Research Papers (2009 – 2013)

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Date added April 23, 2014
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Category 2013 CMRSC XXIII Montréal
Tags Session 8A
Author/Auteur Christine M. Wickens, Robert E. Mann, Anca Ialomiteanu, Jürgen Rehm, Benedikt Fischer, Gina Stoduto, Russell C. Callaghan, Gillian Sayer, Bruna Brands

Abstract

Production and distribution of prescription opioid analgesic drugs (POs) has increased immensely across the globe. Both medical (MPO) and non-medical (NMPO) use of opioid medication are associated with increased rates of morbidity and mortality, including possibly motor vehicle collisions (MVCs). The current study examined data from a population level survey to determine the impact of any PO, MPO, and NMPO use on MVC risk. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, no previous studies have contrasted MPO or NMPO use in terms of their impact on driver performance.

Methods: Data were based on the 2010-2011 Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Monitor, a regionally stratified general-population telephone survey of adults (N = 3,428). Three binary logistic regressions of self-reported collision involvement in the previous 12 months were conducted, each consisting of: (1) measures of demographic characteristics, driving exposure, and binge drinking; and (2) one of three measures of PO use (any PO use, MPO use, or NMPO use).

Results: Any PO use and MPO use were associated with increased MVC risk (Odds Ratios= 1.60 and 1.62, respectively). The odds ratio for NMPO use approached significance (Odds Ratio = 1.86, p= .09), also suggesting increased MVC risk.

Conclusions: These results suggested that doctor-prescribed PO use is associated with a 62% increase in MVC risk. NMPO use may also be associated with increased MVC risk. The magnitude of increased MVC risk associated with PO use was comparable to that of driving after alcohol or cannabis use. These results support the need for further research of the impact of MPO and NMPO use on MVC risk, which may have wide-ranging implications for physicians’ instructions to those patients prescribed opioid medications, and both legislation and public policy concerning drugged driving worldwide.

Christine M. Wickens, Robert E. Mann, Anca Ialomiteanu, Jürgen Rehm, Benedikt Fischer, Gina Stoduto, Russell C. Callaghan, Gillian Sayer, Bruna Brands