The role of pharmacists in opioid stewardship: Protocol

Abstract

Background: The opioid crisis is a worldwide public health concern. In North America, evidence suggests that the increase in opioid prescriptions correlates with the observed increase in opioid-related mortality and morbidity. Pharmacists are in a strategic position to promote effective opioid stewardship as they have a central role on healthcare teams. However, in many contexts, pharmacists do not have a harmonized scope of practice and no standardized opioid stewardship approach has been implemented.

Objectives: A scoping review will be conducted to identify and summarize evidence on the role of pharmacists in opioid stewardship and identify areas for future study.

Methods: The scoping review will be conducted according to the methodological framework proposed by Arksey and O'Malley, which was further modified by the Joanna Briggs Institute. Six databases will be searched which include PubMed, Embase, International Pharmaceutical Abstracts, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and APA PsycInfo.

Project impact: The findings of this review will identify opioid stewardship activities that can contribute towards reducing the impact of the opioid crisis. Additionally, it will provide foundational strategies to promote policy level change and foster a harmonized scope of practice. This review has the potential to inform future research, impact pharmacy practice, and drive policy change.

Keywords: Chronic pain; Opioid stewardship; Opioids; Pharmacist; Scoping review.