University of Manchester

Academic Institute

Darren Ashcroft - Chief Investigator - University of ManchesterEleni Domzaridou - Corresponding Applicant - University of ManchesterMatthew Carr - Collaborator - University of ManchesterRoger Webb - Collaborator - University of ManchesterThomas Allen - Collaborator - University of ManchesterTim Millar - Collaborator - University of Manchester

CPRD897

People who are opioid-dependent are addicted to heroin and other similar ‘street drugs’. Opioid substitution therapy (OST) involves the prescribing of methadone or buprenorphine. Studies conducted worldwide have shown that OST recipients are more frequently hospitalised compared to people of similar age and gender who are not opioid-dependent. They also have an elevated risk of dying due to overdose when they start and after they cease OST. These patients differ in terms of their age and health that may result in a greater need for unplanned hospitalisations and increased overdose risk. However, the potential impact of comorbidities and interactions between OST and other drugs on overdose is poorly understood. Studies have shown that many deaths occur at an early age and are potentially preventable.

Although elevated risk of drug-related death occurring during opioid substitution therapy (OST) initiation and after cessation has been widely reported, limited research has been conducted on the potential impact that chronic diseases might have on hospitalisation due to non-fatal overdose and drug-related death. A substantial number of deaths in this population are premature and are potentially preventable. There are theoretical drug-drug interactions (DDIs) between OST and commonly prescribed medication (e.g. antidepressants, anxiolytics, antibiotics, antiarrhythmics, antiepileptics), that have not been examined and that may result in serious cardiovascular or respiratory-related events. The impact of specific comorbidities on OST choice, drug safety, and healthcare costs is poorly understood.

15/01/2021

Release