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Electrophoretic Delivery of γ-aminobutyric Acid GABA into Epileptic Focus Prevents Seizures in Mice
Published on: May 16, 2019
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Update to Gabapentinoid Use in the United States, 2002-2021.
Michael E Johansen1, Donovan T Maust2,3
1Grant Family Medicine, OhioHealth, Columbus, Ohio michael.johansen@ohiohealth.com.
Annals of Family Medicine
|January 22, 2024
Summary
Gabapentinoid use in adults increased from 4.0% in 2015 to 4.7% in 2021, particularly among those using other chronic pain medications. While new users initially outnumbered those stopping the medication, this trend is narrowing.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Gabapentinoids are frequently prescribed for various off-label conditions.
- Understanding trends in gabapentinoid utilization is crucial for public health.
- Previous research highlighted initial usage patterns, necessitating updated analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the prevalence and trends of gabapentinoid use in the adult population.
- To identify demographic and clinical factors associated with gabapentinoid users.
- To examine the dynamics of initiating, discontinuing, and continuing gabapentinoid therapy.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS) spanning 2002-2021.
- Investigated the proportion of adult gabapentinoid users and associated characteristics.
- Analyzed trends in new users versus those discontinuing gabapentinoids over time.
Main Results:
- Gabapentinoid use rose from 4.0% in 2015 to 4.7% in 2021.
- Individuals using other chronic pain medications were more likely to use gabapentinoids.
- Chronic pain conditions were significantly associated with gabapentinoid use between 2017-2021.
- The gap between new users and those stopping gabapentinoids narrowed in recent cohorts.
Conclusions:
- Gabapentinoid utilization continues to increase, especially in conjunction with other pain medications.
- Chronic pain conditions remain a key driver for gabapentinoid prescriptions.
- The rate of new gabapentinoid initiation is converging with discontinuation rates, suggesting a potential shift in long-term usage patterns.
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