Utilization of common analgesic and anxiolytic medications by registered First Nations residents of western Canada.
The study examined utilization of acetaminophen with codeine and benzodiazepine drugs among Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) program registered First Nations residents in the four western provinces of Canada and sought preliminary indicators of factors influencing utilization. A small percentage of NIHB clients in the four western provinces were excessive users of acetaminophen with codeine and/or benzodiazepines, but overall utilization of these central nervous system drugs was moderate and within the bounds of non-First Nations population use examined in this study. The study also demonstrated that utilization of acetaminophen with codeine among NIHB claimants was inversely related to the stringency of provincial regulation.
Anderson
J F
JF
Clinical Support Unit, Community Health Programs, British Columbia Ministry of Health and Ministry Responsible for Seniors, Victoria, Canada. john.anderson@moh.hnet.bc.ca
McEwan
K L
KL
D000082:Acetaminophen / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000328:Adult; D000416:Alberta; D000700:Analgesics / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D014151:Anti-Anxiety Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001569:Benzodiazepines / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001955:British Columbia; D002170:Canada; D003061:Codeine / Q000627:therapeutic use; D011307:Drug Prescriptions / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D004363:Drug Utilization / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D004335:Drug and Narcotic Control / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007198:Indians, North American / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D007356:Insurance, Pharmaceutical Services / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D004930:Inuit / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D008297:Male; D008350:Manitoba; D009313:National Health Programs / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D012525:Saskatchewan
D000700:Analgesics; D014151:Anti-Anxiety Agents; D001569:Benzodiazepines; D000082:Acetaminophen; D003061:Codeine