Mobile health interventions for chronic non-cancer pain: A systematic scoping review of studies assessing opioid use
Alisha S M Jeong, Michael R Magee, Ali Gholamrezaei, Amy G McNeilage, Alison Sim, Paul Glare, Claire E Ashton-JamesAbstract
Objective
This systematic scoping review examined the scope and characteristics of mobile health (mHealth) interventions for adults with chronic non-cancer pain in studies that included opioid use as an outcome.
Design
This study was conducted in accordance with the Joanna Briggs Institute Reviewer’s Manual and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analysis extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). This review included studies evaluating mHealth interventions for adults with chronic non-cancer pain which included opioid use as a measured outcome.
Data extraction
Information on study characteristics were extracted, including co-design processes, technology used, degree of human contact, theoretical basis, tailoring and engagement strategies, and key findings.
Results
From 4,344 records, 33 records (29 unique studies) comprising 21 published articles and 12 protocols met criteria. Interventions utilised mobile apps (n = 14), text messaging (n = 5), and telephone-based interactive voice response (n = 3). Opioid use was an eligibility criterion in 14 studies, of which seven were specifically designed to support opioid tapering. Published results indicated high acceptability and feasibility, with findings also suggesting potential efficacy.
Conclusions
Although most studies targeted pain management with opioid use as a secondary outcome, interventions specifically designed to support patients with tapering are emerging. There is early evidence suggesting they are acceptable, feasible, and potentially effective. Future research should evaluate efficacy, as well as examine mediating and moderating factors to better understand how and for whom mHealth interventions are effective.