A Significant Decline in the Number of Newly Dispensed Analgesics During the First COVID‐19 Lockdown in The Netherlands

Background The COVID‐19 pandemic disrupted healthcare systems worldwide, including the postponement of non‐urgent care and reallocation of resources toward COVID‐19 patients. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of the first Dutch COVID‐19 lockdown on the initiation of new analgesic prescriptions. Methods This study analysed dispensing data from 1890 Dutch pharmacies, covering approximately 96% of the population (5.46 million patients). The number of first‐time prescription analgesics dispensed (ATC2 N02 class, e.g., opioids, anilides) was compared between the first halves of 2019 and 2020. First‐time users were defined as patients who had not received the drug in the preceding year. Data were stratified by age group (children, adolescents, adults, elderly), sex and time periods: weeks 1–11 (pre‐lockdown 2020), 12–19 (lockdown) and 20–26 (post‐lockdown). Results The total number of first‐time dispensed analgesic drugs was significantly lower in 2020 (367,094) than in 2019 (388,973, p = 0.021), with a notable reduction occurring during the lockdown period ( p = 0.003). Significant declines in first‐time dispensed analgesic drugs were observed among adolescents and adults during lockdown ( p < 0.001), particularly among females. In contrast, no significant changes were found among children and the elderly. The number of first‐time dispensed analgesic drugs during the pre‐ and post‐lockdown periods was comparable between the 2 years. Conclusion Delayed healthcare during the lockdown was associated with a decrease in first‐time dispensed analgesic drugs, especially among adolescents and adults. This may indicate untreated pain or increased reliance on over‐the‐counter alternatives during this period. Significance Statement This Nationwide Dutch study showed a significant decline in first‐time dispensed analgesic drugs during the first lockdown period of the COVID‐19 pandemic, especially among adolescents and adults. This may indicate untreated pain due to delayed healthcare or an increased reliance on over‐the‐counter alternatives during this period.