Observations of hydrocodone co-prescriptions and non-reported prescription medications in a population of those with chronic pain

Abstract

While efficacious for the treatment of chronic pain, the use of opioid analgesics is associated with a high overdose risk, concomitant use of non-prescribed drugs, and diversion. Among patients with chronic pain prescribed hydrocodone, the prevalence of illicit drug use and prescription drug misuse is as high as 24%. Another issue with the use of opioid analgesics is the danger of adverse drug events due to drug-drug interactions. The purpose of this study was to understand the relationship of hydrocodone with concomitant prescriptions and non-prescribed medications in order to identify and minimize health risks.