Researchers from the University of Stirling and NHS Fife are conducting a study to better understand what can be done to reduce drug-related overdose and death among people who are prescribed opioids for chronic non-cancer pain.
Scotland has one of the highest rates in Europe of people dying from opioid overdoses. This includes people who are prescribed opioids, and includes accidental and non-fatal overdose as well as intentional and fatal overdose.
The researchers are looking for two groups of people to take part in the study, through either face-to-face or phone/Skype interviews:
- People who are currently or who have previously been prescribed strong opioids for chronic (long-term) pain that is not caused by cancer. If you have been previously prescribed, you can take part as long as it was not more than 5 years ago.
- Family members of people who are currently prescribed or who have been previously been prescribed strong opioids for chronic, non-cancer pain. If your family member was prescribed opioids previously, you can take part as long as they were prescribed no more than 5 years ago.
Participants will be asked to do a one-to-one interview with a researcher on two occasions. Participants will receive a £20 shopping voucher for each interview, in recognition of their time and contribution.
For more information, and to get involved, please read the relevant introductory info below and get in touch using the contact details in the following documents. Please feel free to share this information with any individuals or family members who may be interested in participating.
Info for people previously prescribed strong opioids: Opioid overdose prevention info – people previously prescribed
Info for family members: Opioid overdose prevention info – family members
This study is funded by NHS Fife and has received ethical approval from the University of Stirling. See attached information sheets for more info.