Factors associated with patient perceived suboptimal dosing of in-hospital opioid agonist therapy among people who use illicit drugs in Vancouver, Canada

Abstract

Background: Optimal dosing of opioid agonist therapy (OAT) is essential for treatment success. However, initiation and maintenance of OAT in hospital settings can be challenging given differing levels of opioid tolerance, withdrawal, and intoxication among patients. Objective: The objective of this study was to characterize the prevalence and factors associated with in-hospital patient perceived suboptimal OAT dosing among people who use illicit drugs (PWUD) in Vancouver, Canada. Methods: Data were derived from three prospective cohorts of PWUD in Vancouver, Canada. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression models were used to examine factors associated with patient perceived suboptimal in-hospital OAT dose. Results: 273 study participants were prescribed OAT while in hospital: 83 (30.4%) participants perceived their OAT dose to be suboptimal. In a multivariable model, factors positively associated with a perceived suboptimal OAT dose included: homelessness (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.85; 95% CI: 1.53–5.28), daily stimulant use (AOR = 2.03; 95% CI: 1.14–3.63) and illicit drug use while in hospital (AOR = 2.33; 95% CI: 1.31–4.16). Conclusions: Almost one third of participants perceived receiving a suboptimal OAT dose while in hospital. These observed correlations indicate that a patient’s perception of suboptimal OAT dosing in hospital may be more prevalent for patients who are homeless, report polysubstance use with stimulants and opioids and who obtain illicit drugs while hospitalized. While cautious prescribing of OAT in patients experiencing hospitalization is important, these findings demonstrate a high prevalence of and apparent risk factors for perceived suboptimal OAT dosing.