Investigating opioid prescriptions at hospital discharge and their effects on older patients
Prescribing of opioids at hospital discharge and associated adverse patient outcomes
This study looks at how often older adults are given opioid painkillers when they leave the hospital, especially if they were treated for non-surgical health issues, to see if this practice is safe and what problems it might cause, like falls or long-term dependence on these medications.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard Medical School NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10668243 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research examines the prescribing patterns of opioids to older adults at the time of hospital discharge, particularly focusing on those hospitalized for non-surgical medical conditions. It aims to understand the prevalence of opioid prescriptions, the medical conditions associated with these prescriptions, and the potential adverse outcomes such as falls, fractures, and long-term opioid dependence. By analyzing data from various hospitals, the study seeks to identify factors that contribute to inappropriate opioid prescribing and the impact on patient safety and health outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who have been hospitalized for medical conditions and may be prescribed opioids upon discharge.
Not a fit: Patients who are not hospitalized or those who do not receive opioid prescriptions at discharge may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved guidelines for opioid prescribing at discharge, enhancing patient safety and reducing the risk of adverse outcomes in older adults.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has highlighted the risks associated with opioid use in older adults, indicating that this study addresses a critical and underexplored area.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Harvard Medical School — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jena, Anupam Bapu — Harvard Medical School
- Study coordinator: Jena, Anupam Bapu
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.