Reduction In Opioid Use Research Articles

Green Light-Based Analgesia – Novel Nonpharmacological Approach to Fibromyalgia Pain: A Pilot Study

BACKGROUND: There continues to be significant reliance on pharmacological modalities for the management of chronic pain, with a particular focus on opioid analgesics as a singular option for pain management. Fibromyalgia is a prototypical central pain disorder, which is often used as a model to study chronic pain disorders. It has an estimated prevalence of approximately 1.1% to 5.4% in the general population. The widespread use of opioids in patients with fibromyalgia has been well demonstrated in several health claims database studies, with rates of use ranging from 11.3% to 69%. Minimizing opioid exposures reduces misuse risk, but requires adequate opioid-sparing multimodal analgesic strategies, particularly nonopioid analgesic adjuncts, to ensure effective treatment of pain, particularly high-impact pain. We chose fibromyalgia as our study population. Given that it is a disordered sensory processing condition, it may be particularly amenable to the beneficial effects of green-light therapy. OBJECTIVES: Most studies have evaluated exposure to light-emitting diode lights as a mode of green-light delivery; our study used green-light filtering eyeglasses, which would allow the wearer to move about with minimal interference. STUDY DESIGN: We conducted a randomized controlled trial to test the feasibility of green-light filtering eyeglasses in the treatment of chronic pain. SETTING: This study was conducted at Duke University Health System. METHODS: We recruited and randomized adult patients with a known diagnosis of fibromyalgia patients and excluded patients who were unable to wear eyeglasses for at least 4 hours per day or were colorblind according to the Ishihara Colorblindness Test. Patients were assigned to 1 of 3 arms: clear eyeglasses (control), green eyeglasses, or blue eyeglasses. We initially recruited 45 patients and randomly assigned 15 patients per group. RESULTS: To evaluate clinical significance, we determined the rate of >= 10% decline in oral morphine equivalents and found that 33%, 11%, and 8% of the green, blue, and clear eyeglass groups, respectively, achieved this clinically meaningful outcome. LIMITATIONS: This study was powered to detect feasibility of the intervention, rather than conclusive analgesic effects. CONCLUSIONS: Our study demonstrated the feasibility of this treatment approach and study design and supports a future study to determine the efficacy of green light-based analgesia on opioid use, pain, and anxiety. While the reduction of opioid use was not of statistical significance, we believe it to be of clinical significance as there was no increase of patient-reported pain. This warrants further investigation in a large-scale trial of the use of green-light filtration of ambient light to mitigate opioid use and possible mediation of psychological impacts of pain with the use of green-lensed eyeglasses. KEY WORDS: Chronic pain, fibromyalgia, pain, pain management, green light, green-light filtering eyeglasses, green-light analgesia, chronic pain management

Prescription Opioid Initiation for Neuropathy, Headache, and Low Back Pain: A US Population-based Medicare Study

Neuropathy, headache, and low back pain (LBP) are common conditions requiring pain management. Yet little is known regarding whether access to specialists impacts opioid prescribing. We aimed to identify factors associated with opioid initiation among opioid-naïve older adults and evaluate how access to particular specialists impacts prescribing. This retrospective cohort study used a 20% Medicare sample from 2010 to 2017. Opioid initiation was defined as a first opioid prescription filled within 12 months after a diagnosis encounter. Disease-related opioid initiation was defined as a first opioid prescription filled within 7 days following a disease-specific claim. Logistic regression using generalized estimating equations was used to determine the association of patient demographics, provider types, and regional physician specialty density with disease-related opioid initiation, accounting for within-region correlation. We found opioid initiation steadily declined from 2010 to 2017 (neuropathy: 26–19%, headache: 31–20%, LBP: 45–32%), as did disease-related opioid initiation (4–3%, 12–7%, 29–19%) and 5 to 10% of initial disease-related prescriptions resulted in chronic opioid use within 12 months of initiation. Certain specialist visits were associated with a lower likelihood of disease-related opioid initiation compared with primary care. Residence in high neurologist density regions had a lower likelihood of disease-related opioid initiation (headache odds ratio [OR] .76 [95% CI: .63–.92]) and LBP (OR .7 [95% CI: .61–.81]) and high podiatrist density regions for neuropathy (OR .56 [95% CI: .41–.78]). We found that specialist visits and greater access to specialists were associated with a lower likelihood of disease-related opioid initiation. These data could inform strategies to perpetuate reductions in opioid use for these common pain conditions. PerspectiveThis article presents how opioid initiation for opioid-naïve patients with newly diagnosed neuropathy, headache, and LBP varies across providers. Greater access to certain specialists decreased the likelihood of opioid initiation. Future work may consider interventions to support alternative treatments and better access to specialists in low-density regions.

Spinal versus general anesthesia: Comparing outcomes in pediatric patients undergoing urologic procedures

Available literature comparing spinal anesthesia (SA) to general anesthesia (GA) in the pediatric population describes multiple benefits in appropriately selected patients including cost reduction, lower incidence of complications, and shorter operative times. In patients undergoing urologic procedures, data are sparse. Our goal was to expand on the paucity of existing urologic literature as SA appears to be uniquely suited for a substantial number of its common pediatric procedures. Within a single institution, patients who had a urologic procedure performed under SA between May 2019 and July 2021 and were less than 18 months old were compared with a matched cohort of patients who had GA. The SA and GA groups were compared by two-sample t-tests, chi-square test for independence, and Fisher's exact test. There were a total of 184 SA and 202GA patients. There was no significant difference in the demographics except that SA patients were younger and weighed less than GA patients. The patients in the SA group needed less opioids both during the surgery (0% vs 26.1% p N/A) and in the immediate postoperative period when compared with GA patients (0% vs 18.2% p N/A). The patients who had SA had fewer complications necessitating PICU admission, or cancellation of surgery (0% vs 6.8% p=0.03). Total anesthesia and emergence time were lower for SA patients (41 vs 50.2 p=0.001 & 3.4 vs 6.1 p=0.001). Both surgery and total OR time were not different between the groups (37.6 vs 35.5 p=0.35 and 56.3 vs 54.4 p=0.49). Overall, raw material cost was also found to be lower per procedure in the SA group vs the GA group ($8.90 vs $38.8: 77% reduction). Adjusted total mean costs for the surgery were not different between groups. The reduction in opioid use postoperatively also suggests reduced cost in the management of postoperative pain in the SA group. Total anesthesia time, opioid use, and serious complications were all significantly lower in the SA group. We did not find significant difference in total surgery cost between two groups. However, patients who had SA had better pain control and needed less rescue analgesics in the immediate postoperative period. No patients in either group were sent home with opioids. Spinal anesthesia was found to be an equally effective and appropriate alternative to GA with many proposed benefits for common pediatric urologic procedures. With further research, SA may prove to be a safer alternative in patients at risk for complications related to GA general anesthesia while also offering a cost benefit.

The analgesic effects of bilateral superficial cervical plexus block in thyroid surgery: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Thyroid surgery is moderately painful, and many techniques to reduce postoperative pain have been studied. Regional techniques are a part of multimodal analgesia employed for various surgical cases. Bilateral superficial cervical plexus block (BSCPB) is a commonly used regional anaesthesia technique for analgesia for thyroid surgery. A previous meta-analysis by this group had left questions about some facets of the technique, to which further trials have contributed. The systematic review and meta-analysis was registered on the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) CRD42022315499. It is an update to a previously published paper in 2018. An updated systematic search, critical appraisal, and analysis of clinical trials were performed. Trials investigating preoperative or postoperative BSCPB compared to control in patients undergoing thyroid surgery were included in the search. The primary outcome was postoperative opioid consumption. The secondary outcomes were the duration of analgesia (time to request of analgesia), Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) pain scores at 0, 4, 12, and 24 h, postoperatively, rates of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), postoperative rescue analgesic consumption, and intraoperative morphine use. A total of 31 studies and 2,273 patients were included in this analysis. BSCPB significantly reduced post-thyroidectomy opioid consumption (P < 0.001). Additionally, the duration of analgesia was prolonged following BSCPB. VAS scores for 24 h (postoperatively), intraoperative morphine use, and rescue analgesia (postoperatively) remained significantly lower in patients who received BSCPB. There was also a statistically significant reduction in PONV (P = 0.02). BSCPB offers superior postoperative analgesia with a reduction in opioid use, reduction in PONV, and improvement in VAS scores.

Trends in Risk-Adjusted Initiation and Reduction of Opioid Use among Veterans With Dementia in US Department of Veterans Affairs Community Living Centers.

Proper initiation and reduction of opioids is important in providing effective and safe pain relief to Veterans with dementia, including in Community Living Centers (CLCs). We examined the trends in aggregated monthly risk-adjusted opioid administration days and dosage over 3 opioid safety regulatory periods: pre-Opioid Safety Initiative period (October 1, 2012-June 30, 2013; period 1), pre-CDC Clinical Practice Guideline period (January 1, 2014-November 30, 2015, period 2) and post-Veterans Affairs Clinical Practice Guideline period (March 1, 2017-September 30, 2018; period 3). A retrospective study between October 1, 2012, and September 30,2018. 4995 long-stay CLC residents with dementia who had incident (incident cohort, n= 2609) or continued (continued opioid cohort, n= 2386) opioid administration in CLCs. CLC Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessments data and bar-code medication administration data were used. Opioid initiation was examined for incident opioid cohort and reduction was examined using continued opioid cohort. We first computed aggregated monthly risk-adjusted opioid administration days, opioid with benzodiazepine administration days and opioid dosage, and then examined risk-adjusted incident and continued opioid administration trends over the regulatory periods controlling for facility-level characteristics. Among the incident opioid cohort, compared to period 1, there were 1.9 and 2.1 fewer risk-adjusted opioid administration days per month in periods 2 and 3, respectively; 1.5 fewer risk-adjusted days per month with opioid and benzodiazepine administration in both periods 2 and 3; and 2.2 and 3.7 morphine milligrams equivalent per day (MMED) lower risk-adjusted dosage in periods 2 and 3, respectively. Among the continued opioid cohort, compared to period 1, there were 1.6 and 2.9 fewer risk-adjusted days with opioid and benzodiazepine administration days per month in periods 2 and 3, respectively, and 5.3 MMED lower risk-adjusted dosage per month in period3. CLC providers initiated and reduced opioid administration in fewer days and at lower dosage among Veterans with dementia across the regulatory periods. The result was likely due to systemic efforts from health care professionals, CLC administrators, and policy makers or VA central office, aiming to reduce opioid misuse and improve quality of care in nursing home residents with dementia. What is still unknown is whether pain was well controlled or nonpharmacologic treatments were utilized.

Patient-Centered Outcomes Associated With a Novel Office-Based Opioid Treatment Program in a District Health Department: Mixed Methods Pilot Study.

Granville and Vance counties have some of the highest opioid-related death rates in North Carolina, and have significant unmet needs with regard to opioid treatment. Medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) is the most effective evidence-based approach to address opioid use disorder. Despite demonstrated efficacy and substantial need, access to MOUD is still insufficient in many parts of the United States. In order to connect patients with needed MOUD services, the district health department, Granville Vance Public Health (GVPH), established an office-based opioid treatment (OBOT) program. In this formative pilot study, we sought to describe patients' goals and outcomes in a program delivered at a rural local health department using an integrated care approach. We used a mixed methods concurrent nested research design. The primary method of investigation was one-on-one qualitative interviews with active OBOT patients (n=7) focused on patients' goals and perceived impacts of the program. Trained interviewers followed a semistructured interview guide developed iteratively by the study team. The secondary method was a descriptive quantitative analysis (79 patients; 1478 visits over 2.5 years) of treatment retention and patient-reported outcomes (anxiety and depression). Participants in the OBOT program were 39.6 years of age on average, and 25.3% (20/79) were uninsured. The average retention in the program was 18.4 months. The proportion of individuals in the program with moderate to severe depression (Patient Health Questionnaire-9 scores ≥10) decreased between program initiation (66%, 23/35) and at the most recent assessment (34%, 11/32). In qualitative interviews, participants credited the OBOT program for reducing or stopping the use of opioids and other substances (eg, marijuana, cocaine, and benzodiazepines). Many participants noted how the program helped them manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings, which helped them feel more in control of their use. Participants also attributed improvements in quality of life to the OBOT program, such as improved relationships with loved ones, improved mental and physical health, and improved financial stability. Initial data show promising patient outcomes for active GVPH OBOT participants, including reduction in opioid use and improvements in quality of life. As a pilot study, a limitation of this study is a lack of a comparison group. However, this formative project demonstrates promising patient-centered outcome improvements for GVPH OBOT participants.

(053) Low Intensity Shockwave Therapy in Patients with Vulvas with Sexual Dysfunction

Abstract Introduction High intensity shockwave treatment has been used for kidney stone lithotripsy since the 1980’s; such devices generate an energy flux density (EFD) of approximately 0.9 mJ/mm2. Low intensity shockwave therapy (LiSWT) devices generate approximately one tenth of that EFD, 0.05 – 0.13 mJ/mm2. LiSWT was first used in sexual medicine in 2010 to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). In 2019 we began utilizing LiSWT for patients with vulvas with various sexual dysfunctions (SD). Objective To review our clinical uses of LiSWT as a non-hormonal, non-surgical treatment option for individuals with vulvas with various complaints of SD. Methods We have performed 324 total LiSWT treatment sessions, 1 to 17 total treatments per person, in 77 individuals with vulvas with SD; EFD (0.05 – 0.13 mJ/mm2), shocks (1800 – 4000/treatment), Hz 3, membrane pressure 1. The specific device used in our clinic, Softwave (TRT), is considered non-significant risk for human use by the FDA and cleared for pain amelioration, connective tissue activation, wound healing, and improved blood flow. This device has a parabolic reflective surface. For each underwater spark-gap discharge that generates a shockwave, there actually two shockwaves delivered: a primary unfocused shockwave and a secondary reflected focused shockwave. Each energy wave induces a variety of biologic reactions in tissues resulting from the mechanotransduction contraction/expansion forces produced. Results To date we have identified 4 clinical uses for LiSWT in our patients with vulvas (mean age 39 ± 21 years). Individuals with hormonally-mediated vestibulodynia (n = 12) or entrance dyspareunia associated with genitourinary syndrome of menopause (n = 13) have received a total of 61 (mean 5) and 64 (mean 5) vestibular treatment sessions, respectively. Positive outcomes from a sham-controlled randomized trial have been published for vestibulodynia. Our positive clinical experience in 60% (15/25) mirrors their data. This is especially important because not everyone is willing or able to undergo hormone treatment. Individuals with genito-pelvic dysesthesia from sacral radiculopathy (n = 22) have received 109 (mean 5) treatments directed to their lumbo-sacral region. These patients were either not candidates for spine surgery or continued to experience mild symptoms after spine surgery. LiSWT decreased or eliminated dysesthesia symptoms in 68% (15/22); a key predictor of success was the activation of radiculopathy symptoms (e.g. feet burning) during treatment. Finally, individuals who underwent LiSWT pre-operatively to reduce opioid use after complete vestibulectomy (n = 30) have received 90 (mean 3) vestibular treatments with a 65% reduction in opioid use with such prophylactic treatment. We have observed no serious and 2 transient adverse events, mild discomfort that resolved within several hours. Conclusions For individuals with vulvas with varying complaints of SD, LiSWT is a safe and effective non-hormonal, non-surgical treatment strategy. More research with LiSWT in this population is needed. A potential new clinical use for LiSWT is to manage stress/urge urinary incontinence (SUI) in a non-invasive, non-pharmacologic strategy. Disclosure No

Reducing opioid use for chronic non-cancer pain in primary care using an evidence-based, theory-informed, multistrategic, multistakeholder approach: a single-arm time series with segmented regression

BackgroundMany countries have high opioid use among people with chronic non-cancer pain. Knowledge about effective interventions that could be implemented at scale is limited. We designed a national intervention that...

Feasibility, acceptability and preliminary efficacy of a cognitive behavior therapy text-message intervention among individuals with opioid use disorder in Kenya: a randomized feasibility trial

BackgroundOpioid use disorder is associated with a huge burden of disease and treatment gap. Delivery of psychosocial treatment using digital platforms can bridge the treatment gap to improve treatment access among individuals with opioid use disorder. The aim of this study was to assess the acceptability, feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a text-message intervention in patients with opioid use disorder in Nairobi, Kenya.MethodsA feasibility pilot trial was conducted at a methadone clinic in Nairobi. A text-message intervention based on cognitive behaviour therapy was delivered for six weeks compared with a control group receiving standard treatment among 46 individuals on methadone treatment (30 in intervention and 16 in control group). Follow up was at six weeks and three months. Primary outcome was reduction in opioid use and retention in treatment. Implementation outcomes assessed were acceptability and feasibility of the intervention.ResultsThe participants comprised 89.1% male with a mean age of 32 years (SD 8.7). There was a reduction in opioid use among all the participants post-intervention with higher reduction in the intervention group compared the control group with prevalence of opioid use at 35.7% and 56.3%, respectively although there was no statistically significance difference. Retention in methadone was 93.3% at six weeks and 83.3% at 3 months follow up among participants in the intervention group. High acceptability and satisfaction were reported with the intervention based on quantitative assessment post-intervention.ConclusionResults from this pilot feasibility study suggest that a text message intervention is acceptable and scan be implemented in substance use disorder treatment with promising effect in improving outcomes. Further research using a larger sample size is recommended.Trial registrationPan African Clinical Trial Registry: Registration number: PACTR202201736072847. Date of registration: 10/01/2022.

The Effects of the Opioid Crisis on Employment

<h3>Abstract</h3> We show that the opioid crisis slows transitions to employment from unemployment and non-participation. We identify the effect of the opioid crisis from cross-state variation in triplicate prescribing regulations, which produced long-lasting reductions in opioid use by reducing the initial distribution of the blockbuster opioid OxyContin. Difference-in-differences estimates show that triplicate regulations induce unemployed and non-participating workers in triplicate states to return to employment about 10 percent faster than workers in non-triplicate states. These estimates imply a 1.1 percentage point higher level of employment in steady state.

Long-term Outcomes Following a Comprehensive Quality Assurance and Process Improvement Endeavor to Minimize Opioid Use After Kidney Transplant

Opioid use following kidney transplant is associated with an increased risk of graft loss and mortality. Opioid minimization strategies and protocols have shown reductions in short-term opioid use after kidney transplant. To evaluate the long-term outcomes associated with an opioid minimization protocol following kidney transplant. This single-center quality improvement study evaluated postoperative and long-term opioid use before and after the implementation of a multidisciplinary, multimodal pain regimen and education process in adult kidney graft recipients from August 1, 2017, through June 30, 2020. Patient data were collected from a retrospective chart review. Preprotocol and postprotocol implementation use of opioids. Between November 7 and 23, 2022, opioid use before and after protocol implementation was evaluated up to 1 year after transplant using multivariable linear and logistic regression. A total of 743 patients were included, with 245 patients in the preprotocol group (39.2% female and 60.8% male; mean [SD] age, 52.8 [13.1 years]) vs 498 in the postprotocol group (45.4% female and 54.6% male; mean [SD] age, 52.4 [12.9 years]). The total morphine milligram equivalents (MME) in the 1-year follow-up in the preprotocol group was 1203.7 vs 581.9 in the postprotocol group. In the postprotocol group, 313 patients (62.9%) had 0 MME in the 1-year follow-up vs 7 (2.9%) in the preprotocol group (odds ratio [OR], 57.52; 95% CI, 26.55-124.65). Patients in the postprotocol group had 99% lower odds of filling more than 100 MME in the 1-year follow-up (adjusted OR, 0.01; 95% CI, 0.01-0.02; P < .001). Opioid-naive patients postprotocol were one-half as likely to become long-term opioid users vs preprotocol (OR, 0.44; 95% CI, 0.20-0.98; P = .04). The study's findings show a significant reduction in opioid use in kidney graft recipients associated with the implementation of a multimodal opioid-sparing pain protocol.

Nurse-Led Telephone Follow-Up Intervention for Titrating and Tapering Opioids in Chronic Pain Patients – A Feasibility Study

Opioids in chronic non-cancer pain are debated, but remain a part of the pain treatment for selected patients. Research is scarce on the relieving and adverse effects of opioids, and how to deliver opioid treatment in this patient group. This study's purpose was to assess the feasibility of a nurse-led telephone follow-up intervention for titrating or tapering opioids, including a pilot study of the intervention outcomes. The feasibility assessment and process evaluation were performed according to the UK Medical Research Council (MRC) framework for evaluating complex interventions. A pilot study of the intervention outcomes was also performed. With a retrospective, descriptive, and longitudinal approach, we analyzed reports from 32 patients who titrated or tapered opioids. Information on demography, sleep satisfaction, health status, pain intensity/bothersomeness, opioid doses, and side effects was derived from the Oslo Pain Registry. Descriptive statistics, t-tests, and chi-square tests were used to analyze registry data. The study findings indicate that the intervention is feasible. Areas of impact were lack of a sound theory basis, unclear allocation criteria, and inconsistent and non-validated measurement tools. Mechanisms of change were interprofessional collaboration, nurses' knowledge and competencies, predictability, and availability. Statistical analyses showed no between-groups differences in demographical-, clinical-, and pain characteristics, except those who titrated opioids were significantly older than patients tapering opioids (P=0.010). All patients reported poor health and side effects at baseline. Those who tapered opioids had a significant reduction in opioid use (P=0.004). Titrating opioids was associated with a significant increase in side effects (P=0.038). Considering the limitations and the strengths of the intervention, the present study indicates that the nurse-led telephone follow-up program is a feasible intervention. With the right adjustments and improvements, the intervention is eligible for a larger efficacy study.

TANGO: Development of Consumer Information Leaflets to Support TAperiNG of Opioids in Older Adults with Low Back Pain and Hip and Knee Osteoarthritis.

Globally, the rate of opioid prescription is high for chronic musculoskeletal conditions despite guidelines recommending against their use as their adverse effects outweigh their modest benefit. Deprescribing opioids is a complex process that can be hindered by multiple prescriber- and patient-related barriers. These include fear of the process of, or outcomes from, weaning medications, or a lack of ongoing support. Thus, involving patients, their carers, and healthcare professionals (HCPs) in the development of consumer materials that can educate and provide support for patients and HCPs over the deprescribing process is critical to ensure that the resources have high readability, usability, and acceptability to the population of interest. This study aimed to (1) develop two educational consumer leaflets to support opioid tapering in older people with low back pain (LBP) and hip or knee osteoarthritis (HoKOA), and (2) evaluate the perceived usability, acceptability, and credibility of the consumer leaflets from the perspective of consumers and HCPs. This was an observational survey involving a consumer review panel and an HCP review panel. 30 consumers (and/or their carers) and 20 HCPs were included in the study. Consumers were people older than 65 years of age who were currently experiencing LBP or HoKOA, and with no HCP background. Carers were people who provided unpaid care, support, or assistance to an individual meeting the inclusion criteria for consumers. HCPs included physiotherapists (n=9), pharmacists (n=7), an orthopaedic surgeon (n=1), a rheumatologist (n=1), nurse practitioner (n=1) and a general practitioner (n=1), all with at least threeyears of clinical experience and who reported working closely with this target patient population within the last 12 months. Prototypes of two educational consumer leaflets (a brochure and a personal plan) were developed by a team of LBP, OA, and geriatric pharmacotherapy researchers and clinicians. The leaflet prototypes were evaluated by two separate chronological review panels involving (1) consumers and/or their carers, and (2) HCPs. Data collection for both panels occurred via an online survey. Outcomes were the perceived usability, acceptability, and credibility of the consumer leaflets. Feedback received from the consumer panel was used to refine the leaflets, before circulating the leaflets for further review by the HCP panel. Additional feedback from the HCP review panel was then used to refine the final versions of the consumer leaflets. Both consumers and HCPs perceived the leaflets and personal plan to be usable, acceptable, and credible. Consumers rated the brochure against several categories, which scored between 53 and 97% positive responses. Similarly, the overall feedback provided by HCPs was 85-100% positive. The modified System Usability Scale scores obtained from HCPs was 55-95% positive, indicating excellent usability. Feedback for the personal plan from both HCPs and consumers was largely positive, with consumers providing the highest positive ratings (80-93%). While feedback for HCPs was also high, we did identify that prescribers were hesitant to provide the plan to patients frequently (no positive responses). This study led to the development of a leaflet and personal plan to support the reduction of opioid use in older people with LBP or HoKOA. The development of the consumer leaflets incorporated feedback provided by HCPs and consumers to maximise clinical effectiveness and future intervention implementation.

A realist review of best practices and contextual factors enhancing treatment of opioid dependence in Indigenous contexts

ObjectivesThe objective of this study was to examine international literature to identify best practices for treatment of opioid dependence in Indigenous contexts.MethodsWe utilized a systematic search to identify relevant literature. The literature was analysed using a realist review methodology supported by a two-step knowledge contextualization process, including a Knowledge Holders Gathering to initiate the literature search and analysis, and five consensus-building meetings to focus and synthesize relevant findings. A realist review methodology incorporates an analysis of the complex contextual factors in treatment by identifying program mechanisms, namely how and why different programs are effective in different contexts.ResultsA total of 27 sources were identified that met inclusion criteria. Contextual factors contributing to opioid dependence described in the literature often included discussions of a complex interaction of social determinants of health in the sampled community. Twenty-four articles provided evidence of the importance of compassion in treatment. Compassion was evidenced primarily at the individual level, in interpersonal relationships based on nonjudgmental care and respect for the client, as well as in more holistic treatment programs beyond biophysical supports such as medically assisted treatment. Compassion was also shown to be important at the structural level in harm reduction policies. Twenty-five articles provided evidence of the importance of client self-determination in treatment programs. Client self-determination was evidenced primarily at the structural level, in community-based programs and collaborative partnerships based in trust and meaningful engagement but was also shown to be important at the individual level in client-directed care. Identified outcomes moved beyond a reduction in opioid use to include holistic health and wellness goals, such as improved life skills, self-esteem, feelings of safety, and healing at the individual level. Community-level outcomes were also identified, including more families kept intact, reduction in drug-related medical evacuations, criminal charges and child protection cases, and an increase in school attendance, cleanliness, and community spirit.ConclusionsThe findings from this realist review indicate compassion and self-determination as key program mechanisms that can support outcomes beyond reduced incidence of substance use to include mitigating systemic health inequities and addressing social determinants of health in Indigenous communities, ultimately healing the whole human being.

Narcotic Requirements before and after Implementation of Buccal Nerve Blocks for Buccal Mucosa Graft Harvest: Technique and Retrospective Review

The reduction in opioid use has become a public health priority. We aimed to assess if performing buccal nerve blocks (BNB) at the time of buccal mucosa graft (BMG) harvest impacts post-operative narcotic usage in the inpatient setting. We retrospectively reviewed clinical characteristics and morphine milligram equivalents (MMEs) received for all patients that underwent a BMG urethroplasty at our institution. The primary outcome measure was post-operative MMEs for patients before and after implementing the BNB. We identified 74 patients that underwent BMG urethroplasty, 37 of which were before the implementation of the BNB and 37 of which were after. No other changes were made to the peri-operative pathway between these time points. The mean total MMEs per day, needed post-operatively, was lower in the BNB group (8.8 vs. 5.0, p = 0.12). A histogram distribution of the two groups, categorized by number of MMEs received, showed no significant differences between the two groups. In this retrospective analysis, we report our experience using BNBs at the time of buccal mucosa graft harvest. While there were no significant differences between the number of MMEs received before and after implementation, further research is needed to assess the blocks' impact on pain scores.

Safety and Efficacy of Buprenorphine-Naloxone in Pregnancy: A Systematic Review of the Literature

The prevalence of opioid use among pregnant people has been increasing over the past few decades, with a parallel increase in the rate of neonatal abstinence syndrome. Opioid agonist treatment (OAT) including methadone and buprenorphine is the recommended management method for opioid use disorders during pregnancy. Methadone has been extensively studied during pregnancy; however, buprenorphine was introduced in the early 2000s with limited data on the use of different preparations during pregnancy. Buprenorphine-naloxone has been incorporated into routine practice; however, only a few studies have investigated the use of this medication during pregnancy. To determine the safety and efficacy of this medication, we conducted a systematic review of maternal and neonatal outcomes among buprenorphine-naloxone-exposed pregnancies. The primary outcomes of interest were birth parameters, congenital anomalies, and severity of neonatal abstinence syndrome. Secondary maternal outcomes included the OAT dose and substance use at delivery. Seven studies met the inclusion criteria. Buprenorphine-naloxone doses ranged between 8 and 20 mg, and there was an associated reduction of opioid use during pregnancy. There were no significant differences in gestational age at delivery, birth parameters, or prevalence of congenital anomalies between buprenorphine-naloxone-exposed neonates and those exposed to methadone, buprenorphine monotherapy, illicit opioids, or no opioids. In studies comparing buprenorphine-naloxone to methadone, there were reduced rates of neonatal abstinence syndrome requiring pharmacotherapy. These studies demonstrate that buprenorphine-naloxone is a safe and effective opioid agonist treatment for pregnant people with OUD. Further large-scale, prospective data collection is required to confirm these findings. Patients and clinicians may be reassured about the use of buprenorphine-naloxone during pregnancy.

Efficacy and safety of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for the treatment of acute pain after orthopedic trauma: a practice management guideline from the Eastern Association for the Surgery of Trauma and the Orthopedic Trauma Association

ObjectivesFracture is a common injury after a traumatic event. The efficacy and safety of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to treat acute pain related to fractures is not well established.MethodsClinically relevant...

Design of an adaptive randomized clinical trial of intravenous citrulline for sickle cell pain crisis in the emergency department

BackgroundVaso-occlusive pain crisis (VOC) is the most frequent cause for Emergency Department (ED) visits and hospital admissions for patients with sickle cell disease (SCD). Nitric oxide plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of vaso-occlusion. The amino acid, citrulline, is the main endothelial nitric oxide booster that offers the potential to ameliorate vaso-occlusion and decrease the risk of hospitalization. ObjectiveIn this two-part study, the goal of the first part is to determine the pharmacokinetic profile of intravenous (IV) l-citrulline and optimal dose for the second part of the study, which is to determine the efficacy and tolerability of the intervention in patients with SCD. DesignA phase I/IIA open-label dose-finding study with subsequent double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized Study of l-citrulline in children and adolescents with SCD presenting to the ED in VOC. MethodsPart 1: Subjects experiencing VOC are enrolled in an open-label, ascending dose of IV l-citrulline to identify the optimum dose with endpoints of pharmacokinetic parameters, pain scores, reduction of opioid use, quality of life, proportion admitted to the hospital for treatment of pain, readmission rates, and assessment of adverse events. Part 2 of the trial is a double-blind, placebo-controlled adaptive “pick-the-winner” design to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of IV l-citrulline in patients with SCD while receiving standard of care therapy for VOC. SummaryThis ED based sickle cell adaptive trial will determine the optimal dose for IV citrulline and whether the intervention improves outcome as a potential novel therapy for VOC in SCD.

Introduction to Opioids: A Review

Opioids are psychoactive chemical substances that have been known to reduce feelings of pain. They are a class of drugs that have been implicated in depressing the central nervous system and causing several physical and psychological reactions including numbness, inducing sleep, hyperactivity, drowsiness, mental confusion, nausea, euphoria as well as constipation. The commonest examples of opioids are tramadol, heroin, morphine, codeine, etc. The main reason for Opioid use is for therapeutic purposes. However, the use of Opioids has also been widely implicated in increasing energy and libido. It is also used as a coping mechanism against pressure, the impact of post-traumatic stress, poverty, crime, etc. The indiscriminate use of opioids is usually associated with overdose, addiction and withdrawal. This study focuses on the incidence of opioid use in Nigeria that has become an epidemic in all regions of the country. In addition to being an active component of cough syrups, Codeine and tramadol which are the predominant types of opioids in Nigeria, have been reported to be a leading cause of health implications and fatality amongst Nigerians, cutting across religion, gender, age, social and educational backgrounds. Due to their availability, ease of accessibility, relative affordability, and the euphoric sensation they cause, Codeine and Tramadol have been tremendously used indiscriminately. There are recorded incidents of fatal overdose and adverse interactions between opioids and other drug classes such as Indian hemp. The addictive ability and the resultant antisocial behaviour, fatality and potential health implication poses Opioid use as a threat in the society. This menace has therefore incited the government to put measures in place to enforce the reduction in Opioid use.

Comments on- Time to Adequately Heed Acute Pain in the Emergency Department – More Regional Blocks Warranted

To the Editor, I read the recent article “Time to Adequately Heed Acute Pain in the Emergency Department – More Regional Blocks Warranted” by Dr. Zundert, et al. with much interest [1]. The central argument of offering adequate multimodal acute pain control to our most vulnerable patients has been the core tenant of my clinical practice and research for the last 15 years. I completely agree that If we (as the field of medicine) hope to succeed in equitable acute pain management, leveraging the skill of numerous clinicians (emergency physicians, surgeons, orthopedics, etc.) to perform single injection regional blocks will be needed [2]. Like other skills (endotracheal intubation, lumbar puncture, central venous cannulation, etc.) that have been adapted from innovators in one field and then taught to the various other specialties, ultrasound-guided regional anesthesia needs to be brought from the expert regional anesthesiologists and to the clinicians who are at the bedside caring for this cohort of patients. Working at an academic trauma center in a low resource setting, we have had to build patient-centered pain pathways that both treat acute pain as well as ensure a reduction in opioid use. With the help of our anesthesia colleague at University of California, San Francisco, we have integrated ultrasound-guided regional blocks into our clinical practice for more than 10 years in the emergency department (ED). Just as Dr. Zundert has pointed out, this collaboration between our Anesthesia and Emergency Medicine colleagues has been an amazing success, leading to timely pain control in our acutely injured patients as well as improved patient care. For hip fractures specifically, we have worked with our anesthesia and orthopedic colleagues to develop a practice standard that asks our clinicians to perform a block in under 1 hour after recognition of a hip fracture [3]. This collaborative non-siloed based practice standard between all services dealing with acutely injured patients (trauma surgery, orthopedics, anesthesia and emergency medicine) has fostered interdepartmental education, multiple research publications and most importantly improved patient care [4, 5,6, 7].