Regional Trends in the Opioid Epidemic Using Safety Signals of Drug Abuse and Dependence: A Disproportionality Analysis Using VigiBase

Key Points

• This research aims to examine regional trends in opioid safety signals, focusing on oxycodone and fentanyl.
• Analyzed data from VigiBase for safety signals of drug abuse and dependence.
• Compared reports of oxycodone and fentanyl across different regions including the Americas and Europe.
• Assessed potential under-reporting of fentanyl safety signals in Europe.
• Consistent safety signals for oxycodone were observed in the Americas and Western Pacific.
• No safety signals were found for fentanyl in Europe, suggesting possible under-reporting.
• Findings emphasize the need for improved surveillance of illicit opioid use.