Prevalence of opioid dispensing and concurrent gastrointestinal medications in Quebec

Pain Research and Management Journal
September/October 2008, Volume 13, No. 5

This study examines the prevalence of outpatient opioid dispensing, opioid patient demographics and concomitant dispensing of opioids and gastrointestinal (GI) medications in the Quebec Public Prescription Drug Insurance Plan in 2005.

The study found that more than 11% of the drug plan population was dispensed an opioid in 2005, and dispensings increased with age. Approximately one-third of opioid patients were concomitantly dispensed a GI medication, yet only 2% were dispensed a laxative. Although the GI side effects of opioids are well known, these side effects appear to increase with age and duration of opioid use. Opioid-related side effects, particularly opioid-induced bowel dysfunction, should be effectively managed so as not to lead to the cessation of opioid therapy.

The study received support from GlaxoSmithKline.

Report Authors

Nevzeta Bosnic BA, Michael Brogan BA, Brogan Inc., Ottawa Canada

Rachel E Williams PhD MS Worldwide Epidemiology, GlaxoSmithKline, Collegeville, Pennsylvania, USA

Carolyn T Sweeney MPH, Ashlee W Duncan PhD, Suzanne F Cook PhD, Worldwide Epidemiology, GlaxoSmithKline, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA.

Kristen B Levine MSPH, Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA


To obtain a copy of this study, contact the Pain Research and Management Journal.