About one in 30 people prescribed opioids end up as sustained users, a new study says. 

Recent Australian research sheds light on the usage patterns of prescription opioids, revealing that the majority of individuals who initiate treatment with these medications use them for a short period and in low quantities over a span of five years. 

The study, which analysed data from 3.4 million adults, also revealed that about 3 per cent of patients continue using opioids consistently over the long term. 

The investigation provides insights into various trajectories of opioid usage and highlights the significance of identifying those at risk of prolonged use.

The study, carried out in New South Wales, identified five distinct paths that individuals prescribed opioids tend to follow:

1. Very Low Use (75.4 per cent): This group used opioids sparingly and temporarily, representing the majority of cases.

2. Low Use (16.6 per cent): Individuals in this category used opioids in small amounts without significant fluctuations.

3. Moderate Decreasing to Low Use (2.6 per cent): This trajectory saw moderate usage gradually decrease to a lower level over time.

4. Low Increasing to Moderate Use (2.6 per cent): Here, individuals began with low usage that escalated to moderate levels.

5. Sustained Use (2.8 per cent): This group consisted of patients who maintained consistent or increasing opioid use over the entire period.

The researchers found that the minority engaging in sustained or escalating opioid use tended to be older and exhibited greater clinical complexity, including a higher prevalence of comorbidities. 

This group also had a higher consumption of psychotropic and other analgesic drugs, which may indicate more intense pain and treatment requirements.

The researchers say that understanding the diverse trajectories of opioid use can empower healthcare providers to proactively monitor patients, prevent misuse, and target interventions effectively.

The full study is accessible here.