PROMIS measures in substance use treatment patients and general population

The National Institutes of Health's Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) reliably and validly measures health outcomes using computer-assisted testing and scales developed with item response theory. PROMIS scales were used to explore drug practices and beliefs, and pain and emotional measures among participants (n = 404) within the first 30 days of beginning methadone (n = 168) and outpatient (n = 236) substance use disorder (SUD) treatment in 2010. The comparison group (n =1000) completed study measures through the YouGov Polimetrix internet panel. Study participation required respondents to report at least one alcoholic drink in the 30 days prior to completing the survey. SUD participants were more likely to be male, younger, less educated, current and/or former smoker than the comparison population. Polysubstance use was common for both men (43%) and women (48%) within both SUD samples. Abuse of alcohol and opiates were comparable between men and women in SUD treatment. SUD participants, regardless of diagnosis, were more likely to drink while taking prescription medications, mix alcohol and drugs to get high, and drink because of physical pain, anxiety, depression, anger, loneliness, sadness, nervousness as well as other emotional markers. SUD opioid respondents were more likely to report significant pain interference scores relative to the comparison group or other SUD. Prior analyses showed elevated scores of pain interference, anxiety, depression, and fatigue in SUD participants. Incorporating treatment practices directed to polysubstance use patients with pain interference and related distress may enhance treatment efficacy.