Exposure to fentanyl-contaminated heroin and overdose risk among illicit opioid users in Rhode Island: A mixed methods study

Original research
by
Carroll, Jennifer J, et al

Release Date

2017

Geography

USA

Language of Resource

English

Full Text Available

Yes

Open Access / OK to Reproduce

No

Peer Reviewed

Yes

Objective

This study describes patterns and perceptions of fentanyl exposure among opioid users in Rhode Island.

Findings/Key points

Regular heroin use was significantly associated with known or suspected fentanyl exposure (APR 4.07; 95% CI 1.24-13.3) while regular prescription painkiller use was not associated with fentanyl exposure (APR 0.73; 94% CI 0.37-1.49)

Design/methods

Mixed methods - convenience questionnaire n=149 + 47 semi-structured interviews

Keywords

Evidence base
Harm reduction
Safer supply
Illegal drugs