Evaluation of abuse of prescription and illicit drugs in chronic pain patients receiving short-acting (hydrocodone) or long-acting (methadone) opioids.

摘要: BACKGROUND Multiple studies have documented the incidence of illicit drug use and abuse opioids. Over years, several hypotheses been proposed. Short-acting opioids such as hydrocodone are generally considered to predispose patients poor pain management, dependency, misuse, or abuse; whereas long-acting methadone thought provide sustained management without dependency abuse. OBJECTIVES To evaluate identify prevalence prescription misuse in receiving methadone. STUDY DESIGN A prospective, comparative evaluation. METHODS total 200 from an interventional setting, divided into two groups 100 consecutive either (Group I) II) were evaluated with urine testing for use, and/or Drug was carried out by Rapid Screen(R). RESULTS Results this study showed that 22% (95% CI, 13% - 30%) Group I used drugs compared 24% 15% 32%) those II who The a opioid seen 3% 0% 6%) 12% 5% 18%) II. In significant proportion both groups, prescribed them not detected on testing. combined noted 33% 23% 42%) CONCLUSIONS There no differences treated These findings suggest long acting formulation chronic does reduce risk improve compliance medical therapy.