Iceland reports decline in opioid prescriptions but concerns grow over oxycodone use

The prescription rates for opioid medications in Iceland have declined over the past year, marking a notable change from the previous year. Notably, there has been a decrease in the distribution of opioids relative to the population since the records began in the national prescription database. However, Iceland continues to lag behind neighboring countries in this regard.

Concerns have been raised about the increased use of oxycodone, with more prescriptions issued in 2023 compared to previous years. Additionally, the overall quantity of these medications dispensed has risen. While the number of individuals receiving a few days’ supply of pain relief medications has increased, those receiving prescriptions extending beyond nine days has decreased.

Efforts are being made to further reduce opioid usage, particularly emphasizing the need to cut back on the prescription of medications like Paracetamol with codeine, opting instead for non-opioid pain relief alternatives. The past two years saw a stabilization or slight increase in opioid sales related to the COVID-19 pandemic, but the trend has generally been decreasing in other Nordic countries, with Denmark experiencing the most significant drop.

Opioid consumption tends to rise with age, evidenced by the fact that just over 30% of those over 80 received opioid prescriptions last year. While every age group under 67 reported lower usage, individuals between 67 and 79 years old showed no reduction in their consumption.

Healthcare authorities are advocating for measures to curb excessive opioid prescriptions, including the implementation of a centralized prescription monitoring system. This initiative is expected to enhance medication safety and effectiveness in the long run.