Thu Sep 12 01:25:33 UTC 2024: ## Oxycodone Use in Australia Drops by 45% Following Prescription Changes

**Sydney, Australia** – A new study analyzing wastewater data from across Australia has revealed a significant decrease in oxycodone use between 2019 and 2020. The research, conducted by the University of Queensland, found a 45% reduction in the amount of oxycodone consumed during that period, with consumption stabilizing in subsequent years.

The study, which analyzed 6,900 wastewater samples from 50 treatment plants representing 50% of the Australian population, attributes the decline to national changes in prescription guidelines and packaging sizes implemented in 2019 and 2020. These changes included reducing package sizes from 20 to 10 tablets and adding warnings about the risks of opioid use.

Dr. Rory Verhagen, the lead researcher, noted that while the study cannot directly link the decrease to a single policy change, the combination of these measures likely contributed to the reduction in oxycodone use. Additionally, increased public awareness about the dangers of opioid misuse, fueled by media reports of the opioid crisis in the United States, is believed to have played a role.

Prior to the changes, oxycodone consumption had been steadily rising, increasing from 78mg per day per 1,000 people in 2017 to 120mg in 2019. The study also monitored levels of fentanyl and heroin in wastewater, finding that fentanyl followed a similar trend to oxycodone, while heroin consumption fluctuated.

Despite the positive findings, experts warn that opioids remain a high-risk medication. Dr. Hester Wilson, an addiction specialist, emphasizes the potential for dependence even after just a few days of use. She stresses the importance of ongoing review and treatment to ensure patients are achieving their goals and minimizing the risks of opioid use.

The study provides valuable insight into the effectiveness of public health interventions aimed at reducing opioid misuse. While the decrease in oxycodone consumption is encouraging, continued vigilance and ongoing efforts to address the risks associated with opioid use remain crucial.

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