Impact of non-benzodiazepine sleep hypnotics on opioid overdose risk

Van Nguyen, PharmD; Christopher M. Herndon, PharmD, BCACP

doi:10.5055/jom.2020.0605

Authors

Van Nguyen, PharmD
Christopher M. Herndon, PharmD, BCACP

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5055/jom.2020.0605

Abstract

Increasing concerns regarding concomitant use of benzodiazepines with opioids have been addressed by FDA drug safety communications and are increasingly recognized amongst prescribers. However, non-benzodiazepine sleep hypnotics continue to be prescribed with opioids.

Author Biographies

Van Nguyen, PharmD

PGY-1 Pharmacy Practice Resident, HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, O’Fallon, Illinois

Christopher M. Herndon, PharmD, BCACP

Professor, School of Pharmacy, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, Edwardsville, Illinois

References

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Turner BJ, Liang Y: Drug overdose in a retrospective cohort with non-cancer pain treated with opioids, antidepressants, and/or sedative-hypnotics: Interactions with mental health disorders. J Gen Intern Med. 2015; 30: 1081-1096.

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