Transcript File

Caveats for Treating
Chronic Pain in Older
Adults
Cynthia Feucht, PharmD, BCPS, CGP
October 21, 2016
Objectives

Describe physiological and pharmacokinetic changes in the
elderly that impact the use of opioids.

Discuss alternative (non-controlled) options for treating
chronic pain in older adults.

Describe polypharmacy and its potential consequences in
older adults.
Change is Inevitable…
Physiological Changes

Aging is a more important predictor of PK/PD
changes compared to age itself!

Physiologic changes can influence PK/PD
 PK

(ADME) are more measurable
Increases the risk of adverse effects
 Constipation,
confusion, falls
Elliot D. Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics in the elderly. In: Schumock G, Brundage D, Dunsworth T, Fagan S, Kelly H, Rathbun R, et al.,
eds. Pharmacotherapy Self-Assessment Program, 5th ed. Lenexa, KS: American College of Clinical Pharmacy, 2004:115-126.
Trivia Question

Approximate loss of organ function per year after
the age of 30 is:
 0.9%
 3%
 5%
 7.5%
Absorption


Atrophy of gastric cells

Increase in gastric pH

Decrease in gastric acid secretion
Delayed gastric emptying

May alter rate (but note extent) of EC or SR product
absorption

May increase contact time for drugs
http://hubpages.com/education/Absorption-of-drugs-how-drugs-are-absorbed-in-the-body-ePharmacology
Elliot D. Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics in the elderly. In: Schumock G, Brundage D, Dunsworth T, Fagan S, Kelly H, Rathbun R, et al.,
eds. Pharmacotherapy Self-Assessment Program, 5th ed. Lenexa, KS: American College of Clinical Pharmacy, 2004:115-126.
Distribution

Increase in body fat
 Lipid

soluble drugs:  Vd
Increased concentration and half-life for lipid
soluble drugs
 Effect:

delayed drug elimination
Examples:
 Benzodiazepines,
tricyclic antidepressants
http://www.fat2fitradio.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/04/elderly.jpg
Distribution

Decrease in total body water
 Water
soluble drugs:  Vd
drug plasma concentrations & diffusion to receptor
sites
↑
 Example:
morphine, digoxin
http://www.alistwellnesscenter.com/images/proportionofwater.gif
Elliot D. Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics in the elderly. In: Schumock G, Brundage D, Dunsworth T, Fagan S, Kelly H, Rathbun R, et al.,
eds. Pharmacotherapy Self-Assessment Program, 5th ed. Lenexa, KS: American College of Clinical Pharmacy, 2004:115-126.
Metabolism


Liver mass reduction of ~ 25-35%

Similar reduction in hepatic blood flow

Can lead to ↓ drug metabolism & ↑ drug effect
High hepatic extraction ratio agents

May  bioavailability due to altered first pass
metabolism

Examples: morphine, amitriptyline,
hydromorphone
http://hepatitiscnewdrugresearch.com/liver-disease-in-elderly-patients.html
Sera L, et al. Clin Geriatr Med 2012;28:273-286.
Elliot D. Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics in the elderly. In: Schumock G, Brundage D, Dunsworth T, Fagan S, Kelly H, Rathbun R, et al.,
eds. Pharmacotherapy Self-Assessment Program, 5th ed. Lenexa, KS: American College of Clinical Pharmacy, 2004:115-126.
Metabolism

Phase I reactions (oxidation)



Impact of lifestyle factors




In vitro tests demonstrate inter-patient variability
No clear association for age-related decline
Alcohol intake
Tobacco abuse
Caffeine intake
Impact of disease-related dysfunction
http://medicineworld.org/images/blogs/old-man-smoking-432510.jpg
Elliot D. Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics in the elderly. In: Schumock G, Brundage D, Dunsworth T, Fagan S, Kelly H, Rathbun R, et al.,
eds. Pharmacotherapy Self-Assessment Program, 5th ed. Lenexa, KS: American College of Clinical Pharmacy, 2004:115-126.
Excretion

Progressive age-related decline
 ~1%


decline/yr after the age 50
Scr poor marker of kidney function
 Muscle
mass loss, ↓ tubular function
 Assess
function using CrCl / eGFR
Can lead to ↓ drug clearance
↑
risk for side effects
http://www.kidneyfoundationofcentralpa.org/images/kidney.gif
Elliot D. Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics in the elderly. In: Schumock G, Brundage D, Dunsworth T, Fagan S, Kelly H, Rathbun R, et al.,
eds. Pharmacotherapy Self-Assessment Program, 5th ed. Lenexa, KS: American College of Clinical Pharmacy, 2004:115-126.
Davis M, et al. Drugs Aging 2003;20(1):23-57.
Opioids and ADME

Absorption: usually not affected by aging

Distribution:
 Highly
lipid soluble: fentanyl & methadone
 Hydrophilic:
 Codeine,
hydrocodone, oxycodone, & tramadol
 Morphine
& hydromorphone
Lexi-Comp, Inc. (Lexi-Drugs®). Lexi-Comp. Accessed September 19, 2016
Davis M, et al. Drugs Aging 2003;20(1):23-57.
Opioids and ADME

Typically exhibit high first pass metabolism:
Morphine, hydromorphone, oxymorphone & tapentadol
 May see ↑ drug bioavailability in elderly


Clinically significant active metabolites:


Morphine, codeine, meperidine, tramadol, hydrocodone,
oxymorphone
Avoid in hepatic failure: codeine, tramadol, meperidine

Preferred (severe): Morphine, fentanyl & methadone
Lexi-Comp, Inc. (Lexi-Drugs®). Lexi-Comp. Accessed September 19, 2016
Davis M, et al. Drugs Aging 2003;20(1):23-57.
Opioids and ADME

Primary renal excretion:
Morphine, hydromorphone, codeine, fentanyl, tramadol,
oxycodone, hydrocodone: adjust dose in mild to moderate
renal failure
 Meperidine: avoid use
 Tapentadol: avoid with CrCl < 30ml/min


Generally safe to use in moderate renal failure:
Hydromorphone, fentanyl
 Methadone (moderate to severe)

Lexi-Comp, Inc. (Lexi-Drugs®). Lexi-Comp. Accessed September 19, 2016
Davis M, et al. Drugs Aging 2003;20(1):23-57.
Dean M. J Pain & Symptom Manage 2004;28(5):497-504.
Opioid Caveats

Poor CYP 2D6 metabolizers:
 Affects
~ 5-10% of the caucasian population
 Also 1-2% of Southeast Asians
 Tramadol
& codeine → lack of efficacy due to reduced
conversion to active metabolites

Oxycodone, hydrocodone → prolonged effect due to
decreased metabolism
https://memegenerator.net/instance/19879024
Wilkinson G. N Engl J Med 2005;352(21):2211-2221.
Davis M, et al. Drugs Aging 2003;20(1):23-57.
Opioid Caveats: Methadone

Variable pharmacokinetics:




Duration of analgesia ↑ with prolonged administration
Half-life range: 8-59 hrs (avg. 20-35)
Multiple drug interactions
QTc prolongation & risk for torsades:


Risk factors: other QTc prolonging meds, ↓ K/Mg, elderly, female,
structural heart disease, congenital long QT syndrome
Obtain baseline EKG and risk stratify

Avoid if QTc > 500 msec.
http://www.apsf.org/newsletters/html/2011/spring/01_opioid.htm
Lexi-Comp, Inc. (Lexi-Drugs®). Lexi-Comp. Accessed September 19, 2016.
Lugo R, et al. J Pain & Palliative Care Pharmacother 2005;19(4):13-24.
Owens R, et al. Clin Infect Dis 2006;43:1603-1611.
Trivia Question

Which of these men has influenced how we treat
older adults?
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/21AgpWqWMYL._UX250_.jpg
https://mibiz.com/media/k2/items/cache/ebe2497a9810ac1c751277b6aacb6b9b_XL.jpg
http://media.mlive.com/kzgazette_impact/photo/8911853-large.jpg
Criteria Regarding Opioid Use
START/STOPP Criteria


Avoid high-potency oral or
transdermal opioids as 1st line
therapy in those with mild pain
Use high-potency opioids in
mod-severe pain where Tylenol,
NSAIDS & low-potency opioids
are either inappropriate or
ineffective
Beers Criteria

Avoid meperidine: safer
alternatives exist

Avoid opioids in those with
history of falls/fractures

Avoid total of ≥ 3 CNS-active
meds due to risk for falls
American Geriatrics Society 2015 Beers Criteria Update Expert Panel. J Am Geriatr Soc 2015.
O’Mahony D, et al. Age Ageing 2015;44:213-218.
https://ipspotlight.files.wordpress.com/2014/11/17187698_s.jpg
Guiding Principles

Establish mutually acceptable comfort goals

Use of combined nonpharmacological &
pharmacological therapy
 Initiate
 Adjust
with low dose
dosing for organ impairment / drug interactions
 Reassess
frequently / titrate cautiously
Davis M, et al. Drugs Aging 2003;20(1):23-57.
Pharmacological Management of Persistent Pain in Older Adults. J Am Geriatr Soc. 2009;57:1331-1346.
http://images.addictionblog.org/cherrycake/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Is-methadone-safe-1.png
What Do Older Patients Want: Preferred
Lansbury G. Disabil Rehab 2000;22(1-2):2-14.
http://www.epainassist.com/images/Article-Images/home-remedies-arthritis.jpg
http://mymedsupply.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Hot-and-Cold-Therapy-Shoulder.jpg
http://salonpas.us/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/FamilyShot-FS-Gel-Spray-GelPatch-NHP-Trans-01262
016a-Small-2.jpg
http://www.dignicareins.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Nursing-Home-Insurance-The-Benefits-of-Socialization-for-the-Elderly.jpg
What Do Older Patients Want: Least
Preferred
Lansbury G. Disabil Rehab 2000;22(1-2):2-14.
http://www.reputehealthcare.com/eldercare.html
http://www.consumerreports.org/content/dam/cro/news_articles/health/71262728_health_pills.jpg
http://scrubbing.in/encouraging-the-elderly-to-exercise/
Alternative Approach:
Nonpharmacological
Physical therapy
Heat, massage, stretching
TENS unit
PHN & acute/chronic pain
Behavioral therapy
Meditation, relaxation, prayer, music
therapy, biofeedback
Pain Management Alternatives
Over-the-Counter


Topical counterirritants
Topical lidocaine

Acetaminophen

Oral NSAIDs
Prescription

Topical / oral NSAIDs

Lidocaine patch

Tricyclic antidepressants

Duloxetine

Anticonvulsants
http://www.browardcountypainclinics.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/pain-relief21.jpg
Topical OTCs

Counterirritants: induces a less intense pain to
counteract a more severe one
Examples: methyl salicylate, camphor,
menthol, capsaicin, trolamine salicylate
 Up to 3-4 applications per day


Don’t apply heat or wrap bandage tightly

Multiple formulations: cream, ointment, gel, patch

Names don’t change but ingredients often do!
http://salonpas.us/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/family-of-products-small.jpg
https://audubonparkwellness.brimhallwebsite.com/istore/4233_biofreeze__pain_cream.html
http://www.icyhot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/pro_img03.jpg
Newest OTC ingredient: Lidocaine
Lidocaine 4%
patch
• 1 patch/day; ~ $50/mo.
supply
• Available OTC & in other
formulations
Lidocaine 5%
patch
• Up to 3/day, may cut patches
& apply to several areas
• Rx: PHN; often used off label
for LBP & OA
http://www.aspercreme.com/img/portfolio/lidocaine-patch-slider-1-sm.jpg
https://www.walgreens.com/images/drug/0163481068706.jpg
NSAIDS: OTC & Rx

Analgesic, anti-inflammatory &
antipyretic


In a variety of combination products:

Aleve PM (NSAID + antihistamine)

Vimovo (NSAID + PPI)

Treximet (NSAID + triptan)

Vicoprofen (NSAID + opioid)
In 2000: 70% over age 65 took NSAIDs at least
once weekly
http://neuropathyandhiv.blogspot.com/2016/01/nsaids-like-ibuprofen-and-advil-can-be.html#.V-1IXIWcGEY
NSAID Mechanism of Action
http://www.voltarengel.com/HCP/images/charts/MOA_chart.jpg
Herndon C, et al. Pharmacotherapy 2008;26(6):788-805
NSAID Gastrointestinal Toxicity
• Nausea & bloating
Common
Serious
• Heartburn & epigastric pain
• Colonic ulceration &
perforation
• Gastric or duodenal ulcers
• 20-40% of users
Herndon C, et al. Pharmacotherapy. 2008;28(6):788-805.
http://infohealth.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/ulcer-s.jpg
http://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/can-heartburn-medication-cause-cognitive-problems-201603219369
Additional NSAID Toxicity
Nephrotoxicity
• 1-5% incidence
• Risk factors: concurrent diuretic or ACE inhibiror &
underlying renal disease
Fluid Retention
• Result of increased sodium reabsorption
• Can lead to weight gain & exacerbate HTN & HF
CNS
• Rare: confusion, psychosis, aseptic meningitis
• Risk factors: older age & lipophilic NSAID
Herndon C, et al. Pharmacotherapy 2008;28(6):788-805.
NSAIDs and Cardiovascular Risk
FDA Warning July 2015
Precision Trial

Started 2006, ended 2016

Compared celecoxib to
naproxen and ibuprofen

Combined endpoint:

CV death

Nonfatal MI, CVA

Hospitalization for UA, TIA

Revascularization
http://blog.affordablehealthinsurance.org/2015/08/fda-says-that-taking-advil-motrin-and.html#.V-w-3oWcGEY
https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00346216
Scarpignato C, et al. BMC Medicine 2015;13:1-22.
Guideline Recommendations…..
ACR (2012)

Hand OA: oral and topical
NSAIDs including trolamine
salicylate



Avoid NSAIDs (exception:
celecoxib) for chronic use
unless other alternatives are
not effective & patient can
take PPI

HF & CKD: avoid NSAIDs and
COX-2 inhibitors

Gastric/duodenal ulcers: avoid
non-selective NSAIDs
Age ≥ 75: topical preferred
Knee & Hip OA: oral NSAIDs
and topical NSAIDs (knee)

Beers (2015)
Age ≥75: topical preferred
Hochberg M, et al. Arthritis Care and Research. 2012;64(4): 465-474.
American Geriatrics 2015 Beers Criteria Update Expert Panel. J Am Geriatr Soc. 2015.
Topical NSAIDs

Diclofenac gel
 Indication:
OA
 Application 4 times daily
 Dose


differentiated by lower/upper extremity
Diclofenac solution

Indication: Knee OA

Two strengths / product type
Systemic bioavailability: ~1%
 Preferred
in elderly!
http://www.onlinepharmacynz.com/images/products/414-299-Voltaren_Emulgel.jpg
Lexi-Comp, Inc. (Lexi-Drugs®). Lexi-Comp. Accessed September 29, 2016
http://www.pennsaid.com/img/hcp_2.0_img1.png
Adjuvant Agents

Antidepressants
Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
 Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)


Anticonvulsants


Gabapentin, pregabalin
Origination in treatment of cancer pain
Useful for neuropathic pain
 May be used alone or with another agent

Pharmacological management of persistent pain in older persons. J Am Geriatr Soc. 2009;57:1331-1346.
http://chronicpainreliefoptions.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/np3.jpg
Duloxetine
Pros

Useful when concomitant
depression/anxiety

Indicated for diabetic
neuropathy & chronic
musculoskeletal pain

Trial benefits: reduction in
pain & improved physical
functioning
Cons

Side effects: N/V/D,
dizziness, fall risk,
hyponatremia

Must taper to avoid
withdrawal symptoms

Avoid in mod-severe renal
failure
Makris U, et al. JAMA 2014;312(8):825-836.
Chappell A, et al. Pain 2009;146(3):253-260.
http://pharmamkting.blogspot.com/2008/08/cymalta-buzz-machine-is-at-full.html
Tricyclic Antidepressants


Useful for a variety of indications

Depression

Diabetic neuropathy

Migraine prophylaxis

Chronic pain
Small study in older adults found equal efficacy in
diabetic PN when compared to pregabalin & duloxetine
http://pharmacologycorner.com/differences-between-tricyclic-antidepressants-and-selective-serotonin-norepinephrine-reuptake-inhibitors-mechanism-of-action/
Boyle J, et al. Diabetes Care 2012;35(12):2451-2458.
TCAs: Comparison Profile
AntiSedation OSH
cholinergic
Seizures
Conduction
abnormalities
Amitriptyline*
Doxepin*
++++
+++
++++
++++
+++
++
+++
+++
+++
++
Desipramine
Nortriptyline
++
++
++
++
++
+
++
++
++
++
Teter CJ, Kando JC, Wells BG. Chapter 51. Major Depressive Disorder. In: DiPiro JT, Talbert RL, Yee GC, Matzke GR, Wells BG, Posey L. eds.
Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach, 9e. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill; 2014.
http://accesspharmacy.mhmedical.com.ezproxy.ferris.edu/content.aspx?bookid=689&Sectionid=45310502. Accessed September 30, 2016
TCAs and Beers Criteria

Avoid: highly anticholinergic, sedation and cause
orthostasis

Avoid if history of:
 Syncope,
delirium, dementia, cognitive impairment,
falls/fractures, & BPH
 Often
related to anticholinergic properties
American Geriatrics 2015 Beers Criteria Update Expert Panel. J Am Geriatr Soc. 2015.
Caveats for TCA Use

Use secondary amines:

Less anticholinergic effects, fewer associated falls, less
confusion & ↓ risk for OSH

Use low dose at bedtime (sedation)

Caution use in:

BPH, urinary retention, constipation, CV disease, 2nd /3rd
degree heart block, prolonged QTc interval, severe liver
disease, seizure disorder & closed angle glaucoma
http://lionsheartcounseling.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/small-pills1.jpg
Davis M, et al. Drugs Aging 2003;20(1):23-57.
Pregabalin & Gabapentin
Indications
• Diabetic neuropathy, PHN, fibromyalgia, seizure d/o
• Off-label: restless leg syndrome, hot flashes
Side Effects
• Dizziness, sedation, peripheral edema, weight gain
• Dry mouth, blurred vision, ataxia, fatigue, tremor
Precautions
• Heart failure, fall risk, concurrent CNS active meds
• Dose adjust when CrCl < 60 ml/min
Lexi-Comp, Inc. (Lexi-Drugs®). Lexi-Comp. Accessed September 29, 2016
Davis M, et al. Drugs Aging 2003;20(1):23-57.
Medication Use in the Elderly

Cross sectional survey of 3005 elderly (57-85 yrs)

At least 5 Rx medicines: 29%


Concurrent OTC use: 46%

Concurrent dietary suppl.: 52%
At least 5 dietary supplements: nearly 1 in 8
Qato D, et al. JAMA 2008;300(24):2867-2878)
What is Polypharmacy?
Conditions
Medications
Medications
Chronic pruritis
Restoril 15mg qhs
Hydroxyzine 25mg bid
Chronic cough
Lamictal 100mg qhs
Ativan 0.5mg tid prn
Diabetes mellitus type 2
Effexor XR 150mg qd
Tussionex 5ml bid prn
Hypertension
Detrol LA 4mg daily
Vicodin 5/500mg bid prn
Urinary incontinence
Cymbalta 20mg daily
Motrin 800mg tid prn
Insomnia
Catapres 0.3mg qhs
Depression / anxiety
Diovan 40mg daily
Osteoarthritis
Activella 1/0.5mg daily
Sleep apnea
Omeprazole 20mg daily
GERD
Melatonin 5mg qhs
Personality disorder
Polypharmacy
Medication Count


Arbitrarily defined

Often > 5 medicines


Unnecessary Use
Range 2-9
Controversial

May be appropriate if
multiple disease states
Shah B, et al. Clin Geriatr Med 2012;28:173-186.
http://www.wur.nl/en/project/pandemics.htm

Not clinically indicated

Lack of indication

Suboptimal

Duplication
More practical approach
Consequences
http://www.slideshare.net/EdricPawChoSing/epidemiology-of-polypharmacy-and-potential-drugdrug-interactions-among-pediatric
-patients-in-icus-of-us-childrens-hospitals
Shah B, et al. Clin Geriatr Med 2012;28:173-186.
Prescribing Optimization Method
Designed to optimize medication use in older
adults
 Six questions:


Is the patient undertreated & is additional therapy indicated?

Does the patient adhere to current regimen?

Which drug(s) can be withdrawn or is inappropriate?

Which adverse effects are present?

Which clinically relevant interactions could be expected?

Should the dose frequency or drug form be changed?
Drenth-van Maanen A, et al. Drugs Aging 2009;26(8):687-701.
Gokula M, et al. Clin Geriatr Med 2012;28:323-341.
http://askapharmmedicationreview.com/uploads/3/6/3/2/3632226/2322479.jpg?200
Managing Older Adults

Customize therapy for each patient

Monitor & reassess for efficacy & toxicity

Many adverse effects mimic underlying disease
processes


Consider any symptom an ADR until proven otherwise!
Minimize withdrawal effects by tapering dose
Steinman M, et al. JAMA 2010;304(14):1592-1601.
http://www.health-heart.org/NoBadCholesterol.jpg