Trends in Opioid Use and Prescribing in Medicare, 2006-2012.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

To determine characteristics and trends in opioid use, questionable use, and prescribing in Medicare.

Study setting

Opioid prescriptions filled through Medicare Part D for beneficiaries with full-year, fee-for-service Medicare coverage during 2006 to 2012.

Study design

Retrospective analysis of a 20 percent sample of Medicare claims data. Estimates are adjusted using multivariable regression analysis.

Data collection

Opioid use, opioid abuse, questionable opioid use, and opioid prescribing by specialty.

Principal findings

Opioid use in Medicare was stable from 2006 to 2012 on average. More than 1 in 3 beneficiaries filled an opioid prescription annually; about 1 in 10 were chronic opioid users. The distribution of opioid users shifted in favor

SUBMITTER: Axeen S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6153155 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature