History Of Substance Use Disorder Research Articles

Identifying Pregnant Patients With Suspected Intimate Partner Violence.

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is the leading cause of death in pregnant women. Although it can be difficult to identify patients experiencing IPV, injuries to the head, neck, or face due to an assault are known to correlate with intentional injury. The objective of this study is to assess the contemporary burden of IPV in pregnancy and describe the patient characteristics. The National Inpatient Sample was queried for all pregnant women between January 2016 and December 2019. Patients were divided into two groups: suspected IPV (SIPV) and no-SIPV groups. We defined SIPV as any pregnant patient with an identified head, neck, or face injuries categorized as intentional assault. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the association between SIPV and variables of interest. A total of 28,540 pregnant patients presented with traumatic injuries with 530 (.02%) identified as SIPV. Suspected IPV patients were younger (25 vs 27 years, P = .012), more likely to be of Black race (46% vs 28%, P = .002), more likely to be in the lowest income quartile (51% vs 38%, P = .031), less likely to have private insurance (12% vs 34%, P < .001), and have higher rates of substance use disorder (35% vs 18%, P < .001). Black race and history of substance use disorder were associated with increased odds of SIPV-related injuries (odds ratio [OR]: 2.01, interquartile range [IQR]: 1.27-3.16, P = .003 and OR: 2.30, IQR 1.54-3.43, P < .001, respectively). Our results suggest that there are significant racial and socioeconomic disparities in potential risk for IPV during pregnancy.

Clinical prediction of opioid use disorder in chronic pain patients: a cohort-retrospective study with a pharmacogenetic approach.

Opioids are widely used in chronic non-cancer pain (CNCP) management. However, they remain controversial due to serious risk of causing opioid use disorder (OUD). Our main aim was to develop a predictive model for future clinical translation that include pharmacogenetic markers. An observational study was conducted in 806 pre-screened Spanish CNCP patients, under long-term use of opioids, to compare cases (with OUD, N.=137) with controls (without OUD, N.=669). Mu-opioid receptor 1 (OPRM1, A118G, rs1799971) and catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT, G472A, rs4680) genetic variants plus cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) liver enzyme phenotypes were analyzed. Socio-demographic, clinical and pharmacological outcomes were also registered. A logistic regression model was performed. The model performance and diagnostic accuracy were calculated. OPRM1-AA genotype and CYP2D6 poor and ultrarapid metabolizers together with three other potential predictors: 1) age; 2) work disability; 3) oral morphine equivalent daily dose (MEDD), were selected with a satisfactory diagnostic accuracy (sensitivity: 0.82 and specificity: 0.85), goodness of fit (P=0.87) and discrimination (0.89). Cases were ten-year younger with lower incomes, more sleep disturbances, benzodiazepines use, and history of substance use disorder in front of controls. Functional polymorphisms related to OPRM1 variant and CYP2D6 phenotypes may predict a higher OUD risk. Established risk factors such as young age, elevated MEDD and lower incomes were identified. A predictive model is expected to be implemented in clinical setting among CNCP patients under long-term opioids use.

Unraveling the challenges of diagnosing dementia with Lewy bodies in a patient with alcohol and benzodiazepine misuse: A case study-based review

Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLBs) is the second most common cause of neurodegenerative dementia in the United States, after Alzheimer&amp;rsquo;s disease, and is often misdiagnosed. A history of substance use disorder (SUD) complicates the diagnosis process, and side effects of substance misuse can mirror or mask signs of degenerative dementia. The fluctuating cognition and mobility which would normally point toward DLB are erroneously seen as signs of SUD or polypharmacy. However, a history of SUD should not preclude the diagnosis of DLB or other forms of proteinopathy, as substance misuse can contribute to the development of neurodegenerative dementias. Both alcohol and benzodiazepines have a sedative effect as ligands to gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors. Long-term use, misuse, and withdrawals can upset the delicate GABAergic/glutamatergic balance, resulting in adverse neuroimmune and neuroinflammatory responses which contribute to the pathologies seen in degenerative dementias, such as DLB. In this paper, we review the challenges, including limitations of standardized instruments for dementia and the harms of delayed diagnosis, in DLB diagnosis, in combination with our experiences drawn from studying a polypharmacy-practicing 68-year-old man with a 40-year history of benzodiazepine and alcohol use. Understanding the underlying mechanisms of SUD serves to destigmatize the condition to expedite treatment and further our knowledge of the relationship between neuroinflammation and dementia.

Trends, outcomes, and factors associated with in-hospital opioid overdose following major surgery

BackgroundWith the growing opioid epidemic across the US, in-hospital utilization of opioids has garnered increasing attention. Using a national cohort, this study sought to characterize trends, outcomes, and factors associated with in-hospital opioid overdose (OD) following major elective operations. MethodsWe identified all adult (≥18 years) hospitalizations entailing select elective procedures in the 2016–2020 National Inpatient Sample. Patients who experienced in-hospital opioid overdose were characterized as OD (others: Non-OD). The primary outcome of interest was in-hospital OD. Multivariable logistic and linear regression models were developed to evaluate the association between in-hospital OD and mortality, length of stay (LOS), hospitalization costs, and non-home discharge. ResultsOf an estimated 11,096,064 hospitalizations meeting study criteria, 5375 (0.05 %) experienced a perioperative OD. Compared to others, OD were older (66 [57–73] vs 64 [54–72] years, p < 0.001), more commonly female (66.3 vs 56.7 %, p < 0.001), and in the lowest income quartile (26.4 vs 23.2 %, p < 0.001). After adjustment, female sex (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR] 1.68, 95 % Confidence Interval [CI] 1.47–1.91, p < 0.001), White race (AOR 1.19, CI 1.01–1.42, p = 0.04), and history of substance use disorder (AOR 2.51, CI 1.87–3.37, p < 0.001) were associated with greater likelihood of OD. Finally, OD was associated with increased LOS (β +1.91 days, CI [1.60–2.21], p < 0.001), hospitalization costs (β +$7500, CI [5900–9100], p < 0.001), and greater odds of non-home discharge (AOR 2.00, CI 1.61–2.48, p < 0.001). ConclusionPerioperative OD remains a rare but costly complication after elective surgery. While pain control remains a priority postoperatively, protocols and recovery pathways must be re-examined to ensure patient safety.

Opioid use disorders attributed to heroin and tramadol: sociodemographic and clinical similarities and differences

ABSTRACT Background and objective Tramadol misuse is a public health problem in Egypt. The objective of this study was to compare differences between patients with tramadol misuse and patients with heroin use regarding sociodemographic and clinical correlates. Methods This cross-sectional study included 58 consecutive male patients with heroin use and 37 male patients with tramadol misuse. Patients were assessed by a structural interview of SCID-I of DSM-IV-TR criteria for substance use disorders and comorbid psychiatric disorders. Patients were screened for drugs using a urine test. Results Patients with tramadol misuse were more likely to be older, to have higher education level, to be married and have a skilled profession than patients with heroin use. Patients with heroin use were more likely to have a higher smoking rate, younger age of onset of smoking, higher family history of substance use disorders, higher incarceration rate than patients with tramadol misuse. Conclusions Patients with tramadol misuse have more similarities than differences compared to patients with heroin use. Although tramadol has a dual mechanism of action and is seen as a molecule with low misuse potential it should be treated as an opioid use disorder.

Investigating the Interplay Between Mental Health Conditions and Social Connectedness on Suicide Risk: Findings from a Clinical Sample of Adolescents.

This study examined whether school and community connectedness buffer the relationships between mental health conditions and suicide risk in a clinical sample of adolescents with histories of substance use disorders. Data from 294 adolescents were examined, with approximately 58% reporting lifetime suicidal ideation and/or prior attempts. Multinomial logistic regression was used to examine main and interaction effects on a three-category measure of suicide risk. Depression severity and panic disorder were associated with elevated suicidal ideation risk, whereas disordered eating was associated with elevated risk of attempts. Higher school-based positive peer interactions, school safety, and neighborhood social connection levels were associated with reduced suicide attempt risk. Moderation analyses revealed that high neighborhood social connection levels may partially mitigate the elevated likelihood of attempting suicide associated with disordered eating. Findings suggest clinical populations of adolescents may benefit from approaches aiming to promote social connectedness, further supporting a comprehensive approach to suicide prevention.

Epidemiological Association of Parental Substance Use History and Mental Health Disorders in Central Morocco

This cross-sectional study investigated the prevalence of substance use disorders and explored associations between parental substance use disorder history and mental health disorders among psychiatric hospital inpatients in central Morocco. A total of 723 participants were included in the study. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and medical records, covering psychiatric diagnoses, sociodemographic characteristics, substance use disorders among patients and their parents, as well as the patient's psychiatric history and length of hospital stay. Participants were divided into two groups: those with parental history of substance use disorders (PSUD) and those without. Patients' mean ages were 34.40 years (± 11) and 35.5 years (± 12), respectively. The prevalence of substance use was notably high among participants, with cannabis use being the most prevalent (90.6%). Educational level was associated with PSUD, with participants having no formal education showing a higher likelihood of having parents with SUD (unadjusted odds ratio, UOR = 2.11, 95% CI = 1.1 to 4.03). Polysubstance use was also associated with the PSUD group (UOR = 2.42, 95% CI = 1.73 to 3.40). Regarding psychiatric disorders, one in five patients in the PSUD group had schizophrenia (21.35%), followed by acute psychotic episodes (20.5%), depression (20.29%), and anorexia (8.24%). The study revealed a high overall prevalence of substance use among participants with mental health disorder, highlighting the significance of parental SUD history as a predictor for patients' mental health disorders. This suggests the need for special attention and preventive measures. [ Psychiatr Ann . 2024;54(2):e56–e66.]

Expanding Medical Education to Include Substance Use Disorders During Pregnancy and Postpartum: Preliminary Effectiveness of a Pilot Curriculum for Medical Students.

To effectively combat the simultaneous overdose and maternal mortality crises, a multimodal approach is needed. The aim of this study is to evaluate the preliminary effectiveness of a pilot, experiential learning, substance use disorder (SUD) curriculum embedded into a third-year medical student obstetrics and gynecology clerkship to improve self-reported confidence in SUD clinical skills. This SUD curriculum was designed and implemented in an outpatient clinic, which provides integrated obstetric, gynecologic, and addiction medicine services for pregnant and parenting people with SUD. Third-year medical students on their obstetrics and gynecology clerkship rotated 1 full day through the OB MOTIVATE clinic between August 2020 and April 2022 and completed this curriculum. Students completed preclinic assignments and in-clinic tasks (eg, practicing SBIRT under supervision: screening, brief intervention, referral to treatment). Paired t tests assessed changes in outcomes, with increasing scores (range 1-5) demonstrating improvement. Sixty-three students rotated through the OB MOTIVATE clinic; 57 completed the curriculum and surveys. Results from the self-assessment tools demonstrated significant improvements in confidence in SUD clinical skills, including performing SBIRT (2.46 ± 0.80 vs 4.07 ± 0.59, P < 0.01), motivational interviewing (2.98 ± 0.86 vs 4.16 ± 0.65, P < 0.01), using evidence-based medicine (2.91 ± 1.09 vs 4.23 ± 0.66, P < 0.01), and collecting an SUD history (3.25 ± 1.04 vs 4.35 ± 0.55, P = 0.01). The integration of interventional curriculums into medical school and residency programs could be an effective avenue to reinforce addiction knowledge and teach new skills. This practical 1-day pilot curriculum demonstrated preliminary effectiveness at introducing third-year medical students to the complexities of SUD in pregnancy and postpartum. Further investigations of feasible and acceptable SUD educational interventions are warranted.

Interpersonal violence and suicide risk: Examining buffering effects of school and community connectedness

BackgroundExposure to interpersonal violence is associated with elevated suicide risk. Preventing suicide among high-risk adolescents is most often discussed from a clinical treatment perspective, resulting in a gap in research examining whether school and community connectedness can buffer the relationships between forms of interpersonal violence and suicide risk in clinical samples of adolescents. MethodsBaseline data from 294 adolescents who received substance use treatment were analyzed to help fill this gap in research. Adolescents in this sample were at greater risk for suicidal thoughts and behaviors given their histories of substance use disorders and high rates of interpersonal violence, with 57% reporting experiencing at least one form of abuse/violence. Independent variables included lifetime exposure to physical abuse, sexual abuse, and weapon violence; moderators included various measures of school and community connectedness. Multinomial logistic regression models were estimated to examine the main and interaction effects predicting a three-category measure of suicide risk: non-suicidal, suicidal ideation only, and prior suicide attempts. ResultsSexual abuse survivors had the highest predicted probability of a prior suicide attempt when reporting lower levels of teacher support, school-based positive peer interactions, or neighborhood social connection, but at higher levels of these protective factors, their predicted probability was similar to those not exposed to sexual abuse. The same protective pattern was observed for physical abuse survivors with high neighborhood social connection. ConclusionThe buffering effects observed in this study identified dimensions of school and community social connectedness as protective factors for youth exposed to abuse. Although promoting social connectedness is often cited as a universal suicide prevention approach, tailored efforts to enhance connectedness within this population may also be a promising secondary prevention strategy. Thus, in addition to clinical treatment, more emphasis should be placed on systems-level approaches to reducing risk among youth most vulnerable to suicide.

Met and unmet prison-based treatment needs for people who are incarcerated with a history of substance use disorder: A nationwide cohort study

BackgroundSubstance use disorders (SUD) are highly prevalent among incarcerated people. However, in some prisons, only a small percentage of those who need treatment receive it. The aims of this study were to examine coverage of treatment for SUD in Danish prisons and assess whether treatment differed by substance class. Further, we examined factors associated with receiving treatment for SUD, and types of services received. Data and methodsWe linked multiple Danish register data using unique personal identification numbers. This study retrospectively analysed data for 49,330 individuals (aged 18–90) incarcerated in Danish prisons between 2008 and 2018. We used a multivariable logistic regression model to predict enrolment in treatment for SUD in prison. ResultsOf incarcerated people with a history of SUD, 34.6 % received treatment care during incarceration. We observed only minor variations in terms of substance classes concerning the type of treatment. Those who were women, immigrants, had higher education, or were married were less likely to receive treatment. ConclusionsImproving access and increasing treatment coverage in the Danish Prison and Probation Services is crucial to reduce the burden of SUD in incarcerated populations.

Mismatch of Biological and Social Time in Cocaine-Addicted Men

Introduction: Chronotype describes a person’s preferential activity pattern during a 24-hour period, which may not be in line with their social lifestyle. A mismatch between biological and social time is known as “social jetlag,” which has negative effects on wellbeing. Cocaine influences a person’s activity levels, but very little is known about possible changes in chronotype of patients with cocaine use disorder (CUD). Here, we aimed to shed light on self-reported changes in chronotype in patients with CUD and the clinical implications. Methods: A total of 90 men from the local community were recruited; about half of the sample met the criteria for CUD, while the other half were healthy without a personal history of substance use disorder. Participants completed the Munich Chronotype Questionnaire along with questionnaires about mental health, daily fatigue, and drug/alcohol use. Results: Half of the CUD patients fell into the category of late chronotype – a significantly larger proportion than their healthy peers. Late “night owls” tended to have started using cocaine at an earlier age than other chronotypes; a finding that was not observed with tobacco, cannabis, or alcohol. Drug use severity in CUD patients did not differ across chronotypes. CUD patients (52%) did not have a preferred time of day to use cocaine. The mismatch between social and biological time was significantly greater in CUD patients and unrelated to drug use or mental health status. Conclusion: CUD appears to be associated with disruptions in chronotype which are, contrary to a widely held view, not reflected by using patterns or addiction severity.

Quantifying a potential protective effect of buprenorphine on fatality risk during acute fentanyl exposures

IntroductionBuprenorphine is an important therapy for opioid use disorder and may also reduce the risk of fatal overdoses in fentanyl exposures. However, the role of buprenorphine in reducing this risk has not been quantified. This cross-sectional study examined the association between buprenorphine presence, decedent characteristics, and other factors with the predicted fentanyl concentrations in overdose deaths. MethodsThe study identified unintentional fentanyl overdose decedents (n = 3036) from the West Virginia Forensic Drug Database, 2011 through mid-2020. The main outcome was fentanyl concentrations in overdose deaths in the presence and absence of buprenorphine. A multiple linear regression model examined the association of fentanyl concentrations with buprenorphine presence based on the concentrations of the parent drug buprenorphine (B) and its metabolite norbuprenorphine (N), adjusting for demographics, toxicological characteristics (presence of multiple opioids, benzodiazepines, stimulants, marijuana, and alcohol), and comorbidities. We used a B/N concentration ratio < 1 as an indirect indicator of longer-term buprenorphine exposure prior to drug overdose death. ResultsThe median fentanyl concentration was 65 % higher when buprenorphine was present (N = 168) vs. absent (N = 2868) (0.028 vs. 0.017 μg/mL, p < 0.001). In the multivariable model, statistically significant associations occurred between buprenorphine presence and increased fentanyl concentrations (+28.7 %) with a B/N ratio < 1. Obesity, male sex, alcohol presence, and comorbid cardiovascular diseases were statistically significantly associated with lower (−11.3 % to −20.7 %) fentanyl concentrations, whereas marijuana presence and a history of substance use disorder were associated with statistically significant higher fentanyl concentrations (+8.8 % to +31.3 %). ConclusionsThese findings suggest that sustained or longer-term buprenorphine intake might exert some protective effect on fatalities resulting from fentanyl exposure as documented by the association of higher fentanyl blood concentrations with buprenorphine presence among fatal drug overdoses. As fentanyl availability and overdose rates increase nationally, buprenorphine is a vital tool for effective opioid use disorder treatment that might also reduce the risk of fatality in an acute fentanyl exposure.

Exploring trends in benzodiazepine-positive fatal drug overdoses in Tennessee, 2019–2021

Background Benzodiazepine-positive overdoses increased between 2019 and 2021 in Tennessee. We sought to determine the changes in the number and characteristics of prescription and illicit benzodiazepine-positive fatal drug overdoses during this period. Materials and Methods A statewide study was conducted to determine changes in the number and characteristics of benzodiazepine-positive drug overdose decedents using 2019–2021 data from the Tennessee State Unintentional Drug Overdose Reporting System. The analyses were limited to Tennessee residents aged ≥ 18 years. A benzodiazepine-positive overdose was defined as any benzodiazepine on toxicology, regardless of the presence of other substances. Frequencies were generated to compare demographics, circumstances, prescription history, and toxicology between 2019 and 2021 for illicit and prescription benzodiazepine-positive fatal overdoses. Results Between 2019 and 2021, 1666 benzodiazepine-positive unintentional or undetermined fatal drug overdoses out of 5916 total overdoses that occurred among adult Tennessee residents with available toxicological information. Prescription benzodiazepines were identified in 80.7% of deaths, whereas illicit benzodiazepines were identified in 12.0% of deaths. Many decedents had an anxiety disorder (45.5%), while over half of all decedents had a history of substance use disorder (52.3%). Most benzodiazepine-positive overdoses involved fentanyl (71.3%). Conclusions This analysis can inform local and regional public health workers to implement focused prevention and intervention efforts for people with co-occurring mental health conditions and substance use disorders to curb overdose epidemics among persons using benzodiazepines in Tennessee. Public health campaigns should focus on educating people on appropriate prescription medication use and the dangers of obtaining substances illicitly. Given the high proportion of opioids in this population, further education also is needed on the dangers of polysubstance drug use. The differences between prescription and illicit benzodiazepine-positive fatal overdoses indicate the need to develop substance-specific prevention and treatment strategies.

Case 324.

A 69-year-old right-handed man with a history of substance use disorder, hypertension, and diabetes presented to the emergency department in an unresponsive state. Upon examination, apart from tachycardia (heart rate, 108 beats per minute), vital signs were within normal ranges (blood pressure, 134/102 mm Hg; temperature, 97.9°F [36.6°C]; respiratory rate, 16 breaths per minute; oxygen saturation, 96%). He had a Glasgow coma scale score of 8. Otherwise, the physical examination revealed no abnormalities. His prior psychiatric and surgical histories were unremarkable. There was no history of recent travel, camping, hiking, or vaccination. No family history could be obtained. Laboratory work-up revealed an elevated creatine kinase level (49 006 U/L [818.4 μkat/L]; normal reference range, 10-205 U/L [0.17-3.42 μkat/L]). An electrocardiogram showed sinus tachycardia without evidence of cardiac ischemia. An echocardiogram was unremarkable. Alanine aminotransferase (126 U/L [2.10 μkat/L]; normal reference range, 0-40 U/L [0-0.67 μkat/L]) and aspartate aminotransferase (488 U/L [8.15 μkat/L]; normal reference range, 3-44 U/L [0.05-0.74 μkat/L]) levels were elevated. Polymerase chain reaction results were negative for HIV-1, HIV-2, syphilis treponemal, and COVID-19 antibodies. The rest of the routine laboratory work-up findings were within normal limits. Urine drug screening was positive for cocaine, marijuana, fentanyl, and benzodiazepines. Naloxone was administered, but the patient remained unresponsive. Intubation was performed for airway protection. Noncontrast and contrast-enhanced CT of the head (Fig 1) and CT angiography were performed in the emergency department to rule out an acute intracranial abnormality. Multisequence MRI of the brain with administration of intravenous contrast material was ordered for further assessment (Figs 2-4). CT of the abdomen and pelvis was unremarkable (images not shown).

Bridging the gap: building and sustaining recovery capital in the transition from prison to recovery residences

The transition from jail to community is a high-risk time for individuals experiencing substance use disorders (SUD), with elevated risks of overdose and other substance-related harms, as well as high recidivism rates and re-incarceration. Gains made from successful treatment in prison are often lost in this transition. The current paper evaluates this process for one justice programme, Chesterfield HARP, a Therapeutic Community based in the Chesterfield County jail that continues supporting former inmates through their release by examining engagement and retention rates and changes in recovery capital among incarcerated individuals before incarceration and after transition to recovery housing in the community. Adult prisoners (both male and female) who engaged in the Chesterfield HARP programme completed an assessment of recovery capital (REC-CAP instrument) while in prison and following their transitions to one of a number of local recovery residences with strong links to the prison programme (ensuring continuity of care and support). The results suggest successful bridging with positive growth across multiple recovery capital domains. The study provides further evidence for the importance of continuity of care and integrated models of strength-building and recovery-focused interventions in successfully bridging the transition from prison to the community for offenders with a SUD history.

Psychiatric and Substance Use Disorders Are Independent Predictors of Treatment Response and Outcomes in United States Veterans with Newly Diagnosed Acute Myeloid Leukemia Treated with Venetoclax Combinations

BACKGROUND: Venetoclax (VEN) combinations have become the standard frontline therapy for patients with newly diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia (AML) who are deemed unable to tolerate intensive induction chemotherapy, either due to age or comorbidities. However, outcomes in the real-world setting have been inferior to those observed in clinical trials. Preexisting psychiatric diagnoses and substance use disorders (SUDs) have previously been associated with increased mortality in patients with cancer, but their prognostic influence in veterans with AML is unclear. The aim of this study was to measure the prevalence of psychiatric and SUDs in veterans with AML treated with VEN combinations, determining the impact of these conditions on treatment response and outcomes. METHODS: This was a retrospective cohort study of veterans with newly diagnosed AML who received frontline therapy with VEN combinations within the national Veterans Affairs (VA) Healthcare System. To measure the prevalence of psychiatric and SUDs, we used the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Chronic Conditions Data Warehouse algorithm, which tracks health conditions by administrative claims data with International Classification of Diseases (ICD) diagnostic and procedural codes. Our endpoints were rates of complete remission or complete remission with incomplete marrow recovery (CR/CRi), early mortality (EM, or death within 60 days of treatment initiation), intensive care unit (ICU) admissions, and overall survival (OS). We evaluated the relationship between comorbid medical conditions and outcomes using Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox proportional hazards regression models, first unadjusted, and then adjusted for all covariates. Patients who underwent allogeneic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) were excluded from statistical analyses. RESULTS: We identified 452 veterans treated with VEN up to April 1, 2022 (Table 1). In combination with VEN, 60% (n=270) received azacitadine, 37% (n=168) received decitabine, and 3% (n=14) received low-dose cytarabine. Median age was 74.3 years (IQR: 71.2-78.5) with 52% ≥75 years. By European LeukemiaNet (ELN) 2017 risk classification, 61% (n=274) were classified as adverse risk. Forty-six percent (n=206) of veterans had a preexisting psychiatric diagnosis, and 19% (n=84) had SUDs; 11% (n=49) had both comorbidities. Psychiatric disorders were significantly more prevalent in younger veterans (68% in &amp;lt;65 years vs 50% in 65-74 years vs 39% in ≥75 years, p&amp;lt;0.003); same was true for SUDs (38% in &amp;lt;65 years vs 26% in 65-74 years vs 9% in ≥75 years, p&amp;lt;0.001). For the entire cohort, CR/CRi was achieved by 57% (n=257), and only 3% (n=12) received HSCT. Zero veterans with SUDs and 8 with psychiatric diagnoses were transplanted. At the end of study period, 69% (n=310) had died. Median OS was 216 days (95% CI: 195-254). The 60-day mortality rate was 20% (n=87), of which 8 veterans had primary refractory AML. ICU admissions after treatment initiation was significantly higher in veterans with SUDs compared to those without history of SUDs (5.0 versus 2.2 per 5 person-years, p&amp;lt;0.001). On multivariable analyses (Table 2), both psychiatric and SUDs were independently associated with decreased odds of CR/CRi. Veterans with psychiatric disturbances had a 1.97 times higher hazard of EM (95% CI: 1.16-3.39, p=0.01) and a 1.28 times higher hazard of death (95% CI: 1.00-1.64, p=0.05) compared to veterans without concurrent psychiatric disorders. CONCLUSION: Psychiatric diagnoses and SUDs were not only prevalent among veterans with AML, but they also negatively impacted treatment response, EM, and OS-independently of age, sociodemographic variables, markers of disease risk, and VEN combination. Veterans with SUDs also had significantly higher ICU admissions after treatment initiation for AML. Compared to published clinical trials data, veterans experienced inferior outcomes. Veterans with psychiatric and SUDs may have difficulty adhering to regimens, reemergence of their mental instability and illness that is triggered by AML diagnosis and its treatment, or biologic mechanisms associated with these comorbidities. Better understanding of these factors contributing to health disparities and targeting these comorbidities with supportive care interventions alongside AML-specific therapy may improve outcomes and warrant further study.

A Hidden Pandemic? Abuse of Gabapentinoids: A Brief Review of Recent Studies.

Gabapentin and pregabalin were developed for epilepsy and neuropathic pain. They work via voltage-gated calcium channels and are used for broad-spectrum diagnoses, e.g., epilepsy, neuropathic pain, other chronic pain syndromes, anxiety disorders, alcohol-drug withdrawal syndromes, agitation, insomnia, etc. Especially in a world dealing with the opioid crisis, gabapentinoids were considered safer alternatives to opioid analgesics. This review aims to comprehensively search and summarize recent studies concerning the abuse of gabapentinoids published between 2021 and 2022 from various regions around the world. Studies have highlighted that a history of substance use disorder is a significant risk factor for gabapentinoid abuse. Concurrent abuse of gabapentinoids with illicit drugs can exacerbate drug-related damages. Drug screening and postmortem toxicology tests have revealed an increase in gabapentinoid consumption. In response to the abuse potential, several countries have classified gabapentinoids as controlled substances. Gabapentinoids are highly abused molecules worldwide. Physicians should be aware of their abuse potential.

GI Amyloid: More Than a Heavy Heart

Amyloid transthyretin (ATTR) amyloidosis is caused by the accumulation of insoluble transthyretin (TTR) amyloid fibrils. These proteins can build up in various organ systems such as the musculoskeletal, gastrointestinal, and ocular system. However, there is usually a predilection for the heart and nervous system [1]. ATTR comprises approximately 16% of GI amyloid cases, with the small bowel being the most common area of involvement [2]. Symptoms typically include abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, unintentional weight loss, diarrhea, and constipation. Given the rarity of the disease, we present a case of biopsy proven ATTR GI amyloidosis to raise awareness and, consequently, aid in early recognition. Our patient is a 48-year-old female with a medical history of substance use disorder who had multiple evaluations for complaints of chest discomfort and gastrointestinal symptoms including nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Initial evaluation included an echocardiography which found severe left ventricular hypertrophy. Given her significant family history of myocardial infarction, a left cardiac catheterization was completed, however, this revealed normal coronary vasculature. Subsequently, the patient started medical therapy for heart failure with preserved ventricular function pending further testing. Despite medical management, the patient developed worsening symptoms of heart failure warranting repeat echocardiography which showed a significant reduction in ejection fraction. In addition to the patient's worsening cardiac symptoms, she continued to have refractory gastrointestinal symptoms and developed new epigastric pain. Therefore, the patient underwent upper endoscopy with discovery of abnormal peristalsis. After which, a gastric emptying study was done, resulting in a diagnosis of gastroparesis. With the constellation of findings i.e., the pattern of ventricular hypertrophy, lack of hypertensive and coronary artery disease, as well as gastroparesis without a known etiology, there was suspicion for systemic infiltrative disease, which led to further investigation. Gastric, small, and large bowel biopsies confirmed amyloid deposits. The patient also underwent a Tc99m-PYP scan which revealed evidence of cardiac amyloidosis; monoclonal protein analysis test was negative, and a cardiac biopsy showed a profile consistent with amyloid transthyretin type. The patient remained on pharmacologic therapy for gastroparesis and has been referred to cardiac transplantation services for further management.Our case highlights that amyloidosis, including GI amyloidosis, has the potential to go unrecognized due to non-specific signs and symptoms. Clinicians should therefore always have a high index of suspicion as GI involvement in systemic amyloidosis, regardless of protein subtype, is common. This high index of suspicion will allow for the appropriate pathologic examination to be pursued, and ultimately the appropriate management.

Abstract 17123: Opioid Withdrawal Causing a Broken Heart!

Introduction: Takotsubo syndrome is a condition characterized by transient acute left ventricular systolic dysfunction. Although it was previously thought of as a benign self-limiting condition, it is now known to be associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Case: A 26-year-old male patient with past medical history of Fentanyl abuse now on methadone, presented with features of opioid withdrawal. ECG on arrival was normal sinus rhythm with QTc 488 ms. with a troponin of 2.63. Due to excessive agitation and vomiting, he was given IV haloperidol and ondansetron. The patient then became unresponsive and sustained a cardiac arrest. He was found to be in polymorphic ventricular tachycardia and was able to be resuscitated. ECG after resuscitation demonstrated new yamaguchi T waves with a QTc 597 ms and troponin of 6.60. Transthoracic echocardiography subsequently revealed a reduced ejection fraction of 35% with apical hypokinesis, and he was referred for an ischemic evaluation with CTA coronary that showed normal coronary arteries. He was diagnosed with takotsubo cardiomyopathy and was initiated on dapagliflozin, metoprolol succinate and losartan. For opioid dependence, he was prescribed buprenorphine/naloxone being mindful of his QTc and was provided a wearable cardioverter defibrillator on discharge. Final ECG demonstrated QTc of 465 ms. Discussion: Opioid withdrawal is known to cause a high adrenergic state and this catecholamine excess can result in cardiac stunning, creating transient left ventricular dysfunction along with wall motion abnormalities. Patients with takotsubo cardiomyopathy typically have normal coronary arteries. Approximately 4.5% of these patients can die during their hospitalization and 4% can die within 30 days of discharge. So, clinicians must keep a high index of suspicion for this syndrome in patients with history of substance use disorder, especially in the setting of troponin elevation.

The association of allostasis with alcohol use: a case-control study in males with and without alcohol use disorder.

Allostatic load (AL) is associated with a heightened predisposition to disease due to prolonged activation of biological stress-response systems. Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is known to activate these systems. The primary aim of the current study was to examine the relationship between AL and AUD. Participants were males (100%) with DSM-IV Alcohol Dependence (n = 48) and healthy participants with no history of substance use disorder (n = 17). Participants with AUD were 4-6 weeks abstinent. The AL index used cortisol, interluken-6 (IL-6), fibrinogen, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFa), C-reactive protein (CRP), glucose, insulin, leptin, pulse, systolic blood pressure readings, diastolic blood pressure readings, and body mass index (BMI). Physiological dysregulation for each biological measure was determined based on values within the 25th or 75th percentiles; AL was calculated as the total number of physiologically dysregulated biological measures. No differences in mean AL scores between the cases and controls (t(63) = .48, p = .63) were observed. Among cases, AL was not associated with lifetime drinks per drinking day (F(2, 42) = .42, p = .66), lifetime total drinks (F(2, 42) = .48, p = .62), total drinks 6-months prior to participating in the study (F(2, 43) = .58, p = .56), or drinks per drinking day at 3-month follow-up (F(2, 35) = 1.93, p = .16). AL was negatively associated with drinks per drinking day 6-months prior to study participation (F(2, 42) = 3.71, p = .033). The hypotheses were not supported. Given that alcohol is likely to lead to physiological dysregulation, the apparent absence of a relationship between biomarkers of cumulative stress as indicated by AL and drinking status was both unanticipated and remarkable. Based on the results, AL in the context of drinking status or drinking among males with AUD may not be applicable.