Enhancing risk perception may be insufficient to curtail prescription opioid use and misuse among youth after surgery: A randomized controlled trial

Abstract

ObjectiveThis randomized controlled trial examined whether an interactive, risk-focused educational program was associated with higher risk perceptions and decreased prescription opioid use/misuse among emerging adults. Methods503 participants aged 15–24 years scheduled for ambulatory surgery were randomized to routine prescription education with or without our Scenario-Tailored Opioid Messaging Program (STOMP) provided prior to receipt of a prescribed opioid. Surveys were completed preoperatively, and at days 7&14, months 1&3 postoperatively. Outcomes included analgesic risk perceptions, opioid use, and misuse intentions/behavior. ResultsCompared to Controls, STOMP was associated with stable but higher risk perceptions on day 14 (β = 1.76 [95% CI 0.53, 2.99], p = .005) and month 3 (β = 2.13 [95% CI 0.86, 3.40], p = .001). There was no effect of STOMP or analgesic misuse risk perceptions on days of opioid use or subsequent misuse intentions/behavior. The degree to which participants valued pain relief over analgesic risk (trade-off preference) was, however, associated with prolonged postoperative opioid use and later misuse. ConclusionEducation emphasizing the risks of opioids was insufficient in reducing opioid use and misuse in youth who were prescribed these analgesics for acute pain relief. Practice implicationsEducation may need to better address analgesic expectations to shorten opioid use and mitigate misuse.