J Opioid Manag. 2021 Nov-Dec;17(6):445-453. doi: 10.5055/jom.2021.0679.
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: The opioid epidemic is frequently discussed including the staggering numbers involved with coprescribing opioids and benzodiazepines associated with death. Community pharmacists, with the help of a system intervention, have a unique opportunity to help reduce the coprescribing of benzodiazepines and opioids and reduce the associated risk of death.
DESIGN: A single center retrospective chart review was conducted after a system intervention was placed, as a quality improvement project, from November 2019 to May 2020.
SETTING: Independent community pharmacy.
PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS: Data included demographics, dosing of each medication pre- and post-intervention, and naloxone status. Main outcome(s) measures: The primary outcome evaluated was reduction in dose/discontinuation of these prescriptions. The secondary outcome evaluated was the number of naloxone prescriptions ordered per protocol and picked up.
RESULTS: The primary outcome did not show statistical difference; however, the secondary outcomes showed statistical significance.
CONCLUSION: In conclusion, community pharmacists, with the help of evolving technologies, can reduce harm associated with the coprescribing of benzodiazepines and opioids.
PMID:34904693 | DOI:10.5055/jom.2021.0679
