The impact of medical and non-medical prescription opioid use on motor vehicle collision risk

Abstract

BackgroundProduction and distribution of prescription opioid analgesic drugs (POs) has increased immensely across the globe. Both medical (MPO) and non-medical (NMPO) use of opioid medication are associated with increased rates of morbidity and mortality, including possibly motor vehicle collisions. The current study examined data from a population-level survey to determine the impact of any PO, MPO, and NMPO use on collision risk. MethodsData were based on the 2010–2011 Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Monitor, a regionally stratified general-population telephone survey of adults (N=3428). Three binary logistic regressions of self-reported collision involvement in the previous 12months were conducted, each consisting of: (1) measures of demographic characteristics, driving exposure, and binge drinking; and (2) one of three measures of PO use (any PO use, MPO use, or NMPO use). ResultsAny PO use and MPO use were associated with increased collision risk (OR=1.60, CI=1.06, 2.40 and OR=1.62, CI=1.07, 2.45, respectively). The odds ratio for NMPO use did not reach statistical significance (OR=1.86, CI=0.91, 3.77, p=0.09). ConclusionsThese results suggested that doctor-prescribed PO use is associated with a 62% increase in collision risk. Although not a statistically significant finding, NMPO use may also be associated with increased collision risk. The magnitude of increased collision risk associated with PO use was comparable to that of driving after alcohol or cannabis use.