To evaluate trends in the dental opioid dispensing rate in the US and several other countries from 2021 to 2024, focusing on the implications of these trends.
Key Findings:
In 2021, the US dental opioid dispensing rate was 2786.3 per 100,000, significantly higher than other countries, including Canada (2081.9) and France (1408.2).
By 2024, the US rate decreased to 2022.0 per 100,000 but remained the highest among the countries studied, including Canada (1773.9) and France (1259.1).
The US dental opioid dispensing rate decreased by 27.4% from 2021 to 2024, while other countries showed varying rates of decrease.
Interpretation:
The US dental opioid dispensing rate is decreasing but remains high compared to international standards, indicating significant opportunities for further reduction.
Limitations:
Lack of information on dosing and indications for dental opioid prescriptions limits understanding of prescribing practices.
Inability to determine factors influencing differences in dispensing rates between countries may affect the generalizability of findings.
Underestimation of the Australian dental opioid dispensing rate due to private prescriptions suggests a need for more comprehensive data.
Conclusion:
The study highlights the need for continued efforts to reduce dental opioid prescriptions, particularly for procedures like tooth extraction where effective alternatives exist, and suggests areas for further research and policy development.
