Elevated Opioid Use During Pregnancy in New Zealand: A Growing Concern
New Zealand ranks third among high-income countries for prescribed opioid use during pregnancy, with nearly 8% of pregnancies affected, raising concerns about potential fetal risks and the need for updated guidelines.
Recent research highlights that New Zealand ranks third among high-income countries for prescribed opioid use during pregnancy, with almost 8% of pregnancies exposed to opioids. This rate is notably higher than in several other nations, such as Canada and the UK. The study, led by the University of New South Wales and published in the journal Anesthesiology, analyzed prescription data from over 20 million pregnancies worldwide, spanning from 2000 to 2020.
The investigation utilized anonymized prescription records from countries including Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the US, and European nations, revealing that opioid use remained stable or declined slightly in most countries over the two decades. The highest consumption was observed in the United States, while the United Kingdom had the lowest rates. Among the opioids most commonly used were codeine and tramadol.
Interestingly, opioid use was more prevalent during late pregnancy and among women with lower income levels and higher body mass index. Furthermore, the study noted an overall increase in prescription medication use during pregnancy over the 20-year period, possibly linked to an aging pregnant population with more medical conditions requiring treatment.
Dr. Sarah Donald from the University of Otago emphasized that these findings raise important questions about current guidelines and practices surrounding opioid prescription during pregnancy. She and her colleagues highlighted that, although 80% of pregnant women using opioids received only a single prescription, potential risks remain significant.
Professor Lianne Parkin added that opioids can cross the placenta, exposing the fetus to risks associated with early exposure, such as congenital malformations, preterm birth, low birth weight, neonatal breathing difficulties, withdrawal symptoms, and longer-term neurodevelopmental issues. These findings underscore the importance of carefully evaluating the necessity of opioid use during pregnancy and exploring safer pain management alternatives.
This comprehensive study underscores the need for ongoing review of prescribing practices and underscores the importance of balancing effective pain relief with potential risks to both mother and child.
Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-05-high-opioid-nz-pregnancies.html
Stay Updated with Mia's Feed
Get the latest health & wellness insights delivered straight to your inbox.
Related Articles
Higher Doses of Semaglutide Demonstrate Safe and Effective Weight Loss in Adults with Obesity
Clinical trials confirm that higher doses of semaglutide are safe and significantly more effective in promoting weight loss in adults with obesity, including those with type 2 diabetes.
Innovative Two-in-One Inhaler Significantly Reduces Childhood Asthma Attacks
A new international study reveals that a combined inhaler containing corticosteroid and bronchodilator significantly reduces asthma attacks in children, offering a safer, more effective treatment option for pediatric asthma management.
Innovative Approach Estimates Measles Vaccination Coverage Without Recent Survey Data
A new modeling technique utilizes routine clinic data to estimate regional measles vaccination rates without relying on recent surveys, enhancing outbreak prevention efforts globally.
Bridging the Gap: Media Perceptions and Public Attitudes Towards Wild Meat Consumption in Central Africa During COVID-19
A new study reveals the disconnect between media messaging and public perceptions of wild meat during COVID-19 in Central Africa, highlighting the importance of culturally sensitive strategies for wildlife conservation and health.