Prevalence of abnormal urine drug tests during COVID-19 pandemic in the cancer patient population: retrospective study.

ABSTRACT

Background: Opioid misuse is a persistent concern, heightened by the COVID-19 pandemic. This study examines the risk factors contributing to elevated rates of abnormal urine drug tests (UDTs) in the cancer pain patient population during COVID-19. Materials & methods: A retrospective chart review of 500 patient encounters involving UDTs at a comprehensive cancer center. Results: Medication adherence rates increase when UDTs are incorporated into a chronic cancer pain management protocol. Higher positive tests for illicit or nonprescribed substances in patients with specific risk factors current smokers (tobacco), no active cancer and concurrent benzodiazepine use. Conclusion: This research emphasizes the increased risk of opioid misuse during COVID-19 among cancer pain patients with specific risk factors outlined in the results.

This study looked at how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected opioid use among people with cancer-related pain. The researchers checked the records of 500 patients who had had tests to see if they used opioids correctly. They found that when these tests were part of the treatment plan, patients were more likely to take their medicines correctly. However, they also noticed that certain patients, such as those who smoke, do not have active cancer or are taking another type of medication (i.e., benzodiazepines), are more likely to use opioids or other drugs in ways that deviated from the original intention. This study shows that during the pandemic, which continues to exist, it is even more important to watch how these patients use their painkillers and help them avoid misuse.