Providing Information Improved Adequate Storage and Disposal of Opioids by Bereaved Family Caregivers

Abstract Context: Poor understanding regarding the safe use, secure storage, and adequate disposal of unused opioids may contribute to the opioid epidemic. It is unclear what happens to unused opioids in the households of deceased cancer patients. Objectives: Our aim was to investigate the patterns of use, storage, and disposal of unused opioids among families of deceased cancer patients. Methods: A questionnaire was administered to families of deceased cancer patients. Questions were related to the use, storage, and disposal of opioids prescribed to their deceased family member. Results: Completed questionnaires were received from the families of 240 patients. Of these, 129 (53.8%) and 99 (41.3%) participants were aware of the danger of diversion and need for safe disposal, respectively. One (0.4%) participant reported diversion. In total, 177 participants (73.8%) stored opioids securely, 6 (2.5%) had unused opioids at home, and 142 (59.2%) returned unused opioids to medical health providers. Knowledge of safe opioid disposal increased the rate of returning opioids to medical health providers (84.8% vs. 53.2%; p < 0.001) and decreased the rate of participant disposal (13.3% vs. 37.6%; p < 0.001). Prior knowledge of the risks of opioid diversion was associated with storing opioids securely (91.9% vs. 80.7%; p = 0.028). Conclusion: Most families of deceased cancer patients follow safe use, secure storage, and adequate disposal of prescribed opioids. Awareness of opioid diversion and the need for adequate disposal increased the prevalence of safe practices.