Opioid prescribing and social deprivation: A retrospective analysis of prescribing for CNCP in Liverpool CCG.

Emma K BegleyHelen M PooleHarry R SumnallBernhard F Frank Catharine Montgomery

Published in: PloS one (2023)

A small but significant proportion of CNCP patients across Liverpool are currently prescribed opioids above the recommended dose threshold of 120mg MED. Identification of fentanyl as a contributor to high dose prescribing resulted in changes to prescribing practice, and reports from NHS pain clinics that fewer patients require tapering from fentanyl. In conclusion, higher rates of high dose opioid prescribing continue to be evident in more socially deprived areas further increasing health inequalities.

Keyphrases

primary care
high dose
chronic pain
end stage renal disease
pain management
ejection fraction
newly diagnosed
adverse drug
chronic kidney disease
low dose
prognostic factors
mental health
public health
patient reported outcomes
emergency department
risk assessment