduces or Eliminates Opioid Use After ACL Reconstruction Using Allograft or Hamstring Tendon Autograft: A Randomized Clinical Trial. Orthop J Sports Med 2022; 10:23259671221140837. [PMID: 36518729 PMCID: PMC9743025 DOI: 10.1177/23259671221140837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Opioid analgesics continue to be prescribed after ambulatory surgery despite untoward adverse effects, risk of overdose, and association with substance use disorder. PURPOSE/HYPOTHESIS The purpose was to investigate the use of a novel system to provide scheduled and simultaneous dosing of acetaminophen, celecoxib, and pregabalin after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). It was hypothesized that this system would markedly reduce pain and opioid use compared with existing best practice. STUDY DESIGN Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1. METHODS Included were 100 patients scheduled for elective, primary ACLR using allograft or hamstring tendon autograft. Selection criteria included age between 18 and 65 years and weight between 65 and 120 kg. Exclusion criteria were a known allergy to any drug used in the study or the use of opioid analgesics before surgery. Patients in the intervention group received a blister pack with scheduled, simultaneous doses of acetaminophen, celecoxib, and pregabalin; patients were also given oxycodone 5 mg as needed for breakthrough pain. Patients in the control group were prescribed ibuprofen and oxycodone 5 mg/acetaminophen 325 mg as needed for pain. The primary outcome measure was pain. Secondary outcomes were nausea, itching, and daily oxycodone use. Patients were asked to quantify their average pain at rest, nausea, and itching on an 11-point verbal scale (from 0 to 10). These data were recorded for 6 days during daily telephone contacts with patients after hospital discharge. RESULTS Cumulative results for 6 days showed significantly lower values in the intervention group compared with the control group for pain (median [interquartile range], 28 [14-35] vs 35 [28-41], respectively; P = .009) and oxycodone use (median [interquartile range] number of tablets, 0 [0-2] vs 8 [1.25-16], respectively; P < .001). Based on these data, the upper tolerance limits for the number of oxycodone tablets required by 90% of patients in the intervention and control groups were 8 tablets and 30 tablets, respectively. Cumulative results for nausea and itching were also significantly lower for the intervention group. Most patients in the intervention group used no opioids during recovery. CONCLUSION Simultaneous dosing of 3 nonopioid analgesics resulted in reduced postoperative pain and markedly lower opioid use. REGISTRATION NCT04015908 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey D. Swenson
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Kevin M. Conrad
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Nathan L. Pace
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Kathleen Phillips
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Charles L. Saltzman
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
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10
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Papsun DM, Krotulski AJ, Logan BK. Proliferation of Novel Synthetic Opioids in Postmortem Investigations After Core-Structure Scheduling for Fentanyl-Related Substances. Am J Forensic Med Pathol 2022; 43:315-327. [PMID: 36103391 DOI: 10.1097/paf.0000000000000787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT New generations of novel synthetic opioids (NSOs) have emerged to fill a void in the illicit drug markets left by the decline in popularity of fentanyl analogs subsequent to core-structure scheduling of fentanyl-related substances in the United States and China. These new opioids include members of the 2-benzyl benzimidazole (eg, isotonitazene, metonitazene, N -pyrrolidino etonitazene, protonitazene, etodesnitazene), benzimidazolone (eg, brorphine), and cinnamylpiperazine (eg, AP-238, 2-methyl AP-237) subclasses. Novel synthetic opioids continue to be detected in opioid-related fatal overdoses, demonstrating the harms associated with exposure to these drugs. Between January 2020 and December 2021, 384 casework blood samples were reported by our laboratory to contain 1 or more of the prior listed 8 NSOs. Isotonitazene (n = 144), metonitazene (n = 122), and brorphine (n = 91) were the 3 most prevalent substances, with positivity for isotonitazene and brorphine peaking just before the announcement of emergency scheduling. These NSOs have been documented as significant drivers of drug mortality, and this case series described here highlights the challenges medical examiners and coroners face in staying current with emerging drugs. Challenges include regional differences, rapid turnover, short lifecycles, variable toxicology testing, and difficulty in assessing individual drug toxicity in polydrug cases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alex J Krotulski
- Center for Forensic Science Research and Education at the Fredric Rieders Family Foundation, Willow, Grove, PA
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11
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Palliative Sedation Therapy in Pediatrics: An Algorithm and Clinical Practice Update. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 9:children9121887. [PMID: 36553328 PMCID: PMC9776759 DOI: 10.3390/children9121887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Palliative sedation therapy (PST) is an important clinical intervention for pediatric patients with refractory symptoms and suffering during the end-of-life (EOL) period. Variations in PST implementation including medication selection, limited literature regarding feasibility in various clinical settings, particularly non-intensive care units, and lack of education on evolving definitions and ideal practices may all contribute to the current underutilization of this valuable resource. We therefore offer a clinical algorithm for identifying appropriate patients for PST, ensuring all other modalities for symptom management have been considered and/or optimized, and present a guideline for PST implementation that can be adapted and individualized based on institutional experience and resource availability. Furthermore, through case-based clinical scenarios, we demonstrate how to incorporate this algorithm into EOL practice.
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12
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Webster LR, Cater J, Smith T. Pharmacokinetics of Buprenorphine Buccal Film and Orally-administered Oxycodone in a Respiratory Study: An Analysis of Secondary Outcomes from a Randomized Controlled Trial. Pain Ther 2022; 11:817-825. [PMID: 35524938 PMCID: PMC9314471 DOI: 10.1007/s40122-022-00380-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate pharmacokinetic (PK) parameters and oxygen saturation as markers of abuse potential after administration of buprenorphine buccal film (BBF) and immediate-release (IR) oxycodone. METHODS This was a secondary analysis of data from a phase I randomized controlled trial. A total of 19 healthy subjects who self-identified as recreational opioid users were enrolled, with 15 completing the study. Subjects were administered 300, 600, and 900 µg BBF; 30 and 60 mg orally-administered oxycodone; and placebo. For PK analysis, blood samples were collected before dosing and at 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, and 6 h postdose. Respiratory drive/ventilatory response to hypercapnia and oxygen saturation were evaluated before dosing and up to 8 h after administration of test drugs. RESULTS Median time to maximum concentration (Tmax) was 2.17 h for 900 µg BBF and 1.17 h for 60 mg oxycodone and was similar across all doses for each drug. Mean maximum concentration (Cmax) was 1.06 ng/mL for 900 µg BBF and 132 ng/mL for 60 mg oxycodone. The abuse quotient, defined as Cmax/Tmax, was substantially higher for oxycodone compared to BBF. Respiratory depression (maximum decrease in minute ventilation) was similar for all 3 doses of BBF, consistent with a potential ceiling effect. In addition, respiratory depression occurred sooner with oxycodone vs BBF, and a greater mean decrease in oxygen saturation was observed for oxycodone 30- and 60-mg doses, compared with BBF. CONCLUSION These results indicate that BBF may have a decreased risk of abuse and respiratory depression compared with the full µ-opioid receptor agonist oxycodone. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov identifier, NCT03996694.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynn R. Webster
- US Center of Policy, 1455 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Suite 400, Washington, DC 20004 USA
| | | | - Thomas Smith
- grid.431845.f0000 0004 0408 3827BioDelivery Sciences International, Inc, Raleigh, NC USA
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13
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Andersen FD, Joca S, Hvingelby V, Arjmand S, Pinilla E, Steffensen SC, Simonsen U, Andersen CU. Combined effects of quetiapine and opioids: A study of autopsy cases, drug users and sedation in rats. Addict Biol 2022; 27:e13214. [PMID: 36001431 PMCID: PMC9541371 DOI: 10.1111/adb.13214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Fatal opioid poisonings often involve methadone or morphine. This study aimed to elucidate if quetiapine, a widely used sedative antipsychotic medication, may increase the risk of fatal opioid poisoning by additive inhibitory effects on the central nervous system. We used data from 323 cases of fatal methadone or/and morphine poisonings autopsied from 2013 to 2020, a survey of 34 drug users, and performed blinded placebo‐controlled studies in 75 Flinders Resistant Line rats receiving three cumulative intraperitoneal doses of vehicle, methadone (2.5, 10 and 15 mg/kg), morphine (3.75, 15 and 22.5 mg/kg), quetiapine (3, 10 and 30 mg/kg) or quetiapine combined with methadone or morphine. Quetiapine was detected in 20.4% of fatal opioid poisonings with a significantly increased frequency over time, primarily in low or therapeutic concentrations, and was not associated with methadone or morphine concentrations. Use of quetiapine, most commonly in low‐to‐moderate doses to obtain a sleep‐inducing or tranquillizing effect, was reported by 67.6% of survey respondents. In the animal studies, a significant impairment of sedation score, performance on the rotarod and open field mobility was observed in all treatment groups compared with vehicle. However, the effect of quetiapine plus the opioid was not significantly different from that of the opioid alone. Thus, no additive sedative effects were observed in rats. Our results suggest that quetiapine is more often an innocent bystander than a contributor to fatal opioid poisoning. However, the combined effects on other parameters, including blood pressure, cardiac rhythm and respiratory rate, need investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sâmia Joca
- Department of Biomedicine Aarhus University Aarhus Denmark
| | - Victor Hvingelby
- Department of Clinical Medicine – Nuclear Medicine and PET Aarhus University Aarhus Denmark
| | - Shokouh Arjmand
- Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine Aarhus University Aarhus Denmark
| | | | - Simon Comerma Steffensen
- Department of Biomedicine Aarhus University Aarhus Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences/Animal Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Central University of Venezuela
| | - Ulf Simonsen
- Department of Biomedicine Aarhus University Aarhus Denmark
| | - Charlotte Uggerhøj Andersen
- Department of Forensic Medicine Aarhus University Hospital Aarhus Denmark
- Department of Biomedicine Aarhus University Aarhus Denmark
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology Aarhus University Hospital Aarhus Denmark
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14
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Beyene K, Shen W, Mitchell T, Gilson S, Kang S, Lai D, Misquitta L, Slaimankhel A, Chan AHY. Risk factors for opioid toxicity requiring naloxone rescue in adults: a case-control study. Int J Clin Pharm 2022; 44:1296-1303. [PMID: 35896908 DOI: 10.1007/s11096-022-01460-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Opioid-induced sedation and respiratory depression (OSRD) is a potentially life-threatening side effect of opioid analgesia. However, little is known about the individual and clinical-related factors associated with OSRD in the New Zealand context. AIM To identify risk factors for OSRD in patients admitted to a large regional health board in New Zealand-Auckland District Health Board (ADHB). METHOD A retrospective matched case-control study design was undertaken among adults who were admitted to ADHB and prescribed opioids in hospital between August 2015 and April 2020. Those who were prescribed opioids and received naloxone for OSRD were defined as cases, whereas those who received opioids but did not experience OSRD were identified as controls. Cases and controls were matched on a 1:1 basis by age (± 10 years). Data were retrieved from the electronic medical records of ADHB. A conditional logistic regression model was used to identify the risk factors for OSRD. RESULTS We identified 51 cases, and these were matched with 51 control patients. The odds of experiencing OSRD were four times higher among opioid-naïve patients compared to those exposed to opioids prior to hospital admission (OR 4.113; 95% CI 1.14-14.89). Increased risk of OSRD was also associated with higher serum creatinine level prior to OSRD episode (OR 1.015; 95% CI 1.01-1.03) and a higher oral morphine milligram equivalent (OME) (OR 1.023; 95% CI 1.01-1.04). CONCLUSION Increased risk of OSRD was associated with a higher OME, a higher serum creatinine level prior to OSRD episode, and opioid naivety. Our findings can inform policies that aim to prevent serious adverse effects related to opioids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kebede Beyene
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Administrative Sciences, St Louis College of Pharmacy, University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy, 1 Pharmacy Place, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA.
| | - Wilson Shen
- Pharmacy Department, Auckland City Hospital, Auckland District Health Board, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Terry Mitchell
- Auckland City Hospital, Auckland District Health Board, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Scott Gilson
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Stella Kang
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Daniel Lai
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Liandra Misquitta
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Atifa Slaimankhel
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Amy Hai Yan Chan
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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15
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Baehr CA, Wu MM, Pandit SG, Arias-Umana J, AuCoin D, Pravetoni M. Pharmacological Profiling of Antifentanyl Monoclonal Antibodies in Combination with Naloxone in Pre- and Postexposure Models of Fentanyl Toxicity. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2022; 381:129-136. [PMID: 35153198 PMCID: PMC9048265 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.121.001048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The incidence of fatal drug overdoses in the United States is an alarming public health threat that has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in over 100,000 deaths between April 2020 and April 2021. A significant portion of this is attributable to widespread access to fentanyl and other synthetic opioids, alone or in combination with heroin or psychostimulants, such as cocaine or methamphetamine. Monoclonal antibodies (mAb) offer prophylactic and therapeutic interventions against opioid overdose by binding opioids in serum, reducing distribution of drug to the brain and other organs. Here, we investigated the efficacy of a leading antifentanyl mAb, clone HY6-F9, in reversal and prevention of fentanyl-induced toxicity compared with the opioid receptor antagonist naloxone (NLX) in rats. In postexposure models, rats were challenged with fentanyl, followed by HY6-F9, NLX, or both. HY6-F9 reversed fentanyl-induced antinociception, respiratory depression, and bradycardia, and rats retained protection against additional challenges for at least 1 week. Although intravenous NLX reversed fentanyl-induced respiratory depression more rapidly than mAb alone, kinetics of reversal by intravenous mAb were similar to subcutaneous NLX. Coadministration of mAb and NLX provided greater protection than individual treatments against high doses of fentanyl. Prophylactic administration of mAb reduced the ED50 of NLX approximately twofold against 2.25 mg/kg of fentanyl. Finally, mAb sequestered fentanyl and its metabolite norfentanyl in serum and reduced brain concentrations of fentanyl. These results support the translation of mAb as medical interventions alone or in combination with NLX to prevent and reverse fentanyl-related overdose. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Fentanyl-related overdoses have increased dramatically in the US and worldwide. Currently, approved pharmacotherapies for treatment of opioid use disorder and reversal of overdose are not sufficient to curb the incidence of opioid-related deaths. Additionally, fentanyl and its potent analogs present a potential risk from use in deliberate poisoning or chemical attacks. This study demonstrates the use of monoclonal antibodies as a countermeasure to fentanyl-induced toxicity in pre- and postexposure scenarios, supporting their use in combination with the opioid antagonist naloxone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carly A Baehr
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota (C.A.B., M.M.W., M.P.); Department of Veterinary Population Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (M.M.W.); Reno School of Medicine, University of Nevada, Reno, Nevada (S.G.P., J.A.-U., D.A.); University of Minnesota Center for Immunology, Minneapolis, Minnesota (M.P.); and Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington (M.P.)
| | - Mariah M Wu
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota (C.A.B., M.M.W., M.P.); Department of Veterinary Population Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (M.M.W.); Reno School of Medicine, University of Nevada, Reno, Nevada (S.G.P., J.A.-U., D.A.); University of Minnesota Center for Immunology, Minneapolis, Minnesota (M.P.); and Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington (M.P.)
| | - Sujata G Pandit
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota (C.A.B., M.M.W., M.P.); Department of Veterinary Population Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (M.M.W.); Reno School of Medicine, University of Nevada, Reno, Nevada (S.G.P., J.A.-U., D.A.); University of Minnesota Center for Immunology, Minneapolis, Minnesota (M.P.); and Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington (M.P.)
| | - Jose Arias-Umana
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota (C.A.B., M.M.W., M.P.); Department of Veterinary Population Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (M.M.W.); Reno School of Medicine, University of Nevada, Reno, Nevada (S.G.P., J.A.-U., D.A.); University of Minnesota Center for Immunology, Minneapolis, Minnesota (M.P.); and Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington (M.P.)
| | - David AuCoin
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota (C.A.B., M.M.W., M.P.); Department of Veterinary Population Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (M.M.W.); Reno School of Medicine, University of Nevada, Reno, Nevada (S.G.P., J.A.-U., D.A.); University of Minnesota Center for Immunology, Minneapolis, Minnesota (M.P.); and Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington (M.P.)
| | - Marco Pravetoni
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota (C.A.B., M.M.W., M.P.); Department of Veterinary Population Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (M.M.W.); Reno School of Medicine, University of Nevada, Reno, Nevada (S.G.P., J.A.-U., D.A.); University of Minnesota Center for Immunology, Minneapolis, Minnesota (M.P.); and Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington (M.P.)
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16
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Moesthafa AN, Said AR, Sumarny R, Sumiyati Y. Comparison of Pain Scale, Hemodynamics, and Side Effects of Percutaneous and Intravenous Fentanyl in Post Sectio Caesaria Patients at Bunda Hospital. BORNEO JOURNAL OF PHARMACY 2022. [DOI: 10.33084/bjop.v5i1.2876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
This is novel research about comparison pain scale, hemodynamics, and side effects of percutaneous and intravenous fentanyl in post sectio cesarean patients. Sectio cesarean is a method of delivering a fetus through an incision in the abdominal wall (laparotomy) and the uterus wall. This method induces pain in the incision, so patients feel complicated or afraid to mobilize. Fentanyl is one of the opioid analgesics, which is the main choice in section caesarian surgery because safe for breastfeeding, is more potent than morphine, and acts as balanced anesthesia—comparing the use of percutaneous fentanyl with intravenous fentanyl with pain scale parameters, hemodynamics, and side effects in sectio caesarian patients at Bunda Mother and Child Hospital Jakarta. Before conducting this research, an observational study first makes an ethical approval. Data were taken prospectively and collected simultaneously to compare percutaneous and intravenous fentanyl performed on post sectio cesarean patients with the physical status of the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) I–II at Bunda Mother and Child Hospital Jakarta from September to November 2020. Comparative data observed were pain scale parameters, hemodynamics, and side effects after percutaneous fentanyl therapy or intravenous fentanyl therapy. Data were processed using SPSS 22 version and Microsoft Excell 2016. In conclusion, intravenous fentanyl is more effective in reducing pain scale and has more minor side effects than percutaneous fentanyl. There is no significant difference in hemodynamic parameters (p-value >0.05).
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17
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Mayoral V. An overview of the use and misuse/abuse of opioid analgesics in different world regions and future perspectives. Pain Manag 2022; 12:535-555. [PMID: 35118876 DOI: 10.2217/pmt-2021-0094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Opioids are an important therapeutic option for severe resistant chronic pain but, in the absence of proper oversight, their use has risks. The level of prescription opioid misuse/abuse differs among countries, due to differences in healthcare systems and pain management approaches. However, evaluating the true dimension of prescription opioid misuse/abuse is complicated by statistical reporting which often does not differentiate between prescription and illicit opioid use, or between prescription opioid use by patients and nonpatients, highlighting a need for greater uniformity. Parallel efforts to educate patients and the general public about opioid risks, facilitate appropriate analgesic prescribing and identify alternative formulations or options to use instead of or with opioids, may contribute to optimizing prescription opioid use for pain management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor Mayoral
- Pain Unit, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
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18
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Blackwood CA, Cadet JL. COVID-19 Pandemic and Fentanyl Use Disorder in African Americans. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:707386. [PMID: 34489626 PMCID: PMC8417443 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.707386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher A. Blackwood
- Molecular Neuropsychiatry Research Branch, NIH/NIDA Intramural Research Program, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Jean Lud Cadet
- Molecular Neuropsychiatry Research Branch, NIH/NIDA Intramural Research Program, Baltimore, MD, United States
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Kitchen SA, McCormack D, Werb D, Caudarella A, Martins D, Matheson FI, Gomes T. Trends and outcomes of serious complications associated with non-fatal opioid overdoses in Ontario, Canada. Drug Alcohol Depend 2021; 225:108830. [PMID: 34182376 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2021.108830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-fatal opioid overdoses can lead to serious complications and consequently, long-term health effects. We sought to characterize trends of hospitalizations for serious complications associated with opioid overdoses in Ontario, Canada and report health services utilization and mortality in the year following hospital discharge. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional study in Ontario among individuals who experienced a hospitalization for a serious complication (required intubation, rhabdomyolysis, or a brain injury) associated with an opioid overdose between 2010 and 2019. We examined inpatient characteristics at the time of hospital admission, and health services utilization and mortality rates in the year following hospital discharge. RESULTS The rate of hospitalizations for serious complications associated with opioid overdoses increased by 66.7 % from 1.8 per 100,000 population in 2010 to 3.0 per 100,000 population in 2019 in Ontario. Individuals that were discharged alive from hospital experienced high health services utilization in the following year; 71.2 % (N = 953 of 1,338) visited the emergency department (ED), 34.2 % (N = 458) were admitted to hospital, and 16.4 % (N = 219) were treated in hospital for an opioid overdose. However only a quarter of individuals (N = 332; 24.8 %) initiated on opioid agonist therapy within 90 days. Additionally, 8.0 % (N = 127) of hospitalizations resulted in death within 1 year. CONCLUSIONS This study highlights increasing rates of serious complications associated with opioid overdoses, with a high demand of health services and a high mortality rate in the following year. These findings highlight an ongoing need for support and harm reduction services to allow for early intervention and follow-up care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie A Kitchen
- Unity Health Toronto and Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute of St. Michael's Hospital, 30 Bond St, Toronto, Ontario, M5B 1W8, Canada; Ontario Drug Policy Research Network, 30 Bond St, Toronto, Ontario, M5B 1W8, Canada; Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences, 2075 Bayview Ave, Toronto, Ontario, M4N 3M5, Canada
| | - Daniel McCormack
- Ontario Drug Policy Research Network, 30 Bond St, Toronto, Ontario, M5B 1W8, Canada; Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences, 2075 Bayview Ave, Toronto, Ontario, M4N 3M5, Canada
| | - Dan Werb
- Unity Health Toronto and Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute of St. Michael's Hospital, 30 Bond St, Toronto, Ontario, M5B 1W8, Canada; Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, UC San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr, San Diego, CA, 92161, USA; Centre on Drug Policy Evaluation, UC San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr, San Diego, CA, 92161, USA
| | - Alexander Caudarella
- Mental Health and Addictions Service, St. Michael's Hospital, 30 Bond St, Toronto, Ontario, M5B 1W8, Canada
| | - Diana Martins
- Unity Health Toronto and Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute of St. Michael's Hospital, 30 Bond St, Toronto, Ontario, M5B 1W8, Canada; Ontario Drug Policy Research Network, 30 Bond St, Toronto, Ontario, M5B 1W8, Canada
| | - Flora I Matheson
- Unity Health Toronto and Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute of St. Michael's Hospital, 30 Bond St, Toronto, Ontario, M5B 1W8, Canada; MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, St. Michael's Hospital, 30 Bond St, Toronto, Ontario, M5B 1W8, Canada
| | - Tara Gomes
- Unity Health Toronto and Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute of St. Michael's Hospital, 30 Bond St, Toronto, Ontario, M5B 1W8, Canada; Ontario Drug Policy Research Network, 30 Bond St, Toronto, Ontario, M5B 1W8, Canada; Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences, 2075 Bayview Ave, Toronto, Ontario, M4N 3M5, Canada.
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Talaei A, Afzaljavan F, Niroumand S, Nejati R. Prevalence of Respiratory Disorders during Sleep among Subjects of Methadone Maintenance Therapy Program. ADDICTION & HEALTH 2021; 13:176-184. [PMID: 35140895 PMCID: PMC8730449 DOI: 10.22122/ahj.v13i3.311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Respiratory disorders during sleep are considered a health problem affecting the life quality. There is some evidence indicating the higher prevalence of apnea in substance-dependent patients. However, there is no information on the prevalence of the disease in people under methadone maintenance therapy (MMT). Therefore, the present study was designed to estimate the disease rate in these patients and consider the relationship of the increasing risk of apnea with some psychiatric problems. METHODS Study group included 152 individuals under the MMT program. Baseline data were collected with the interview, and patients were considered using the STOP-BANG questionnaire to evaluate the risk of apnea. Furthermore, Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A), and Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) tests were performed for all participants. Data were analyzed using SPSS software. FINDINGS Based on the STOP-BANG score categories, 37.5%, 40.1%, and 22.4% of patients indicated low, intermediate, and high risk of apnea, respectively. Moreover, severe daytime sleepiness, fatigue, depression, and anxiety were observed in 5.3%, 5.5%, 6.0%, and 21.1% of participants, respectively. Sex (P = 0.007) and daytime sleepiness (P = 0.048) were significantly different between low and high-risk groups of apnea after adjustment. Besides, age (P < 0.001) and fatigue (P = 0.007) were factors predicting the STOP-BANG score. CONCLUSION These findings revealed the higher prevalence of apnea in MMT patients compared to the general population of Iran and rising of the risk of apnea along with an increase in age and fatigue score. However, attention to the sleep disorders in MMT is a prominent factor that should be considered as a route of therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Talaei
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Fahimeh Afzaljavan
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran,Correspondence to: Fahimeh Afzaljavan; Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical
Sciences, Mashhad, Iran;
| | - Shabnam Niroumand
- Department of Community Medicine, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Raheleh Nejati
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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21
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Bishop-Freeman SC, Young KA, Aurelius MB, Hudson JS. Pediatric opioid fatalities: What can we learn for prevention? J Forensic Sci 2021; 66:1410-1419. [PMID: 33893645 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.14725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to highlight 19 cases investigated by the North Carolina Office of the Chief Medical Examiner over the last 12 years involving accidental or undetermined manner of death opioid ingestions leading to fatalities in young children. These pediatric ingestions have closely mirrored the opioid epidemic in adults transitioning from prescription medications to illicit drugs including fentanyl and fentanyl analogues. Unlike a typical adult ingestion for purposes of self-harm or pleasure, poisonings in toddlers and infants are usually the result of curiosity, exploration, a decreased sense of danger, or imitation of adult or older sibling behavior. Eleven of the decedents were between the ages of 8 and 24 months. Among the cases were 12 prescription opioid exposure deaths and 7 illicit drug poisonings. A majority of the decedents were found unresponsive in an unkept home and/or in unsafe sleeping spaces with easy access to drugs or drug materials, which stresses the importance of safe pediatric sleeping conditions. After a complete pathological investigation, several of the cases had physical or scene evidence demonstrating that foil, plastic, or paper small enough to be ingested can contain enough potent opioid to cause death. Details from the toxicological investigation are included for each case to provide postmortem whole blood drug concentrations for forensic practitioners. Accidental pediatric poisonings are preventable. Risk reduction through improving awareness and education of the dangers of opioids is a key factor in mitigating these tragedies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra C Bishop-Freeman
- North Carolina Office of Chief Medical Examiner, Raleigh, NC, USA.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Kerry A Young
- North Carolina Office of Chief Medical Examiner, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Michelle B Aurelius
- North Carolina Office of Chief Medical Examiner, Raleigh, NC, USA.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Jason S Hudson
- North Carolina Office of Chief Medical Examiner, Raleigh, NC, USA
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22
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Correlation study between anatomopathological data and levels of blood morphine concentrations in heroin-related deaths. Leg Med (Tokyo) 2021; 51:101877. [PMID: 33848788 DOI: 10.1016/j.legalmed.2021.101877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Heroin-related mortality is a complex phenomenon involving several factors that make an individual more susceptible to opioid toxicity. Among these, pre-existing pathological conditions play an important role. The current paper reviewed 51 autopsied cases performed over the last 30 years, each subject ("frequent heroin user") having taken heroin intravenously alone before death. For each case, total blood morphine concentration determined by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was obtained from the archives. For histopathological evaluation we examined microscopic sections of the heart, lung, brain, liver and kidney, and for each organ a score table with a numerical value from 1 to 5, as an indicator of increasing severity, was drawn up. Finally, we created a scoring system based on the Injury Severity Score (ISS), generated by the sum of the squares of the three highest organ scores. We investigated the relationship between total blood morphine value (mg/l) and pathological score by inserting the two variables in a linear regression model: Score = a + b·Morphinemia (p-value <0.001). The results demonstrated a statistically significant correlation between the two variables: individuals with low total blood morphine values tended to have a higher pathological score. Our study provides useful assessment tools for forensic practice, confirming the need to combine two important disciplines in drug death investigation: forensic pathology and toxicology.
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23
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A Phase I Placebo-Controlled Trial Comparing the Effects of Buprenorphine Buccal Film and Oral Oxycodone Hydrochloride Administration on Respiratory Drive. Adv Ther 2020; 37:4685-4696. [PMID: 32978722 PMCID: PMC7547962 DOI: 10.1007/s12325-020-01481-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Buprenorphine is a partial μ-opioid receptor agonist that, unlike full μ-opioid receptor agonists, has been shown to have a ceiling effect on respiratory depression. Buprenorphine buccal film (BBF) is approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for use in patients with chronic pain severe enough to require daily, around-the-clock, long-term opioid treatment and for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. This study was conducted to compare the effects of BBF and immediate-release oral oxycodone hydrochloride administration on respiratory drive, as measured by the ventilatory response to hypercapnia (VRH) after drug administration. Methods Subjects (N = 19) were men and women, ages 27–41 years, self-identifying as recreational opioid users who were not physically dependent on opioids as determined via a Naloxone Challenge Test. Respiratory drive was evaluated by measuring VRH through the assessment of the maximum decrease in minute ventilation (Emax) after administration of each treatment. The treatments utilized in this study included 300, 600, and 900 μg BBF; 30 and 60 mg orally administered oxycodone; and placebo (each separated by a 7-day washout period). Effects on respiratory drive were assessed using a double-blind, double-dummy, six-treatment, six-period, placebo-controlled, randomized crossover design. Statistical analyses were performed using a linear mixed-effects model. Results The least squares mean differences in minute volume Emax (L/min, versus placebo) were as follows: 300 μg BBF (+ 1.24, P = 0.529), 600 μg BBF (+ 0.23, P = 0.908), 900 μg BBF (+ 0.93, P = 0.637), 30 mg oxycodone (− 0.79, P = 0.687), and 60 mg oxycodone (− 5.23, P = 0.010). Conclusions BBF did not significantly reduce respiratory drive at any dose compared with placebo, including at the maximum available prescription dose of 900 μg. Administration of oxycodone resulted in a significant dose-dependent decrease in respiratory drive. These data suggest that BBF may be a safer treatment option than full μ-opioid receptor agonists for patients with chronic pain. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov identifier, NCT03996694. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1007/s12325-020-01481-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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24
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Webster LR, Karan S. The Physiology and Maintenance of Respiration: A Narrative Review. Pain Ther 2020; 9:467-486. [PMID: 33021707 PMCID: PMC7648809 DOI: 10.1007/s40122-020-00203-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic pain is one of the most common reasons adults seek medical care and is often managed with opioid analgesics; however, opioids may cause respiratory depression by suppressing various components of respiration. Respiration is the physiological process that facilitates gas exchange and is mediated through the proper function of and communication among central neural control (respiratory drive), sensory input systems, the lungs, and the muscles involved in respiration. Normal respiratory function can be dampened with the use of central nervous system (CNS) depressants and/or underlying health conditions. Patients with chronic pain are often exposed to CNS depressants other than opioids, including benzodiazepines, barbiturates, nonbenzodiazepine sedative-hypnotics, and ethanol, which can function synergistically with opioids to increase the risk of respiratory depression. Some patients may also have underlying health issues, such as obstructive sleep apnea, that can be exacerbated with the use of opioids and other CNS depressants and further contribute to respiratory depression. Clinicians should have a thorough understanding of respiration, recognize how various CNS depressants suppress it, and take necessary steps to mitigate the risk of opioid-induced respiratory depression by collaborating with a multidisciplinary team (i.e., sleep and pain specialists), choosing appropriate medications, and educating patients on the proper use and storage of opioids.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Suzanne Karan
- University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
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25
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Bubier JA, He H, Philip VM, Roy T, Hernandez CM, Bernat R, Donohue KD, O'Hara BF, Chesler EJ. Genetic variation regulates opioid-induced respiratory depression in mice. Sci Rep 2020; 10:14970. [PMID: 32917924 PMCID: PMC7486296 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-71804-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In the U.S., opioid prescription for treatment of pain nearly quadrupled from 1999 to 2014. The diversion and misuse of prescription opioids along with increased use of drugs like heroin and fentanyl, has led to an epidemic in addiction and overdose deaths. The most common cause of opioid overdose and death is opioid-induced respiratory depression (OIRD), a life-threatening depression in respiratory rate thought to be caused by stimulation of opioid receptors in the inspiratory-generating regions of the brain. Studies in mice have revealed that variation in opiate lethality is associated with strain differences, suggesting that sensitivity to OIRD is genetically determined. We first tested the hypothesis that genetic variation in inbred strains of mice influences the innate variability in opioid-induced responses in respiratory depression, recovery time and survival time. Using the founders of the advanced, high-diversity mouse population, the Diversity Outbred (DO), we found substantial sex and genetic effects on respiratory sensitivity and opiate lethality. We used DO mice treated with morphine to map quantitative trait loci for respiratory depression, recovery time and survival time. Trait mapping and integrative functional genomic analysis in GeneWeaver has allowed us to implicate Galnt11, an N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase, as a gene that regulates OIRD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hao He
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, ME, 04605, USA
| | | | - Tyler Roy
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, ME, 04605, USA
| | | | | | - Kevin D Donohue
- Signal Solutions, LLC, Lexington, KY, USA
- Electrical and Computer Engineering Department, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Bruce F O'Hara
- Signal Solutions, LLC, Lexington, KY, USA
- Department of Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
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Opioids, Polypharmacy, and Drug Interactions: A Technological Paradigm Shift Is Needed to Ameliorate the Ongoing Opioid Epidemic. PHARMACY 2020; 8:pharmacy8030154. [PMID: 32854271 PMCID: PMC7559875 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy8030154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Polypharmacy is a common phenomenon among adults using opioids, which may influence the frequency, severity, and complexity of drug–drug interactions (DDIs) experienced. Clinicians must be able to easily identify and resolve DDIs since opioid-related DDIs are common and can be life-threatening. Given that clinicians often rely on technological aids—such as clinical decision support systems (CDSS) and drug interaction software—to identify and resolve DDIs in patients with complex drug regimens, this narrative review provides an appraisal of the performance of existing technologies. Opioid-specific CDSS have several system- and content-related limitations that need to be overcome. Specifically, we found that these CDSS often analyze DDIs in a pairwise manner, do not account for relevant pharmacogenomic results, and do not integrate well with electronic health records. In the context of polypharmacy, existing systems may encourage inadvertent serious alert dismissal due to the generation of multiple incoherent alerts. Future technological systems should minimize alert fatigue, limit manual input, allow for simultaneous multidrug interaction assessments, incorporate pharmacogenomic data, conduct iterative risk simulations, and integrate seamlessly with normal workflow.
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27
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Dolgova OB, Grekhov IA. [Prognostic criteria for the forensic diagnosis of acute drug poisoning at the stage of study of corpse]. Sud Med Ekspert 2020; 63:22-26. [PMID: 32686386 DOI: 10.17116/sudmed20206304122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
We studied the morphological criteria that allow us to assess the need to send biological material to a forensic chemical study based on the results of a forensic medical study of a corpse in cases of suspected acute drug poisoning. According to a statistical analysis, it was determined that under the condition of death with a fast agonal period, the most characteristic prognostic signs of acute drug poisoning are young age, the presence of traces of injections and/or «wells», lung mass more than 1050 g, the sum of the size of the spleen exceeding 25. The use of a combination of the three indicated characteristic signs encountered in acute drug poisoning can increase the likelihood of detecting acute poisoning with psychoactive substances. Taking into account the tendency of recent years to increase the age of drug users, the possibility of using exclusively morphological characters has been objectively proven while maintaining the specificity of the diagnosis of acute drug poisoning.
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Affiliation(s)
- O B Dolgova
- Ural State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Russia, Yekaterinburg, Russia
| | - I A Grekhov
- Ural State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Russia, Yekaterinburg, Russia
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28
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Dai Z, Abate MA, Long DL, Smith GS, Halki TM, Kraner JC, Mock AR. Quantifying enhanced risk from alcohol and other factors in polysubstance-related deaths. Forensic Sci Int 2020; 313:110352. [PMID: 32590196 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2020.110352] [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: 12/21/2019] [Revised: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To quantify how alcohol, polysubstance use and other factors influence opioid concentrations in drug-related deaths in West Virginia (WV), United States. METHODS Multiple linear regression models were employed to identify relationships among alcohol, other factors, and the concentrations of four commonly identified opioids (fentanyl, hydrocodone, oxycodone, methadone), accounting for demographic, toxicological and comorbid characteristics in WV drug-related deaths from 2005 to 2018. RESULTS Alcohol concentrations of 0.08% or above were associated with significant reductions in blood concentrations of fentanyl (27.5%), hydrocodone (30.5%) and methadone (32.4%). Significantly lower predicted concentrations of all opioids studied were associated with multiple opioid vs. single opioid presence, with predicted concentration reductions ranging from 13.7% for fentanyl to 65-66% for hydrocodone and oxycodone. Benzodiazepine presence was associated with small, non-statistically significant changes in opioid concentrations, while stimulant presence was associated with statistically significant reductions in hydrocodone and oxycodone concentrations. CONCLUSIONS Co-ingestion of alcohol, multiple opioids or stimulants were associated with significantly decreased predicted concentrations of commonly identified opioids in drug deaths. Further evidence is provided for enhanced risks from polysubstance use with opioids, which has important public health implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Dai
- School of Public Health, West Virginia University, One Medical Center Drive, Morgantown, WV 26506, United States.
| | - Marie A Abate
- School of Pharmacy, West Virginia University, 1124 Health Sciences North, Morgantown, WV 26506, United States
| | - D Leann Long
- School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 327F Ryals Public Health Building, Birmingham, AL 35294, United States
| | - Gordon S Smith
- School of Public Health, West Virginia University, One Medical Center Drive, Morgantown, WV 26506, United States
| | - Theresa M Halki
- School of Pharmacy, West Virginia University, 1124 Health Sciences North, Morgantown, WV 26506, United States
| | - James C Kraner
- West Virginia Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, 619 Virginia Street West, Charleston, WV 25302, United States
| | - Allen R Mock
- West Virginia Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, 619 Virginia Street West, Charleston, WV 25302, United States
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Hong JS, Moran MT, Eaton LA, Grafton LM. Neurologic, Cognitive, and Behavioral Consequences of Opioid Overdose: a Review. CURRENT PHYSICAL MEDICINE AND REHABILITATION REPORTS 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s40141-019-00247-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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30
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Fogarty MF, Papsun DM, Logan BK. Analysis of Fentanyl and 18 Novel Fentanyl Analogs and Metabolites by LC–MS-MS, and report of Fatalities Associated with Methoxyacetylfentanyl and Cyclopropylfentanyl. J Anal Toxicol 2018; 42:592-604. [DOI: 10.1093/jat/bky035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2018] [Accepted: 04/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Melissa F Fogarty
- The Center for Forensic Science Research and Education (CFSRE), 2300 Stratford Ave, Willow Grove, PA, USA
| | - Donna M Papsun
- Toxicology, NMS Labs, 2300 Welsh Rd, Willow Grove, PA, USA
| | - Barry K Logan
- The Center for Forensic Science Research and Education (CFSRE), 2300 Stratford Ave, Willow Grove, PA, USA
- Toxicology, NMS Labs, 2300 Welsh Rd, Willow Grove, PA, USA
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