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Research Article: Experiences of misuse and symptoms of dependence among people who use gabapentinoids: a qualitative systematic review protocol

Date Published: 2023-09-29

Abstract:
Introduction Gabapentinoids are among the most widely prescribed pain medications. However, there is growing evidence to suggest that gabapentinoids may be associated with dependence and misuse. The aim of this systematic review is to synthesise the qualitative literature on gabapentinoid misuse and symptoms of dependence. The findings of this study will inform efforts to mitigate emerging harms. Methods and analysis A systematic review of qualitative research will explore lived experiences of misuse and symptoms of dependence among people who use gabapentinoids. Six databases (MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL, EMBASE and PsycINFO) and grey literature sources will be searched from inception to May 2023. Qualitative studies that include people with lived experiences of gabapentinoid misuse and symptoms of gabapentinoid dependence will be included. Reference lists of included studies will also be screened for additional studies. The methodological quality of included studies will be appraised using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme qualitative checklist, and higher quality studies will be prioritised in the thematic synthesis. The GRADE-CERQual approach will be used to assess confidence in the overall findings of the review. Ethics and dissemination Ethical approval is not required for this systematic review. The findings of this review will be disseminated in peer-reviewed journals, at conferences and on social media. PROSPERO registration number CRD42023401832.

Introduction:
Over the past two decades, prescribing of gabapentinoids has more than tripled in the USA, 1 the UK 2 and Australia. 3 4 The gabapentinoid drugs—gabapentin and pregabalin—are primarily approved for the treatment of epilepsy and neuropathic pain conditions. 5 Pregabalin is also approved for the treatment of fibromyalgia in the USA and Canada and generalised anxiety disorder in the UK and European Union. 5 However, off-label prescribing, particularly for non-neuropathic pain conditions, is widespread. 2 6 7 In…

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