Mortality differences by SES were sustained through the 1990s and are increasing for men.

We estimate 41% of deaths from external causes are attributable to having a SES below the top quartile (both sexes combined).

BackgroundIn British Columbia, Canada, methadone maintenance treatment formulation transitioned from the oral liquid compound Tang™-flavoured methadone to the ten-times more concentrated cherry-flavoured Methadose™ in February 2014. We quantitatively describe perceptions and reported consequences among a sample of patients on methadone maintenance treatment following this transition.MethodsA province-wide survey was used. Bivariable analyses utilized independent samples t-tests, Phi associations, and Chi-square tests. Multivariable logistic regression analyses evaluated factors related to dependent variables – namely, increases in dose, pain, dope sickness, and the need to supplement with additional opioids.ResultsFour hundred five methadone maintenance treatment patients from fifty harm reduction sites across British Columbia reported transitioning to Methadose™ in February 2014. The majority (n = 258; 73.1 %) heard about the formulation change from their methadone provider or pharmacist. Adjusted models show worse taste was positively associated with reporting an increasing dose (OR = 2.46; CI:1.31–4.61), feeling more dope sick (OR = 3.39; CI:1.88–6.12), and worsening pain (OR = 4.65; CI:2.45–8.80). Feeling more dope sick was positively associated with dose increase (OR = 2.24; CI:1.37–3.66), and supplementing with opioids (OR = 8.81; CI:5.16–15.05).ConclusionsMethadone maintenance treatment policy changes in British Columbia affect a structurally vulnerable population who may be less able to cope with transitions and loss of autonomy. There may be a psychosocial component contributing to the perception of Methadose™ tasting worse, and increased dope sickness, pain, and dose. Our study shows the pronounced negative impacts medication changes can have on patients without informed, coordinated efforts. We stress the need to engage all stakeholders allowing for communication about the reasons, risks and consequences of medication policy changes and provision of additional psychosocial support.