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North Carolina Opioid Prescribing

Introduction   

For centuries, humans have been using, developing, and synthesizing opioid compounds for pain relief. Opioids are essential for treating patients who are experiencing severe and sometimes even moderate pain. Chronic pain can negatively affect our lives.  

In 2011, the cost of chronic pain ranged from $560 to $635 billion in direct medical expenses, lost productivity, and disability. An estimated one in five U.S. adults has chronic pain (1).  

Pharmacology of Opioids: Drug Class, Indications for Use, Most Prescribed Opioids, and their Effects. 

Opioids usually bind to mu-opioid receptor sites, where they have agonist effects, providing pain relief, sedation, and sometimes feelings of euphoria. Opiates refer only to natural opioids derived from the poppy plant. The term “opioids” includes all-natural, semi-synthetic, and synthetic opioids.  

Opioids are classified into several categories based on their origin and chemical structure: 

1. Natural Opioids (Opiates): These come from the opium poppy plant. Examples include morphine and codeine. 
2. Semi-Synthetic Opioids: These are natural opioids that are chemically modified. Examples include drugs like oxycodone, hydrocodone, oxymorphone, and hydromorphone. 
3. Synthetic Opioids: These opioids are entirely synthesized in a laboratory and do not have a natural source. Examples include fentanyl, tramadol, and methadone (1, 2). 

Providers must always caution patients about the benefits and risks. The main advantage of opioid medication is that it will reduce pain and improve physical function.  

A provider may use a 3-item Pain, Enjoyment of Life, and General Activity (PEG) Assessment Scale: 

1. What number best describes your pain on average in the past week?  
2. What number best describes how, during the past week, pain has interfered with your enjoyment of life?  
3. What number best describes how, during the past week, pain has interfered with your general activity?  

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The desired goal is improvement overall with opioid treatment (3). Providers should also go over potential side effects and cautions. Side effects include sedation, dizziness, confusion, nausea, vomiting, constipation, itching, pupillary constriction (miosis), and respiratory depression.  

Providers must also discuss the importance of consistently taking medication as prescribed. Taking opioids in larger than prescribed dosage, or in addition to alcohol, other illicit substances, or other prescription drugs, can lead to severe respiratory depression and death. Missing dosages can lead to decreased pain control and possible opioid withdrawal symptoms. Individuals should not drive when taking opioids due to the sedating effects and decreased reaction times (4).  

There are now thousands of different Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved opioids available for providers to prescribe. They can be administered via other routes and come in various potencies. The strength of morphine is the “gold standard” used when comparing opioids. A morphine milligram equivalent (MME) is the degree of µ-receptor agonist activity.  

The following is a sample of some of the most prescribed opioids and their MME (5): 

To utilize this information, multiply the dose for each opioid by the conversion factor to determine the quantity in MMEs. For example, tablets containing hydrocodone 5 mg and acetaminophen 325 mg taken four times a day would include a total of 20 mg of hydrocodone daily, equivalent to 20 MME (5).  

A Brief History 

While the current opioid epidemic has caused devastating effects in recent years, destruction from opioids has been going on for centuries. In the early 1800s, physicians and scientists became aware of the addictive qualities of opium. This finding encouraged research to develop safer ways to deliver opioids for pain relief and cough suppression, which led to the development of morphine.  

By the mid-1800s, with commercial production and the invention of the hypodermic needle, morphine became easier to administer. During the Civil War (1861 to 1865), injured soldiers were sometimes treated with morphine, and some developed lifelong addictions after the war.  

Without other options for pain relief, physicians kept giving patients morphine as treatment. Early indicators that morphine should be used cautiously were largely ignored. Between 1870 and 1880, the use of morphine tripled. Even with the problems associated with opioids, they continued to serve a vital part in the pain treatment of patients, and their use and development continued (6).  

Drug law enforcement started in 1914, but it wasn't until July 1, 1973, that the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) was established in the United States. The Diversion Control Division oversees pharmaceuticals. Within this Division are five levels of controlled substances, which classify illicit and medicinal drugs.  

In the U.S., opioid prescribing increased fourfold during 1999–2010. Along with the increase in opioid prescriptions during this time, how they were prescribed also changed; opioids were increasingly prescribed at higher dosages and for longer durations. The number of people who reported using OxyContin for non-medical purposes increased from 400,000 in 1999 to 1.9 million in 2002 and to 2.8 million in 2003. This was accompanied by an approximately fourfold increase in overdose deaths involving prescription opioids (8).  

In 2020, approximately 1.4 million people were diagnosed with opioid use disorder (OUD), of those associated with opioid painkillers, as opposed to 438,000 who have heroin-related OUD (1, 4). Over 100,000 people died of a drug overdose, with 85% involved in an opioid (1, 4).  

Widespread efforts were made to combat this growing issue. The prescribing rate peaked and leveled off from 2010-2012 and has been declining since 2012. In 2021, an estimated 2.5 million adults had been diagnosed with OUD. However, the amount of MME of opioids prescribed per person is still around three times higher than in 1999 (5).  

Controlled Substance Classification 

Schedule I Controlled Substances  

No medical use, lack of accepted safety for use under medical supervision, and high abuse potential. 

Examples of Schedule I substances are methaqualone, heroin, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), mescaline, methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), and marijuana (cannabis). 

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Schedule II/IIN Controlled Substances (2/2N)  

High potential for abuse, which can lead to severe dependence. Refills are not allowed for these drugs. Schedule II drugs have the strictest regulations compared to other prescription drugs presently.  

Examples include hydromorphone, methadone, meperidine, oxycodone, and fentanyl. Other narcotics in this class include morphine, opium, codeine, and hydrocodone. 

Some examples of Schedule IIN stimulants include amphetamine, methamphetamine, and methylphenidate. 

Other substances include amobarbital, glutethimide, secobarbital, and pentobarbital. 

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Schedule III/IIIN Controlled Substances (3/3N) (7) 

There is less potential for abuse than substances in Schedules I or II, and abuse may lead to moderate or low physical dependence or high psychological dependence. Schedule III drugs are able to be prescribed verbally over the phone, with a paper prescription, or via electronic prescribing. Within a six-month timeframe from the original prescription date, Schedule III drugs have requirements such that the medication can only have five refills. 

Include drugs containing not more than 90 milligrams of codeine per dosage unit like Acetaminophen with Codeine and buprenorphine. 

Schedule IN non-narcotics include benzphetamine, phendimetrazine, ketamine, and anabolic steroids such as Depo®-Testosterone. 

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Schedule IV Controlled Substances 

Have a low potential for abuse relative to substances in Schedule III. Similar to Schedule III drugs, Schedule IV drugs are able to be prescribed verbally over the phone, with a paper prescription, or via electronic prescribing. Within a six-month timeframe from the original prescription date, Schedule IV drugs have refill requirements such that the medications can only have five refills. 

Examples include alprazolam, carisoprodol, clonazepam, clorazepate, diazepam, lorazepam, midazolam, temazepam, triazolam, and tramadol. 

Schedule V Controlled Substances  

It has a low potential for abuse relative to Schedule IV and primarily consists of medications that have small quantities of narcotics. 

Examples include cough preparations containing not more than 200 milligrams of codeine per 100 milliliters or per 100 grams and ezogabine. Other Schedule V medication examples include ezogabine, pregabalin, and atropine/diphenoxylate. Partial prescription fills cannot occur more than six months after the prescription issue date. When a partial fill occurs, it is treated in the same manner and with the same regulations as a refill of the prescription.

Opioid-Seeking Behaviors 

Opioid use disorder (OUD) causes significant impairment and distress. Diagnosis is based on the following criteria: unsuccessful efforts to reduce or control use or use that leads to social problems and a failure to fulfill obligations at work, school, or home. The term Opioid use disorder is the preferred term; "opioid abuse or dependence" or "opioid addiction" have negative connotations and should be avoided. (9). Presently, it is estimated that OUD affects over 16 million people globally, with over 2 million in the United States experiencing this condition. 

OUD occurs after a person has developed tolerance and dependence, resulting in a physical challenge to stop opioid use and increases the risk of withdrawal. Tolerance happens over time when a person experiences a reduced response to medication, requiring a larger amount to experience the same effect. Opioid dependence occurs when the body adjusts to regular opioid use. Unpleasant physical symptoms of withdrawal occur when medication is stopped. Symptoms of withdrawal include anxiety, mood changes, insomnia, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, etc. (9).  

Patients who have OUD may or may not have practiced drug misuse. Drug misuse, the preferred term for "substance abuse," is the use of illegal drugs and the use of prescribed drugs other than as directed by a doctor, such as using more amounts, more often, or longer than recommended to or using someone else's prescription (9). 

Some indications that a patient may be starting to have unintended consequences with their opioid prescription may include the following symptoms: craving, wanting to take opioids in higher quantities or more frequently, difficulty controlling use, or work, social, or family issues.  

If providers suspect OUD, they should discuss their concerns with their patients nonjudgmentally and allow the patient to disclose related concerns or issues. Providers should assess the presence of OUD using the DSM-5 criteria.  

Per the DSM-5, OUD is defined as repeated opioid use within 12 months leading to problems or distress with 2 or more of the following occurring: 

• Prolonged opioid use despite worsening physical or psychological health 
• Prolonged opioid use despite social and interpersonal negative consequences 
• Decreased social or recreational activities 
• Existing or increased difficulty fulfilling professional duties at school or work 
• Excessive time is taken to obtain or recover from taking opioids 
• Increased opioid consumption is present 
• Opioid cravings occur 
• Difficulty decreasing the frequency of using opioids 
• Tolerance to opioids develops 
• Opioid use continues despite the dangers it poses to the user 
• Withdrawal occurs, or the user continues to take opioids to avoid withdrawal 

The presence of 6 or more of these diagnostic criteria indicates severe OUD.  

Providers can use validated screening tools such as: 

• Urine and oral fluid toxicology testing 
• Drug Abuse Screening Test (DAST) 
• Tobacco, Alcohol and/or other Substance use Tools (TAPS) 
• A three-question version of the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT-C) 

The following patients are at higher risk for OUD or overdose: 

• Depression or other mental health conditions 
• History of a substance use disorder 
• Loss of economic stability 
• Social distress, such as relationship issues or housing concerns 
• History of overdose 
• Taking 50 or greater MME/day or taking other central nervous system depressants with opioids

CDC Guidelines 

In 2022, the CDC updated the 2016 guidelines to help prescribers navigate prescribing opioids amid an epidemic.  

These guidelines are directed toward prescribing medications to adults to be taken in the outpatient setting, for example, primary care clinics, surgery centers, urgent cares, and dental offices. These do not apply to providers caring for individuals with sickle-cell disease, cancer, those receiving inpatient care, or end-of-life or palliative care. They are also intended to serve as a guideline, and each treatment plan should be specific to the unique patient and circumstances (1).  

Some of the Goals of the guidelines are to:  

• Improve communication between providers and patients about treatment options and discuss the benefits and risks before initiating opioid therapy. 
• Improve the effectiveness and safety of treatment to improve quality of life.  
• Reduce risks associated with opioid treatment, including opioid use disorder (OUD), overdose, and death. 

Recommendation #1 - Determining when it is appropriate to initiate opioids for pain (1). 

An essential part of the prescribing process is determining the anticipated pain severity and duration based on the patient's diagnosis. Pain severity can be classified into three categories when measured using the standard 1-10 numeric scale. Pain scores 1-4 are considered mild, 5-6 are moderate, and 7-10 severe. Opioids are typically used for moderate to severe pain.  

The patient's diagnosis will allow the provider to determine if pain initially falls into one of the following three categories of anticipated duration: acute, subacute, and chronic. Acute pain is expected to last for one month or less. Acute pain often is caused by injury, trauma, or medical treatments such as surgery. Unresolved acute pain may develop into subacute pain if not resolved in 1 month. If pain exceeds three months, it is classified as chronic. Pain persisting longer than three months is chronic. It can result from underlying medical conditions, injury, medical treatment, inflammation, or unknown cause. 

The CDC guidelines state that non-pharmacologic and non-invasive methods are the preferred first-line method of analgesia, such as heat/cold therapy, physical therapy, massage, rest, or exercises, etc. Despite evidence supporting their use, these therapies are only sometimes covered by insurance, and access and cost can be barriers, particularly for uninsured persons who have limited resources, no reliable transportation or live in rural areas where treatments are not available. 

When this is insufficient, non-opioid medications, such as Gabapentin, acetaminophen, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID), should be considered next. Selective antidepressants and anticonvulsant medications may also be effective. Some examples of when these drugs may be appropriate include neuropathic pain, lower back pain, musculoskeletal injuries (including minor pain related to fractures, sprains, strains, tendonitis, and bursitis), dental pain, postoperative pain, and kidney stone pain.  

Providers, however, must also consider the risks and benefits of long-term NSAID use because it may also negatively affect a patient's gastrointestinal and cardiovascular system. Depending on the diagnosis, a patient may also require an invasive or surgical intervention to treat the underlying cause to alleviate pain.  

If the patient has pain that does not sufficiently improve with these initial therapy regimens, at that point, opioids will be the next option to be considered. 

It does not mean that patients should be required to sequentially "fail" nonpharmacologic and non-opioid pharmacologic therapy or use any specific treatment before proceeding to opioid therapy. Example: A patient for whom NSAIDs are contraindicated has recently sustained a rotator cuff injury and is experiencing moderate pain to the point at which it is disturbing their sleep, and it will be several weeks before they can have surgery. 

Recommendation #2 - Discuss with the patient realistic treatment goals for pain and overall function (1). 

Ideally, goals include improving quality of life and function, including social, emotional, and physical dimensions. The provider should help guide these patients to realistic expectations based on their diagnosis. This may mean that the patient may anticipate reduced pain levels but not complete elimination of pain.  

The provider should discuss the expected or typical timeframe where they may need medications. If medications are anticipated for acute or subacute pain, a discussion about the expected timeframe for pain should be highlighted in the debate. The patient may then understand better if their recovery is progressing. For chronic conditions, the conversation will focus on or may emphasize the overall risks of beginning long-term medication therapy.  

They may also advise patients, particularly those with irreversible impairment injuries, that they may experience reduced pain but will not regain function. An exit strategy will be discussed if opioid therapy is unsuccessful or the risk vs. benefit ratio is no longer balanced. 

The second section of recommendations covers the selection of opioids and dosages. 

Recommendation #3 - Prescribe immediate-release (I.R.) opioids instead of extended-release and long-acting (ER/LA) opioids when starting opioid therapy (1). 

Immediate-release opioids have faster-acting medication with a shorter duration of pain-relieving action. ER/LA opioids should only be used in patients who have received specific dosages of immediate-release opioids daily for at least one week. Providers should reserve ER/LA opioids for severe, continuous pain, for example, individuals with cancer. ER/LA opioids should not be for PRN use.  

The reason for this recommendation is to reduce the risk of overdose. A patient who does not feel adequate relief or relief fast enough from the ER/LA dose may be more inclined to take additional amounts sooner than recommended, leading to a potential overdose. 

Recommendation #4 - Prescribe the lowest effective dose (1) 

Dosing strategies include prescribing low doses and increasing doses in small increments. Prescribe the lowest dose for opioid patients. Carefully consider risk vs. benefits when increasing amounts for individuals with subacute and chronic pain who have developed tolerance. Providers should continue to optimize non-opioid therapies while continuing opioid therapy. It may include recommendations for taking non-opioid medications in addition to opioids and non-pharmacologic methods. 

Providers should use caution and increase the dosage by the smallest practical amount, especially before increasing the total opioid dosage to 50 or greater morphine milligram equivalent (MME) daily. Increases beyond 50 MME/day are less likely to provide additional pain relief benefits. The greater the dosage increases, the tendency for risk also increases. Some states require providers to implement clinical protocols at specific dosage levels. 

Recommendation #5 - Tapering opioids includes weighing the benefits and risks when changing the opioid dosage (1). 

Providers should consider tapering to a reduced dosage or tapering and discontinuing therapy and discuss these approaches before initiating changes when: 

• The patient requests dosage reduction or discontinuation, 
• Pain improves and might indicate the resolution of an underlying cause, 
• Therapy has not reduced pain or improved function, 
• Treated with opioids for a long time (e.g., years), and the benefit-risk balance is not clear. 
• Receiving higher opioid dosages without evidence of improvement. 
• Side effects that diminish quality of life or cause impairment. 
• Opioid misuse  
• The patient experiences an overdose or severe event. 
• Receiving medications or having a health condition may increase the risk of an adverse event. 

Opioid therapy should not be discontinued abruptly unless there is a threat of a severe event, and providers should not rapidly reduce opioid dosages from higher dosages.  

Patient agreement and interest in tapering will likely be a key component of successful tapers. Integrating behavioral and non-opioid treatment and interventions for comorbid mental health conditions before/during a taper can help manage pain, strengthen the therapeutic relationship between the provider and patient, and improve the likelihood of positive tapering outcomes.  

When dosages are reduced or discontinued, a taper slow enough to reduce symptoms and withdrawal should be used. Patients should receive education on possible withdrawal symptoms and when to contact the provider. 

For those taking opioids for a shorter duration, a 10% decrease of the original dose per week or slower until close to 30% of the initial amount is reached, followed by a weekly reduction of roughly 10% of the remaining dose) is less likely to trigger withdrawal. Tapers of 10% per month or less are better tolerated than rapidly tapering off when patients have been taking opioids for a longer duration (e.g., for a year or longer).  

Significant opioid withdrawal symptoms can indicate the need to slow the taper rate further. Short-term medications might also help manage withdrawal symptoms. Providers should follow up frequently (at least monthly) with patients engaging in opioid tapering. 

Close monitoring is required for patients who cannot taper and that continue on high-doses or otherwise high-risk opioid regimens and should work with patients to mitigate overdose risk. Some patients with unanticipated challenges to tapering may need to be evaluated for OUD. 

The third section focuses on the duration of opioid therapy and routine patient follow-up. 

Recommendation #6 - Prescribing no greater quantity than needed for the expected duration of severe pain requiring opioids (1) 

A few days or less is often the length that opioids are used for common causes of nonsurgical acute pain. Many states have passed legislation that limits initial opioid prescriptions for acute pain to less than seven days. Many insurers and pharmacies have enacted similar policies. Providers should generally avoid prescribing additional opioids to patients if pain continues longer than expected. 

Providers should prescribe and advise opioid use only as needed rather than on a scheduled basis (e.g., one tablet every 4 hours). Limiting the duration of therapy can decrease the need to taper. However, tapering may need to be considered if patients take these medications around the clock for more than a few days.  

Longer durations of therapy may be needed when the injury is expected to result in prolonged severe pain (e.g., greater than seven days for severe traumatic injuries). Patients should be evaluated at least every two weeks if they are receiving opioids for acute pain. Suppose opioids are continued for a month or longer. In that case, providers should address potentially reversible causes of chronic pain so that the length of therapy does not continue to extend. 

Recommendation #7 - Evaluate the benefits and harms of opioid therapy regularly (1) 

The benefits and risks for Evaluating benefits and risks within 1-4 weeks of starting long-term opioid therapy for subacute and chronic pain should be evaluated within 1-4 weeks of initiating therapy and after dosage increases.  

The evaluation should include patient perspectives on progress and challenges in moving toward treatment goals, including sustained improvement in pain and function. The Three-item Pain, Enjoyment of Life, and General Activity (PEG) assessment scale could be utilized to help determine patient progress. 

Providers should also ask patients about common adverse effects, such as constipation and drowsiness, and assess for outcomes that might be early warning signs for more serious problems such as overdose or OUD.  

Patient re-evaluation should occur after therapy begins (about two weeks) when ER/LA opioids are prescribed if the total daily opioid dosage is greater than or equal to 50 MME/day or if there is a concurrent benzodiazepine prescription. These individuals are at a higher risk for overdose. Follow-up for individuals starting or increasing the dosage of methadone is recommended every 2-3 days for the first week. Providers should reassess all patients receiving long-term opioid therapy at least every three months. 

The last section of recommendations covers patients at risk for OUD and overdose.  

Recommendation #8 - Use strategies to mitigate risk by evaluating risk for opioid-related harms, discussing risk with patients, and incorporating risk reduction strategies into the treatment plan (1). 

The patient's habits (including alcohol and illicit drug use) and behavioral and mental health must be considered. Patients with a history of substance use disorders, depression, and/or mental health disorders have a higher risk of overdose and OUD. Even though the dangers of opioid therapy are higher with these patients, they may still require opioid treatment for pain management.  

Psychological distress can interfere with improvement of pain and/or function in patients experiencing chronic pain; using tools like the Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)-7 and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9 or PHQ-4) to assess for anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and depression might help providers improve overall pain treatment outcomes. They should also ensure that treatment for depression and other mental health conditions is effective, consulting with behavioral health specialists when needed. 

Additionally, providers should: 

• Educate on the risks for overdose when opioids are combined with other drugs or alcohol.  
• Use caution when prescribing opioids for people with sleep-disordered breathing due to their increased risk for respiratory depression. The provider may ascertain if a patient is compliant with prescribed CPAP.  
• Use caution and increased monitoring for patients with renal or hepatic insufficiency. 
• Use caution and increased monitoring for patients aged 65 years or older.  
• Offering naloxone when prescribing opioids, particularly to patients at increased risk for overdose. 

If patients experience a nonfatal opioid overdose, providers should evaluate for OUD. Providers should reduce opioid dosage and discontinue opioids when indicated and continue monitoring and support for patients prescribed or not prescribed opioids. 

Recommendation #9 - Reviewing Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) data (1). 

Providers should review PDMP data specifically for prescription opioids, benzodiazepines, and other controlled medications patients have received from additional prescribers to determine all the opioids the patient could potentially receive.  

Patients with multiple prescriptions and from various providers are at an increased risk for overdose or OUD. PDMP data should be reviewed before initial drugs for subacute or chronic pain and at least every three months during long-term opioid therapy. 

Recommendation # 10 - Considering the benefits and risks of [urine] toxicology testing.  

Toxicology testing should be used to inform and improve patient care. Providers, practices, and health systems should minimize bias in testing and not test based on assumptions about different patients. 

Recommendation # 11 - Use caution when prescribing opioid pain medication and other medications concurrently (1). 

Benzodiazepines and opioids can cause CNS depression and potentiate opioid-induced decreases in respiratory drive. Because other CNS depressants can potentiate respiratory depression associated with opioids, benefits vs. risks should be considered. 

Recommendation # 12 - Offering or arranging treatment for OUD if needed (1). 

Includes referring a patient to a specific treatment center where behavior therapy and medications may be prescribed.

Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs (PDMP) and Electronic Prescribing 

PDMP is a database that keeps track of controlled substance prescriptions. They help improve opioid prescribing, inform clinical practice, and protect at-risk patients. A pharmacist must enter controlled substances into the state PDMP when dispensing them. When the pharmacist enters this data, it may occur at various intervals, from 1 month, daily, or even "real-time." However, a PDMP is only helpful if providers check the system before prescribing (10).  

Some states have implemented legislation that requires providers to check a state PDMP before prescribing certain controlled substances and in certain circumstances. Most current mandates require that all prescribers query PDMPs when prescribing any opioid.  

Some states require prescribers to query PDMPs every time a controlled substance is prescribed, while others require a query only for the initial prescription. Subsequent checks of PDMPs also vary from every time a drug is issued to specific intervals (e.g., every 90 days, twice a year, annually) should prescribing continue. Some mandates have categorical requirements, e.g., a query must be made if the prescription is over a three-day or seven-day supply or if a certain prescribed level of MME is exceeded.  

Other states' mandates are based on subjective criteria, e.g., a prescriber's judgment of possible inappropriate use or the prescriber's discretion regarding whether to query the PDMP. Finally, some states mandate that only prescribers in opioid treatment programs, workers' compensation programs, or pain clinics must query PDMPs (10, 11).  

In addition to PDMPs, there has been an increase in requirements for providers to utilize Electronic Prescribing for Controlled Substances (ECPS). Electronic prescribing programs for both providers and pharmacies must meet DEA requirements. The DEA's March 31, 2010, conditions were updated on July 27, 2023 (12).  

On January 1, 2023, CMS implemented additional requirements for controlled substances for recipients of Medicare Part D. There are over 51 million U.S. people enrolled in Medicare Part D (Center for Medicare Advocacy, 2023). In addition to state laws, these rules require that prescribers e-prescribe at least 70 percent of controlled substances for patients that have Medicare Part D. A waiver may be approved if the prescriber cannot conduct electronic prescribing due to circumstances beyond the provider's control (12).  

Starting June 27, 2023, the 'Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023' requires new or renewing Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) registrants, to have at least one of the following: 

• A total of eight hours of training from specific organizations on opioid or other substance use disorders. 
• Board certification in addiction medicine or addiction psychiatry from the American Board of Medical Specialties, American Board of Addiction Medicine, or the American Osteopathic Association. 
• Graduation within five years and status in good standing from medical, advanced practice nursing, or physician assistant school in the U.S. that included an opioid or other substance use disorder curriculum of at least eight hours (11,12).  

Providers must follow either state law or DEA/CMS regulations, whichever is more stringent. The following map indicates various rules in each state, which will continue to change when new legislation is enacted (11,12).  

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Opioid Storage and Disposal 

Prescription opioids need to be stored securely. It may include the necessity of keeping them in a locked area. This is especially true if children, teens, and other visitors in the house may be aware of their presence.  

Teens and young adults are the biggest misusers of prescription pain medication. In 2018, over 695,000 youths ages 12–17 and 1.9 million young adults ages 18–25 reported misusing prescription pain medication in the past year. Young people may misuse prescription opioids for many reasons, including curiosity, peer pressure, and wanting to fit in. Another reason teens and young adults may decide to take prescription opioids is because they can be easier to get than other drugs.  

Studies show that 53% percent of people over 12 who obtained prescription pain medication for non-medical use received them from a friend or relative (13).  

Patients should be advised on how to get rid of unused or expired medications. The best option is to immediately take them to a drug take-back site, location, or program. These sites or programs can be found online, or the pharmacist may have information.  

If it is not feasible for the patient to get rid of the drug using a take-back program, the patient should be advised to check if it is on the FDA flush list. If it is, the medication should be flushed down the toilet. Again, the list of drugs is available on the FDA website. If it is not on that list, it should be discarded in the trash at home.  

Patients should follow the following instructions: Mix medicines (liquid or pills; do not crush tablets or capsules) with an unappealing substance such as dirt, cat litter, or used coffee grounds. Next, place the mixture in a container such as a sealed plastic bag; then throw away the container in your trash at home. Last, the patient should remove or permanently cover all personal information on the prescription label of empty medicine bottles or packaging, then trash or recycle the open container (14).

OUD Treatment 

Treatment for OUD is multi-faceted and typically includes both mental health components and FDA-approved OUD treatment medications. Mental health components may consist of counseling or a structured treatment program. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) may also be beneficial.  

A potential barrier to OUD treatment, on the provider's and patient's behalf, is the perception that patients must engage in counseling to start or continue receiving OUD treatment medication. While the mental health components are essential, there may be barriers for patients to begin mental health treatment programs, which include expense, travel, and available openings within the programs.  

Medication therapy may be a helpful start for these patients (9). FDA-approved medications indicated for the treatment of OUD include methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone. Suboxone is a combination drug composed of buprenorphine and naltrexone.  

Medication has several advantages as part of the OUD treatment plan:  

• Help the individual to remain safe and comfortable during detox. 
• Reduce or eliminate cravings for opioids. 
• Minimize relapse since the individual is not experiencing uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. 
• Allow the individual to focus on therapy without being distracted by withdrawal symptoms and cravings. 
• Increase safety in cases of overdose.  

Methadone 

Methadone is a full agonist opioid. It is a Schedule II controlled medication. It can be prescribed purely for the treatment of pain, as well as for OUD. Methadone treatment for OUD can only be provided through a Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services (SAMHSA)-certified opioid treatment program.  

Patients taking methadone to treat OUD must receive the medication under the supervision of a clinician. After consistent compliance, patients may take methadone at home between program visits. The length of methadone treatment should be a minimum of 12 months. Methadone doses are often adjusted and readjusted. Methadone is slowly excreted, and there is overdose potential if not taken as prescribed (9).  

Buprenorphine 

Buprenorphine is a partial agonist opioid. Buprenorphine can be prescribed by any provider with a current, standard DEA registration as a Schedule III Controlled Substance. Like opioids, it produces effects such as euphoria or respiratory depression. With buprenorphine, however, these effects are weaker than those of full opioids such as heroin and methadone. It also has unique pharmacological properties that help lower the potential for misuse and diminish the effects of physical dependency opioids, such as withdrawal symptoms and cravings (9). 

Subutex was a brand-name version of buprenorphine, discontinued in 2011 after new formulations that were less likely to be abused were developed.  

Naltrexone 

Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist. It is not addictive and does not cause withdrawal symptoms. It blocks the euphoric and sedative effects of opioids by binding and blocking opioid receptors and reduces and suppresses opioid cravings.  

There is no abuse and diversion potential. Naltrexone can be prescribed in any setting. It can be taken as a pill or once monthly extended-release intramuscular injection (9).  

It was estimated 2021 that of the 2.5 million people with OUD, only 36% received any treatment, and only 22% received medications. A part of the July 27, 2023, Consolidated Appropriations Act amended the Controlled Substances Act to eliminate the requirement that providers obtain a specific waiver (a DATA waiver) to prescribe buprenorphine (including Suboxone) to treat opioid use disorder, known as the X-waiver.  

Additionally, there are no longer any caps on the number of patients a practitioner can treat. This, however, does not change the requirements for methadone treatment (15).

Nursing Considerations 

What Is the Nurses' Role in Opioid Patient Education and Opioid Medication Management? 

Nurses remain the most trusted profession for a reason, and APRNs are often pillars of patient care in several health care settings. Patients turn to nurses for guidance, education, and support.  

While there is no specific guideline for the nurses' role in opioid education and management, here are some suggestions to provide quality care for patients currently taking opioid medications. 

• Take a detailed health history. Often times, pain, and mental health, can be dismissed and overlooked in health care settings. If a patient is complaining of symptoms that could be related to pain, inquire more about that complaint. Ask about how long the symptoms have lasted, what treatments have been tried, if these symptoms interfere with their quality of life, and if anything alleviates any of these symptoms.  

If you feel like a patient's complaint is not being taken seriously by other health care professionals, advocate for that patient to the best of your abilities. A detailed pain assessment and history can provide context for opioid pain management and a patient's plan of care. When taking a health history, ask about any prior surgeries, major life stressors in the past year, or any prior opioid usage.  

• Review medication history at every encounter. Often times, in busy clinical settings, reviewing health records can be overwhelming. Millions of people take pain medications, including opioids, for various reasons. Ask patients how they are feeling on the medication, if their symptoms are improving, if there are any changes to medication history, if they use any other substances other than prescribed medications, such as alcohol, tobacco, or other drug use.  

Remember, prescription medications are not the only medications people take. Confirm medication route, dosage, frequency, and all the details to make sure you and the patient are on the same page and to avoid medication errors and complications.  

• Be willing to answer questions about pain, mental health, and opioid medication options. Society stigmatizes open discussions of prescription medication and pain. Sometimes, people are afraid of asking for pain medication for perception of being a "drug seeking" patient without having their pain concerns addressed. Other times, there are patients who might have OUD and continuously ask for an increased number of opioid medications.  

Be willing to be honest with yourself about your comfort level discussing topics and providing education on opioid medications, drug interactions, and pain management.  

• Communicate the care plan to other staff involved for continuity of care. For several patients, especially for patients with chronic pain or who use opioids long-term, care often involves a team of mental health professionals, physical therapists, nurses, specialists, pharmacies, and more. Ensure that patients' records are up to date for ease in record sharing and continuity of care and to reduce the incidence of opioid medication errors. 

• Stay up to date on continuing education related to opioid medications, pain management, and prescribing regulations. Evidence-based information and scope of practice is always evolving and changing. You can then present your new learnings and findings to other health care professionals and educate your patients with the latest information.  

You can learn more about the latest research on pain management medications, non-pharmacological pain management options, and opioids by following updates from evidence-based organizations, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or your local health department.  

How can nurses identify if someone is in pain?  

Unfortunately, it is not possible to look at someone with the naked eye and determine if they are in pain. Sometimes, a patient in pain will be very obvious with visible lacerations and need pain management options, such as opioids. Other times, pain management is often done as a result by taking a complete health history, listening to patient's concerns, completing a pain assessment, and offering testing to determine the cause of pain. 

How can nurses identify if someone has OUD? 

Unfortunately, it is not possible to look at someone with the naked eye and determine if they have OUD. Sometimes, a patient in pain will be very obvious with visible withdrawal symptoms, such as asking for more opioid medications or discussing symptoms of OUD. Often times, OUD is diagnosed and recognized as a result by taking a complete health history, listening to patient's concerns, and offering testing to determine the cause of pain. Remember, anyone can have OUD, and no two OUD patients appear the same.  

What should patients know about opioid medication?  

Patients should know that anyone has the possibility of experiencing side effects on opioid medications, just like any other medication. Patients should be aware that if they notice any changes in their breathing, changes in their heart rate, or feel like something is a concern, they should seek medical care.  

Because of social stigma associated with opioids and pain management, people are hesitant to seek medical care because of fear, shame, and embarrassment. However, as more research and social movements discuss opioid use, there is more space and awareness for opioid education and opioid overdose prevention.  

Nurses should also teach patients to advocate for their own health in order to avoid possible opioid complications or not have their pain be poorly managed.  

Here are important tips for patient education in the inpatient or outpatient setting:  

• Tell the health care provider of any existing medical conditions or concerns (need to identify risk factors) 
• Tell the health care provider of any existing lifestyle concerns, such as alcohol use, other drug use, sleeping habits, diet, menstrual cycle changes (need to identify lifestyle factors that can influence opioid use and pain management) 
• Tell the health care provider of any prior experiences with opioid medication (if applicable) and any medication reactions or side-effects you remember (need to identify risk factors, address pain management appropriately, identify any allergies, and avoid possible opioid overdose symptoms) 
• Tell the health care provider if you have any changes in your breathing, bodily functions, or heart rate (potential opioid overdose symptoms) 
• Tell the nurse of health care provider if you experience any pain that increasingly becomes more severe or interferes with your quality of life 
• Keep track of your pain, overall health, medication use, and health concerns via an app, diary, or journal (self-monitoring for any changes) 
• Tell the health care provider right away if you are having thoughts of hurting yourself or others (possible increased risk of suicidality and public safety concerns) 
• Take all prescribed medications as indicated and ask questions about medications and possible other treatment options, such as non-pharmacological options or surgeries 
• Tell the health care provider if you notice any changes while taking medications or on other treatments to manage your pain (potential worsening or improving health situation)

Research Findings 

What Research on Opioid Medication Exists Presently? 

There is extensive publicly available literature on opioids medications via the National Institutes of Health and other evidence-based journals.  

What are some ways for people who take opioids to become a part of research? 

If a patient is interested in participating in clinical trial research, they can seek more information on clinical trials from local universities and health care organizations.

North Carolina Safe Prescribing for Opioids for APRNs 

APRNs in North Carolina can obtain prescriptive authority for controlled substances from the North Carolina Board of Nursing (NC BON) by obtaining a federal Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) controlled substance registration and completing an application online (16,17). An APRN may prescribe controlled substances under a supervising physician who has DEA registration equal to or greater than the DEA registration of the APRN they supervise (17).  

In addition, their continuing education requirements for APRNs with prescriptive authority are stipulated in North Carolina Administrative Code 21 NCAC 36 .0807 and 21 NCAC 33 .0111 (17, 18, 19). APRNs who prescribe controlled substances need to complete a minimum of one contact hour of continuing education addressing controlled substance prescribing practices, signs of the abuse or misuse of controlled substances, and controlled substance prescribing for chronic pain management. Questions regarding APRN prescribing requirements can be addressed to the NC BON directly (17).  

Conclusion 

Even providers who do not prescribe opioids should be familiar with the effects of opioids and OUD due to its high prevalence in the United States. Understanding the types of pain, how pain occurs, and how it impacts a person's quality of life is especially important. There is still an associated stigma among patients who use Opioids to treat chronic pain conditions. It is essential to recognize that there are times when opioid use is appropriate, as long as the provider practices the recommended guidelines and sound clinical judgment.

Case Study #1:  

Patient Name: John Henderson 

Gender: Male 

Age: 60 

Height: 6' 1" 

Weight: 190 lbs. 

John arrives at the primary care office after work for a routine office visit. He is employed as a grocery store manager. He reports he does not use tobacco and has never used tobacco. He reports that he drinks alcohol a few times a week and reports no illicit drug use. He has hypertension and high cholesterol and takes Losartan 50mg daily and Atorvastatin 20 mg daily. He reports that he does not have a blood pressure monitor, but sometimes checks his blood pressure after work at the grocery store pharmacy.  

This patient presents to a primary care office with pain and stiffness in the right shoulder joint, which has progressively worsened for six months following rotator cuff surgery. He states his pain is unchanged, and he has a limited range of motion in the right shoulder that is getting worse. Now, for the past few weeks, the pain has started to interfere with his ability to do his job. He said he went to physical therapy for a few weeks after his surgery, but admitted he did not often complete the home exercise program regimen. An MRI was obtained and showed he had adhesive capsulitis.

When you assessed his right shoulder compared to the left shoulder, there was a noticeable difference between the two. John was also visibly in pain after the right shoulder assessment.

After assessing John's shoulder and completing a few pain assessments, John asked about opioids. John is interested in learning more, but he states he "doesn't wany any crazy side effects because of my work and family life." He states that he also doesn't want "to end up a junkie on drugs" and wants to know if he can drink alcohol still and take his other medications while on opioids. John also wants to know if he will have to take opioids forever like the other medications he's taking.

Given the patient's diagnosis, non-opioid therapy options include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, intraarticular glucocorticoid injections, steroid injections into the shoulder joint, range of motion exercises, physical therapy, and consulting with an orthopedic specialist who may recommend a joint manipulation under anesthesia. Each of these should be considered before opioid therapy.  

Case Study #2:  

Patient Name: Pilar Aguilar 

Age: 40 

Height: 5' 1" 

Weight: 135 lbs. 

She reports that she does not smoke, drink alcohol, or take illicit substances. She reports experiencing a hip injury following a car accident three years ago and developed chronic post-traumatic arthritis in the hip. After a total hip arthroplasty, she was diagnosed with heterotopic ossification (HO).  

For the past year, she has been taking 20 mg of oxycodone twice daily to manage chronic hip pain after unsuccessful non-opioid therapies. She has three children with no known pregnancy or postpartum complications. She previously worked part-time as an administrative assistant but has been off work since a car accident three years ago. She has PTSD related to this car accident. She has been prescribed Xanax 0.5mg up to three times daily for anxiety. 

The patient was present at an urgent care clinic today, complaining of a severe migraine, which started yesterday. She stated she needed to take more of her oxycodone to deal with the pain and because she could not sleep last night. She is concerned because she is running out of pills. She said her primary care doctor's office was closed, so she came to the urgent care. The following strategies would be an appropriate course of action for this patient:

Here are some things to consider for Case Study #2: 

• Discuss concerns with the patient. This includes taking the opioid more often than prescribed, potential problems with respiratory depression, and overdose.  
• Recommend trying eletriptan or dihydroergotamine nasal spray first rather than additional opioids. 
• Review the PDMP to see the prescription history for this patient. Attempt to contact the primary care provider to develop a plan of care. 
• Consider conducting toxicology testing 
• Consider offering naloxone  
• Use the DSM-5 criteria to assess the presence (and severity) of OUD or arrange an assessment with a substance use disorder specialist. Offer treatment for OUD if it is confirmed. 

Case Study #3 

Sabrina is a 16-year-old Black high school student working as a waitress at a local restaurant. She arrives at the local pediatric emergency room after her shift with her mom because she thinks she is experiencing a sickle cell crisis.  

Sabrina reports that she has these crises every few months, and this is probably the third time she's been in this much pain. She reports being at this ER last year for something similar. Her mother is there completing paperwork and would like Sabrina to get some pain medication as well.

Sabrina agrees to provide bloodwork, complete imaging, and be admitted. She said that no health care provider talked to her about how painful sickle cell crises can be, and she doesn't routinely take pain medication because she "doesn't want to be addicted."  

Sabrina and her mom heard about pain management options for these extremely painful episodes from social media and the Internet and would like Sabrina to get her pain controlled. Sabrina said that she had some opioid last time she was in the ER, but she doesn't remember the name. Her mom doesn't remember the name either, but she remembers it was in an IV.

Sabrina has been in the pediatric ER for over a day receiving IV hydromorphone. She reports some relief, but Sabrina and her mom are concerned. Sabrina wants to live her life like a normal teenager without being in the hospital every few months for pain.  

Her mom asks if there is a way to have pain medication at home. Both Sabrina and her mom would like to know if there is anything that can be done to help with the pain outside of medications as well. Sabrina doesn't want to use pain medications daily but wants to have them at home just in case she can't get to the hospital.

Controlled Substances

Introduction   

Pain is complex and subjective. The experience of pain can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. According to the National Institute of Health (NIH) (40), pain is the most common complaint in a primary care office, with 20% of all patients reporting pain. Chronic pain is the leading cause of disability, and effective pain management is crucial to health and well-being, particularly when it improves functional ability. Effective pain treatment starts with a comprehensive, empathic assessment and a desire to listen and understand. Nurse Practitioners are well-positioned to fill a vital role in providing comprehensive and empathic patient care, including pain management (23).

While the incidence of chronic pain has remained a significant problem, how clinicians manage pain has significantly changed in the last decade, primarily due to the opioid epidemic. This education aims to discuss pain and the assessment of pain, federal guidelines for prescribing, the opioid epidemic, addiction and diversion, and recommendations for managing pain.

Definition of Pain

Understanding the definition of pain, differentiating between various types of pain, and recognizing the descriptors patients use to communicate their pain experiences are essential for Nurse practitioners involved in pain management. By understanding the medical definition of pain and how individuals may communicate it, nurse practitioners can differentiate varying types of pain to target assessment.

According to the International Association for the Study of Pain (27), pain is “an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with actual or potential tissue damage or terms of described such in damage.” The IASP, in July 2020, expanded its definition of pain to include context further.

Their expansion is summarized below:

• Pain is a personal experience influenced by biological, psychological, and social factors.
• Pain cannot be inferred solely from activity in sensory neurons.
• Individuals learn the concept of pain through their life experiences.
• A person’s report of an experience in pain should be respected.
• Pain usually serves an adaptive role but may adversely affect function and social and psychological well-being.
• The inability to communicate does not negate the possibility of the experience of pain.

Types of Pain

Pain originates from different mechanisms, causes, and areas of the body. As a nurse practitioner, understanding the type of pain a patient is experiencing is essential for several reasons (23).

• Determining an accurate diagnosis. This kind of pain can provide valuable clues to the underlying cause or condition.
• Creating a treatment plan. Different types of pain respond better to specific treatments or interventions.
• Developing patient education. A nurse practitioner can provide targeted education to patients about their condition, why they may experience the pain as they do, its causes, and treatment options. Improving the patient's knowledge and control over their condition improves outcomes.

Acute Pain

Acute pain is typically short-lived and is a protective response to an injury or illness. Patients are usually able to identify the cause. This type of pain resolves as the underlying condition improves or heals (12).

Chronic Pain

Chronic pain is diagnosed when it continues beyond the expected healing time. Pain is defined as chronic when it persists for longer than three months. It may result from an underlying disease or injury or develop without a clear cause. Chronic pain often significantly impacts a person's physical and emotional well-being, requiring long-term management strategies. The prolonged experience of chronic pain usually indicates a central nervous system component of pain that may require additional treatment. Patients with centralized pain often experience allodynia or hyperalgesia (12).

Allodynia is pain evoked by a stimulus that usually does not cause pain, such as a light touch. Hyperalgesia is the effect of a heightened pain response to a stimulus that usually evokes pain (12).

Nociceptive Pain

Nociceptive pain arises from activating peripheral nociceptors, specialized nerve endings that respond to noxious stimuli. This type of pain is typically associated with tissue damage or inflammation and is further classified into somatic and visceral pain subtypes.

Somatic pain is most common and occurs in muscles, skin, or bones; patients may describe it as sharp, aching, stiffness, or throbbing.

Visceral pain occurs in the internal organs, such as indigestion or bowel spasms. It is more vague than somatic pain; patients may describe it as deep, gnawing, twisting, or dull (12).

Neuropathic pain

Neuropathic pain is a lesion or disease of the somatosensory nervous system. Examples include trigeminal neuralgia, painful polyneuropathy, postherpetic neuralgia, and central poststroke pain (10).

Neuropathic pain may be ongoing, intermittent, or spontaneous pain. Patients often describe neuropathic pain as burning, prickling, or squeezing quality. Neuropathic pain is a common chronic pain. Patients commonly describe allodynia and hyperalgesia as part of their chronic pain experience (10).

Affective pain

Affective descriptors reflect the emotional aspects of pain and include terms like distressing, unbearable, depressing, or frightening. These descriptors provide insights into the emotional impact of pain on an individual's well-being (12).

Case Study

Mary Adams is a licensed practical nurse who has just relocated to town. Mary will be the utilization review nurse at a local long-term care facility. Mary was diagnosed with Postherpetic Neuralgia last year, and she is happy that her new job will have her mostly doing desk work and not providing direct patient care as she had been before the relocation. Mary was having difficulty at work at her previous employer due to pain. She called into work several times, and before leaving, Mary's supervisor had counseled her because of her absences.

Mary wants to establish primary care immediately because she needs ongoing pain treatment. She is hopeful that, with her new job and pain under control, she will be able to continue a successful career in nursing. When Mary called the primary care office, she specifically requested a nurse practitioner as her primary care provider because she believes that nurse practitioners tend to spend more time with their patients.

Assessment

The assessment effectively determines the type of treatment needed, the options for treatment, and whether the patient may be at risk for opioid dependence. Since we know that chronic pain can lead to disability and pain has a high potential to negatively affect the patient's ability to work or otherwise, be productive, perform self-care, and potentially impact family or caregivers, it is imperative to approach the assessment with curiosity and empathy. This approach will ensure a thorough review of pain and research on pain management options. Compassion and support alone can improve patient outcomes related to pain management (23).

Record Review

Regardless of familiarity with the patient, reviewing the patient's treatment records is essential, as the ability to recall details is unreliable. Reviewing the records can help identify subtle changes in pain description and site, the patient's story around pain, failed modalities, side effects, and the need for education, all impacting further treatment (23).

Research beforehand the patient's current prescription and whether or not the patient has achieved the maximum dosage of the medication. Analysis of the patient's past prescription could reveal a documented failed therapy even though the patient did not receive the maximum dose (23).

A review of documented allergens may indicate an allergy to pain medication. Discuss with the patient the specific response to the drug to determine if it is a true allergy, such as hives or anaphylaxis, or if the response may have been a side effect, such as nausea and vomiting.

Research whether the patient tried any non-medication modalities for pain, such as physical therapy (PT), occupational therapy (OT), or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Note any non-medication modalities documented as failed therapies. The presence of any failed therapies should prompt further discussion with the patient, family, or caregiver about the experience. The incompletion of therapy should not be considered failed therapy. Explore further if the patient abandoned appointments.

Case Study

You review the schedule for the week, and there are three new patient appointments. One is Mary Adams. The interdisciplinary team requested and received Mary's treatment records from her previous primary care provider. You make 15 minutes available to review Mary's records and the questionnaire Mary filled out for her upcoming appointment. You see that Mary has been diagnosed with Postherpetic Neuralgia and note her current treatment regimen, which she stated was ineffective. You write down questions you will want to ask Mary. You do not see evidence of non-medication modalities or allergies to pain medication.

Pain Assessment

To physically assess pain, several acronyms help explore all the aspects of the patient's experience. Acronyms commonly used to assess pain are SOCRATES, OLDCARTS, and COLDERAS. These pain assessment acronyms are also helpful in determining treatment since they include a character and duration of pain assessment (23).

Inquire where the patient is feeling pain. The patient may have multiple areas and types of pain. Each type and location must be explored and assessed. Unless the pain is from a localized injury, a body diagram map, as seen below, is helpful to document, inform, and communicate locations and types of pain. In cases of Fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, or other centralized or widespread pain, it is vital to inquire about radiating pain. The patient with chronic pain could be experiencing acute pain or a new pain site, such as osteoarthritis, that may need further evaluation and treatment (23).

Inquire with the patient how long their pain has been present and any associated or known causative factors. Pain experienced longer than three months defines chronic versus acute pain. Chronic pain means that the pain is centralized or a function of the Central Nervous system, which should guide treatment decisions.

To help guide treatment, ask the patient to describe their pain. The description helps identify what type of pain the patient is experiencing: Allodynia and hyperalgesia indicate centralized pain; sharp, shooting pain could indicate neuropathic pain. Have the patient rate their pain. There are various tools, as shown below, for pain rating depending on the patient's ability to communicate. Not using the pain rating number alone is imperative. Ask the patient to compare the severity of pain to a previous experience. For example, a 1/10 may be experienced as a bumped knee or bruise, whereas a 10/10 is experienced on the level of a kidney stone or childbirth (23).

Besides the 0-10 rating scale and depending on the patient's needs, several pain rating scales are appropriate. They are listed below.

The 0-5 and Faces scales may be used for all adult patients and are especially effective for patients experiencing confusion.

The Defense and Veterans Pain Rating Scale (DVPRS) is a five-item tool that assesses the impact of pain on sleep, mood, stress, and activity levels (20).

For patients unable to self-report pain, such as those intubated in the ICU or late-stage neurological diseases, the FLACC scale is practical. The FLACC scale was initially created to assess pain in infants. Note: The patient need not cry to be rated 10/10.

(21).

Assess contributors to pain such as insomnia, stress, exercise, diet, and any comorbid conditions. Limited access to care, socioeconomic status, and local culture also contribute to the patient's experience of pain (23). Most patients have limited opportunity to discuss these issues, and though challenging to bring up, it is compassionate and supportive care. A referral to social work or another agency may be helpful if you cannot explore it fully.

Assess for substance abuse disorders, especially among male, younger, less educated, or unemployed adults. Substance abuse disorders increase the likelihood of misuse disorder and include alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, cocaine, and heroin (29).

Inquire as to what changes in function the pain has caused. One question to ask is, "Were it not for pain, what would you be doing?" As seen below, a Pain, Enjoyment, and General Activity (PEG) three-question scale, which focuses on function and quality of life, may help determine the severity of pain and the effect of treatment over time.

(21).

Assess family history, mental health disorders, chronic pain, or substance abuse disorders. Each familial aspect puts patients at higher risk for developing chronic pain (23).

Evaluate for mental health disorders the patient may be experiencing, particularly anxiety and depression. The Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ4) is a four-question tool for assessing depression and anxiety.

In some cases, functional MRI or imaging studies effectively determine the cause of pain and the treatment. If further assessment is needed to diagnose and treat pain, consult Neurology, Orthopedics, Palliative care, and pain specialists (23).

Case Study

You used OLDCARTS to evaluate Mary's pain and completed a body diagram. Mary is experiencing allodynia in her back and shoulders, described as burning and tingling. It is exacerbated when she lifts, such as moving patients at the long-term care facility and, more recently, boxes from her move to the new house. Mary has also been experiencing anxiety due to fear of losing her job, the move, and her new role. She has moved closer to her family to help care for her children since she often experiences fatigue. Mary has experienced a tumultuous divorce in the last five years and feels she is still undergoing some trauma.

You saw in the chart that Mary had tried Gabapentin 300 mg BID for her pain and inquired what happened. Mary explained that her pain improved from 8/10 to 7/10 and had no side effects. Her previous care provider discontinued the medication and documented it as a failed therapy. You reviewed the minimum and maximum dosages of Gabapentin and know Mary can take up to 1800mg/day.

During the assessment, Mary also described stiffness and aching in her left knee. She gets a sharp pain when she walks more than 500 steps, and her knee is throbbing by the end of the day. Mary rated the pain a 10/10, but when she compared 10/10 to childbirth, Mary said her pain was closer to 6/10. Her moderate knee pain has reduced Mary's ability to exercise. She used to like to take walks. Mary stated she has had knee pain for six months and has been taking Ibuprofen 3 – 4 times daily.

Since Mary's pain is moderate, you evaluate your options of drugs for moderate to severe pain.

Opioid Classifications and Drug Schedules

A comprehensive understanding of drug schedules and opioid classifications is essential for nurse practitioners to ensure patient safety, prevent drug misuse, and adhere to legal and regulatory requirements. Nurse practitioners with a comprehensive understanding of drug schedules and opioid classifications can effectively communicate with colleagues, ensuring accurate medication reconciliation and facilitating interdisciplinary care. Nurse practitioners’ knowledge in facilitating discussions with pharmacists regarding opioid dosing, potential interactions, and patient education is essential (49).

Drug scheduling became mandated under the Controlled Substance Act. The Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) Schedule of Controlled Drugs and the criteria and common drugs are listed below.

(Pain Physician, 2008)

Listed below are drugs classified by their schedule and mechanism of action. "Agonist" indicates a drug that binds to the opioid receptor, causing pain relief and also euphoria. An agonist-antagonist indicates the drug binds to some opioid receptors but blocks others. Mixed antagonist-agonist drugs control pain but have a lower potential for abuse and dependence than agonists (7).

(41).

Commonly Prescribed Opioids, Indications for Use, and Typical Side Effects

Opioid medications are widely used for managing moderate to severe pain. Referencing NIDA (2023), this section aims to give healthcare professionals an overview of the indications and typical side effects of commonly prescribed Schedule II opioid medications, including hydrocodone, oxycodone, morphine, Fentanyl, and hydromorphone.

Opioids are derived and manufactured in several ways. Naturally occurring opioids come directly from the opium poppy plant. Synthetic opioids are manufactured by chemically synthesizing compounds that mimic the effects of a natural opioid. Semi-synthetic is a mix of naturally occurring and man-made (35).

Understanding the variations in how an opioid is derived and manufactured is crucial in deciding the type of opioid prescribed, as potency and analgesic effects differ. Synthetic opioids are often more potent than naturally occurring opioids. Synthetic opioids have a longer half-life and slower elimination, affecting the duration of action and timing for dose adjustments. They are also associated with a higher risk of abuse and addiction (38).

Hydrocodone

Mechanism of Action and Metabolism

Hydrocodone is a Schedule II medication. It is an opioid agonist and works as an analgesic by activating mu and kappa opioid receptors located in the central nervous system and the enteric plexus of the bowel. Agonist stimulation of the opioid receptors inhibits nociceptive neurotransmitters' release and reduces neuronal excitability (17).

• Produces analgesia.
• Suppresses the cough reflex at the medulla.
• Causes respiratory depression at higher doses.

Hydrocodone is indicated for treating severe pain after nonopioid therapy has failed. It is also indicated as an antitussive for nonproductive cough in adults over 18.

Available Forms

Hydrocodone immediate release (IR) reaches maximum serum concentrations in one hour with a half-life of 4 hours.  Extended-release (ER) Hydrocodone reaches peak concentration at 14-16 hours and a half-life of 7 to 9 hours. Hydrocodone is metabolized to an inactive metabolite in the liver by cytochrome P450 enzymes CYP2D6 and CYP3A4. Hydrocodone is converted to hydromorphone and is excreted renally. Plasma concentrations of hydromorphone are correlated with analgesic effects rather than hydrocodone.

Hydrocodone is formulated for oral administration into tablets, capsules, and oral solutions. Capsules and tablets should never be crushed, chewed, or dissolved. These actions convert the extended-release dose into immediate release, resulting in uncontrolled and rapid release of opioids and possible overdose.

Dosing and Monitoring

Hydrocodone IR is combined with acetaminophen or ibuprofen. The dosage range is 2.5mg to 10mg every 4 to 6 hours. If formulated with acetaminophen, the dosage is limited to 4gm/day.

Hydrocodone ER is available as tablets and capsules. Depending on the product, the dose of hydrocodone ER formulations in opioid-naïve patients is 10 to 20 mg every 12 to 24 hours.

Nurse practitioners should ensure patients discontinue all other opioids when starting the extended-release formula.

Side Effects and Contraindications

Because mu and kappa opioid receptors are in the central nervous system and enteric plexus of the bowel, the most common side effects of hydrocodone are constipation and nausea (>10%).

Other adverse effects of hydrocodone include:

• Respiratory: severe respiratory depression, shortness of breath
• Cardiovascular: hypotension, bradycardia, peripheral edema
• Neurologic: Headache, chills, anxiety, sedation, insomnia, dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue
• Dermatologic: Pruritus, diaphoresis, rash
• Gastrointestinal: Vomiting, dyspepsia, gastroenteritis, abdominal pain
• Genitourinary: Urinary tract infection, urinary retention
• Otic: Tinnitus, sensorineural hearing loss
• Endocrine: Secondary adrenal insufficiency (17)

Hydrocodone, being an agonist, must not be taken with other central nervous system depressants as sedation and respiratory depression can result. In formulations combined with acetaminophen, hydrocodone can increase the international normalized ratio (INR) and cause bleeding.  Medications that induce or inhibit cytochrome enzymes can lead to wide variations in absorption.

The most common drug interactions are listed below:

• Alcohol
• Benzodiazepines
• Barbiturates
• other opioids
• rifampin
• phenytoin
• carbamazepine
• cimetidine,
• fluoxetine
• ritonavir
• erythromycin
• diltiazem
• ketoconazole
• verapamil
• Phenytoin
• John’s Wort
• Glucocorticoids

Considerations

Use with caution in the following:

• Patients with Hepatic Impairment: Initiate 50% of the usual dose
• Patients with Renal Impairment: Initiate 50% of the usual dose
• Pregnancy: While not contraindicated, the FDA issued a black-boxed warning since opioids cross the placenta, and prolonged use during pregnancy may cause neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (NOWS).
• Breastfeeding: Infants are susceptible to low dosages of opioids. Non-opioid analgesics are preferred.

Pharmacogenomic: Genetic variants in hydrocodone metabolism include ultra-rapid, extensive, and poor metabolizer phenotypes. After administration of hydrocodone, hydromorphone levels in rapid metabolizers are significantly higher than in poor metabolizers.

Oxycodone

Mechanism of Action and Metabolism

Oxycodone has been in use since 1917 and is derived from Thebaine. It is a semi-synthetic opioid analgesic that works by binding to mu-opioid receptors in the central nervous system. It primarily acts as an agonist, producing analgesic effects by inhibiting the transmission of pain signals (Altman, Clark, Huddart, & Klein, 2018).

Oxycodone is primarily metabolized in the liver by CYP3A4/5. It is metabolized in the liver to noroxycodone and oxymorphone.  The metabolite oxymorphone also has an analgesic effect and does not inhibit CYP3A4/5. Because of this metabolite, oxycodone is more potent than morphine, with fewer side effects and less drug interactions. Approximately 72% of oxycodone is excreted in urine (Altman, Clark, Huddart, & Klein, 2018).

Available Forms

Oxycodone can be administered orally, rectally, intravenously, and as an epidural. For this sake, we will focus on immediate-release and extended-release oral formulations.

• Immediate-release (IR) tablets
• IR capsules
• IR oral solutions
• Extended-release (ER) tablets

Dosing and Monitoring

The dosing of oxycodone should be individualized based on the patient's pain severity, previous opioid exposure, and response. Initial dosages for opioid naïve patients range from 5-15 mg for immediate-release formulations, while extended-release formulations are usually initiated at 10-20 mg. Dosage adjustments may be necessary based on the patient's response, but caution should be exercised. IR and ER formulations reach a steady state at 24 hours and titrating before 24 hours may lead to overdose.

Regular monitoring is essential to assess the patient's response to treatment, including pain relief, side effects, and signs of opioid misuse or addiction. Monitoring should include periodic reassessment of pain intensity, functional status, and adverse effects (Altman, Clark, Huddart, & Klein, 2018).

Side Effects and Contraindications

Common side effects of oxycodone include:

• constipation
• nausea
• sedation
• dizziness
• respiratory depression
• respiratory arrest
• hypotension
• fatal overdose

Oxycodone is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to opioids, severe respiratory depression, paralytic ileus, or acute or severe bronchial asthma. It should be used cautiously in patients with a history of substance abuse, respiratory conditions, liver or kidney impairment, and those taking other medications that may interact with opioids, such as alcohol (4).

It is also contraindicated with the following medications and classes:

• Antifungal agents
• Antibiotics
• Rifampin
• Carbamazepine
• Fluoxetine
• Paroxetine

Considerations

• Nurse practitioners should consider the variations in the mechanism of action for the following:
• Metabolism differs between males and females: females have been shown to have less concentration of oxymorphone and more CYP3A4/5 metabolites.
• Infants have reduced clearance of oxycodone, increasing side effects.
• Pediatrics have 20-40% increased clearance over adults.
• Reduced clearance with age increases the half-life of oxycodone.
• Pregnant women have a greater clearance and reduced half-life.
• Impairment of the liver reduces clearance.
• Cancer patients with cachexia have increased exposure to oxycodone and its metabolite.
• Maternal and neonate concentrations are similar, indicating placenta crossing (4)

Morphine

Mechanism of Action and Metabolism

Morphine is a naturally occurring opioid alkaloid extracted from the opium poppy. It was isolated in 1805 and is the opioid against which all others are compared. Morphine binds to mu-opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, inhibiting the transmission of pain signals and producing analgesia. It is a first-line choice of opioid for moderate to severe acute, postoperative, and cancer-related pain (8).

Morphine undergoes first-pass metabolism in the liver and gut. It is well absorbed and distributed throughout the body. Its main metabolites are morphine-3-glucuronide and morphine-6-glucuronide. Its mean plasma elimination half-life after intravenous administration is about 2 hours. Approximately 90% of morphine is excreted in the urine within 24 hours (8).

Available Forms

Morphine is available in various forms, including.

• immediate-release tablets
• extended release tablets
• oral IR solutions
• injectable solutions
• transdermal patches

Dosing and Monitoring

Morphine is hydrophilic and, as such, has a slow onset time. The advantage of this is that it is unlikely to cause acute respiratory depression even when injected. However, because of the slow onset time, there is more likelihood of morphine overdose due to the ability to “stack” doses in patients experiencing severe pain (Bistas, Lopez-Ojeda, & Ramos-Matos, 2023).

The dosing of morphine depends on the patient's pain severity, previous opioid exposure, and other factors. It is usually initiated at a low dose and titrated upwards as needed. Monitoring pain relief, adverse effects, and signs of opioid toxicity is crucial. Reevaluate benefits and harms with patients within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid therapy or of dose escalation. General recommendations for initiating morphine (Bistas, Lopez-Ojeda, & Ramos-Matos, 2023).

Prescribe IR opioids instead of ER opioids.

Prescribe the lowest effective dosage, below 50 Morphine Milligram Equivalents (MME) /day.

Side Effects and Contraindications

Because morphine binds to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, is metabolized in the liver and gut, and has a slow onset, the following side effects are common:

• Constipation
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Sedation
• Dizziness
• Respiratory depression
• Pruritis
• Sweating
• Dysphoria/Euphoria
• Dry mouth
• Anorexia
• Spasms of urinary and biliary tract

Contraindications of morphine are:

• Known hypersensitivity or allergy to morphine.
• Bronchial asthma or upper airway obstruction
• Respiratory depression in the absence of resuscitative equipment
• Paralytic ileus
• Risk of choking in patients with dysphagia, including infants, children, and the elderly (8)

Concurrent use with other sedating medications: Amitriptyline, diazepam, haloperidol, chlorpromazine

Morphine interacts with the following medications:

• Ciprofloxacin
• Metoclopramide
• Ritonavir

Considerations for Nurse Practitioners

Assess for medical conditions that may pose serious and life-threatening risks with opioid use, such as the following:

• Sleep-disordered breathing, such as sleep apnea.
• Pregnancy
• Renal or hepatic insufficiency
• Age >= 65
• Certain mental health conditions
• Substance use disorder
• Previous nonfatal overdose

Fentanyl

Mechanism of Action and Metabolism

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid more potent than morphine and was approved in 1968. Fentanyl is an agonist that works by binding to the mu-opioid receptors in the central nervous system. This binding inhibits the transmission of pain signals, resulting in analgesia. Fentanyl is often used for severe pain management, particularly in the perioperative and palliative care settings, or for severe pain in patients with Hepatic failure (8).

It is a mu-selective opioid agonist. However, it can activate other opioid receptors in the body, such as the delta and kappa receptors, producing analgesia. It also activates the Dopamine center of the brain, stimulating relaxation and exhilaration, which is responsible for its high potential for addiction (8).

Indications for fentanyl are as follows:

• Preoperative analgesia
• Anesthesia adjunct
• Regional anesthesia adjunct
• General anesthesia
• Postoperative pain control
• Moderate to severe acute pain (off-label)

Available Forms

• Fentanyl is available in various forms, including:
• transdermal patches
• injectable solutions
• lozenges
• nasal sprays
• oral tablets (8)

Dosing and Monitoring

Fentanyl is metabolized via the CYP3A4 enzyme in the liver. It has a half-life of 3 to 7 hours, and 75% of Fentanyl is excreted in the urine and 9% in feces.

The dosing of fentanyl depends on the route of administration and the patient's needs. For example, transdermal patches are typically applied every 72 hours, while injectable solutions are titrated to achieve the desired analgesic effect. Monitoring should include assessing pain levels, respiratory rate, blood pressure, and sedation scores (8).

Fentanyl is most dosed as follows:

• Post-operative pain control
• 50 to 100 mcg IV/IM every 1 to 2 hours as needed; alternately 0.5 to 1.5 mcg/kg/hour IV as needed. Consider lower dosing in patients 65 and older.

PCA (patient-controlled analgesia): 10 to 20 mcg IV every 6 to 20 minutes as needed; start at the lowest effective dose for the shortest effective duration - refer to institutional protocols (8).

Moderate to severe acute pain (off-label) 1 to 2 mcg/kg/dose intranasally each hour as needed; the maximum dose is 100 mcg. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest effective duration (8).

Side Effects and Contraindications

Common side effects of fentanyl include:

• respiratory depression
• sedation
• constipation
• nausea
• vomiting
• euphoria
• confusion
• respiratory depression/arrest
• visual disturbances
• dyskinesia
• hallucinations
• delirium
• narcotic ileus
• muscle rigidity
• addiction
• loss of consciousness
• hypotension
• coma
• death (8).

The use of fentanyl is contraindicated in patients in the following situations:

• After operative interventions in the biliary tract, these may slow hepatic elimination of the drug.
• With respiratory depression or obstructive airway diseases (i.e., asthma, COPD, obstructive sleep apnea, obesity hyperventilation, also known as Pickwickian syndrome)
• With liver failure
• With known intolerance to fentanyl or other morphine-like drugs, including codeine or any components in the formulation.
• With known hypersensitivity (i.e., anaphylaxis) or any common drug delivery excipients (i.e., sodium chloride, sodium hydroxide) (8).

Considerations for Nurse Practitioners

Nurse practitioners prescribing fentanyl should thoroughly assess the patient's pain, medical history, and potential risk factors for opioid misuse. They should also educate patients about the proper use, storage, and disposal of fentanyl. It should be used cautiously in patients with respiratory disorders, liver or kidney impairment, or a history of substance abuse. Fentanyl is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to opioids and those without exposure to opioids.

Alcohol and other drugs, legal or illegal, can exacerbate fentanyl's side effects, creating multi-layered clinical scenarios that can be complex to manage. These substances, taken together, generate undesirable conditions that complicate the patient's prognosis (8).

Hydromorphone

Mechanism of Action and Metabolism

Hydromorphone is a semi-synthetic opioid derived from morphine. It binds to the mu-opioid receptors in the central nervous system. It primarily exerts its analgesic effects by inhibiting the release of neurotransmitters involved in pain transmission, thereby reducing pain perception. Hydromorphone also exerts its effects centrally at the medulla level, leading to respiratory depression and cough suppression (1).

Hydromorphone is indicated for:

• moderate to severe acute pain
• severe chronic pain
• refractory cough suppression (off-label) (1)

Available Forms

Hydromorphone is available in various forms, depending on the patient’s needs and severity of pain.

• immediate-release tablet
• extended release tablets
• oral liquid
• injectable solution
• rectal suppositories

Dosing and Monitoring

The immediate-release oral formulations of hydromorphone have an onset of action within 15 to 30 minutes. Peak levels are typically between 30 and 60 minutes with a half-life of 2 to 3 hours. Hydromorphone is primarily excreted through the urine.

The dosing of hydromorphone should be individualized based on the patient's pain intensity, initiated at the lowest effective dose, and adjusted gradually as needed. Close monitoring of pain relief, adverse effects, and signs of opioid toxicity is essential. Patients should be assessed regularly to ensure they receive adequate pain control without experiencing excessive sedation or respiratory depression.

The following are standard dosages that should only be administered when other opioid and non-opioid options fail.

• Immediate-release oral solutions dosage: 1 mg/1 mLoral tablets are available in 2 mg, 4 mg, and 8 mg.
• Extended-release oral tablets are available in dosages of 8 mg, 12 mg, 16 mg, and 32 mg.
• Injection solutions are available in concentrations of 1 mg/mL, 2 mg/mL, 4 mg/mL, and 10 mg/mL.
• Intravenous solutions are available in strengths of 2 mg/1 mL, 2500 mg/250 mL, ten mg/1 mL, and 500 mg/50 mL.
• Suppositories are formulated at a strength of 3 mg (1).

Side Effects and Contraindications

Hydromorphone has potential adverse effects on several organ systems, including the integumentary, gastrointestinal, neurologic, cardiovascular, endocrine, and respiratory.

Common side effects of hydromorphone include:

• Constipation
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Sedation
• respiratory depression
• pruritus
• headache
• Somnolence
• Severe adverse effects of hydromorphone include:
• Hypotension
• Syncope
• adrenal insufficiency
• coma
• raised intracranial pressure.
• seizure
• suicidal thoughts
• apnea
• respiratory depression or arrest
• drug dependence or withdrawal
• neonatal drug withdrawal syndrome
• Hydromorphone is contraindicated in patients with:
• known allergies to the drug, sulfites, or other components of the formulation.
• known hypersensitivity to opioids.
• severe respiratory depression
• paralytic ileus
• acute or severe bronchial asthma (1).

Caution should be exercised in patients with:

• respiratory insufficiency
• head injuries
• increased intracranial pressure.
• liver or kidney impairment.

Considerations for Nurse Practitioners

As nurse practitioners, it is crucial to assess the patient's pain intensity and overall health status before initiating Hydromorphone. Start with the lowest effective dose and titrate carefully for optimal pain control. Regular monitoring for adverse effects, signs of opioid toxicity, and therapeutic response is essential. Educate patients about the potential side effects, proper dosing, and the importance of not exceeding prescribed doses. Additionally, nurse practitioners should be familiar with local regulations and guidelines regarding opioid prescribing and follow appropriate documentation and monitoring practices.

Additional Considerations

In terminal cancer patients, clinicians should not restrain opioid therapy even if signs of respiratory depression become apparent.

Hydromorphone requires careful administration in cases of concurrent psychiatric illness.

Specific Patient Considerations:

• Hepatic impairment and Renal Impairment: Initiate hydromorphone treatment at one-fourth to one-half of the standard starting dosage, depending on the degree of impairment.
• Pregnancy considerations: Hydromorphone can traverse the placental barrier and induce NOWS.
• Breastfeeding considerations: Nonopioid analgesic agents are preferable for breastfeeding women.
• Older patients: hydromorphone is categorized as a potentially inappropriate medication for older adults (1).

Tramadol

Mechanism of Action and Metabolism

Tramadol is a Schedule IV opioid medication with a higher potential for dependency and misuse than non-opioid medications. It binds to opioid receptors in the central nervous system, inhibiting the reuptake of norepinephrine and serotonin. It also has weak mu-opioid receptor agonist activity.

The liver metabolizes tramadol mediated by the cytochrome P450 pathways (particularly CYP2D6) and is mainly excreted through the kidneys.

Tramadol is used for moderate to severe pain.

Available Forms of Tramadol include:

• Immediate-release-typically used for acute pain management.
• Extended-release-used for chronic pain.

Dosing and Monitoring

Tramadol has an oral bioavailability of 68% after a single dose and 90–100% after multiple doses and reaches peak concentrations within 2 hours. Approximately 75% of an oral dose is absorbed, and the half-life of tramadol is 9 hours (18).

Tramadol dosing should be individualized based on the patient's pain severity and response.

The initial dose for adults is usually 50-100 mg orally every 4-6 hours for pain relief. The maximum daily dose is 400 mg for immediate-release formulations and 300 mg for extended-release formulations (18).

It is essential to monitor the patient's pain intensity, response to treatment, and any adverse effects. Regular reassessment and adjustment of the dosage may be necessary.

Side Effects and Contraindications

Tramadol is responsible for severe intoxications leading to consciousness disorder (30%), seizures (15%), agitation (10%), and respiratory depression (5%). The reactions to Tramadol suggest that the decision to prescribe should be carefully considered.

Common Side Effects of Tramadol Include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Constipation
• Sedation
• Headache
• CNS depression
• Seizure
• Agitation
• Tachycardia
• Hypertension
• reduced appetite
• pruritus and rash
• gastric irritation

Serious side effects include:

• respiratory depression
• serotonin syndrome
• seizures

Contraindications

Tramadol is contraindicated in patients with:

• history of hypersensitivity to opioids
• acute intoxication with alcohol
• opioids, or other psychoactive substances
• Patients who have recently received monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)

Additionally, the following can be observed in tramadol intoxication:

• miosis
• respiratory depression
• decreased level of consciousness
• hypertension
• tremor
• irritability
• increased deep tendon reflexes

Poisoning leads to:

• multiple organ failure
• coma
• cardiopulmonary arrest
• death

Considerations for Nurse Practitioners

Tramadol has been increasingly misused with intentional overdoses or intoxications. Suicide attempts were the most common cause of intoxication (52–80%), followed by abuse (18–31%), and unintentional intoxication (1–11%). Chronic tramadol or opioid abuse was reported in 20% of tramadol poisoning cases. Fatal tramadol intoxications are uncommon except when ingested concurrent with depressants, most commonly benzodiazepines and alcohol (18).

Tramadol poisoning can affect multiple organ systems:

• gastrointestinal
• central nervous system: seizure, CNS depression, low-grade coma, anxiety, and over time anoxic brain damage
• Cardiovascular system: palpitation, mild hypertension to life-threatening complications such as cardiopulmonary arrest
• respiratory system
• renal system: renal failure with higher doses of tramadol intoxication
• musculoskeletal system: rhabdomyolysis
• endocrine system: hypoglycemia, serotonin syndrome (18)

Cannabis

Mechanism of Action and Metabolism

Cannabis is classified as a Schedule I status. It contains various cannabinoids, with delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) being the most studied. THC primarily acts on cannabinoid receptors in the brain, producing psychoactive effects, while CBD has more diverse effects on the nervous system. These cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid system, modulating neurotransmitter release and influencing various physiological processes (32).

Similar to opioids, cannabinoids are synthesized and released in the body by synapses that act on the cannabinoid receptors present in presynaptic endings (32). They perform the following actions related to analgesia:

• Decrease the release of neurotransmitters.
• Activate descending inhibitory pain pathways.
• Reduce postsynaptic sensitivity and alleviate neural inflammation.
• Modulate CB1 receptors within central nociception processing areas and the spinal cord, resulting in analgesic effects.
• Attenuate inflammation by activating CB2 receptors (32).
• Emerging research shows cannabis is indicated for:
• Migraines
• chronic pain
• back pain
• arthritic pain
• pain associated with cancer and surgery.
• neuropathic pain
• diabetic neuropathic pain when administered early in the disease progression.
• sickle cell disease
• cancer
• inflammatory bowel disease (32)

Available Forms

Cannabis refers to products sourced from the Cannabis sativa plant. There are differences between cannabis, cannabinoids, and cannabidiol (CBD). Cannabinoids are extracted from the cannabis plants. Cannabinoid-based treatments, such as dronabinol and CBD, are typically approved medical interventions for specific indications. THC (9-tetrahydrocannabinol) is the psychoactive component of the cannabis plant. CBD is a non-psychoactive component (32).

Cannabis can be consumed in different forms, each with a different onset and duration. Patients may have individual preferences, including:

• smoking/vaporizing dried flowers.
• consuming edibles
• tinctures or oils
• applying topicals (32)

Dosing and Monitoring

Inhaling marijuana via the lungs by smoking or vaping causes maximum plasma concentration within minutes. Psychiatric effects begin within seconds to a few minutes after inhalation and peak after 15 to 30 minutes. The effect diminishes throughout 2 to 3 hours (32).

Oral ingestion of marijuana causes psychiatric effects that typically occur between 30 and 90 minutes and reach maximum effect after 2 to 3 hours. Ingested marijuana effects last about 4 to 12 hours (32).

Dosing cannabis is challenging due to variations in potency and individual responses. Start with low doses and titrate slowly to achieve the desired effect while minimizing side effects. Regular monitoring is crucial, including assessing symptom relief, adverse effects, and potential drug interactions. Encourage patients to keep a diary to track their cannabis use and its effects (32).

Side Effects and Contraindications

Cannabis can exacerbate mental health conditions such as anxiety and psychosis. Common side effects of cannabis include (32):

• Dizziness
• dry mouth
• increased heart rate
• impaired memory
• psychoactive effects

Contraindications include:

• Pregnancy
• Breastfeeding
• heart disease
• respiratory conditions
• history of substance abuse
• mental health disorders

Case Study

Mary is agreeable to trying an increased dose of Gabapentin. Mary would also like to see a counselor to discuss her past and get help with her anxiety. You made an appointment for Mary to see a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in your clinic.

You read the side effects and warnings for Gabapentin, and it is unsafe to use Gabapentin and Tramadol together since they are both depressants. You order a non-steroidal drug for Mary's somatic knee pain and make a consult for imaging studies on her left knee. You also make a referral to Orthopedics.

You educated Mary about the side effects of Gabapentin and scheduled a follow-up appointment. The day after Mary began her treatment with the increased Gabapentin, you called Mary to follow up on its effect. Mary still has pain, but she is not having any untoward side effects. Gabapentin may not work immediately so you will schedule a follow-up call in 3 days.

Opioid Use, the Opioid Epidemic, and Statistics

The use and misuse of opioids has become a pressing public health concern, leading to a global epidemic. The history of opioid use, the opioid epidemic, and associated statistics provide essential context for healthcare professionals in addressing this public health crisis. More importantly, it is estimated that 1 in 4 patients receiving prescription opioids in primary care settings will misuse them. In addition, 50% of opioid prescriptions are written by primary care providers, including nurse practitioners (22). Understanding the factors contributing to the epidemic and the magnitude of its impact is crucial for effective prevention, intervention, and treatment strategies.

History of Opioid Use

Opioids have a long history of medicinal use, dating back to ancient civilizations. They have been a drug of choice for pain relief for thousands of years. The introduction of synthetic opioids in the 19^th century, such as morphine and later heroin, revolutionized pain management. However, their potential for addiction and misuse soon became apparent (16).

The Opioid Epidemic

The opioid epidemic refers to the surge in opioid misuse, addiction, and overdose deaths. The epidemic gained momentum in the late 1990s with increased prescribing of opioids for chronic pain (43).

No doubt, increased prescribing put opioids in the hands of consumers, but increased prescribing resulted from a multifactorial influence. One of the main influences was aggressive marketing by pharmaceutical companies, which has been well publicized. However, due to the long history of underprescribing pain medications for fear of misuse and addiction, the medical community was primed to expand its opioid prescribing practices (31).

A historical event that increased comfort with prescribing opioids, in the writer's opinion, was the introduction of the Medicare Hospice Benefit in 1986. Medical directors must be contracted or employed by hospices, and these medical directors had or soon gained pain management expertise. To further promote hospice and effective pain management, the hospice medical directors, with newly acquired skills, provided education throughout medical communities about pain management and specifically to decrease the fear of using opioids. Pharmacies and attending physicians grew accustomed to giving opioids for home use. Hospice care is for terminally ill patients, defined as a life expectancy of 6 months or less. Still, the reality is that hospice discharges 12 to 40% of patients for ineligibility and other reasons.

A more prominent factor in increasing opioid prescribing was the 1996 American Pain Society's introduction of pain as "the 5^th Vital sign." Soon after, The Joint Commission promoted pain as "the 5^th Vital Sign" and began compliance surveys in healthcare organizations requiring pain assessment details to be as prominent as blood pressure and heart rate. The Joint Commission cited a quote from 1968 by a nurse from the University of California Los Angeles, Margo McCaffrey, who defined pain as "…Whatever the experiencing person says it is, existing whenever s/he says it does." The Joint Commission accreditation programs pursued pain management as part of the accreditation process throughout its healthcare accreditation programs, including hospice accreditation by 1989 per TJC Timeline (48).

The National Institute of Health published an article about the Joint Commission's role in the opioid epidemic, particularly regarding the definition of pain, "This definition emphasizes that pain is a subjective experience with no objective measures. It also stresses that the patient, not the clinician, is the authority on the pain and that their self-report is the most reliable indicator of pain. This set the tone for clinicians: Patients are always to be trusted to report pain accurately” (45).

Statistics on the Opioid Epidemic

In the United States alone, over 500,000 people died from opioid overdoses between 1999 and 2017. The number of opioid-related overdose deaths continues to increase, with synthetic opioids, mainly illicitly manufactured Fentanyl, playing a significant role in recent years (46). Fentanyl-laced drugs, such as marijuana, are increasingly sold knowing and unknowingly to introduce medications with a high addiction rate, thus creating new consumers. This practice can potentially increase deaths due to the imprecise nature of manufacturing (16).

Opioid-related hospitalizations have also risen substantially. In 2014, there were approximately 1.27 million hospitalizations related to opioids in the United States. These hospitalizations not only place a burden on healthcare systems but also reflect the severe consequences of opioid misuse (3).

Federal Regulations on Opioid Prescribing

The history of substance use disorder prevention that promotes opioid recovery and treatment for patients and communities can be traced back to the early 20^th century. However, the current approach to addressing opioid addiction and promoting healing has evolved significantly in recent times (36).

In the early 1900s, health professionals treated opioid addiction with punitive measures, including incarceration and moralistic approaches. The focus was on punishing individuals rather than providing effective treatment. This approach persisted for several decades until the mid-20^th century when the medical community started recognizing addiction as a medical condition rather than a moral failing (36).

The Controlled Substances Act (CSA), introduced in 1970, was a response to increasing drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking in the United States. The CSA is a federal law regulating the manufacture, possession, distribution, and use of certain substances, including drugs and medications, that can potentially cause abuse and dependence. Its primary purpose is to combat drug abuse, reduce drug-related crimes, and protect public health and safety. The Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) plays a crucial role in enforcing the CSA by monitoring and controlling controlled substance production, distribution, and use (31).

In the 1990s, the significant increase in opioid prescribing, leading to a surge in opioid addiction and overdose deaths, prompted a shift in focus toward prevention. Efforts were made to educate healthcare providers about the risks of overprescribing opioids and to implement prescription drug monitoring programs to track and prevent abuse (36).

The Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA) was signed into law in 2016 to expand access to treatment and recovery services for opioid addiction. This legislation allocated funding for prevention, treatment, recovery, and support services while promoting evidence-based practices and programs (36).

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) published guidelines in 2016 for prescribing opioids for chronic pain, which was updated in 2022. These guidelines emphasize the importance of non-opioid alternatives, using the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration, and assessing the benefits and risks of continued opioid therapy (13).

Furthermore, the Substance Use Disorder Prevention that Promotes Opioid Recovery and Treatment for Patients and Communities Act (SUPPORT) was signed into law in 2018, providing additional resources to address the opioid crisis. This legislation expanded access to medication-assisted treatment (MAT), increased the availability of naloxone, a medication used to reverse opioid overdose, and enhanced support for recovery housing (36).

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of a comprehensive approach to opioid addiction, including harm reduction strategies, increased access to naloxone, and the integration of mental health services. Communities and organizations have been working together to address the underlying issues contributing to addiction, such as poverty, trauma, and social determinants of health (50).

Overall, the history of substance use disorder prevention that promotes opioid recovery and treatment has evolved from a punitive approach to a more compassionate and evidence-based model. Efforts are now focused on prevention, early intervention, and expanding access to comprehensive treatment and support services for individuals and communities affected by opioid addiction (36).

The most current federal regulations on opioid prescribing for healthcare providers are the amendments to the CSA in 2018, which added new rules to limit the quantity and duration of opioid prescriptions for acute pain to seven days. In 2022, the CDC updated recommendations to the Clinical Practice Guidelines for Prescribing Opioids for Pain.

The 2022 CDC guidelines are summarized below (13):

1. Non-opioid therapies should be considered the first-line treatment for chronic pain.
2. Establish clear treatment goals with patients, including realistic pain management and functional improvement expectations.
3. Conduct a thorough risk assessment for potential harms before initiating opioid therapy.
4. When opioids are used, start with the lowest effective dose and consider immediate-release opioids instead of extended-release or long-acting opioids.
5. Prescribe the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible, typically three days or less and rarely exceeding seven days.
6. Reassess benefits and risks within one day after prescribing opioids, including checking the prescription drug monitoring database.
7. Avoid prescribing opioids and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible due to the increased risk of overdose and death.
8. Offer naloxone to patients at increased risk of opioid overdose, including those with a history of overdose, substance use disorder, or concurrent benzodiazepine use.
9. When opioids are no longer needed, taper the dose gradually to minimize withdrawal symptoms.
10. Arrange an evidence-based treatment for patients with opioid use disorder, including medication-assisted treatment (Naltrexone, Buprenorphine, or Methadone).

Safe Prescribing and Prescription Monitoring Program

Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs (PDMP) are state-run electronic databases that track.

the prescribing and dispensing of controlled substances. PDMPs are designed to improve patients.

care and safety by giving clinicians access to patients' prescription histories, allowing them to make informed decisions when prescribing controlled substances. PDMPs help identify patients at risk of substance misuse or prescription drug overdose. They also enable clinicians to identify potential drug interactions and prevent opioid diversion (14).

PDMPs collect and store data from pharmacies and prescribers in a centralized database. Clinicians can access this database to review a patient's prescription history, including the types of medications prescribed, the prescribers involved, and the dispensing pharmacies (14).

In many states, PDMP use is mandated by law, and nurse practitioners may be required to register and use the system. It is essential to understand state-specific laws and regulations regarding PDMP use.

PDMPs have some limitations, such as incomplete data or delays in reporting. The CDC emphasizes that clinicians should use PDMP data for their clinical assessment and other relevant information to make informed decisions about prescribing controlled substances. Still, PDMP cannot be used as the sole basis for denying or providing treatment (14).

Case Study

After five days on Gabapentin, Mary was doing well, and her neuropathic pain had decreased to 3/10. However, Mary suffered a fall after her knee "gave out" and injured her knee and back. She was in severe pain, and her family drove her to the ER. The ER doctors saw Mary, and orthopedics were consulted. Mary has surgery scheduled for a knee replacement a week from now.

Mary was prescribed Vicodin because she was in excruciating pain, but her prescription only allowed enough medication for two days. Mary has made an appointment with you to renew her prescription.

You evaluate Mary because you know that concomitant use of Gabapentin and opioids puts Mary at risk for respiratory depression and possible side effects, including accidental overdose.

Mary stated she has been more alert the past 24 hours and is afraid her functional status will continue to decline if she does not have more Vicodin because the pain in her back and knee makes it difficult to stand. You assess Mary. Mary stated she occasionally drinks alcohol but has not had a drink since she moved. She has no familial history of substance abuse or mental health disorders.

Mary's mother stayed at her house to help her for the first 24 hours after Mary's return from the ER, but Mary is providing her care now.

You check the PDMP database and see that Mary was prescribed eight pills she has taken over the last 48 hours.

Since the Vicodin has been effective without untoward side effects, and Mary's function is improving, you decide to refill the prescription of Vicodin. You will taper the dose to three Vicodin daily for two days and two for one day. Mary will be near her appointment for a knee replacement as well.

Preventing Opioid Use Disorder

As previously discussed, opioid addiction is a growing concern worldwide, affecting individuals from all walks of life. According to the CDC, "Anyone who takes prescription opioids can become addicted to them" (14).

As frontline healthcare professionals, nurse practitioners must recognize the signs of opioid addiction to provide timely intervention and support. This section will outline the key indicators of opioid addiction.

Physical Symptoms

Physical symptoms are often the first noticeable signs of opioid addiction. These symptoms may include constricted pupils, drowsiness, slurred speech, impaired coordination, and increased sensitivity to pain. Additionally, individuals struggling with opioid addiction may exhibit frequent flu-like symptoms, such as a runny nose, sweating, itching, or gastrointestinal issues.

Behavioral Changes

Opioid addiction can significantly impact an individual's behavior. These may include increased secrecy, frequent requests for early prescription refills, doctor shopping (seeking prescriptions from multiple healthcare providers), neglecting personal hygiene, and experiencing financial difficulties due to excessive spending on opioids (37).

Social Isolation

Opioid addiction often leads to social withdrawal and isolation. Individuals struggling with opioid addiction may distance themselves from family, friends, and social activities they once enjoyed. They may exhibit erratic mood swings, become defensive or hostile when confronted about their drug use, and display a general lack of interest in previously important activities (30).

Psychological Changes

The psychological impact of opioid addiction is significant. Individuals with opioid addiction may exhibit increased anxiety, depression, irritability, and restlessness. They may also experience cognitive impairments, memory lapses, and difficulties in decision-making. Healthcare professionals should be attentive to these changes, as they can indicate opioid addiction (51).

Tolerance and Withdrawal Symptoms

The development of tolerance and withdrawal symptoms are critical signs of opioid addiction. Individuals may require increased dosages of opioids to achieve the desired effect, indicating a growing tolerance. Furthermore, withdrawal symptoms such as muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, insomnia, and intense cravings for opioids may occur when the drug is discontinued or reduced abruptly (51).

Opioid Overdose

The management of opioid overdose, withdrawal, and addiction requires a comprehensive approach that combines pharmacological interventions with psychosocial support. Naloxone remains a vital tool for reversing opioid overdose, while medications such as Methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone play crucial roles in withdrawal and addiction treatment (National Institute of Health, 2023). Nurse practitioners must stay vigilant and informed about the evolving landscape of medications. This section aims to provide a comprehensive review of medications and treatment strategies for opioid overdose, withdrawal, and addiction and is excerpted from the NIH (40).

Naloxone

Mechanism of Action and Metabolism

Naloxone is an opioid receptor antagonist. It works by binding to opioid receptors and displacing any opioids present, thereby reversing the effects of opioid overdose. It has a higher affinity for opioid receptors than most opioids, effectively blocking their action.

Naloxone is indicated for emergency intervention of opioid overdose. It effectively reverses respiratory depression and other life-threatening effects. Studies suggest the potential benefits of combining naloxone with other medications, such as buprenorphine (see below), to improve outcomes. Initiatives promoting community-based naloxone distribution programs have shown promising results in reducing opioid-related deaths.

Available Forms

Naloxone is available in various formulations:

• Intranasal
• Intramuscular
• Intravenous
• auto-injectors.

The most used form is the intranasal spray, which is easy to administer and requires no specialized training. Intranasal naloxone formulations have gained popularity due to their ease of use and increased availability. A recent study showed that the non-FDA-approved compound spray was far less effective than either FDA compound (15).

Dosing and Monitoring

The recommended initial dose of naloxone for opioid overdose is 2mg intranasally or 0.4mg to 2mg intramuscularly or intravenously. If the patient does not respond within 23- minutes, additional doses may be administered every 2-3 minutes. Continuous monitoring of the patient's respiratory status is essential, as repeat doses may be required due to the short half-life of naloxone.

Side Effects and Contraindications

Naloxone has been shown not to affect individuals without opioids in their system.

Common side effects of naloxone include

• Withdrawal symptoms: increased heart rate, sweating, and agitation
• nausea
• vomiting
• headache

Contraindications include known hypersensitivity to naloxone and situations where the use of naloxone may be unsafe or not feasible.

Considerations for Nurse Practitioners

Fentanyl and other opioids have a rapid onset, and the need to act quickly is paramount. As mentioned previously, the ease of use and higher plasma concentrations using the FDA-approved 4-mg FDANxSpray device compared with the locally compounded nasal sprays should be considered when ordering Naloxone (15).

Fentanyl and other potent synthetic opioids may require multiple administrations of naloxone to achieve reversal of an overdose (Chiang, Gyaw, & Krieter, 2019). As a nurse practitioner prescribing naloxone, it is crucial to assess the patient's risk factors for opioid overdose, such as a history of substance use disorder or chronic pain management. Education regarding the proper administration of naloxone should be provided to the patients and their caregivers. Additionally, it is essential to provide resources for follow-up care, including addiction treatment and ongoing support.

Methadone

Mechanism of Action and Metabolism

Methadone is a long-acting opioid agonist that effectively suppresses withdrawal symptoms and reduces cravings. It binds to the same opioid receptors in the brain as other opioids. It relieves withdrawal symptoms and reduces cravings by blocking the euphoric effects of opioids, thus helping individuals with opioid dependence to achieve stability (33).

Available Forms

Methadone is available in oral tablets and liquid formulations. The oral tablet is the most used form and is typically administered once daily (33).

Dosing and Monitoring

Methadone dosing is individualized based on the patient's response and needs. Initially, the dose often started low and gradually increased until the patient reached a stable dose. Dosing may need to be adjusted based on the patient's response, adherence, and any changes in their overall health. Regularly monitoring the patient's vital signs, urine drug screens, and assessment of their withdrawal symptoms and cravings is essential.

Side Effects and Contraindications

Common side effects of methadone include:

• Constipation
• dry mouth
• drowsiness
• sweating
• weight gain
• respiratory depression

Contraindications include:

• known hypersensitivity to methadone
• severe asthma
• respiratory depression
• certain heart conditions (33).

Considerations for Nurse Practitioners

As a nurse practitioner prescribing methadone, conducting a comprehensive assessment of the patient's medical history, current medications, and substance use history is crucial. Opioid treatment programs or specialized clinics are often involved in methadone treatment, so collaboration and coordination of care with these programs are essential. Regularly monitoring the patient's progress, adherence, and potential side effects or drug interactions is essential. Additionally, providing education on the risks and benefits of methadone and the importance of adherence to the prescribed regimen is crucial for successful treatment outcomes.

Buprenorphine

Mechanism of Action and Metabolism

Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist with a ceiling effect that minimizes the risk of overdose while reducing withdrawal symptoms. Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist that binds to the same receptors as other opioids but produces a weaker response. It has a high affinity for the mu-opioid receptors, which helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms in individuals with opioid dependence.

Available Forms

Buprenorphine is available in different formulations, including sublingual tablets, buccal films, and extended-release injections. The sublingual tablets have different strengths, such as 2mg, 4mg, 8mg, and 12mg. Buprenorphine is taken as a daily tablet or weekly or monthly injection.

Dosing and Monitoring

The dosing of buprenorphine varies depending on the individual's opioid dependence severity and treatment phase. Initially, a low dose (e.g., 2-4mg) is given, and it may gradually increase to a maintenance dose of 8-24 mg daily. Regular monitoring is essential to assess the patient's response, adherence, and potential side effects.

Side Effects and Contraindications

Common side effects of buprenorphine include:

• Constipation
• Nausea
• Headache
• Insomnia
• Sweating

Serious side effects are rare but can include:

• Respiratory depression
• Allergic reactions

Buprenorphine is contraindicated in individuals with:

• Severe respiratory insufficiency
• Acute intoxication with opioids
• Known hypersensitivity

Considerations for Nurse Practitioners

Nurse practitioners can prescribe buprenorphine for opioid dependence treatment under the Drug Addiction Treatment Act (DATA). To become eligible, they must complete specific training requirements and obtain a waiver from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Nurse practitioners should assess patients thoroughly, including their opioid use history, comorbidities, and medication compatibility, while ensuring appropriate counseling and referral for comprehensive treatment (40).

Clonidine + Lofexidine

Mechanism of Action and Metabolism:

Both Clonidine and Lofexidine are alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. They work by stimulating alpha-2 receptors in the brain, which reduces sympathetic outflow and norepinephrine release. This results in decreased sympathetic activity, leading to various effects such as reduced blood pressure, decreased heart rate, and alleviated withdrawal symptoms (28).

Available Forms

Clonidine is available in oral tablets and patches. Lofexidine is available in oral tablets and is taken as needed (40).

Dosing and Monitoring

For opioid withdrawal, the Clonidine dose ranges from 0.1-0.3 mg every 4-6 hours. Lofexidine is usually initiated at 0.53 mg three times daily, and the dose can be increased to 2.88 mg daily. Monitoring blood pressure and heart rate is essential during treatment (40).

Side Effects and Contraindications:

Common side effects of both medications include:

• dry mouth
• sedation
• dizziness
• constipation
• orthostatic hypotension (40).

Both medications are contraindicated in patients with:

• Hypotension
• Bradycardia
• heart block
• history of hypersensitivity to the drugs (40).

Considerations for Nurse Practitioners:

An early study of lofexidine vs. clonidine for withdrawal symptoms showed that treatment with lofexidine resulted in lower withdrawal symptoms, fewer mood problems, less sedation, and hypotension. There were no significant differences in craving levels, morphine metabolites in urine, or dropout rates when both were compared.

Lofexidine can be a safe option for outpatient treatment as it does not lead to hypotension. However, nurse practitioners must closely monitor patients' blood pressure and heart rate during treatment and educate them about possible side effects. If patients experience any concerning symptoms, they should inform their nurse practitioner immediately.

Gradual dose reduction of Clonidine is crucial to prevent rebound hypertension. Before prescribing either medication, nurse practitioners should assess for any contraindications or potential drug interactions (19).

Emerging Therapies for Withdrawal

Extended-release naltrexone: Naltrexone is an opioid receptor antagonist that blocks the effects of opioids, reducing the risk of relapse. It is taken as a monthly injection.

Alpha-2 adrenergic agonists: Emerging evidence suggests the potential use of dexmedetomidine and guanfacine for managing opioid withdrawal symptoms.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT):

Methadone was introduced in the 1960s and marked a significant turning point in opioid addiction treatment or MAT. Along with counseling and behavioral therapies, MAT became the cornerstone of opioid addiction recovery.

Examples of medications used:

• Methadone
• Buprenorphine:
• Naltrexone:

Adjunctive Pharmacotherapies:

Antidepressants: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and tricyclic antidepressants may help manage co-occurring depression and anxiety.

Anticonvulsants:

Medications like Gabapentin and pregabalin show promise in reducing opioid cravings and improving treatment outcomes.

Other Substance Use Disorders

Patients in pain may struggle with Substance Use Disorders other than Opioid Use Disorder. Substance use disorders may often occur with mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. In addition, many individuals engage in polydrug use. Understanding the most common Substance Use Disorders aids in a comprehensive assessment of the patient and the development of appropriate treatment plans (28).

Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD):

The prevalence of AUD worldwide was estimated to be 9.8% in men and 5.5% in women in 2016 (28).

Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD):

the prevalence of CUD in the United States increased from 2.18% in 2001-2002 to 2.89% in 2012-2013. (28).

Cocaine Use Disorder:

According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), in 2019, approximately 1.9 million Americans aged 12 or older had cocaine use disorder in the past year (44).

Methamphetamine Use Disorder:

A study published in Drug and Alcohol Dependence reported that the prevalence of methamphetamine use disorder in the United States was estimated to be 0.2% in 2015-2016 (6).

Drug Diversion and Illegal opioids

Misuse of opioids is facilitated by diversion and is defined as "the transfer of drugs from lawful to unlawful use" (24). Most commonly, this occurs when family and friends share prescribed opioids with other family and friends. Opioids and other controlled drugs are also diverted from healthcare facilities. Statistics show that healthcare facility diversion has increased since 2015 (24)

Diversion affects patients, healthcare workers, healthcare facilities, and public health. Patients experience substandard care due to ineffective pain management and impaired healthcare workers. In addition, affected patients are at risk of infections from compromised syringes (24).

Healthcare employees who divert are at risk of overdose and death. If caught, they face criminal prosecution and malpractice suits. Healthcare facilities also bear the cost of diverted drugs via internal investigations, follow-up care for affected patients, regulatory fines for inadequate safeguards, and declining public trust (24).

Despite the enormous consequences of drug diversion, healthcare facilities have implemented few processes to detect and deter the diversion of controlled substances (24).

Patient Teachings and Considerations

Opioids have significant side effects and carry a risk of addiction and overdose. Nurse practitioners can decrease the risks of misuse and addiction by educating patients on appropriate disposal, safe storage, and potential signs of addiction. Taking additional time to provide teaching nurse practitioners can promote patient safety, informed decision-making, and responsible opioid use.

Safe Storage and Disposal:

• Teach patients to store opioids securely, out of reach of children, pets, visitors, and non-caregiver family members, to prevent accidental ingestion or misuse (13). Only the caregiver, if applicable, or the patient should have access to pain medications.
• Instruct patients on proper disposal methods, such as using drug take-back programs or mixing opioids with undesirable substances (e.g., coffee grounds) before throwing them away (11) (13).

Medication Adherence:

• Emphasize the importance of taking opioids as prescribed, at the correct dose and frequency, to achieve optimal pain relief.
• Encourage patients to notify their healthcare provider if they experience inadequate pain control or side effects (35).

Potential Side Effects:

• Educate patients about common side effects of opioids, including constipation, nausea, sedation, and respiratory depression.
• Discuss strategies to manage side effects, such as maintaining adequate hydration, consuming a fiber-rich diet, and using over-the-counter laxatives as needed (11).

Risk of Dependence and Addiction:

• Explain the potential for opioid dependence and addiction, especially with long-term use or a history of substance abuse.
• Encourage patients to promptly report signs of opioid misuse, such as craving, loss of control, or continued use despite negative consequences (51).

Avoiding Alcohol and Other Central Nervous System Depressants:

• Instruct patients to avoid consuming alcohol or other medications that can enhance the sedative effects of opioids, increasing the risk of respiratory depression.
• Advise patients to contact the Nurse Practitioner before starting new medications, including over-the-counter drugs or herbal supplements (2).

Driving and Operating Machinery:

• Inform patients about the potential impairment caused by opioids, including reduced alertness, reaction time, and coordination.
• Advise patients to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery while taking opioids until they know how the medication affects them (14).

Case Study

You take some extra time with Mary to educate her on the taper dose of Vicodin, the potential for harm, and the risk of opioids, especially when used concomitantly with Gabapentin. You let Mary know it is unsafe to use alcohol, not only with Vicodin but also with Gabapentin. You let Mary know that Vicodin has a risk of dependency and misuse and, therefore, she will be monitored carefully. You also educate that Mary should store the Vicodin away from visibility by anyone but herself since she can self-administer her medication. You let Mary know that Vicodin can cause constipation and that she should increase her water intake and take a stool softener.

You ask Mary to call you if her pain is not adequately relieved or if her medications run out before the three days.  

You let Mary know that if she does stop taking the Vicodin before she has completed all the medication, she should dispose of it by mixing the pills with liquid and coffee grounds to make them unpalatable to animals and others.

Mary complied with your education, completed her course of Vicodin, and was scheduled for surgery. Mary's social worker helped her communicate with her new employer and delayed her start date until after her recovery.

During her recovery, Mary received physical therapy and a short course of pain medication managed by her orthopedist.

Mary returned to the clinic for a follow-up visit after completing her therapy and before starting work. Mary's pain level in her knee is 3/10, and she already feels like she can walk further than pre-surgery. Gabapentin has continued to help Mary's neuropathic pain in her back, and she reports 2/10. Mary looks forward to beginning her new job and is optimistic about the future.

Conclusion

Pain management is the leading cause of primary care appointments and chronic pain is the leading cause of disability. Yet, prescribing opioids for primary care patients is also a factor in drug misuse and the opioid epidemic. Nurse practitioners are challenged to appropriately treat pain and effectively control diversion, addiction, and death from overdose.

It is imperative that nurse practitioners use evidence-based practices to assess, appropriately intervene, and educate about the benefits and potential harm caused by treatment with opioids. Nurse practitioners must stay up to date with the current federal regulations regarding PDMPs, clinical prescribing guidelines, and emerging treatments for pain and opioid abuse disorders.

Tirzepatide for Type 2 Diabetes and Weight Management

Introduction   

The emergence of the drug tirzepatide is becoming more popular and widespread and is being utilized among those with diabetes and also those who desire to lose weight. It is one of the newest diabetic drugs given by injection that also triggers dramatic weight loss in those who use the injections.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved tirzepatide in 2022 for individuals with diabetes, particularly Type 2 Diabetes. The FDA officials have not approved tirzepatide yet for weight loss, but they are currently tracking the medication and may have a recommendation for its approval by the end of this year. Clinical trials have shown that individuals with an elevated body mass index (BMI) and who did not have diabetes lost a considerable amount of weight when they received tirzepatide (1).

Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) need to understand how to safely prescribe tirzepatide and the reasoning as to why it causes weight loss for specific individuals.

Drug Classification

Tirzepatide is part of a class of medications called glucose-dependent insulin tropic polypeptide (GIP) receptor and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. It comprises a 39 amino acid linear synthetic peptide conjugate to selective receptor agonists in preclinical and clinical trials.

Tirzepatide is used for treating Type II diabetes in adults as an adjunct to diet and exercise. It is also used for weight loss in some individuals and has gained increased attention as a new therapeutic agent for glycemic and weight control.

Social media has had a significant influence and increased the desire to use tirzepatide, and while individual results vary, the weight loss in adults ranged from 12 – 25 pounds.

Online pharmacies, diet clinics, and medical spas are implementing thousands of ads on social media to capitalize on a surge of interest in the drug.

Indications of Usage

The use of tirzepatide is being used for both Type II diabetes and weight control in certain patients. It has been a game changer for people living with Type II diabetes. The drug’s primary use is as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with diabetes.

The drug has also proven beneficial for weight loss in patients experiencing obesity, and those who are taking the highest dosage have shared a body weight reduction of 15.7% (2). Tirzepatide is an injectable prescription medication used together with diet and exercise, and it is not yet known if it can be used safely with patients who have had pancreatitis.

It is important to remember that it is not to be used for patients with Type I diabetes, but it is safe for Type II diabetic patients. Also, the safety of tirzepatide has yet to be discovered for children and those under 18; therefore, the medication should not be used for this age group.

In studies conducted with or without diabetic medicines, 75% – 90% of patients taking tirzepatide reached an overall A1C of less than 7% with an average starting A1C of 7.9 – 8.6% across the following dosages – 5mg, 10mg, and 15mg. The study results were measured at weeks 40 and 52 (3).

Use of Tirzepatide with Diabetic Patients

Tirzepatide can be used for patients with Type II diabetes in combination with a diabetic-friendly diet and exercise. The drug works by lowering the patient’s overall blood sugar and also improves the A1C results of patients over some time. The injection has been approved by the FDA to treat Type II diabetes and is administered once weekly (4).

It is considered the first in a new class of medications – a dual glucose-dependent insulin tropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like-peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor antagonist. The mechanism of how it works mimics two gut hormones (GIP and GLP-1). These hormones are essential in how patients digest food and regulate blood glucose after meals. The hormones also play a role in making individuals feel fuller and curb specific food cravings.

The provider can prescribe tirzepatide before attempting other diabetic medications if a patient has a BMI of 30 or greater or 27 or greater with weight-related conditions and if the drug is combined with a personalized weight loss plan that addresses physical activity, nutrition, and lifestyle changes.

However, due to the cost and some insurance companies not covering the injection unless the patient has both diabetes and obesity, the provider must carefully consider prescribing this medication.

Case Study

The patient states this ‘miracle drug’ is worth paying for out of pocket!

Jeff Capron, a 53-year-old Boonville, New York, web developer, started taking tirzepatide in December 2022. His friend had reported good results with the medication, so Jeff looked into the research studies behind it and then spoke with his primary physician.

The physician said, “Yeah, let’s give it a shot,” even though he did not have much experience with it. The physician did not have an opinion one way or the other than looking at the data set and seeing no reason why they could not try it.

Jeff’s hemoglobin A1C went from 10.1% to 6% in 3 months, which was very promising. “I never had that kind of experience with any medication for diabetes.” There is a range in how much A1C reduction people experience with tirzepatide, but many people taking it can get their A1C under 7% — an ideal goal for people with Type 2 diabetes.

Jeff experienced constipation and a little trouble sleeping early, but both issues disappeared quickly. He says, “I wake up in the morning, and my fasting blood sugars are normal.”

The medication took effect, he says, within 12 hours. He compared the feeling to having a gastric bypass.

“You cannot overeat food. As soon as you overeat, you almost feel ill.” While it generally takes a few months to notice effects like A1C reduction and significant weight loss, side effects such as lower appetite may be felt immediately.

Weight loss was not his primary goal, but he lost about 35 pounds on the medication in the first five months. He also lost his sweet tooth. “I can maybe count three sweet things I have eaten since December.”

Jeff found that his appetite slowly recovered days after taking tirzepatide. “You take the shot every Sunday, and by Saturday, you start to get a lot of appetite,” he says. “It does not seem to affect your weight. If I eat a little bit more on Saturday night, on Sunday, the scale will not move one way or the other.”

Jeff is allergic to hornets, so he already carries an auto-injector. He was not worried about using another drug delivered through a needle. “It’s just a push button,” he says. It also helped that his wife is a nurse. “So, I had her with me the first time to ensure I was doing it right. I didn’t even feel it.”

When Jeff was first prescribed tirzepatide, his insurance covered it. The company has since removed that benefit. He has filed an appeal but pays about $1,000 monthly out of pocket for his weekly injections. He plans to keep paying as long as necessary.

He considers the financial burden well worth it. “I have never had a medication that worked as well before for chronic conditions,” Jeff says. “I’ve been blown away by it. For me, it’s a miracle drug. It got rid of my diabetes” (4).

Use of Tirzepatide for Weight Loss Management

As mentioned, this medication is indicated for patients with a BMI of >30 or a BMI of >27 with qualifying comorbidities. Obesity can become a chronic lifetime disease, and for conditions such as these, the patient needs to implement therapy for the lifetime of the disease.

In a study conducted for tirzepatide, there was a dramatic increase in effectiveness compared to traditional nonsurgical interventions such as diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes. However, it has been noted that taking tirzepatide on an ongoing basis is recommended and necessary to maintain any weight loss achieved from the medication.

If a patient stops taking the drug, likely, it will no longer work (5).

Public health officials have expressed concerns about using the drug long-term. Still, data is currently lacking regarding long-term effectiveness, treatment duration, and maintaining weight reduction once the therapy is discontinued.

A recent trial consisted of 783 participants with a BMI greater than 30, and these participants agreed to take either a 10mg or 15mg dose of tirzepatide over 36 weeks. The injection is given once weekly, so this would equal a total of 36 injections.

By the end of 36 weeks, participants lost more than 21% of their body weight. After 36 weeks, participants continued on tirzepatide or received placebo treatment for the following year. The patients needed to be made aware of which treatment they were receiving.

Those still taking tirzepatide injections weekly after 88 weeks lost an additional 7% of their body weight, and those taking the placebo regained 15% at the end of 88 weeks (5).

Common Side Effects and Contraindications

Side Effects

Patients vary immensely with different experiences and side effects related to tirzepatide; however, the following are the most common side effects experienced by those taking the medication:

• Nausea
• Decreased appetite
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Indigestion
• Constipation
• Stomach Pain

Tirzepatide usually does not cause fatigue, leaving one feeling weak, tired, and low energy. However, fatigue can be a common side effect of Type II diabetes.

It is important to note that most individuals who experience nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea episodes do so while the dosage increases, and typically, the symptoms decrease over time. G.I. effects were more prominent in those taking tirzepatide than those taking the placebo. The individuals not in the placebo group were more likely to stop treatment due to the unpleasant side effects (3).

Contraindications

Tirzepatide may cause thyroid tumors, including thyroid cancer, and it is essential to watch for possible symptoms, such as swelling or a lump in the neck, hoarseness, shortness of breath, or trouble swallowing.

Tirzepatide should also not be prescribed to any patient with Type 1 Diabetes.

One of the main ways that tirzepatide works is by stimulating the release of insulin from the pancreas, and due to this fact, there have not been many studies and clinical trials that include those with Type I diabetes.

However, this is not to say that prescribers have never ordered tirzepatide for those with Type I diabetes. Still, it is essential to note that if prescribed, it would be in addition to traditional insulin therapy.

• Personal or family history of a type of thyroid cancer known as medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC).
• Any history of Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
• Patients who are allergic to the actual medication or any of its ingredients.
• Younger than 18 years of age

Safe Prescribing Practices, Guidelines, and Considerations for Providers

Safe Prescribing Practices

As with all prescribed medications, safe standards of care must be implemented and followed to ensure patient safety is maintained. The same applies to providers considering prescribing tirzepatide, and specific criteria must be met beforehand. The following information discusses guidelines involving exclusion and inclusion criteria for providers to prescribe tirzepatide (6) accurately.

Guidelines

Exclusion Criteria – If present, the following indicates that the patient should not receive tirzepatide:

• Diagnosis of Type I diabetes
• Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2
• Severe gastrointestinal dysmotility
• History of pancreatitis
• Pregnancy
• Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (PDR), severe Nonproliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (NDR), clinically significant myalgic encephalomyelitis (M.E.), or diabetic macular edema (DME) unless the risks/benefits have been discussed with the patient and are documented in the patient's health record along with monitoring plans and follow-up with an eye specialist who is informed at the time of initiation.

Inclusion Criteria – All of the following must be met for tirzepatide to be prescribed:

• Diagnosis of Type II diabetes
• A BMI of 25 or greater
• Inadequate glycemic control on at least 1mg of semaglutide injection plus two or more glucose-lowering drugs
• Change needed to achieve goal A1C is less than 1%.
• Goal A1C should be based on those recommended in the Diabetic Guidelines.
• Adherence to current diabetic medications as evidenced by a review of the prescription refill history during the six months.

Additional Inclusion Criteria – All of the following must be met for tirzepatide to be prescribed:

• Patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease or chronic kidney disease
• Patients of childbearing potential who are using oral contraceptives

Inclusion Criteria for Weight Loss

• BMI of >30 or >27 with patient weight conditions.

Considerations for Providers

There are specific considerations that prescribers must be aware of when contemplating if a patient should receive the medication tirzepatide. The following is imperative and must be considered each time the medication is prescribed to a patient:

• Clinical Indications – indicated for treating adults with insufficiently controlled diabetes mellitus as an add-on therapy to diet and exercise; as monotherapy when metformin is considered inappropriate due to contraindications or intolerance; and other medicinal products for treating Type II diabetes.
• Monitoring of medication – routine monitoring of serum calcitonin or thyroid ultrasound is of uncertain value but is recommended for early detection of Medullary Thyroid Cancer (MTC).
• Cost – the average price for tirzepatide ranges from $1,071-$1,351 without any coupons or insurance. Savings Card – manufacturer provided; patients can pay as little as $25 monthly for up to 12 injections. Savings Card – manufacturer provided; patients can pay as little as $25 monthly for up to 12 injections.
• Benefits and Risks – One must evaluate the effectiveness of diabetes and the weight loss experienced. Some of the risks must be evaluated, such as increased cost of medication, unpleasant gastrointestinal side effects, poor insurance coverage, and drug shortages. The FDA has warned that the medicine can cause thyroid C-cell tumors in rats, and it is not sure whether tirzepatide causes similar tumors.

How long does it take for tirzepatide to begin working?

Tirzepatide will start to lower one's blood sugar levels immediately, but it can take 8 to 12 weeks to reach one's target A1C goal.

Compared to other diabetic treatments, studies have shown that it can take eight weeks to reach an A1C target of less than or equal to 7% and 12 weeks to get an A1C of less than or equal to 6.5%. Significant weight loss can occur as early as 28 weeks.

Safe Administration

It is essential to follow the correct steps for safe administration of tirzepatide as listed below:

• The recommended starting dosage is 2.5mg, injected subcutaneously once weekly. The 2.5mg dosage is for treatment initiation and not for glycemic control.
• After four weeks, increase the dosage to 5mg, injected subcutaneously once weekly.
• If additional glycemic control is needed, increase the dosage in 2.5mg increments after at least four weeks on the current dose.
• The maximum dosage is 15mg, injected subcutaneously once weekly.
• If a dose is missed, instruct patients to administer it as soon as possible, within four days (96 hours) after the missed dose. If more than four days have passed, skip the missed dose, and administer the next dose on the regularly scheduled day. In each case, patients can then resume their regular once-weekly dosing schedule.
• The day of weekly Administration can be changed, if necessary, as long as the time between the two doses is at least three days (72 hours).
• Before initiation, train patients and caregivers on proper injection techniques.
• Instruct patients using the single-dose vial to use a syringe appropriate for dose administration (e.g., a 1ml syringe capable of measuring a 0.5 mL dose).
• Administer the medication once weekly, any time of day.
• Inject the medication subcutaneously in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.
• Rotate injection sites with each dose.
• Inspect the medication visually before use. It should appear clear and colorless to slightly yellow. Do not use the medicine if particulate matter or discoloration is seen.
• When using the medication with insulin, administer it as separate injections and never mix. It is acceptable to inject tirzepatide and insulin in the same body region, but the injections should not be adjacent.

Does the tirzepatide injection hurt when administered?

Pain from the injection site has not been reported as a common side effect, but it may occur.

Due to the injection being given subcutaneously, slight pain or discomfort can occur.

Alternatives to Tirzepatide for Weight Loss Management

In some instances, patients need to be aware of alternatives to tirzepatide in case they cannot take the actual injection for whatever reason. In cases such as these, there are alternative supplements that can be purchased over the counter, and they include the following (7):

• PhenQ – top OTC choice – comprehensive weight loss solution that targets specific body regions, facilitates prompt fat loss, and expedites the weight loss journey.
• PhenGold – the most potent OTC weight loss alternative – one of the top weight loss supplements that boost metabolism, making one less hungry, less tired, and an overall improved feeling.
• Capsiplex BURN – the best choice for men – helps to burn fat faster and keep blood sugar levels in check. It helps to keep one's muscles, curbs hunger, gives one more energy, and torches stubborn fats.
• Trimtone – the best choice for women – helps women to lose weight, eat less, increase metabolism, burn extra calories, and boost energy.
• Prime Shred – best fat burner for men – boosts metabolism, keeps muscles intact, increases energy, and helps maintain focus.

The advanced practicing nurse or prescriber needs to inform patients about alternative options such as these in an effort for individuals to understand that other choices are available and can be used. Many individuals need to be more knowledgeable about alternatives besides tirzepatide due to the extra hype from social media sources that promote advertisements related to tirzepatide only but do not mention the other options.

Why does social media influence and encourage patients to take tirzepatide?

Social media trends can be helpful but can also become harmful by setting unrealistic expectations and promoting a diet culture mentality. They can create an unhealthy obsession with "clean" eating, especially in the younger populations.

Due to this, many individuals take the medication despite any occurrence or history of Type II diabetes, and the drug can ultimately become misused.

It has been noted that there is an influx of patients requesting this medication for weight loss instead of the intended purpose, which is to help control Type II diabetes.

Tirzepatide represents one of the most recent non-medical treatments aimed at managing the symptoms of Type II diabetes. While it is not indicated for weight management, diabetic patients who receive it frequently report a significant reduction in body weight.

 Empirical evidence suggests the efficacy of tirzepatide in weight management, and certain physicians currently endorse the Administration of the medication as a therapeutic and effective means to overcome obesity.

What are some severe side effects of tirzepatide that can impact patient safety?

The Administration of tirzepatide can benefit many individuals, but some severe side effects must be mentioned.

These include thyroid tumors, thyroid cancer, pancreatitis, hypoglycemia, serious allergic reactions, kidney issues, severe stomach problems, vision changes, and gallbladder issues. All these side effects must be taken seriously and reported, as they can lead to life-threatening

Conclusion

Medications like tirzepatide are game changers for those patients with type 2 diabetes that have failed other medications. Unfortunately, several companies seek to profit from its weight-loss benefits through aggressive marketing campaigns that limit the available supply and increase the costs for those who need it. As healthcare providers, we need to use sound clinical judgment and follow the exclusion/inclusion criteria and other guidelines before prescribing this medication, so we do not unintentionally cause harm while looking to appease our patients who request this.

Semaglutide and Type 2 Diabetes

Introduction   

In 2017, the FDA approved the semaglutide injectable (Ozempic) for treating type 2 diabetes. The drug has experienced widespread acceptance due to its positive effects on weight loss and lowering of chronic health risks. The drug has risen in popularity over the past few years, as many well-known actors/actresses/songwriters, and more came forward, publicly sharing their weight loss journey.

This rise in popularity has also resulted in significant shortages of this medication, negatively impacting the lives of the diabetic community, local pharmacies, and healthcare providers. The goal of this continuing education course is to educate and empower the healthcare provider in all aspects of this drug regimen: clinical indications, patient education, cost options, and benefit/risk analysis.

Diabetes Overview

Diabetes is a chronic medical condition. Despite advances in diet, medications, and monitoring devices, diabetes diagnoses continue to grow at staggering rates. The Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) reports that over 529 million people worldwide are currently living with diabetes, and that number is expected to grow to 1.3 billion in only 30 years. While the risk factors for diabetes are vast in number (poor diet, inadequate activity, obesity, sedentary lifestyles, daily stressors, and more), the sad reality is that this chronic medical condition will most likely linger on for generations to come despite our efforts to contain this health epidemic (1).

According to the latest research on diabetes, there are over 37 million people in the United States alone with diabetes as of 2022. Statistically, approximately 28 million of them have a confirmed diagnosis, while another estimated 8 million are experiencing symptoms, without an official diagnosis. Diabetes currently ranks as the 7^th leading cause of death in the United States (2).

Types of Diabetes

In basic terms, diabetes is an impairment in one’s ability to either adequately produce or utilize insulin, which results in elevated levels of circulating glucose. Chronically elevated glucose levels affect blood vessels at every level, causing chronic inflammation and raising the risk of heart disease, stroke, blindness, and atraumatic amputations.

There are three main types of diabetes:

Type 1 diabetes is thought to be an autoimmune disease. Approximately 5-10 percent of people with diabetes are diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. The diagnosis usually occurs in early childhood, and results in a lifetime use of insulin to regulate blood glucose levels.

Type 2 diabetes is thought to be related to dietary and lifestyle choices. It accounts for nearly 90-95 percent of diabetes diagnoses. Usually occurring later in life (adult-elderly population), it is believed to be related to factors such as diet, activity, weight gain, and related factors. Type 2 diabetes is usually controlled by diet and exercise, in addition to oral medications, although injectable insulin may be included in the treatment plan.

Gestational diabetes refers to elevated glucose levels occurring during pregnancy for patients who are not diabetic at the onset of pregnancy. This version of diabetes usually resolves itself post-partum, although a woman may develop type 2 diabetes later in life, unrelated to pregnancy.

Type 2 diabetes in children: no longer a “later in life diagnosis”

Children are now being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes at an alarming rate. Despite widespread education and an increased awareness of diabetes, our up-and-coming generation is unhealthier than ever. Many families lack access to healthy food for their families, due to both general socioeconomic challenges and an increased rate of food insecurity. (19)

The CDC recommends care providers have resources for diabetic patients and their families, such as food and nutrition programs, budget-friendly diabetes meal plans, how to save money on diabetes care, and coping strategies for diabetes. (19)

Diabetes Signs and Symptoms, Diagnostic Testing

There are various ways to test for diabetes. The fasting blood sugar (FBS)/ fasting glucose level is a simple way to test for diabetes.

The normal fasting glucose level is below 100mg/dl. The fasting glucose result of 100-125mg/dl indicates prediabetes and results above 126mg/dl indicate diabetes.

The hemoglobin A1C blood test is another test used to confirm the diagnosis of diabetes. The patient does not need to be fasting for this test; thus, it is easier to order this test regardless of the time of day. This blood test reflects the average glucose level over the period of 2-3 months.

The normal A1C level is below 5.7%. Test results between 5.7%- 6.4% indicate prediabetes. Test results above 6.5% indicate diabetes.

A random glucose reading above 200mg/dl, done at any time of day, indicates diabetes.

The diagnosis of diabetes is by blood tests, and for improved accuracy, should be based on two separate readings, done (at least) a day apart. In the case of fasting and random blood tests, dietary intake (large amounts of carbohydrates in a single meal) may adversely affect test results. This is not the case when using A1C testing for a confirmation diagnosis, as the results are the average of a 2–3-month span.

Target blood levels for a person with diabetes (3).

Target blood glucose levels for people with diabetes are as follows:

• Fasting glucose 80-130mg/dl.
• Postprandial blood glucose level- less than 180mg/dl
• A1C level 7-8%.

These target ranges are general guidelines. Patient-specific ranges will be dependent on a variety of factors, including preexisting comorbidities, overall health status, age, and activity levels.

The hallmark signs/symptoms of diabetes

1. Polyuria- increased urination
2. Polydipsia- increased thirst
3. Polyphagia-increased hunger/appetite

The truth is, as healthcare providers, you will have patients who have no hallmark signs and symptoms of diabetes; the diagnosis will be found during annual preventive examinations often unrelated to any chronic disease. For this reason, many insurance companies now cover numerous preventive screenings, including diabetes screenings, as part of their wellness and prevention initiatives. These tests are often approved based on a patient's age, or preexisting conditions, rather than outright signs and symptoms.

Lifestyle Interventions and the Diabetes Prevention Program

The initial diagnosis of diabetes can be managed in a variety of ways, depending on the severity of the illness at the time of diagnosis. Lifestyle interventions (behavior modification education) are of utmost importance in the care and management of people with diabetes. Research over the past few decades has consistently shown that such interventions have immense positive effects on the successful long-term management of diabetes.

The official Diabetes Prevention Program was created in 2010 (4) and confirmed the effects of lifestyle interventions in the management of diabetes:  Lifestyle interventions decreased the incidence of type 2 diabetes by 58% compared with 31% in the metformin-treated group. Thus, these findings now serve as the blueprint, if you will, for all-inclusive, patient-specific disease management guidelines. These lifestyle interventions will be discussed in detail later in the program.

Additional Resources on Diabetes Prevention

• Detailed History of the Diabetes Prevention Program
• Detailed on the National DPP Lifestyle Change Program

Semaglutide

Semaglutide is an injectable drug used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It was approved by the FDA in May of 2017.

It is a once-a-week injectable and belongs to the drug class known as glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) (5). It has been referred to as a “miracle weight loss drug” among those who are living with obesity, despite frequent side effects, unusually high out-of-pocket costs, drug shortages, and weight regain when attempting to stop using the medication.

GLP-1 receptor agonist: Hormone Review

GLP-1 RAs are a class of medications used to treat Type 2 diabetes, and in some cases, obesity treatment. They are also known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, incretin mimetics, and GLP-1 analogs.

Ghrelin and Leptin (6)

Ghrelin and Leptin are two hormones that greatly influence appetite and the sensation of fullness. Often referred to as the “hunger hormone.” Ghrelin is responsible for many functions, including playing a key role in metabolism through glucose and insulin regulation.

Ghrelin, produced in your stomach, signals your brain when you are hungry, and results in increased food intake.

Leptin, conversely, is produced in your fat cells, and signals to the brain when you have eaten enough (by a decrease in appetite).

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptors

Known as GLP1 receptors, Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor proteins are located in the beta cells of the pancreas as well as in the neurons in the brain. GLP-1 receptors are involved in the regulation of blood glucose levels and affect the secretion of insulin. These cells encourage the release of insulin from the pancreas, increase the volume of beta cells, and reduce the release of glucagon. In doing so, they increase the feeling of fullness during and between meals, suppressing the appetite and slowing gastric emptying.

What is meant by receptor agonist and antagonist?

The term agonist refers to any substance that mimics the actions of a hormone in producing a specific response: a receptor antagonist blocks a response from occurring.

Opioids are examples of receptor agonists in that they produce responses such as analgesia.

Naloxone/Narcan is an example of a receptor antagonist, in that it binds to a receptor site and decreases/blocks a response from occurring.

Semaglutide mechanism of action (7)

GLP-1 agonists work in several ways to positively affect glucose levels. Their mechanism of action includes the following:

• Increasing (stimulating) insulin secretion by the pancreatic beta cells.
• Decreasing the production of glucagon, a hormone that raises blood glucose levels
• Decreasing (slowing) gastric emptying
• Decreasing appetite (and thereby reducing food intake) by creating a sensation of stomach fullness

Through these mechanisms of action, semaglutide results in a lowering of serum glucose/A1C levels, which lowers the risk of cardiovascular events. Studies have also shown that semaglutide resulted in weight loss (approximately 8-14 pounds on average {dose dependent results}.

Side Effects of Semaglutide

Common side effects of semaglutide (8)

Common side effects may include any of the following:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Headache
• Diarrhea and stomach pain
• Upset stomach, indigestion, constipation, flatulence

These side effects usually subside within a few weeks, as the patient becomes acclimated to the medication.

Serious side effects of semaglutide

• Hypoglycemia- enhanced/worsened when used in combination with other diabetes medication. Symptoms may include drowsiness, confusion, weakness, irritability, and headache.
• Symptoms may include abdominal pain and distension, nausea and vomiting, fever, and back pain.
• Diabetic retinopathy. Symptoms may include blurred vision, vision loss, and diminished night vision.
• Kidney damage/injury/failure. Symptoms may include fatigue, nausea, diminished urine output, confusion, and edema of extremities.
• Gallbladder disease. Symptoms may include gallstones, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, and poor appetite.

Black Box Warning (9)

Semaglutide has a Black Box Warning for thyroid cancer. This is the most serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is intended to alert consumers to the potential risks of a medication.  This black box warning was issued when research found that the drug increased the risk of thyroid tumors in animals.

It is not known if semaglutide actually causes tumors in humans.

Contraindications

• Semaglutide is contraindicated in people with a personal or family history of MTC (medullary thyroid cancer) or in patients with multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2.
• Known hypersensitivity to semaglutide or any of the product components

Cautions

As noted under “serious side effects”, there have been reports of new illnesses or worsening of existing health conditions occurring “post-marketing”. Thus, healthcare providers are strongly encouraged to continue ongoing surveillance of any patients on semaglutide therapy. In addition, there is insufficient data available regarding the use of semaglutide by pregnant women. Women are therefore highly encouraged to stop any treatment with semaglutide for at least 2 months prior to a planned pregnancy.

Dosing

Semaglutide is indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). It is looked upon favorably to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events in adults with T2DM and a preexisting history of cardiovascular disease. This drug is FDA-approved for use in people with diabetes, with a BMI of 27% or higher (a BMI of 25-29.9% is considered overweight).

Semaglutide (Ozempic) is available as an injectable prescription medication. Doses include 0.5mg, 1mg, or 2 mg, once weekly.

The injection should be administered subcutaneously to the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Injection sites should be rotated, and given as a single injection.

Start at 0.25 mg once weekly. After 4 weeks, increase the dose to 0.5 mg once weekly.

• If additional glycemic control is needed, increase the dose to 1 mg once weekly after at least 4 weeks on the 0.5 mg dose.
• If additional glycemic control is needed, increase the dose to 2 mg once weekly after at least 4 weeks on the 1 mg dose

Administer once weekly at any time of day, with or without meals.  The maximum dose recommendation is 2mg/weekly once weekly.

Note: The initial 0.25-mg dose is intended for treatment initiation and is not effective for glycemic control

Missing Dose Guidelines

• If the missed dose is ≤5 days: Administer dose as soon as possible
• If missed dose >5 days: Skip the missed dose and administer the next dose on the regularly scheduled day; patients can then resume their regular once-weekly dosing schedule

Administration Day Guidelines (10).

The administration day each week can be changed, if necessary, as long as the time between 2 doses is at least 2 days (>48 hours)

Dose Availability (packaging)

• 2mg/1.5mL (1.34mg/mL); delivers doses of 0.25mg or 0.5mg per injection or four to eight doses per injection pen
• 4mg/3mL (1.34mg/mL); delivers 1mg per injection or 4 doses per injection pen
• 8mg/3mL (2.68 mg/mL); delivers 2mg per injection or 4 doses per injection pen

Treatment Goals- Effects on A1C and Weight (11)

A majority of adults who were placed on injectable semaglutide for diabetes management achieved a target A1C under 7% and were able to maintain it.

• Dose specific effects on A1C were as follows:
• 0.5mg dose injection yielded a 1.4% decrease
• 1.0mg dose injection yielded a 1.6% decrease
• 2.0 mg dose injection, in combination with diabetes pills, yielded a 2.1% decrease in A1C.

Adults taking semifluid injectables for diabetes management also noted weight loss.

• 8-pound weight loss reported with 0.5mg dose injection
• 10 pounds weight loss reported with 1.0mg dose injection
• Up to 14 pounds of weight loss reported with a 2.0mg dose injection

Prescribing insights: Long-Term therapy for a chronic condition?

Semaglutide is viewed favorably as a treatment option for Type 2 diabetes. It appears to lower A1C levels and body weight in the majority of patients, lowering their risk of future cardiovascular events.

The question of long-term medication use, for a chronic health condition, is being heavily discussed in the media. While a percentage of people can decrease or eliminate the need for chronic medications through significant lifestyle changes, there have been reports of weight gain in those who stopped taking this injectable medication.

Without intense lifestyle behavior modification education, there is a heightened risk of weight regain in the absence of such medications. Leaders in the treatment of obesity and related illnesses have commented that this drug is intended for long-term use.

Examples of this include the following:

“GLP-1 medications [like Ozempic] are designed to be taken long-term... They are chronic medications for the treatment of chronic conditions (both diabetes and obesity) (12)". - Christopher McGowan, M.D., a gastroenterologist specializing in obesity medicine and endobariatrics

“As with many chronic conditions, most people who use the drugs for diabetes or weight loss will need to keep taking them to keep benefiting from them. Depending on your individual situation, and without sustained lifestyle changes, it is likely you would need to be on these medications indefinitely to maintain weight loss (13)." - Dr. Cecilia Low Wang, a UCHealth expert in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism.

Cost Concerns

At this time, injectable semaglutide, FDA-approved for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes, has a self-pay price tag of $935.77 per month (4 injections). With FDA approval, many people with diabetes, insured under commercial plans, receive the drug for the cost of their copay. Those patients without coverage may use pharmacy discount cards that reduce the price, on average, to $814.55/month.

The following links are available to familiarize yourself with patient assistance programs related to semaglutide injectables.

Semaglutide Cost Savings Programs

The following links are provided to explore various semaglutide cost savings programs.

• Novo Care's Ozempic Saving Offer
• How much does Ozempic (0.25 Or 0.5 Mg/Dose) cost?
• GoodRx

Emerging Concerns: Semaglutide and gastroparesis

In August 2023, a first-of-its-kind lawsuit was filed in Louisiana, against the makers of semaglutide. The lawsuit states the makers of this injectable drug did not adequately warn patients about the risk of severe gastrointestinal issues/possible gastroparesis.

The plaintiff in this case had used both Ozempic and Mounjaro and experienced repeated episodes of severe gastrointestinal events, warranting trips to the emergency room and additional medications to alleviate her symptoms (14). While this lawsuit is in the developing stages, it bears mentioning in terms of concerns over long-term usage of the drug and possible complications.

While the drug labeling for semaglutide (Ozempic) does not specifically mention gastroparesis, the semaglutide/Mounjaro drug label does state that the drug has not been studied in patients with severe gastrointestinal disease and is therefore not recommended in these patients.

Up to 50% of people with diabetes have some degree of delayed gastric emptying, but most have no digestive symptoms or have only mild symptoms. For some people with diabetes, problems managing blood glucose levels may be a sign of delayed gastric emptying (15).

Healthcare providers should evaluate all patients with diabetes for possible symptoms of underlying gastroparesis, such as the feeling of fullness shortly after beginning a meal, or the inability to finish a regular meal. Other symptoms of gastroparesis may include abdominal pain, nausea, bloating, vomiting, and anorexia.

Diabetes and gastroparesis

Uncontrolled or poorly controlled diabetes can affect nerve endings systemwide. Diabetes is a very common cause of gastroparesis. Although the condition is rare it occurs more often in people with chronic conditions such as diabetes, autoimmune diseases, and nervous system disorders. Nerve endings are injured or damaged, cease to function properly, and result in delayed gastric emptying. The delay in gastric emptying can cause various symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, bloating and distension, abdominal pain, and poor appetite.

In addition to underlying medical conditions, some medications may cause symptoms of gastroparesis (delays in gastric emptying and overall gastric motility. These medications include narcotics, antidepressants, and anticholinergics.

Left untreated, diabetic gastroparesis may lead to malnutrition, electrolyte imbalances, and poor glucose management and control.

Diabetes Lifestyle changes: Patient education (16)

1. Weight Management
2. Healthy Eating
3. Physical Activity
4. Smoking Cessation
5. Stress Management

The importance of patient education regarding lifestyle changes is a priority. As with any chronic medication condition, the patient and their family/support system must be given every opportunity to educate and empower themselves on self-management of their disease process. Patients must be given the benefit of the doubt that they can indeed embrace their health and well-being and work with their healthcare provider in maximizing their health outcomes.

For diabetes mellitus, numerous lifestyle behaviors should be addressed and actively worked on, so that the patient receives the maximum health benefits. The following lifestyle behaviors are in no particular order; they all warrant discussion at every office visit.

Diet

A person with diabetes should be educated on the effects of food and nutrition on their glucose level. Referrals to a dietitian/nutritionist or Certified Diabetes Care Education Specialist (CDCES) should be considered a top priority. Well-balanced nutritional intake, appropriate carbohydrate awareness, calorie monitoring if weight loss is appropriate to your specific patient) and medication/food interactions are all essential aspects of dietary lifestyle education. Many commercial insurance plans, as well as hospital community outreach programs, offer diabetes self-management classes.

Activity (17)

The CDC recommends a target goal of 150 minutes weekly, Patients should be educated on the positive effects of daily activity on overall health and well-being, stress management, and metabolism. Patients should find activities they are genuinely interested in, involve family and friends, and slowly build greater endurance through increased intervals of longer duration.

Sleep hygiene (18)

Patients should be educated on the positive effects of a good night’s sleep. The aim should be approximately 7-8 hours of restful sleep. Electronics should be powered down and (optimally) removed from the bedroom. A dark, well-vented, cool room temperature is encouraged, and large meals and late-evening caffeine should be avoided.

Medication adherence/ literacy

Medication education is critical to the health and well-being of a patient. Routine education of the patient, and family members or support systems when available, should be supportive and patient-specific. Patients should be assessed on language barriers, literacy issues, and related comprehension concerns. Medication education should include effects, side effects, treatment goals, and sick day management. Emergency care issues should also be discussed. Any monitoring equipment (continuous glucose monitors, accuchecks, lancets) should be reviewed with patients and confirmed with return verbalization and demonstration.

As discussed in this course, patients with chronic diseases must learn self-management techniques to optimize their health and well-being. They must become confident in their understanding of their disease process and take ownership of their health. In doing so, they minimize the risk of long-term complications, improve their self-worth, and actively invest (both time and money) in their future.

Ozempic Case Study

• 52-year-old female
• Height 67 inches
• Weight 225 pounds
• B/P 138/84, Heart rate 76 NSR
• BMI 35.2%
• Nonsmoker, occasional social drinker
• Multiple attempts at dieting without success.
• Diagnosed T2DM approx. 6 months ago current A1C 7.5%; initial medication Metformin 500mg BID tablets; tolerated well. No GI upsets.

Today’s appointment is for evaluation and additional medication consideration (the patient requested this appointment)

The patient was diagnosed with T2DM approximately 6 months ago. Initial A1C 8.0%. Current A1C 7.7%

Despite an improved diet and adherence to the medication regimen, the patient voiced frustration at the lack of weight loss. Requesting additional medication. Has a neighbor friend who began injectable Ozempic and is having “really great results with it. I want to start on it as well”.

• What are your thoughts on prescribing semaglutide injectable for this patient?
• What objective health data points should be taken into consideration regarding prescribing semaglutide for this patient?

The patient has expressed frustration that despite taking her medications and adjusting her diet, she has not lost any weight in the past 6 months. She has “heard from her neighbor friend that the weight just melts off immediately” and she is ready to start this medication.

• What concerns do you know about this patient's understanding of weight loss as it relates to semaglutide?
• What prescribing information, specific to semaglutide and weight loss, could you share with your patient regarding realistic weight loss targets?
• In addition to teaching your patient proper injection technique for the use of semaglutide, what other lifestyle education behaviors should you discuss at this point?
• What information should you share with your patient regarding the long-term use of semaglutide and the potential risks of stopping this medication (as it relates to weight regain)?

Your patient decides to go ahead with the semaglutide regimen.

• What are some patient education guidelines regarding common side effects of this medication?
• How often is the dose increased? What is the maximum dose this patient can receive weekly?

Your patient wants to know how long she will be taking this medication.

• What talking points will you cover regarding the long-term use of this medication?
• How do you best prepare this patient for long-term success with this medication?
• What lifestyle behavior modification education would you discuss with your patient, to give her the best chance at successfully managing her diabetes?

Medication Assisted Treatment

Introduction   

Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) is a treatment modality for substance use disorders. It combines counseling and behavioral therapies for addiction with medications used carefully to reduce the physical symptoms of cravings and withdrawal and assist clients in the recovery process. With half of people 12 and older reporting use of an illicit substance at least once and 21 million Americans experiencing addiction, this is an important and relevant topic (4).

Historically, an intense stigma is attached to both addiction and some of the medications used to treat addiction. A thorough understanding of substance use disorders, available MAT therapies, and care of affecting clients are essential topics for nurses to be familiar with, particularly those working in psychiatry, pain management, or addiction medicine.

Overview of Addiction and Substance Abuse:

Drug and alcohol abuse and addiction are chronic, complicated issues involving persistent changes to the brain. There is a stigma or misunderstanding that people with substance abuse disorders can stop any time they want to or lack the willpower or moral fortitude to stop using. This is entirely untrue, and even people who are "recovering" and have not had any drugs or alcohol in years can easily relapse into addiction once those brain changes have occurred (5).

When a person uses drugs or alcohol, the brain's reward center is flooded with dopamine. This provides a "buzz" or pleasurable sensation that may create the desire to use more of the same substance. Over time, and with regular use of the substance, the brain becomes accustomed to the flooding of dopamine and reduces the reward response, a process known as tolerance.

It will now take the same person a more significant amount of the substance to achieve the same "buzz" or "high" they used to feel. This process can also dull the pleasure response to activities not involving substance use, such as food, socialization, or sexual activity. Over time, the chemical changes in the brain can progress to include decreased functioning of learning, decision-making, judgment, response to stress, memory, and behavior (5).

To understand substance abuse disorders, it is first essential to understand some basic definitions. These terms are sometimes used interchangeably, but they mean different things and represent different stages of disease.

Definitions

Substance Use: Substance use is any consumption of drugs or alcohol, regardless of frequency or amount. An occasional glass of wine or taking an edible at a party is an example of substance use. Substance use does not cause problems or dependency in many people (5).

Substance Abuse: Substance abuse is the continued use of drugs or alcohol, even when they do cause problems. Conflict or problems at home, school, work, or legal issues related to the use of drugs or alcohol are signs of abuse. For example, being sent home from school for smoking in the bathroom or failing a drug test at work (5).

Substance Dependence or Addiction: Dependence and addiction can be used interchangeably or is sometimes called substance use disorder. Addiction occurs when a person cannot stop drinking or using drugs despite creating problems in their life. People who are addicted may experience cravings until they use a specific substance, or they may experience uncomfortable physical symptoms, known as withdrawal if they do stop (5).

The American Psychiatric Association (APA) utilizes the following criteria to diagnose clients who suffer from addiction. The more criteria a client answers yes to, the greater their problem with substance use.

Six or more positive criteria are indicative of addiction.

1. Using substance in more significant amounts or for more extended periods than intended
2. Trying to stop using but being unable to
3. Increased amounts of time getting, using, or recovering from use of the substance
4. Experiencing cravings or urges to use.
5. Continuing to use the substance despite problems with relationships or social situations.
6. Missing work, social, or recreational obligations or activities because of substance use
7. Participating in risky behavior because of substance use
8. Continuing to use the substance despite psychological or physical health problems.
9. Needing to use more substance over time to achieve the desired effect.
10. Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when stopping the substance (1).

Substance Abuse Statistics

Many factors go into gathering data on substance abuse disorders, from underreporting, the nuance between use, abuse, and addiction, and the large variety of substances available, with the legality of some substances varying by state or age.

The statistics below from 2020 are not meant to be an exhaustive list of substance use disorders in this country but rather an overview of some of the more prevalent addiction-related issues.

• 50% of people 12 years and older have used an illicit substance at least once.
• 5% of Americans 12 years and older have used drugs within the last month.
• This is a 3.8% increase from the previous year.
• About 50% of Americans 12 and over drink alcohol
• 4% of those people have an alcohol use disorder.
• About 20% of Americans use tobacco products or vape
• 18% of Americans over 18 used marijuana in the last 12 months
• 30% of those have some level of misuse or addiction.
• Marijuana is commonly involved in polysubstance use, paired with alcohol or other drugs.
• 7% of Americans over 12 misused opioids in the last 12 months
• 96% of those used prescription pain relievers
• Opioid prescriptions peaked in 2012, with 81.3 prescriptions per 100 people.
• The rate has declined recently due to increased attention to this crisis.
• In 2018, the rate was down to 51 prescriptions for every 100 people
• Fentanyl is now rising as a new and deadly concern.
• 5 million prescriptions were written for fentanyl in 2015.
• Fentanyl is involved in 53% of overdose deaths.
• 7% of all Americans misuse a prescription drug.
• 1% of those misuse stimulants
• 2% of those misuse sedatives
• 5% misuse painkillers
• Over 70,000 drug overdose deaths occur annually in the United States (4)

Risk Factors

A combination of factors is involved in the risk of addiction, and no one factor can determine if someone will develop addiction or after how many uses this will occur.

The addiction process does occur more easily or progresses more rapidly for people with certain risk factors, including:

Genetics

There is a strong genetic correlation with addiction, indicating that biology plays a significant role in the disorder. Family history of addiction, gender, ethnicity, and comorbid mental health conditions can all influence the risk of addiction. (5)

• Children of addicts are eight times more likely to develop an addiction at some point.
• In 2020, among those using illicit or misusing prescription drugs, 22% were male and 17% female.
• Only 20% of users in drug treatment programs are women.
• 9% of people with substance abuse disorders also have at least one mental health disorder (4)

Environment/Non-Genetic Demographics

The attitudes about drugs and alcohol from those in a person's network and life experiences play a role in the risk of addiction. Substance use among friends, family, or coworkers increases the risk that a person will also use substances. Exposure to substance use from a young age relaxed parental attitudes about substance use, and peer pressure from friends can increase the risk. Certain stressful life circumstances such as veteran status, history of sexual or physical assault, or being part of the LGBTQ community can also increase risk. (5)

• 20% of people in urban areas used illegal drugs in 2020 compared to 5% in rural locations.
• 51% of Americans with an illegal pain relief medication obtained it from a friend or relative.
• 7% of LGBTQ Americans abuse illicit drugs.
• 2% of LGBTQ Americans abuse alcohol.
• 7% of Veterans abuse illicit drugs.
• 80% of Veterans abuse alcohol (4)

Developmental Stage

Substance use at any age can lead to addiction, but children and teens are at particular risk due to their underdeveloped brains. The parts of the brain responsible for decision-making, risk assessment, and self-control do not fully develop until the early 20's, putting teenagers at increased risk of dangerous behaviors. In addition, the effects of drugs and alcohol on the developing brain may mean that those parts of the brain never fully develop at all for teens with substance abuse disorders. (5)

• 70% of users who try an illegal substance before age 13 will develop a substance use disorder within the next seven years.
• This is for only 27% of people who first try an illegal substance after age 17.
• 47% of youths report trying an illegal substance by the time they graduate high school (4)

Overview of Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT)

Treatment of substance abuse disorders is a complex and often tumultuous process. The nature of the brain changes that occur during addiction means that a person is never entirely "cured" but will always be considered "recovering" as the risk for relapse is always present. Effective treatment must be multifaceted and often involves removing triggers (such as people, places, and stressors) that may prompt a person to use again behavioral therapy, and medications to curb withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings.

Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) is a treatment that involves FDA-approved medications, in combination with behavioral therapy, in the recovery process for substance abuse disorders. Several medications are available for MAT, and evidence continues to emerge that the treatment is highly effective if used correctly.

However, it is a vastly underused and understudied treatment modality. MAT has been available in some form for over 50 years but is just starting to gain traction among the medical community (and policymakers) in recent years, with the federal government calling for more research and increased accessibility for the treatment (8).

The height of the opioid crisis in the last several years has highlighted the magnitude of drug addiction and deaths in the United States, bringing renewed attention to MAT as a treatment option. So, how does MAT work? Prescription medication is given to both stimulate the receptors seeking the abused substance and block the drug's euphoric effects.

Over time, this normalizes brain chemistry and helps the person break the habit of using without the discomfort of cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Gradually, the prescription medication dosage is reduced, all the while in conjunction with behavioral therapy and lifestyle changes, and eventually, the client should be able to stop the medication altogether, often within 1-3 months (8).

MAT does require close supervision by a trained medical professional and an appropriate facility for treatment. It can be done on an inpatient, partial inpatient, or outpatient basis. There may be side effects to the medication, and there is a risk of misusing or developing addiction to the new drug, though the successful outcomes often outweigh this risk. Clients must also participate in behavioral therapy for a comprehensive and effective treatment plan. As with any treatment regimen, careful consideration of the client's history and circumstances is essential (8).

Pharmacokinetics

Currently, there are three medications with FDA approval for MAT: buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone. Each will be discussed in depth below.

Buprenorphine

Mechanism of Action and Metabolism

Buprenorphine is an opioid partial agonist, acting on the same receptors as other opioids but with weaker effects. It can be used for the treatment of misuse of opioids, including:

• Heroin
• Fentanyl
• Oxycodone
• Hydrocodone
• Morphine
• Methadone (3)

Opiate receptors are G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) with four major types: Mu, Delta, Kappa, and opioid receptor like-1 (ORL1). Stimulation of these receptors results in varying levels of the following effects:

• Euphoria
• Relaxation
• Pain relief
• Sleepiness
• Sweating
• Constipation
• Impaired concentration
• Reduced sex drive (3)

Buprenorphine has a high affinity to the Mu-opioid receptor and is a partial agonist at this site, causing reduced opioid effects with a plateau or ceiling at higher doses. This limits dangerous effects and makes overdose unlikely. It also has slow dissociation from the site, allowing milder and more easily tolerated withdrawal effects compared to full agonists like morphine and fentanyl. Buprenorphine is also a weak kappa receptor antagonist and delta receptor agonist, reducing the craving sensation and improving tolerance to stress (3).

Buprenorphine has poor bioavailability when given orally due to the first-pass effect, where most of the drug is broken down in the liver and intestines. Because of this, sublingual or buccal are the preferred routes of administration and the most common forms in which the drug is manufactured. Transdermal patches and IV and IM forms exist, though not for use in MAT (3).

CYP34A enzymes break down buprenorphine, so other drugs, such as ketoconazole, may inhibit metabolism and increase available levels of buprenorphine. CYP34A inducers such as carbamazepine, topiramate, phenytoin, and barbiturates may speed metabolism and lower available levels. Once broken down, the med takes the form of norbuprenorphine and is excreted in the feces (3).

Available Forms

Buprenorphine is available by itself and with naloxone (in a 4 to 1 ratio). However, in oral form, naloxone is not readily absorbed, and buprenorphine is the only genuinely active ingredient. This combination is beneficial should clients try to inject their buprenorphine to get high; naloxone is a fast-acting opioid antagonist that is active when used intravenously and would block the opioid effect of buprenorphine, rendering it useless for recreational use and ensuring it has no street value.

The currently available preparations of buprenorphine for MAT include:

• Generic Buprenorphine/naloxone sublingual tablets
• Subutex - Buprenorphine sublingual tablets
• Suboxone - Buprenorphine/naloxone sublingual films
• Zubsolv - Buprenorphine/naloxone sublingual tablets
• Bunavail - Buprenorphine/naloxone buccal film (3)

Sublingual products dissolve within 2-10 minutes. Bloodstream absorption begins quickly, bypassing the first pass effect. Buprenorphine has a slow onset of action, peaking about 3-4 hours later. Metabolism is also slow, with the half-life lasting anywhere from 25 to 70 hours (an average of about 38 hours). This long half-life means the drug can be spaced out to every other day administration once weaning begins (3).

Dosing and Monitoring

Clients prescribed buprenorphine must stop using opioids for at least 12 to 24 hours before the first dose; this varies depending on which opioid they are stopping. For short-acting opioids like heroin and oxycodone, buprenorphine may be started 6-12 hours after the last dose. With longer-acting opioids such as morphine or extended-release preparations of oxycodone, buprenorphine should be delayed for about 24 hours. For the longest action opioids, fentanyl patch, 48 -72 hours must be between the last dose and buprenorphine initiation (3).

This initiation schedule means clients will be in the early stages of discomfort and withdrawal. Administration of buprenorphine when clients still have opioids in their bloodstream will lead to competition for receptor sites, rapidly replacing the opioid with buprenorphine and causing acute and more severe withdrawal symptoms.

Depending on the severity of a client's addiction, they may complete the first step of abstaining and withdrawal in an inpatient setting. Once the initial withdrawal symptoms have passed and the initial dose of buprenorphine has been given, the client may be discharged home to continue buprenorphine initiation on an outpatient basis (3).

Initial doses are typically 2-4mg, with up to 4mg given to clients used to higher potency or larger doses of opioids. The dose is gradually increased to meet the client's individual needs, with a maximum dosage of 24mg per day. The average client requires 8-12 mg per day and can reach this dose within the first 2-4 days. It is recommended that doses be supervised by a pharmacist at the dispensing pharmacy for the first two months of treatment to ensure compliance and clients are less likely to relapse (3).

The length of treatment with buprenorphine depends on each client's case and, for some, may be indefinite. Clients who do wish to wean off buprenorphine can begin the process once they are stable and experiencing few or no cravings, and a minimum of 8 weeks from treatment initiation. Doses are moved to alternating days and eventually discontinued altogether (3).

Side Effects and Contraindications:

As with any medication, there are potential side effects, including:

Common Side Effects

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Memory loss
• Sweating
• Dry mouth
• Miosis
• Postural hypotension
• Sexual dysfunction
• Urinary retention

Serious side effects

• CNS depression
• QT prolongation
• Reduced seizure threshold
• Potential for abuse or overdose (3)

Buprenorphine is contraindicated for clients with a past hypersensitive reaction to it. It should be used cautiously for clients with respiratory suppression, older adults, or for those with liver pathologies. Regular monitoring of liver enzymes via lab work is essential (3).

It is a Category C medication for pregnancy, and the risks versus benefits should be carefully weighed. Buprenorphine does cross the placenta and increases the risk of withdrawal symptoms and neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) after delivery. However, for pregnant clients with the highest risk of relapse and abuse of opioids, evidence does support that continuation of buprenorphine during pregnancy may improve maternal and fetal outcomes (3).

Buprenorphine may be abused by crushing tablets, snorting the powder, or dissolving it into an injectable solution. Safety measures against this include supervised administration by a pharmacist and the addition of naloxone, which blocks the buprenorphine effects. While the effect ceiling of buprenorphine makes overdose difficult, combining the drug with benzodiazepines, alcohol, or other drugs can compound the CNS depressant effects and increase the risk of overdose (3).

Clinicians need to have a comprehensive health history of clients before initiating buprenorphine so that all risks and potential interactions can be addressed appropriately.

Role of the Pharmacist

Pharmacists play a significant role in the success of MAT involving buprenorphine. Outpatient doses are monitored by the dispensing pharmacist daily, with at-home quantities being allowed on a limited basis (such as weekends or travel) and only for the most motivated and compliant clients. Vital signs are collected before each dosage, with careful monitoring for hypotension or bradypnea. The dose may be skipped for clients who experience excessive side effects, and the client can return the next day for their dose.

Clients presenting with signs of overdose (usually to the ED) may receive naloxone, which will reverse overdose symptoms within 1 hour. Overdose symptoms include dizziness, pinpoint pupils, hypotension, bradypnea, hallucinations, seizure, or unconscious state.

If a client misses a dose, does not show up for it, or is experiencing significant side effects from buprenorphine, the prescribing clinician should be notified so that the treatment plan can be revisited and revised if needed (3).

Considerations for the Prescriber

When considering which medication to prescribe for MAT, prescribers should understand that buprenorphine offers advantages over methadone.

• Lower risk of abuse
• Safer, including at higher doses.
• Therapeutic dose achieved quickly.
• Easier to taper.
• Can be obtained from any provider rather than a methadone clinic.
• Less stigma

The cost of a 30-day supply is around $300. Buprenorphine/naloxone combinations are a little more expensive at $400/month. While prior authorization is usually required, most commercial insurance and state Medicaid programs will cover the medication.

Buprenorphine is a Schedule III Controlled Substance; however, recent federal regulations have been aimed at approving access to MAT, and any provider with an active DEA license may prescribe buprenorphine as allowed by state regulations. Specialized clinics are not required (as they are with methadone), and it is dispensed at regular pharmacies.

Prescribers are encouraged to participate in additional training about MAT with buprenorphine, but it is not required. Detailed documentation must be completed, including the reason for prescribing, start and end dates of treatment, the pharmacy used, the credentials of who will supervise administration, and frequency of follow-up and compliance monitoring. The sublingual and buccal routes are the only forms of medication used for MAT; patches, IM, and IV preparations are not routinely used for MAT.

The success of buprenorphine treatment depends on the client's education. Addiction potential, risk of combination with other CNS depressants, and side effects vs. signs of overdose should all be discussed with clients and their support system (3).

Methadone

Mechanism of Action and Metabolism

Methadone is a synthetic opioid and a full agonist of the Mu-receptor site, stimulating the same effects as opioids.

• Euphoria
• Analgesia
• Sedation

It can be used as a potent analgesic for pain not responding to traditional medications, such as in clients with cancer or terminal illness, as well as for MAT and neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS).

For this course, it will be discussed as a MAT agent, used in treatment for clients addicted to opioids such as:

• Heroin
• Fentanyl
• Oxycodone
• Hydrocodone
• Morphine
• Hydromorphone (2)

Methadone is a full agonist at the Mu-receptor, meaning it is a more potent and more easily addictive medication than partial agonists like buprenorphine. Methadone has a long half-life (8-60 hours), occupying the Mu-receptors and blocking short-acting opioids from making a client high. The longer half-life also leads to less severe cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Methadone is also an antagonist to the N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor, which adds to its pain relief action (2).

It has high oral bioavailability, is active in the bloodstream within 30 minutes of ingestion and remains elevated for around 24 hours. It is broken down via CYP3A4 and CYP2B6 enzymes and metabolized through the liver, making it a good option for clients with renal problems.

Medications such as ciprofloxacin, benzodiazepines, fluconazole, cimetidine, and fluoxetine may slow methadone metabolism, increasing the available drug and the side effects of overdose risk. Other medications may speed metabolism and decrease the effects of methadone, including phenobarbital, phenytoin, rifampin, ritonavir, and carbamazepine (2).

Available Forms

Methadone is available in many forms, including oral, IM, subcutaneous, IV, and intrathecal, though only the oral is typically used for MAT.

• Methadone - tablets
• DISKETS - dispersible/dissolvable tablet
• Methadone HCL Intensol - 10mg/ml suspension
• Methadone - dispersible tablet (2)

Dosing and Monitoring

Oral dosing is initiated at 30-40 mg/day with a slow titration of 10-20 mg/week until the optimal dosage is reached. The optimal dosage varies by client and depends on the drug they are replacing, tolerance to opioids, and side effects experienced. A dosage between 80- 150 mg/day is the typical goal. (2)

If parenteral methadone is given, it is usually 50%-80% of the oral dosage.

Blood sugar, EKG, and methadone blood levels should be checked regularly, every week for higher-risk patients, and every 3-6 months for those in good health and compliance. The target methadone blood level is around 400 ug/ml (2).

Side Effects and Contraindications

Potential side effects are directly related to stimulation of the opioid receptors and include:

• Diaphoresis
• Flushing
• Pruritus
• Nausea
• Dry mouth
• Constipation
• Sedation
• Lethargy
• Respiratory Depression
• QT prolongation
• Hypoglycemia (2)

Methadone should be considered with a comprehensive view of a client's health history and other medications. Clients with CNS-related disease processes (trauma, increased ICP, dementia, or delirium) must be monitored closely or have other medication considered.

Methadone should not be used simultaneously as other opioids, benzodiazepines, alcohol, or antipsychotics due to increased CNS effects. Methadone is a Pregnancy Category C medication, and risks versus benefits should be weighed carefully. Infants exposed to methadone in utero are at increased risk of NAS after delivery (2).

Overdose can occur, and clients and support systems should be educated on signs of overdose.

• Lethargy
• Somnolence
• Stupor
• Coma
• Miosis
• Bradycardia
• Hypotension
• Respiratory sedation
• Cardiac arrest

Naloxone is used to reverse overdose (2).

Considerations for Prescribers and Clinics

Methadone is a Schedule II Controlled Substance, meaning it has a high abuse potential and must be carefully monitored. The Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) is an electronic database used nationwide to register the distribution of controlled substances so that clients do not seek care at multiple clinics or pharmacies to obtain more of a controlled substance.

When prescribing methadone, providers should check the PDMP for both methadone and other prescription opioids so that they are fully aware of other medications clients may be receiving from other places. Regular urine drug screening should be performed to make sure clients are not using other substances not obtained by prescription and that they are testing positive for methadone, meaning they are genuinely taking it if administration is not observed (2).

At the beginning of treatment, methadone is given in the office under a nurse's supervision, and then clients are monitored for adverse effects. Some take-home doses (up to 7 in the first two weeks) may be arranged for weekends or during travel, but this possibility is limited during the first few weeks of treatment. As treatment progresses and compliance is demonstrated, clients may self-administer more doses at home (up to 28 doses per month) and go longer between visits to the clinic. The total length of treatment varies but is often 1-2 years and can even be indefinite (7).

There are methadone clinics that work entirely in the scope of addiction management, but primary care providers may prescribe methadone as well. Prescribers must have an active DEA license and comply with state-based controlled substance regulations (2).

Naltrexone

Mechanism of Action and Metabolism

Naltrexone has been in use since the 1960s and is an opioid antagonist. It competes primarily with the mu-receptor but also serves as an antagonist at the kappa and delta receptors. As an antagonist, it competes with agonists such as opioids and alcohol and blocks the effects of agonists at those sites.

• Prevents euphoria.
• Prevents intoxication.
• Reduces tolerance (6)

Naltrexone also acts on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, modifying it to reduce cravings and suppress alcohol consumption.

It is FDA-approved for use in clinical practice for the treatment of:

• Alcohol use disorder
• Opioid use disorder (prescription and non)

Naltrexone is absorbed orally and undergoes extensive metabolism via the first-pass effect. However, this does not affect its potency as naltrexone's active metabolite, 6β-naltrexone, acts as a potent opioid antagonist. The medication's half-life is around 4 hours but can last up to 24 hours. If administered parenterally, it bypasses the first pass and is even longer acting, with a half-life of 5-10 days. Naltrexone is excreted by the kidneys (6).

Available Forms

Naltrexone is available in an oral tablet and IM injection. Available preparations include:

• Generic naltrexone tablets
• Revia (oral tablet)
• Depade (oral tablet)
• Vivitrol (solution for IM injection, extended-release) (6)

Dosing and Monitoring

Since naltrexone will compete for and block all opioid receptor sites, the risk for withdrawal symptoms is high, and clients must stop the use of alcohol or opioids for 7-10 days before beginning treatment to lessen the risk of withdrawal symptoms. A naltrexone challenge is recommended at the start of therapy.

This consists of administering small amounts of naltrexone subcutaneously or via IV and monitoring the client and their vital signs for signs of withdrawal, such as:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diaphoresis
• BP changes
• Tachycardia
• Rhinorrhea
• Agitation
• Tremors
• Abdominal pain
• Pupillary dilation (6)

If a client fails the naltrexone challenge and has not been long enough since their last use of alcohol or opioids, the naltrexone initiation should be delayed, and the test should be repeated in 24 hours. If clients tolerate the naltrexone test and the negative result, they may begin naltrexone treatment (6).

For oral tablets, dosing usually starts at 25 mg for the first dose. Clients are observed for withdrawal symptoms and side effects; an additional 25 mg is given 1 hour later. After that, clients take 50 mg per day. Clients may continue with 50mg daily or take 100 mg every other day or 150 mg every 3rd day (6).

Alternatively, naltrexone may be given via IM injection for more extended action, improving compliance and reducing relapse. Particularly for alcohol or heroin dependence, data indicates that the IM route has much higher success rates than the oral route. If a client receives the IM injection, 380 mg is given to the gluteal muscle every four weeks (6).

Side Effects and Contraindications

Most common side effects of naltrexone include:

• GI irritation
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal cramps
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Hypertension
• Headache
• Anxiety
• Low energy
• Joint or muscle pain
• Nervousness
• Sleep disruption

Less commonly, clients report:

• Loss of appetite
• Constipation
• Dizziness
• Irritability
• Depression
• Rash
• Chills (6)

Caution should be used for clients with liver function issues and renal impairment. It is Category C for use during pregnancy, and the risks versus benefits of use in pregnancy must be carefully considered. It also crosses into breast milk and must be considered carefully.

There is limited data about the overdose of naltrexone, and there may be very few symptoms if an overdose occurs. Clients should be monitored for signs of liver dysfunction, seizures, depression, and suicidal ideations. No antidote for naltrexone is currently available.

Naltrexone is contraindicated for clients who failed a naltrexone challenge, test positive for opioids or alcohol on drug screening, have a history of seizures, or have experienced a past hypersensitivity reaction to naltrexone.

Clients may switch from buprenorphine or methadone to naltrexone at some point in treatment. Both medications are agonists at the opioid receptor sites, so changing to naltrexone (an antagonist) may increase the risk of withdrawal symptoms for the first two weeks of treatment (6).

Considerations for Prescribers

Because naltrexone does not cause any euphoria or "high," the abuse potential is non-existent. It is not a controlled substance and can be prescribed by any clinician with prescriptive authority. However, its use is typically only by those who work in mental health or addiction medicine. Clients can take the medication at home or go to the clinic for IM injections.

Many considerations for naltrexone use center around monitoring for side effects and treatment compliance. Baseline and periodic drug screening and liver function tests are prudent. Clients' support persons should be educated on compliance and signs of relapse. The IM formulation should be considered for those with poor compliance or most at risk for relapse (6).

Nursing Considerations

Nurses will encounter clients with addiction and even those receiving MAT in a variety of settings, including:

• Outpatient clinics for routine care of any health issues
• ED admission for acute problems not related to addiction.
• Inpatient hospitalization related to other health problems.
• Outpatient setting for participation in MAT or addiction management.
• ED admission for acute problems related to substance abuse or toxicity of MAT medication.
• Inpatient mental health admission for mental health and addiction issues

Regardless of the setting and if the client is being seen for an addiction issue or something else, it is crucial for nurses to be familiar with MAT medications and how they work to provide safe and competent care. Nurses may need to:

• Administer medication.
• Monitor lab results.
• Observe for side effects, toxicity, or withdrawal symptoms.
• Coordinate care within a multidisciplinary team
• Communicate with therapeutic and nonjudgmental techniques.

Case Study

Justin is a 32-year-old male who presents to the ED with nausea, lethargy, and confusion worsening over the last 24 hours. Upon exam, the nurse notes diaphoresis, slurred speech, and pinpoint pupils. His vitals are RR 10, HR 54, BP 82/58, SPO2 97%, Temp 99.0.

He reports taking Wellbutrin 150mg daily for depression and smoking cessation, methadone 100mg daily for history of oxycodone abuse, and was started on ciprofloxacin 250mg BID for a UTI 2 days ago at urgent care.

His labs are significant for a WBC of 15,000 but otherwise regular. He tests positive for methadone, which is expected, but not for other substances. He reports being compliant with MAT and avoiding opioid use for nine months.

It is determined that Justin is experiencing methadone toxicity due to the slowed metabolism of the drug from the combination of methadone and ciprofloxacin. He is given naloxone in the ED, and within an hour, his symptoms have improved significantly, and his vital signs are typical. His antibiotic is switched to cefdinir, and he is discharged home in stable condition with instructions to follow up with his PCP within 1-2 days.

Conclusion

Substance use disorders are a long-standing and dangerous pathology experienced by millions of people each year. At the same time, the stigma of seeking help for such disorders has been eroding in recent years; there has also been a renewed push by the federal government to address the issue in evidence-based and meaningful ways, with access to effective treatment being at the top of the priority list.

Addiction treatment programs utilizing MAT will likely become much more popular in the coming years, and nurses will be on the front lines of this therapy. For nurses to provide competent and comprehensive care to this client population, up-to-date and accurate knowledge is necessary.

Hypertensive Agents

Definitions 

Hypertension – high blood pressure above normal. Normal is considered anything less than 120/80 mmHg [7]. 

Antihypertensives – medications used to control hypertension and lower blood pressure [7]. 

Hypertensive crisis – severely elevated blood pressure of either: 

1. Systolic greater than 180 mmHg 

1. Diastolic greater than 120 mmHg [19]. 

Hypertensive emergency – acutely elevated blood pressure with signs of target organ damage [2]. 

Medications Overview 

Antihypertensive medications are used for the treatment of hypertension and are used in both inpatient, outpatient, and emergency settings.  

Some of the major antihypertensive medication classes include: 

• Diuretics 
• Beta-blockers 
• Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors 
• Angiotensin II receptor blockers 
• Calcium channel blockers 
• Selective alpha-1 blockers 
• Alpha-2 Receptor Agonists 
• Vasodilators [3]. 

Different medical organizations have varying recommendations and hypertension treatment guidelines. Hypertension treatment clinical practice guidelines are available from organizations like the American Heart Association, the American College of Cardiology, and the European Society of Cardiology to name a few [21]. Healthcare providers should be aware of their healthcare institution’s recommendations for clinical practice guidelines and organizations.  

All organizational guidelines share the same recommended treatment of starting antihypertensives immediately when: 

1. Blood pressure is greater than 140/90 mmHg for patients with a history of ischemic heart disease, heart failure, or cerebrovascular disease. 
2. Blood pressure is greater than 160/100 mmHg regardless of underlying medical conditions [21]. 

Again, healthcare providers should follow current and evidence-based clinical guidelines for initiating or titrating antihypertensive medications. 

While most antihypertensives are prescribed in an outpatient setting, certain antihypertensives are indicated during hypertensive or medical emergencies. For example, intravenous (IV) vasodilators, like nitroprusside and nitroglycerin, and calcium channel blockers, like nicardipine, are used during hypertensive emergencies and crises. 

Pharmacokinetics 

Diuretics 

Diuretics are a class of drugs that help control blood pressure by removing excess sodium and water from the body through the kidneys. There are several varying types of diuretics, some including thiazide, potassium-sparing, and loop, and all work to lower blood pressure differently [3]. 

Thiazide Diuretics 

Thiazide diuretics remove excess sodium and water from the body by blocking the sodium-chloride (Na-Cl) channels in the kidneys’ distal convoluted tubule. As the Na-Cl channel becomes blocked, this inhibits the reabsorption of sodium and water into the kidneys. Concurrently, this causes a loss of potassium and calcium ions through the sodium-calcium channels and sodium-potassium pump [1]. 

Thiazide diuretics are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for controlling primary hypertension and are available via oral route. Some common thiazide diuretics are hydrochlorothiazide, chlorthalidone, and metolazone [3].  

When initiating this medication, the healthcare provider should start with the lowest dose, which is usually 25mg daily, and then increase accordingly to aid with blood pressure control or if the patient has excess fluid retention, usually as evidenced by leg swelling or edema [1].  

Common side effects of thiazide diuretics include: 

• Increased urination 
• Diarrhea 
• Headache 
• Stomach and muscle aches [16]. 

As thiazide diuretics interfere with Na-Cl, Na-Ca, and Na-K channels, there is an increased potential for adverse effects, including: 

• Hypotension 
• Hypokalemia 
• Hyponatremia 
• Hypercalcemia 
• Hyperglycemia 
• Hyperlipidemia 
• Hyperuricemia 
• Acute pancreatitis 

When prescribing thiazide diuretics, healthcare providers should avoid prescribing thiazide diuretics to patients with a sulfonamide allergy, since thiazides are sulfa-containing medications. Also, they should avoid prescribing these to patients with a history of gout [1].  

Additionally, patients can experience a thiazide overdose if they take more than the amount prescribed. Patients with a suspected overdose may experience confusion, dizziness, hypotension, and other symptoms. These patients must seek emergency care and poison control must be alerted [16]. 

Potassium-Sparing Diuretics 

Potassium-sparing diuretics remove excess sodium and water from the body without causing loss of potassium. Depending on the type, they interrupt sodium reabsorption by either binding to epithelial sodium channels or inhibiting aldosterone receptors. When catatonic sodium is reabsorbed, this creates a negative gradient causing the reabsorption of potassium ions through the mineralocorticoid receptor [5]. 

Potassium-sparing diuretics are approved for controlling hypertension and are usually combined with other diuretics, like thiazide or loop diuretics since they have a weak antihypertensive effect.  

Common names of potassium-sparing diuretics are amiloride, triamterene, and spironolactone. These medications are available by either intravenous or oral routes. Spironolactone is commonly used for treating primary aldosteronism and heart failure [5]. Patients should be started on the lowest dose when first prescribing this class of medications.  

Common side effects can include: 

• Increased urination 
• Hyperkalemia 
• Metabolic acidosis 
• Nausea  

[4] 

Healthcare providers should avoid prescribing this class of medications to patients with hyperkalemia or chronic kidney disease. They should also be avoided during pregnancy or in patients who are taking digoxin. Since potassium-sparing medications can cause hyperkalemia, periodic monitoring for electrolyte imbalances and potassium levels is necessary [4]. 

Loop Diuretics 

Loop diuretics inhibit sodium and chloride reabsorption by competing with chloride binding in the Na-K-2Cl (NKCC2) cotransporter. Potassium is not reabsorbed by the kidney, which causes additional calcium and magnesium ion loss.  

Loop diuretics are FDA-approved for the treatment of hypertension but are not considered first-line treatment. They can also be used for treating fluid overload in conditions like heart failure or nephrotic syndrome [12]. 

Loop diuretics are available via oral or IV routes and furosemide, torsemide, and bumetanide are common forms [3].  

Bioavailability and dosage differ for each type and route of loop diuretics. The bioavailability of furosemide is 50%, with a half-life of around 2 hours for patients with normal kidney function, and dosages start at 8mg for oral medication. Torsemide has a bioavailability of about 80%, a half-life of about 3 to 4 hours, and oral dosages start at 5mg [12].  

Common side effects can include: 

• Dizziness 
• Increased urination 
• Headache 
• Stomach upset 
• Hyponatremia 
• Hypokalemia [13]. 

Loop diuretics can lead to several adverse effects, including toxicity, electrolyte imbalances, hyperglycemia, and ototoxicity. They have a black box warning stating that high dosages can cause severe diuresis. Therefore, electrolytes, BUN, and creatinine values should be monitored closely by a healthcare provider.  

People with a sulfonamide allergy may also be allergic to loop diuretics, so this should be avoided if the patient is allergic. Loop diuretics also interfere with digoxin and therefore should be avoided. Other contraindications include anuria, hepatic impairments, and use during severe electrolyte disturbances [12]. 

Beta-Blockers 

Beta-blockers work by reducing the body’s heart rate and thus, lowering cardiac output resulting in lowered blood pressure [3]. The mechanism of action for beta-blockers varies, depending on the receptor type it blocks, and are classified as either non-selective or beta-1 (B1) selective.  

Non-selective beta-blockers bind to the B1 and B2 receptors, blocking epinephrine and norepinephrine, causing a slowed heart rate. Propranolol, labetalol, and carvedilol are common non-selective beta-blockers.  

Alternatively, beta-1 selective blockers only bind to the B1 receptors of the heart, so they are considered cardio-selective. Some examples include atenolol, metoprolol, and bisoprolol. Sotalol is a type of beta-blocker that also blocks potassium channels and is, therefore, a class III antiarrhythmic [8]. 

Beta-blockers are not primarily used for the initial treatment of hypertension but can be prescribed for conditions like tachycardia, myocardial infarction, congestive heart failure, and cardiac arrhythmias. It’s also approved for use in conditions such as essential tremors, hyperthyroidism, glaucoma, and prevention of migraines.  

Beta-blockers are available in many forms, including oral, IV, intramuscular injection, and ophthalmic drops. Starting dosage and route are determined by the health condition being treated [8]. 

Common side effects of beta-blockers include: 

• Bradycardia 
• Hypotension 
• Dizziness 
• Feeling tired 
• Nausea 
• Dry mouth 
• Sexual Dysfunction  

[17] 

This class of medications can also lead to more severe adverse effects such as orthostatic hypotension, bronchospasm, shortness of breath, hyperglycemia, and increased risk of QT prolongation, torsades de pointes, and heart block [8]. Healthcare providers should avoid prescribing non-selective beta-blockers to patients with asthma. Instead, they can prescribe cardio-selective beta-blockers for patients with asthma.  

Additionally, the use of beta-blockers is contraindicated in patients with a history of bradycardia, hypotension, Raynaud disease, QT prolongation, or torsades de pointes. Healthcare providers must encourage patients to monitor their heart rate and blood pressure and follow administration parameters before taking beta-blockers daily since it decreases their heart rate.  

Overdose of beta-blockers is life-threatening and healthcare providers must discuss the symptoms of an overdose and the need for emergency care [8]. 

Angiotensin-converting Enzyme Inhibitors 

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors prevent the body from producing angiotensin, a hormone that causes vasoconstriction. As angiotensin production is reduced, this allows the blood vessels to dilate and therefore lowers blood pressure [3].  

Moreover, ACE inhibitors act specifically on the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) by preventing the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II. It also works to decrease aldosterone, which in turn, decreases sodium and water reabsorption [9]. 

ACE inhibitors usually end in the suffix -pril and some common examples include lisinopril, benazepril, enalapril, and captopril, and they usually end in the suffix [3].  

While ACE inhibitors are approved for treating hypertension, they are also FDA-approved for other uses or combination therapies for medical conditions such as: 

• Systolic heart failure 
• Chronic kidney disease 
• ST-elevated myocardial infarction 

One non-approved FDA use is treatment of diabetic nephropathy [9]. This class of medication is available in oral, and IV forms, and dosages are dependent on clinical guidelines, underlying medical conditions, and route.  

ACE inhibitors have common side effects, with some including: 

• Dry cough 
• Dizziness 
• Hypotension [9]. 

This medication can also lead to adverse effects, such as syncope, angioedema, and hyperkalemia [9]. As angioedema is an adverse effect, healthcare providers should understand this class of medications is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to ACE inhibitors.  

Additionally, ACE inhibitors are contraindicated in patients with aortic valve stenosis, hypovolemia, and during pregnancy. Individuals with abnormal kidney function should have renal function and electrolyte values monitored. If a patient develops a chronic dry cough, then the healthcare provider should consider another antihypertensive medication class by following current guidelines [9]. 

Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers 

Similar to ACE inhibitors, Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs) act on the RAAS by binding to angiotensin II receptors and thus block and reduce the action of angiotensin II. Again, this reduces blood pressure by causing blood vessel dilation and decreasing sodium and water reabsorption [11]. ARBs typically end in the suffix -artan and common names are losartan, valsartan, and Olmesartan [3]. Oral and IV routes of the medication are available and again, dosages are dependent on the medication specifically and form [11]. 

All ARBs are FDA-approved for the treatment of hypertension, but a select few are approved for treating other medical conditions, such as: 

• Candesartan for heart failure 
• Irbesartan for diabetic nephropathy 
• Losartan for proteinuria and diabetic nephropathy 
• Telmisartan for stroke and myocardial infarction prevention 
• Valsartan for heart failure and reduction of mortality in patients with left ventricular dysfunction [11]. 

Although not as common as ACE inhibitors, two side effects of ARBs are dry cough and angioedema.  

Other common side effects include: 

• Dizziness 
• Hypotension 
• Hyperkalemia  

[11] 

Contraindications for use are if the patient is pregnant or has renal impairment or failure. If a patient is on an ARB, the healthcare provider should closely monitor lab values for electrolyte imbalances and kidney function.  

Additionally, if a patient is taking lithium, ARBs can increase lithium concentration and therefore, lithium blood concentration should be frequently checked [11]. 

Calcium Channel Blockers 

Calcium channel blockers (CCBs), also known as calcium channel antagonists, act by preventing calcium from entering the smooth vascular and heart muscles. In turn, this reduces heart rate and causes vasodilation [3].  

They are further divided into two major categories, non-dihydropyridines and dihydropyridines, where there are differences in the mechanism of action. Non-dihydropyridines inhibit calcium from entering the heart’s sinoatrial and atrioventricular nodes and thus cause a cardiac conduction delay and reduce cardiac contractility.  

Alternatively, dihydropyridines do not directly affect the heart but do act as a peripheral vasodilator leading to lowered blood pressure. Both categories are metabolized by the CYP3A4 pathway [15]. 

Names of non-dihydropyridine CCBs are verapamil and diltiazem. Dihydropyridine CCBs typically end in the suffix  -pine and common names are amlodipine and nicardipine. Both categories are available via oral and IV routes for administration. Oral dosages of non-dihydropyridine CCBs start at 30mg daily and dihydropyridine CCBs start at 30mg daily for immediate release [15].  

Calcium channel blockers can be used to treat other medical conditions in addition to hypertension and include: 

• Coronary spasm 
• Angina pectoris 
• Supraventricular dysrhythmias 
• Pulmonary hypertension 
• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy 

Non-dihydropyridine CCBs can cause side effects like bradycardia, and constipation, while dihydropyridine CCBs can cause: 

• Headaches 
• Feeling lightheaded 
• Leg swelling [15]. 

Both categories pose the risk of potential hypotension and bradycardia, so healthcare providers should closely monitor the patient’s blood pressure and heart rate when initiating or titrating the dosage.  

Also, an overdose of this medication can lead to cardiac conduction delays, complete heart block, and cardiovascular collapse. Patients with possible symptoms of overdose should be sent to the emergency room immediately.  

Additionally, healthcare providers should avoid prescribing CCBs to people with heart failure and sick sinus syndrome [15]. 

Selective Alpha-1 Blockers 

Selective alpha-1 blockers act on the body’s sympathetic nervous system to lower blood pressure. They prevent norepinephrine from binding to the alpha-1 receptors of the sympathetic nervous system, causing smooth muscle relaxation and vasodilation which leads to lowered blood pressure [18]. 

Selective alpha-1 blockers are available via the oral route, end in the suffix -osin and examples are doxazosin, terazosin, and prazosin [3]. They are FDA-approved for the treatment of hypertension but are not considered first-line therapy. Additionally, this class of medications may be used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia. Dosages can start as low as 1mg daily depending on the drug selected. 

Common side effects include: 

• Hypotension 
• Tachycardia 
• Dizziness 
• Headache 
• Weakness [18]. 

As selective alpha-1 blockers can lead to orthostatic hypotension, the healthcare provider should instruct the patient to take this medication at night. They should also avoid prescribing to the elderly population when able because of hypotension and increased fall risk [18]. 

Alpha-2 Receptor Agonists 

Alpha-2 receptor agonists work by decreasing the activity of the sympathetic nervous system to lower blood pressure. It inhibits adenylyl cyclase and decreases the formation of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). Alpha-2 agonists also cause vasodilation by reducing the amount of available cytoplasmic calcium [20].  

This class of medications is typically administered via oral route but is also available in intravenous and transdermal forms. Two FDA-approved alpha-2 agonists for hypertension treatment are methyldopa and clonidine and dosages are dependent on the name and route.  

Methyldopa is commonly prescribed to patients with hypertension and who are pregnant since it’s safe [20]. 

Common side effects of alpha-2 receptor agonists are: 

• Dry mouth 
• Drowsiness 
• Fatigue 
• Headache 
• Sexual dysfunction [3]. 

Contraindications for use are orthostatic hypotension and autonomic disorders. Healthcare providers must avoid prescribing alpha-2 receptor agonists to individuals taking phosphodiesterase inhibitors [20]. 

Vasodilators 

Vasodilators lower blood pressure by dilating the body’s blood vessels. It binds to the receptors of the blood vessel’s endothelial cells, releasing calcium. Calcium stimulates nitric oxide synthase (NO synthase), eventually converting to L-arginine to nitric oxide. As nitric oxide is available, this allows for GTP to convert to cGMP, and causes dephosphorylation of the myosin and actin filaments. As this occurs, the blood vessels’ smooth muscles relax, leading to vasodilation and lowered blood pressure.  

Common vasodilators that act via this pathway are nitrates and minoxidil. Hydralazine is another vasodilator, but the mechanism of action is unknown [10]. 

Available forms of vasodilators are sublingual, oral, and intravenous. Similar to other classes of antihypertensives, vasodilator dosages depend on the form and treatment setting [10].  

Nitrovasodilators like nitroprusside and nitroglycerin are used during hypertensive emergencies. Hydralazine is used for severe hypertension for the prevention of eclampsia or intracranial hemorrhage and minoxidil for resistant hypertension [10] [3]. 

Side effects for each will vary, but nitrates commonly cause: 

• Reflex tachycardia 
• Headache 
• Orthostatic hypotension  

[10] 

Common side effects of hydralazine are headaches, heart palpitations, and myalgias. Minoxidil causes excessive hair growth, weight gain, and fluid retention [3]. Additionally, nitroprusside can potentially cause cyanide toxicity.  

Vasodilators have varying degrees of contraindications, such as nitrates are avoided in patients with an inferior myocardial infarction. Hydralazine should not be given to patients with coronary artery disease, angina, or rheumatic heart disease. Healthcare providers should be aware of contraindications and monitor patients’ blood pressure and potential side effects [10]. 

Combination Antihypertensives 

Many antihypertensive medications come in combined forms, such as ACE inhibitors and thiazide diuretics, beta-blockers and diuretics, or calcium channel blockers and ACE inhibitors. The mechanism of action for combination antihypertensives depends on the blend of medications [3]. 

Considerations for Prescribers 

This section reviews potential considerations when prescribing antihypertensives. 

When prescribing antihypertensive medications, there are several factors that healthcare providers must consider. The route is typically determined by the healthcare setting and dosage by the underlying treatment goals. Again, healthcare providers should follow current guidelines when initiating or titrating antihypertensive medications.  

Healthcare providers must complete a thorough health history, and review lab values, and contraindications as mentioned above. Monitoring kidney function and electrolyte values is imperative while any patient is taking antihypertensive medications.  

While a single antihypertensive medication is recommended for initial treatment, there are some scenarios where combination therapy or combination antihypertensives are recommended [14]. 

Healthcare providers should also discuss the potential side effects of antihypertensives with patients and what to do if they are experiencing symptoms. For instance, if a patient reports syncope, they should be advised to go to the emergency room or be seen immediately for further evaluation. Also, healthcare providers must encourage patients to monitor their heart rate and blood pressure at home and abide by administration parameters.  

For example, instruct patients who are taking beta-blockers to measure their blood pressure and heart rate before taking their medication. If their heart rate is below 60 beats per minute, then they should not take the medication [14].  

If a patient is experiencing side effects from an antihypertensive medication, then another alternative should be selected. 

Upcoming Research 

This section reviews upcoming research and medications for hypertension treatment. 

Research on antihypertensive medications has slowed throughout the years. Some clinical trials were performed on the potential of endothelin receptor antagonists to reduce hypertension. However, some studies found several unwanted side effects, and thus clinical use was stopped for safety reasons.  

An endothelin-A and endothelin-B receptor blocker, called aprocinentan, has shown promise for the treatment of resistant hypertension by lowering blood pressure and decreasing vascular resistance.  

Research on sodium-glucose transport protein (SGLT2) inhibitors, which are typically used for the treatment of type II diabetes mellitus, is also ongoing. SGLT2 inhibitors may promote blood pressure reduction through diuresis and reduce sympathetic tone [21]. 

Conclusion

If hypertension is left untreated, it can lead to serious health complications, including death. When selecting antihypertensive treatment, healthcare providers should understand the pharmacokinetics of each drug class along with potential side effects and contraindications. They should also follow current clinical guidelines for an evidence-based approach. 

Final Reflection Questions 

• Which antihypertensive medication is often prescribed during pregnancy? 
• Which lab values are important when monitoring patients on each antihypertensive medication? 
• Which antihypertensive medications cause hypokalemia? 
• Which antihypertensive medications cause hyperkalemia? 

Definition 

Migraines are recurrent, pulsating headaches often accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, sensitivity to light, and sensitivity to sound. According to recent studies by (17), migraines are recognized as a complex neurological disorder involving abnormal brain activity and a cascade of events leading to pain and associated symptoms.  

The impact of migraines extends beyond physical pain, influencing various aspects of life, and recent literature by (14) highlights the profound effect on the quality of life, with disruptions in daily activities, work, and social interactions. For example, a professional experiencing frequent migraines might struggle to meet work deadlines and engage in social events. Recent advancements in diagnostic criteria by (15) emphasize the importance of a precise definition to ensure appropriate treatment strategies. Therefore, understanding the definition is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective communication between healthcare providers and patients. 

Migraine Medications 

Understanding the various classes of migraine medications is like having a diverse toolkit to address the complexities of this neurological disorder. By exploring the different classes of medications, healthcare professionals can tailor their approach and make informed decisions based on individual patient profiles and specific migraine characteristics (20).  

It is crucial to recognize that migraine medications are not one-size-fits-all. Each patient is unique, and their response to medications may vary. Recent literature by (12) emphasizes the importance of an individualized approach when considering the best medication for each patient. Here’s a list of migraine medications in addition to important details to consider:  

Triptans  

Triptans are a class of medications specifically designed for the acute treatment of migraines. According to (39), they are not meant for preventive use but are highly effective in providing relief during an ongoing migraine attack. They work by narrowing blood vessels and inhibiting the release of certain chemicals in the brain associated with migraine symptoms (39). Let’s see more details below as described by (7), (39), (29). 

Drug Class 

Belonging to the serotonin (5-HT) receptor agonists class, Triptans modulate the effects of serotonin receptors in the brain. The various types of Triptans include Sumatriptan, Rizatriptan, Eletriptan, and others. Each Triptan has unique characteristics, such as the onset of action and duration, allowing healthcare professionals to tailor prescriptions based on individual patient needs. 

Benefits 

Triptans offer several benefits in the management of migraines. One of the primary advantages is their ability to provide rapid and effective relief from migraine symptoms, including headache pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound. The prompt onset of action is particularly valuable for individuals aiming to resume their daily activities quickly. Triptans are available in various formulations, including oral tablets, nasal sprays, and injectables, allowing for flexibility in administration. 

Side Effects 

While generally well-tolerated, Triptans may cause side effects. Common side effects include mild sensations of warmth or tingling, dizziness, and tightness or pressure in the chest. It is crucial for healthcare professionals to consider the patient's medical history and potential contraindications, such as cardiovascular issues, before prescribing Triptans. In rare cases, more severe side effects like chest pain and changes in heart rate may occur, necessitating immediate medical attention. 

Clinical Effects 

The clinical effects of Triptans are profound, offering relief to individuals experiencing acute migraine attacks. The primary outcomes include: 

• Pain Relief: Triptans are highly effective in reducing the intensity of migraine-associated pain. By targeting the vascular and neuronal components of migraines, these drugs provide rapid relief, allowing patients to resume their normal activities. 
• Relief of Associated Symptoms: Beyond pain relief, Triptans address accompanying symptoms such as nausea, photophobia, and phonophobia. This comprehensive effect enhances the overall patient experience during a migraine episode. 
• Prevention of Migraine Progression: Triptans, when administered early in the migraine attack, can prevent the progression of the headache phase to more severe stages. This early intervention is crucial for optimizing outcomes and minimizing the impact of migraines on daily life. 
• Improvement in Functional Impairment: Migraines often result in functional impairment, limiting individuals' ability to perform daily tasks. Triptans restore functional capacity, allowing patients to regain control over their activities. 

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDSs)  

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, commonly known as NSAIDs, constitute a class of medications used in the treatment of migraines. According to (6), these drugs are characterized by their anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic properties. NSAIDs are versatile, as they are not exclusively used for migraines but are also used for various other pain and inflammatory conditions (6). Let’s see more details below as described by (25), (40), (6) and (28). 

Drug Class 

NSAIDs encompass a broad class of medications, including well-known examples such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin. They function by inhibiting enzymes called cyclooxygenases (COX), thereby reducing the production of inflammatory prostaglandins. This mechanism provides relief from pain and mitigates inflammation associated with migraines. 

Benefits 

The primary benefit of NSAIDs in migraine management lies in their ability to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. They are particularly effective for individuals experiencing mild to moderate migraines. NSAIDs offer a rapid onset of action, making them suitable for individuals seeking prompt relief. Additionally, these medications are available over-the-counter in many formulations, providing accessibility for patients. 

Side Effects 

While NSAIDs are generally well-tolerated, they may cause side effects, especially with prolonged or excessive use. Common side effects include gastrointestinal issues such as stomach upset or ulcers. Healthcare professionals need to consider a patient's medical history, including conditions like gastric ulcers, before prescribing NSAIDs. In rare cases, more severe side effects like cardiovascular events may occur, emphasizing the importance of cautious use. 

Clinical Effects 

The clinical effects of NSAIDs in migraine management encompass various aspects. Here’s a list of some of them. 

• Pain Relief: NSAIDs are effective in providing pain relief during acute migraine attacks. By reducing prostaglandin levels, they alleviate headache symptoms and contribute to the overall comfort of individuals experiencing migraines. 
• Inhibition of Inflammatory Responses: The anti-inflammatory properties of NSAIDs are particularly beneficial when migraines are associated with inflammatory processes. NSAIDs help mitigate inflammation, reducing the severity and duration of migraine attacks. 
• Improvement in Associated Symptoms: Beyond pain relief, NSAIDs address associated symptoms such as nausea and photophobia, enhancing the overall patient experience during a migraine episode. 
• Prevention of Migraine Progression: When administered early in the migraine attack, NSAIDs can prevent the progression of headaches to more severe stages. This early intervention is critical for optimizing outcomes and minimizing the impact of migraines on daily life. 

Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide (CGRP) Inhibitors 

Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) inhibitors represent a modern class of medications revolutionizing the landscape of migraine management. According to (11), these drugs specifically target CGRP, a neuropeptide involved in dilating blood vessels and transmitting pain signals. By inhibiting CGRP, these inhibitors aim to modulate migraine pathways and reduce the frequency and severity of attacks (11). Let’s see more details below as described by (23) and (11). 

Drug Class 

CGRP inhibitors belong to a unique drug class designed explicitly for migraine prevention. Examples of CGRP inhibitors include Erenumab, Fremanezumab, and Galcanezumab. These medications are administered via subcutaneous injections, typically monthly or quarterly. The focus on preventive therapy distinguishes CGRP inhibitors from acute treatment options like Triptans. 

Benefits 

The primary benefit of CGRP inhibitors lies in their efficacy in preventing migraines. Clinical trials have demonstrated a significant reduction in the frequency of monthly migraine attacks among individuals using CGRP inhibitors. This preventive approach is especially valuable for those with frequent and debilitating migraines, offering a chance to enhance their quality of life. 

Moreover, CGRP inhibitors are well-tolerated with fewer side effects than other preventive medications. They provide a targeted and specific intervention, addressing the underlying mechanisms of migraines without causing widespread effects on other bodily functions. 

Side Effects 

While generally well-tolerated, CGRP inhibitors may have some side effects. Local injection site reactions, such as redness or swelling, are common but typically mild. It is crucial for healthcare professionals to monitor and address any adverse effects promptly. Additionally, ongoing research is essential to further understand the long-term safety profile of these medications. 

Clinical Effects 

The clinical effects of CGRP inhibitors are transformative in the realm of migraine management, offering a novel approach to prevention. Primary clinical effects include the following: 

• Reduction in Migraine Frequency: One of the hallmark effects of CGRP inhibitors is a significant reduction in the frequency of migraine attacks. By consistently blocking CGRP receptors, these medications disrupt the migraine cascade, leading to a sustained preventive effect. 
• Improvement in Migraine Severity: CGRP inhibitors not only reduce the frequency but also contribute to a decrease in the severity of migraine attacks. This comprehensive effect enhances the overall quality of life for individuals suffering from chronic migraines. 
• Enhanced Functional Capacity: Migraines often result in functional impairment, limiting individuals' ability to perform daily tasks. CGRP inhibitors restore functional capacity, allowing patients to regain control over their activities and participate more fully in their daily lives. 
• Well-Tolerated Profile: CGRP inhibitors are generally well-tolerated, with a favorable side effect profile. This characteristic enhances patient adherence to preventive treatment, a critical factor in long-term migraine management. 

Beta-Blockers 

Beta-blockers are a class of medications that have found a significant place in migraine management. Initially developed for cardiovascular conditions, beta-blockers have demonstrated efficacy in preventing migraines by reducing the frequency and severity of attacks (32). According to (32), these medications work by blocking the effects of adrenaline, leading to reduced heart rate and blood pressure. Let’s see more details below as described by (32) and (27). 

Drug Class 

Beta-blockers encompass various medications, with examples such as propranolol, metoprolol, and timolol commonly prescribed for migraine prevention. These drugs fall into the broader category of antihypertensive medications but are repurposed for their preventive benefits in migraine care. Unlike acute treatments, which provide relief during an ongoing attack, beta-blockers are taken regularly to reduce the overall occurrence of migraines. 

Benefits 

The primary benefit of beta-blockers in migraine management is their preventive action. Clinical studies have shown that beta-blockers can significantly reduce the frequency of migraines, making them particularly suitable for individuals with chronic or frequent attacks. This preventive approach aims to enhance the overall quality of life for those who experience migraines regularly. 

Beta-blockers are especially beneficial for individuals with comorbid conditions such as hypertension or heart disease. By addressing both cardiovascular concerns and migraines, these medications offer a comprehensive therapeutic approach. 

Side Effects 

While generally well-tolerated, beta-blockers may cause side effects that individuals need to be aware of. Common side effects include fatigue, dizziness, and changes in sleep patterns. Healthcare professionals need to monitor patients regularly and adjust the dosage or consider alternative medications if side effects become problematic. Beta-blockers are typically avoided in individuals with certain heart conditions, emphasizing the importance of an individualized approach. 

Clinical Effects 

The clinical effects of beta-blockers in migraine management encompass various dimensions. See some examples below: 

• Reduction in Migraine Frequency: Beta-blockers are known for their ability to reduce the frequency of migraine attacks significantly. This preventive effect is especially valuable for individuals experiencing chronic migraines, enhancing their overall quality of life. 
• Alleviation of Migraine Severity: Beyond frequency reduction, beta-blockers contribute to a decrease in the severity of migraine attacks. This comprehensive effect enhances the overall comfort of individuals during migraine episodes. 
• Improvement in Associated Symptoms: Beta-blockers have been shown to address associated symptoms such as nausea and sensitivity to light. By modulating the autonomic nervous system, these medications offer a holistic approach to migraine management. 
• Cardiovascular Benefits: Beta-blockers provide additional benefits for individuals with comorbidities due to their primary use in cardiovascular conditions. This dual action allows for comprehensive management of both migraine and cardiovascular health. 

Anticonvulsants 

Anticonvulsants, originally developed to control seizures in epilepsy, have emerged as a valuable class of medications in the preventive management of migraines (9). According to (9), these drugs, also known as antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), work by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain and reducing the frequency and severity of migraine attacks. Let’s see more details below as described by (32) and (9). 

Drug Class 

Anticonvulsants comprise a diverse class of medications, including Topiramate, Valproic acid, and Gabapentin. While their primary use may be in epilepsy, the preventive benefits of certain anticonvulsants extend to migraines. These medications are taken regularly to provide ongoing protection against migraines. 

Benefits 

The primary benefit of anticonvulsants in migraine management is their preventive action. Clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy of certain anticonvulsants, such as topiramate, in significantly reducing the frequency of migraines. This preventative approach is particularly suitable for individuals with chronic or frequent attacks, aiming to improve overall quality of life. 

Anticonvulsants are especially valuable for individuals who may not find relief or experience intolerable side effects with other preventive medications. The versatility of this drug class allows healthcare professionals to tailor treatment plans based on individual patient characteristics and responses. 

Side Effects 

While generally well-tolerated, anticonvulsants may cause side effects that individuals need to be aware of. Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, and gastrointestinal disturbances. It is crucial for healthcare professionals to monitor patients regularly and adjust the dosage or consider alternative medications if side effects become problematic. Additionally, certain anticonvulsants may have specific considerations, such as the need to regularly monitor liver function in individuals taking Valproic acid. 

Clinical Effects 

The clinical effects of anticonvulsants in migraine management encompass the following dimensions: 

• Reduction in Migraine Frequency: Anticonvulsants are known for their ability to significantly reduce the frequency of migraine attacks. This preventive effect is particularly valuable for individuals experiencing chronic migraines, substantially improving their overall quality of life. 
• Alleviation of Migraine Severity: Beyond frequency reduction, anticonvulsants contribute to a decrease in the severity of migraine attacks. This comprehensive effect enhances the overall comfort of individuals during migraine episodes. 
• Improvement in Associated Symptoms: By modulating neurotransmission and neuronal excitability, Anticonvulsants address associated symptoms such as nausea and sensitivity to light. This holistic approach contributes to a more comprehensive management of migraines. 
• Beneficial in Comorbid Conditions: Anticonvulsants, due to their broader neurological effects, can be helpful for individuals with comorbid conditions such as epilepsy or mood disorders. This dual benefit allows for comprehensive management and improves overall well-being. 

Clinical Criteria for Prescribing 

In migraine management, prescribing medications involves a comprehensive understanding of clinical criteria to tailor interventions effectively. This section explores the clinical factors guiding the prescription of migraine medications and the decision-making process for healthcare providers. Here are some of the factors. 

Frequency and Severity of Migraine Attacks 

An essential consideration in prescribing migraine medications is the frequency and severity of migraine attacks experienced by the patient. For instance, a patient suffering from frequent and severe attacks may benefit from preventive medications to reduce the overall frequency and intensity of migraines (31).  

Individual Response to Pain and Associated Symptoms 

The subjective experience of pain and associated symptoms during migraines varies among individuals. A patient who experiences intense nausea and vomiting may require medications with rapid onset and alternative formulations, such as nasal sprays or injectables, to address these specific symptoms effectively (8).  

Impact on Daily Functioning and Quality of Life 

Prescribing migraine medications involves considering the impact of migraines on a patient's daily functioning and overall quality of life (24). For example, a working professional with migraines that significantly impede productivity may require acute medications with fast-acting formulations for quick relief during work hours.  

Comorbid Conditions and Patient Preferences 

Comorbid conditions and patient preferences are pivotal factors in prescribing migraine medications. A patient with comorbid cardiovascular issues may require careful consideration of medication options to mitigate potential risks (2).  

Pharmacokinetics 

Understanding the pharmacokinetics of migraine management medications enables healthcare professionals to tailor treatment plans based on individual patient characteristics, ensuring maximum therapeutic benefit. Let’s get into more details for each of the medications listed above: 

Triptans 

Absorption 

Triptans exhibit distinct pharmacokinetic properties that influence their efficacy and onset of action. Following oral administration, Triptans are absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract and the rate of absorption varies among different Triptans, contributing to differences in their clinical profiles. (39) 

Distribution 

Upon absorption, Triptans undergo distribution to reach target sites in the body, primarily the central nervous system. Their lipophilic nature allows them to penetrate the blood-brain barrier, enabling interaction with serotonin receptors implicated in migraine pathophysiology. The distribution of Triptans influences their ability to exert effects centrally and peripherally. (39) 

Metabolism 

Metabolism is a crucial aspect of triptan pharmacokinetics, occurring predominantly in the liver. The enzyme responsible for triptan metabolism is monoamine oxidase-A (MAO-A). (39) 

Excretion 

The final phase in the pharmacokinetic journey of Triptans is excretion, primarily through renal and biliary routes. Renal excretion eliminates the unchanged drug and its metabolites, while biliary excretion expels metabolites via the bile into the gastrointestinal tract. The interplay between metabolism and excretion contributes to the overall pharmacokinetic profile of Triptans. Variations in renal function may influence the elimination of the half-life of certain Triptans, impacting the duration of their therapeutic effect. (39) 

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) 

Absorption 

Following oral administration, NSAIDs are absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, with the rate and extent varying among different agents. For instance, ibuprofen exhibits rapid absorption, making it suitable for prompt relief during acute migraine attacks. On the other hand, naproxen has a longer duration of action due to slower absorption, making it well-suited for sustained pain relief. (28) 

Distribution 

Upon absorption, NSAIDs embark on a journey of distribution throughout the body. Their lipophilic nature allows for penetration into various tissues, including inflamed areas. The distribution influences the drug's ability to reach target sites, such as the central nervous system, where NSAIDs exert their analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. This property is particularly relevant in the context of migraines, where the inflammatory component contributes to pain. (28) 

Metabolism 

Metabolism plays a role in shaping the pharmacokinetic profile of NSAIDs, occurring primarily in the liver. Enzymes such as cytochrome P450 contribute to the biotransformation of NSAIDs into metabolites. The metabolism of NSAIDs can vary among individuals, impacting factors such as drug efficacy and potential side effects. For example, the metabolism of certain NSAIDs, like diclofenac, can be influenced by genetic polymorphisms, contributing to interindividual variability in drug response. (21) 

Excretion 

The final phase of the NSAID journey involves excretion, predominantly through the kidneys. Unchanged NSAIDs and their metabolites are eliminated via urine. Considerations of renal function are crucial in the context of NSAID use, as impaired kidney function can lead to prolonged drug half-life and increased risk of adverse effects. Regular monitoring of renal function is essential, especially in individuals with conditions that may affect kidney health. (21) 

Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide (CGRP) 

Absorption 

Administered via subcutaneous injections, CGRP inhibitors such as Erenumab and Fremanezumab enter the bloodstream directly, allowing for precise control over drug levels. This mode of administration ensures a reliable and consistent absorption rate, contributing to the predictability of therapeutic outcomes. (11) 

Distribution 

Following absorption, CGRP inhibitors are distributed throughout the body, focusing on target sites implicated in migraine pathophysiology, like the central nervous system. (11) 

Metabolism 

Unlike many traditional medications, CGRP inhibitors follow a different path in terms of metabolism. Due to their biotechnological origin as monoclonal antibodies, these drugs do not undergo significant hepatic metabolism. Instead, proteolytic enzymes break them down into smaller peptides and amino acids, which occur systemically. This unique metabolic pathway aligns with the specificity of CGRP inhibitors, minimizing interactions with hepatic enzymes and potential drug-drug interactions. (37) 

Excretion 

The final phase of the CGRP inhibitor journey involves excretion, primarily through the kidneys via renal clearance. This aspect is particularly relevant when considering individual patient factors such as renal function, as impaired kidney function can affect the clearance of CGRP inhibitors and influence their duration of action. (37) 

Beta-Blockers 

Absorption 

Administered orally, beta-blockers like propranolol and metoprolol are absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract. Depending on the condition of the gastrointestinal tract, the rate and extent of absorption can vary, impacting the time it takes for these medications to reach therapeutic levels in the bloodstream. (27) 

Distribution 

Once absorbed, beta-blockers embark on distribution throughout the body. Their lipophilic nature enables penetration through cell membranes, allowing them to reach target tissues, including the heart and blood vessels. In the context of migraine management, the distribution properties of beta-blockers are crucial for their ability to modulate the autonomic nervous system centrally and peripherally, leading to the desired preventive effects against migraines. (27) 

Metabolism 

The metabolism of beta-blockers occurs primarily in the liver, where enzymes play a role in their biotransformation. Genetic polymorphisms in these enzymes can contribute to interindividual variability in drug metabolism. (27) 

Excretion 

The final phase of the beta-blocker journey involves excretion, predominantly through the kidneys, where unchanged beta-blockers and their metabolites are eliminated via urine. The renal excretion of these drugs is relevant when considering individual patient factors, such as renal function, as impaired kidney function can affect the clearance of beta-blockers and influence their duration of action. (27) 

Anticonvulsants 

Absorption  

Typically administered orally, anticonvulsants like topiramate and valproic acid are absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract. The rate and extent of absorption play a crucial role in determining the onset of action and overall effectiveness. (9) 

Distribution  

Following absorption, anticonvulsants undergo distribution throughout the body. Their lipophilic nature allows them to penetrate the blood-brain barrier, reaching target sites in the central nervous system relevant to migraine pathophysiology. The distribution properties of anticonvulsants contribute to their ability to modulate neuronal excitability centrally and exert preventive effects against migraines. (9) 

Metabolism 

Metabolism is a crucial aspect of anticonvulsant pharmacokinetics. This occurs predominantly in the liver and enzymes play an important role in the biotransformation of anticonvulsants into metabolites. The metabolism of anticonvulsants can vary among individuals, impacting factors such as drug efficacy and potential side effects. For example, valproic acid undergoes extensive hepatic metabolism, and variations in enzyme activity can lead to interindividual variability in drug response. (30) 

Excretion  

The final phase in the anticonvulsant journey involves excretion, primarily through the kidneys. Unchanged anticonvulsants and their metabolites are eliminated via urine. This renal excretion is relevant when considering individual patient factors such as renal function, as impaired kidney function can affect the clearance of anticonvulsants and influence their duration of action. (30) 

Warnings Related to Migraine Medications 

Understanding potential warnings related to migraine medications is essential for healthcare professionals to ensure safe and effective treatment. Here are some factors to consider.  

Medication Safety 

Migraine medications, whether preventive or acute, come with specific warnings that need careful attention. For instance, some medications may have contraindications for individuals with certain medical conditions or those taking specific medications concurrently. According to (34), healthcare providers must be vigilant in assessing patient medical histories to identify potential contraindications. 

Addressing Cardiovascular Risks 

Certain migraine medications, such as Triptans, may pose cardiovascular risks, especially in individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions (35). Therefore, it is crucial for healthcare providers to assess patients' cardiovascular health and consider alternative medications or dose adjustments for those at higher risk. For example, a patient with a history of myocardial infarction may be advised to avoid Triptans, and a different class of medication, like NSAIDs, may be recommended. 

Pregnancy and Lactation Considerations 

Warnings related to pregnancy and lactation are paramount. Some migraine medications may have potential risks during pregnancy, and healthcare providers must carefully weigh the benefits and risks when prescribing for pregnant or lactating individuals. For instance, valproic acid is associated with an increased risk of congenital disabilities, and alternative medications with a safer profile may be preferred for pregnant individuals seeking migraine relief (1). 

Managing Medication Overuse Headaches (MOH) 

A significant warning associated with migraine medications is the risk of medication overuse headaches (34). To prevent this problem, healthcare providers need to educate patients about the importance of adhering to prescribed dosages and avoiding excessive use of acute medications. Offering alternative strategies, such as lifestyle modifications and preventive medications, can be crucial in managing and preventing MOH. 

Alternatives to Migraine Medications 

According to (5), integrating alternative methods provides additional tools for healthcare professionals and empowers individuals seeking a more comprehensive and personalized approach to migraine care. Here are some alternative approaches: 

Holistic Lifestyle Modifications 

Holistic management of migraines involves lifestyle modifications that can significantly impact the frequency and severity of attacks. For instance, incorporating regular physical activity, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, and managing stress through practices like mindfulness and yoga have shown promise in reducing migraine occurrence (5). Educating patients about these lifestyle changes empowers them to actively participate in their migraine management. 

Biofeedback and Relaxation Techniques 

Biofeedback and relaxation techniques offer non-pharmacological interventions that enhance self-awareness and control over physiological responses (22). These approaches teach individuals to recognize and manage stress triggers, ultimately reducing the frequency of migraines. For example, biofeedback training that monitors muscle tension and provides real-time feedback can effectively prevent migraines (22). 

Acupuncture and Acupressure 

According to (22), traditional Chinese medicine practices like acupuncture and acupressure have gained recognition for their potential in migraine management. Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body, while acupressure applies pressure to these points. Research suggests that these methods reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines, providing an alternative avenue for individuals seeking non-pharmacological options (22). 

Nutritional Approaches 

Dietary modifications and nutritional approaches also play a role in holistic migraine management. For example, identifying and avoiding potential trigger foods, such as those containing tyramine or artificial additives, can be beneficial (10). Additionally, ensuring adequate hydration and incorporating anti-inflammatory foods into the diet may contribute to overall well-being and migraine prevention (10).  

Nursing Considerations 

Nurses play a pivotal role in the holistic care of individuals with migraines, contributing to both the preventive and acute aspects of management through various considerations. Here are some important considerations. 

Assessment and Patient Education 

A thorough assessment includes evaluating the frequency, duration, and severity of migraines and identifying triggers and associated symptoms (3). Additionally, nurses play a key role in patient education, ensuring individuals clearly understand their migraine condition, the prescribed medications, and potential side effects. For instance, educating a patient about the importance of early intervention with acute medications during a migraine attack empowers them to take timely action. 

Monitoring and Adverse Event Management 

Nurses actively monitor individuals undergoing migraine treatment, monitoring the response to medications and any potential adverse events. Regular monitoring includes assessing the effectiveness of preventive measures, tracking the frequency of migraine attacks, and identifying patterns that may require adjustments in the treatment plan (34). If adverse events or side effects occur, nurses are instrumental in managing them promptly, collaborating with healthcare providers to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals. 

Supportive Care and Holistic Approach 

Nursing considerations extend beyond medication management to supportive care and a holistic approach. Nurses provide emotional support, helping individuals cope with the impact of migraines on their daily lives. Moreover, they collaborate with other healthcare professionals to integrate holistic approaches such as lifestyle modifications, stress management, and alternative therapies into the overall care plan. According to (34), this collaborative and patient-centered approach enhances the effectiveness of migraine management. 

Documentation and Communication 

Accurate and thorough documentation of relevant patient information, medication administration details, and responses to treatment is a fundamental nursing responsibility in migraine management (34). In addition to that, clear and concise communication between nursing staff, healthcare providers, and other healthcare team members ensures continuity of care (34).  

Upcoming Research 

Staying ahead of the curve is essential for healthcare professionals to provide cutting-edge care and optimize outcomes for individuals with migraines. Upcoming research include the following: 

Advancements in Targeted Therapies 

Recent research has unveiled promising advancements in targeted therapies for migraine management. For example, research about monoclonal antibodies targeting the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) pathway is proving to be effective in preventing migraines (12).  

Digital Health and Telemedicine in Migraine Care 

Integrating digital health technologies and telemedicine is a burgeoning trend in migraine management research. Smartphone applications for tracking migraine patterns, wearable devices for monitoring physiological parameters, and virtual consultations enable a more comprehensive and patient-centric approach (12). This shift toward digital solutions enhances data collection and facilitates remote monitoring and timely interventions, particularly in scenarios where in-person visits may be challenging (12). 

Genetic and Personalized Medicine Approaches 

Advancements in genetic research are paving the way for personalized medicine in migraine care. Understanding the genetic underpinnings of migraines can guide the development of targeted interventions tailored to an individual's unique genetic profile. This personalized approach could revolutionize treatment strategies, allowing for more precise and effective interventions based on the genetic factors contributing to a person's migraines (13). 

Exploration of Lifestyle and Environmental Influences 

Upcoming research increasingly focuses on the intricate interplay between lifestyle, environmental factors, and migraines; and studies examining the impact of factors such as diet, sleep patterns, and environmental triggers contribute valuable insights (13). For instance, research may reveal specific dietary components that act as triggers or protective factors for migraines, allowing healthcare professionals to offer targeted lifestyle recommendations. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, this course focused on empowering learners not only with knowledge about migraine management, but with the practical insights and skills crucial for excellence in migraine care. The journey doesn’t end here; it extends into the realm of compassionate practice, where the combination of scientific understanding and safety measures transforms care providers into formidable advocates for those navigating the complexities of migraines. 

Asthma Treatment and Monitoring

Introduction   

When hearing the phrase asthma, what comes to mind? If you're an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) with prescriptive authority, you've definitely heard of asthma before. Even as a nurse or maybe before nursing school, conversations about prescription drug use and respiratory health existed every so often.

Presently, patients seek guidance and information on various health topics from APRNs, including medication management and respiratory health. The information in this course will serve as a valuable resource for APRNs with prescriptive authority of all specialties, education levels, and backgrounds, to learn more about medications that can treat and manage asthma.

Defining Asthma 

What Is Asthma? 

Asthma is a non-communicable chronic health condition that affects the airways of the lungs and affects millions of people nationwide. Asthma is often diagnosed in childhood and can resolve in adulthood or continue for the rest of a patient's life. Several studies postulate the cause of asthma, but there is no definitive cause.  

Genetics, age, environmental exposures, smoking, and a history of allergies are thought to play a role in asthma severity and development. Clinical presentation of asthma often includes trouble breathing, chronic airway inflammation, and airway hyperresponsiveness. Assessment for asthma often includes patient history, clinical presentation, spirometry testing, and pulmonary function tests (PFTs). 

What Are the Stages of Asthma? 

Since asthma is a chronic condition, several established guidelines can be used to determine the severity of asthma and explore possible medication options. Depending on the stage of asthma and patient response to existing therapy, treatment and management vary.  

The four stages of asthma include intermittent, mild, moderate, and severe. Based on the 2020 National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP) guidelines, here is the standard criteria for what constitutes each stage of asthma (2). 

Intermittent asthma is characterized with the following clinical presentation and assessment (2): 

• Patient history of respiratory symptoms, such as cough, trouble breathing, wheezing, or chest tightness <2 times a week 
• Asthmatic flare-ups are short-lived with varying intensity  
• Symptoms at night are <2 a month 
• No asthmatic symptoms between flare-ups 
• Lung function test FEV 1 at >80% above normal values 
• Peak flow has <20% variability am-to-am or am-to-pm, day-to-day 

Mild persistent asthma is characterized with the following clinical presentation and assessment (2): 

• Patient history of respiratory symptoms, such as cough, trouble breathing, wheezing, or chest tightness 3-6 times a week 
• Asthmatic flare-ups may affect activity level and can vary in intensity 
• Symptoms at night are 3-4 times a month 
• Lung function test FEV1 is >80% above normal values 
• Peak flow has less than 20-30% variability 

Moderate persistent asthma is characterized with the following clinical presentation and assessment (2): 

• Patient history of respiratory symptoms, such as cough, trouble breathing, wheezing, or chest tightness daily 
• Asthmatic flare-ups may affect activity level and can vary in intensity 
• Symptoms at night are >5 times a month 
• Lung function test FEV1 is 60%-80% of normal values 
• Peak flow has more than 30% variability 

Severe persistent asthma is characterized with the following clinical presentation and assessment (2): 

• Patient history of respiratory symptoms, such as cough, trouble breathing, wheezing, or chest tightness continuously  
• Asthmatic flare-ups affect activity level and often vary in intensity 
• Asthmatic symptoms at night are constant 
• Lung function test FEV1 is <60% of normal values 
• Peak flow has more than 30% variability 

Based on patient history, clinical presentation, and these criteria, treatment can be administered to decrease the symptoms of the patient. If a patient presents with symptoms that are outside of your scope of work or understanding, you can always refer patients to a pulmonologist or asthma specialist.  

Often times, more severe cases of asthma and asthma emergencies require increased frequency and dosing of asthma-related medications. Health care provider professional discretion and patient condition should guide therapy. Consider reviewing a patient's medication history, pulmonary function, and health history prior to prescribing asthma medications (1). 

What Are Asthmatic Emergencies? 

Asthmatic emergencies are if a patient has asthma symptoms that are beyond what they typically experience and are unable to function without immediate medical intervention. Asthma emergencies can occur as a result of a patient being unable to access their asthmatic medications, being exposed to a possible allergen, or being under increased stress on the body.  

Asthmatic emergencies often require collaborative medical intervention, increased dosages of medications discussed below, and patient education to prevent future asthmatic emergencies (1).  

What If Asthma Is Left Untreated? 

Depending on the clinical presentation and severity of asthma, asthma can cause several long-term complications if left untreated. If asthma is not properly managed, several complications, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), decreased lung function, permanent changes to the lungs' airways, and death can occur (1, 2).  

Defining Asthma Medications 

What Are Commonly Used Medications to Manage Asthma? 

Commonly used medications to manage asthma include inhaled corticosteroids, oral corticosteroids, short-acting beta agonists (SABAs), long-acting beta agonists (LABAs), long-acting muscarinic antagonists (LABAs), adenosine receptor antagonists, leukotriene modifiers, mast cell stabilizers, and monoclonal antibodies. The dosage, frequency, amount of asthma management medications, and medication administration route can all vary depending on clinical presentation, patient health history, and more.  

How and Where are Asthma Medications Used? 

Asthma medications can be used routinely or as needed for management of asthma symptoms depending on the patient. Asthma medications can be used at home, in public, and in health care facilities. Depending on the specific asthma medication and dosage, these medications can be taken by mouth, by an external device, such as an inhaler, via subcutaneous injection, or via intravenous solution (1).  

What Are the Clinical Criteria for Prescribing Asthma Medication? 

Clinical criteria for prescribing asthma medication can depend on the clinical presentation of a patient. Assessment of lung health and patient history are essential to determining the dosage and medications needed for adequate asthmatic symptom control.  

Clinical guidelines from reputable organizations, such as the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA), and the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) can provide insight into the latest recommendations for asthma management (1, 2). In addition, local laws or health departments might have recommendations for asthma medication guidelines.  

What Is the Average Cost for Asthma Medications? 

Cost for asthma medications can significantly vary depending on the type of medication, insurance, dosage, frequency, medication administration route, and other factors. Cost is among a leading reason why many patients cannot maintain their medication regime (3). If cost is a concern for your patient, consider reaching out to your local pharmacies or patient care teams to find cost effective solutions for your patients.  

Inhaled Corticosteroids Pharmacokinetics 

Health care provider professional discretion and patient condition should guide therapy. Consider reviewing a patient's medication history and health history prior to prescribing asthma medications.  

Drug Class – Inhaled Corticosteroids  

Commercially available inhaled corticosteroids include: ciclesonide (Alvesco HFA), fluticasone propionate (Flovent Diskus, Flovent HFA, Armon Digihaler), budesonide (Pulmicort Flexhaler), beclomethasone dipropionate (QVAR RediHaler), fluticasone furoate (Arnuity Ellipta), and mometasone furoate (Asmanex HFA, Asmanex Twisthaler).  

Clinical criteria for prescribing an inhaled corticosteroid includes adherence to the latest clinical guidelines, patient medical history, patient clinical presentation, and drug availability (4).  

Inhaled Corticosteroids Method of Action 

Inhaled corticosteroids have an intricate mechanism of action involving several responses to the immune system. Inhaled corticosteroids decrease the existing initial inflammatory response by decreasing the creation and slowing the release of inflammatory mediators. Common inflammatory mediators include histamine, cytokines, eicosanoids, and leukotrienes. Inhaled corticosteroids can also induce vasoconstrictive mechanisms, which, as a result, can lead to less blood flow, resulting in less discomfort and edema (4).  

In addition to anti-inflammatory properties, inhaled corticosteroids can create a localized immunosuppressive state that limits the airways' hypersensitivity reaction, which is thought to reduce bronchospasms and other asthma-associated symptoms. It is important to note that inhaled corticosteroids often do not produce therapeutic effects immediately, as many patients may not see a change in their asthma symptoms for at least a week after beginning inhaled corticosteroid therapy (4).  

Inhaled Corticosteroids Side Effects 

Every medication has the possibility of side effects, and inhaled corticosteroids are no exception. Common side effects of inhaled corticosteroids include oral candidiasis (thrush), throat irritation, headache, and cough.  

Patient education about rinsing their mouth and oral hygiene after use is essential to avoid the possibility of thrush and other oral infections and irritations. More severe side effects can include prolonged immunosuppression, reduction in bone density, and adrenal dysfunction (4).  

Inhaled Corticosteroids Alternatives 

While there are clinical criteria for asthma medications, everyone can respond to medications differently. Some patients might not report their symptoms alleviating with inhaled corticosteroids, so additional medication, increased dosage, a change in frequency, or a new medication class might need to be considered (4).  

Oral Corticosteroids Pharmacokinetics 

Health care provider professional discretion and patient condition should guide therapy. Consider reviewing a patient's medication history and health history prior to prescribing asthma medications.  

Drug Class – Oral Corticosteroids  

Commercially available oral corticosteroids include methylprednisolone, prednisolone, and prednisone. Clinical criteria for prescribing an oral corticosteroid includes adherence to the latest clinical guidelines, patient medical history, patient clinical presentation, and drug availability (4).  

Oral Corticosteroids Method of Action 

Methylprednisolone and prednisolone have a method of action as intermediate, long-lasting, synthetic glucocorticoids, have COX-2 inhibitory properties, and inhibit the creation of inflammatory cytokines (5). 

Prednisone is a prodrug to prednisolone and has anti-inflammatory and immunomodulating glucocorticoid properties. Prednisone has a method of decreasing inflammation by reversing increased capillary permeability and suppressing the movement of certain leukocytes (6).  

Oral Corticosteroids Side Effects 

Every medication has the possibility of side effects, and oral corticosteroids are no exception. Methylprednisolone and prednisolone have possible side effects of skin changes, weight gain, increased intraocular pressure, neuropsychiatric events, neutrophilia, immunocompromised state, fluid retention, and GI upset.  

Consider monitoring symptoms and overall health of patients on systemic corticosteroids to assess for long-term side effects (5). Prednisone has possible side effects of changes in blood glucose, changes in sleep habits, changes in appetite, increased bone loss, an immunocompromised state, changes in adrenal function, and changes in blood pressure (6).  

Oral Corticosteroids Alternatives 

While there are clinical criteria for asthma medications, everyone can respond to medications differently. Some patients might not report their symptoms alleviating with oral corticosteroids, so additional medication, increased dosage, a change in frequency, or a new medication class might need to be considered (6).  

Short-Acting Beta Agonists (SABAs)  

Health care provider professional discretion and patient condition should guide therapy. Consider reviewing a patient's medication history and health history prior to prescribing asthma medications.  

Drug Class – SABAs 

Common commercially available SABAs include albuterol sulfate (ProAir HFA, Proventil HFA, Ventolin HFA), albuterol sulfate inhalation powder (ProAir RespiClick, ProAir Digihaler), levalbuterol tartrate (Xopenex HFA), and levalbuterol hydrochloride (Xopenex) (4). 

SABAs Method of Action 

Short-acting beta-agonists (SABAs) have a rapid onset as broncho-dilating medications. SABAs, especially albuterol in emergent situations, are used often to quickly relax bronchial smooth muscle from the trachea to the bronchioles through action on the β2-receptors.  

While SABAs are effective bronchodilators in the short term for asthma symptoms, SABAs do not affect the underlying mechanism of inflammation. As a result, SABAs are often used for short-acting intervals, such as few hours, and have limited capabilities to prevent asthma exacerbations alone (4). SABAs can be administered via meter-dosed inhalers, intravenous, dry powder inhalers, orally, subcutaneously, or via nebulizer.  

SABAs Side Effects 

Every medication has the possibility of side effects, and SABAs are no exception. Because of the beta receptor agonisms, possible SABA side effects include increased heart rate, chest pain, chest palpitations, body tremors, and nervousness (4). Because of the short half-life of SABAs, chronic side effects are not typically observed.  

SABAs Alternatives 

While there are clinical criteria for asthma medications, everyone can respond to medications differently. Some patients might not report their symptoms alleviating with SABAs, so additional medication, increased dosage, a change in frequency, or an additional medication class might need to be considered (4).  

Long-Acting Beta Agonists (LABAs) 

Health care provider professional discretion and patient condition should guide therapy. Consider reviewing a patient's medication history and health history prior to prescribing asthma medications.  

Drug Class – LABAs 

Common commercially available LABAs are salmeterol and formoterol (7).  

LABAs Method of Action 

Long-acting beta-agonists (LABAs) have a rapid onset like SABAs, but also have a longer half-life. LABAs are used often as asthma maintenance medications to relax bronchial smooth muscle from the trachea to the bronchioles through action on the β2-receptors. While SABAs are effective bronchodilators in the short term for asthma symptoms, LABAs are effective bronchodilators in the long term for asthma symptoms.  

Like SABAs, LABAs do not affect the underlying mechanism of inflammation. LABAs can be administered via meter-dosed inhalers, intravenous, dry powder inhalers, orally, subcutaneously, or via nebulizer. LABAs are often effective for 12-hour durations (7). 

LABAs Side Effects 

Every medication has the possibility of side effects, and LABAs are no exception. Like SABAs, because of the beta receptor agonisms, possible LABA side effects include increased heart rate, chest pain, chest palpitations, body tremors, and nervousness (7). Other more prolonged side effects can include changes in blood glucose levels and changes in potassium levels with prolonged LABA use (7).  

LABAs Alternatives 

While there are clinical criteria for asthma medications, everyone can respond to medications differently. Some patients might not report their symptoms alleviating with LABAs, so additional medication, increased dosage, a change in frequency, or an additional medication class might need to be considered (4).  

In addition, there are combination inhaled corticosteroid/LABA medications that can be considered, such as fluticasone propionate and salmeterol (Advair Diskus, Advair HFA, AirDuo Digihaler, AirDuo RespiClick, Wixela Inhub), fluticasone furoate and vilanterol (Breo Ellipta), mometasone furoate and formoterol fumarate dihydrate (Dulera), and budesonide and formoterol fumarate dihydrate (Symbicort) (4). 

Long-Acting Muscarinic Antagonists (LAMAs) 

Health care provider professional discretion and patient condition should guide therapy. Consider reviewing a patient's medication history and health history prior to prescribing asthma medications.  

Drug Class – LAMAs 

Common commercially available LAMAs include two inhalation powders via inhalers known as tiotropium bromide (Spiriva Respimat) and fluticasone furoate, umeclidinium, and vilanterol (Trelegy Ellipta) (4).  

LAMAs Method of Action 

Both drugs mentioned above are long-acting muscarinic antagonists (LAMAs). LAMAs work to alleviate asthmatic symptoms by antagonizing the type 3 muscarinic receptors in bronchial smooth muscles, resulting in relaxation of muscles in the airway (4). Because LAMAs are long-acting, they are not recommended for cases of acute asthma exacerbations or asthmatic emergencies (4). 

LAMAs Side Effects 

Possible LAMA side effects include urinary retention, dry mouth, constipation, and glaucoma (4).  

LAMAs Alternatives 

While there are clinical criteria for asthma medications, everyone can respond to medications differently. Some patients might not report their symptoms alleviating with LAMAs, so additional medication, increased dosage, a change in frequency, or an additional medication class might need to be considered (4). 

Adenosine Receptor Antagonists Pharmacokinetics 

Health care provider professional discretion and patient condition should guide therapy. Consider reviewing a patient's medication history and health history prior to prescribing asthma medications.  

Drug Class – Adenosine Receptor Antagonists 

The commercially available adenosine receptor antagonist for asthma management is theophylline as a pill or intravenous (8). 

Adenosine Receptor Antagonists Method of Action 

The method of action for theophylline is acting as a nonselective adenosine receptor antagonist, acting as a competitive, nonselective phosphodiesterase inhibitor, and reducing airway responsiveness to histamine, allergens, and methacholine (8).  

Adenosine Receptor Antagonists Side Effects  

Common side effects of theophylline include GI upset, headache, dizziness, irritability, and arrythmias (8).  

Adenosine Receptor Antagonists Alternatives 

While there are clinical criteria for asthma medications, everyone can respond to medications differently. Some patients might not report their symptoms alleviating with theophylline, so additional medication, increased dosage, a change in frequency, or an additional medication class might need to be considered (4). 

Leukotriene Modifiers Pharmacokinetics 

Health care provider professional discretion and patient condition should guide therapy. Consider reviewing a patient's medication history and health history prior to prescribing asthma medications.  

Drug Class – Leukotriene Modifiers 

Commercially available leukotriene modifiers include montelukast (Singular) and zafirlukast (Accolate) as oral pills taken once a day. Zileuton (Zyflo CR) is a 5-lipoxygenase inhibitor that also modifies leukotriene activity (4).  

Leukotriene Modifiers Method of Action 

Montelukast and zafirlukast work to control asthma-related symptoms by targeting leukotrienes, which are eicosanoid inflammatory markers. Montelukast works in particular by blocking leukotriene D4 receptors in the lungs, thus allowing decreased inflammation in the lungs and increased relaxation of lung smooth muscle (9).  

Zafirlukast works by being a competitive antagonist at the cysteinyl leukotriene-1 receptor (CYSLTR1) (10). Zileuton is a 5-lipoxygenase inhibitor, in which 5-lipoxygenase is needed for leukotriene creation. Blocking 5-lipoxygenase decreases the formation of leukotrienes at several receptors. As a result of decreased leukotriene production, there is decreased inflammation, decreased mucus secretion, decreased bronchoconstriction (11). 

Leukotriene Modifiers Side Effects 

Possible side effects of montelukast include headaches, GI upset, and upset. Neuropsychiatric events, such as nightmares, changes in sleep, depression, and suicidal ideation are more severe side effects associated with montelukast.  

Possible side effects of zafirlukast include headache, GI upset, and hepatic dysfunction (9).  

Possible side effects of zileuton include hepatic dysfunction, changes in sleep, changes in mood, headaches, and GI upset. When the leukotriene modifiers, neuropsychiatric side effects are to be monitored for in particular, especially for suicidal ideation (9,10,11).  

Leukotriene Modifiers Alternatives 

Some patients might not report their symptoms alleviating with leukotriene modifiers, so additional medication, increased dosage, a change in frequency, or an additional medication class might need to be considered (4). 

Mast Cell Stabilizer Pharmacokinetics 

Health care provider professional discretion and patient condition should guide therapy. Consider reviewing a patient's medication history and health history prior to prescribing asthma medications.  

Drug Class – Mast Cell Stabilizer 

A commercially available mast cell stabilizer is cromolyn available via metered-dose inhaler and nebulizer solution (12).  

Mast Cell Stabilizer Method of Action 

Cromolyn has a method of action in which it inhibits the release of inflammatory mediators from cells, such as the release of histamine and leukotrienes (12).  

Mast Cell Stabilizer Side Effects 

Every medication has the possibility of side effects, and cromolyn is no exception. Common side effects of cromolyn include dry throat, throat irritation, drowsiness, dizziness, cough, headache, and GI upset (12).  

Mast Cell Stabilizer Alternatives 

While there are clinical criteria for asthma medications, everyone can respond to medications differently. Some patients might not report their symptoms alleviating with mast cell stabilizers, so additional medication, increased dosage, a change in frequency, or an additional medication class might need to be considered (4). 

Monoclonal Antibody Pharmacokinetics 

Health care provider professional discretion and patient condition should guide therapy. Consider reviewing a patient's medication history and health history prior to prescribing asthma medications.