Pill Counting as an Intervention to Enhance Compliance and Reduce Adverse Outcomes with Analgesics Prescribed for Chronic Pain Conditions: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Purpose of Review Appropriate use of opioid analgesics is a key concern within the field of pain medicine. Several methods exist to discourage abuse and facilitate effective treatment regimens. Pill counting is often cited as one such method and frequently employed in varying fashions within clinical practice. However, to date, there is no published review of the evidence to support this practice. This was a comprehensive review of the available literature that was conducted with analysis of the efficacy and practical application of pill counting during treatment of chronic pain conditions. Recent Findings There is paucity in data regarding pill count importance in pain management. Pill count is a very important tool to monitor compliance of opioids use which in turn can prevent several complications associated with opioid misuse. Summary Pill counting may be used in conjunction with other abuse deterrents, although increased support for this practice requires standardized methods of pill counting and further analysis of its effectiveness.

Opioid Risk Mitigation Practices of Interprofessional Oncology Personnel: Results From a Cross-Sectional Survey

“…“Pill counting,” a strategy for recognizing medication diversion, was not mentioned. A comprehensive review by Gill et al 33 focused on pill counting as an intervention to increase adherence and decrease adverse outcomes. Several limitations to the review were noted, including little data, and pill counting was poorly defined and inconsistently implemented across studies.…”

“…Feasibility concerns exist, and patients may not be able to come in for random pill counts or may forget to bring medications in for verification. 33 …”