In a comprehensive study examining the impact of opioid-agonist therapy (OAT) on suicide rates among people with opioid dependence in Scotland, researchers have unveiled crucial insights that could reshape public health approaches. As the nation grapples with high rates of drug-related deaths (DRDs), this study reveals a significant protective effect of OAT against suicide.

The investigation followed a cohort of 46,453 individuals prescribed OAT, including methadone and buprenorphine, between 2011 and 2020. These treatments, classified as ‘essential medicines’ by the World Health Organization, have shown promising results in reducing overall mortality and drug-related fatalities. According to a News-Medical article, “People with opioid dependence who receive OAT are not only at lower risk of overdose than those who do not, but also at lower risk of suicide and several other common causes of death.”

The findings are compelling: individuals on OAT experienced a more than two-thirds reduction in suicide rates compared to those not in treatment. While the cohort’s suicide rates were eight times higher than the general population, OAT’s role in mitigating this risk is clear. The evidence suggests a 50% lower suicide risk for those engaged in OAT, underscoring the importance of maintaining continuous treatment.

The study also highlighted demographic nuances, with two-thirds of the cohort being male and nearly half under the age of 35. Notably, those aged under 35 showed a reduced rate of suicide compared to older counterparts, emphasising the importance of early intervention.

Despite a trebling of DRDs in Scotland during the study period, the decline in suicide rates for those on OAT offers a glimmer of hope. This trend aligns with a broader pattern of falling suicide rates in the community, suggesting that OAT could play a pivotal role in reversing the tide of opioid-related harm.

The implications for public health policy are profound. Ensuring widespread access to OAT could be a critical strategy in reducing the burden of suicide among those with opioid dependence. As policy-makers consider the findings, the message is clear: engaging people in OAT not only saves lives but also offers a pathway to healthier communities.

Source: News-medical.net