Influence of Sex, Gender, and Sociodemographic Variables on Recurrent Prescription Refills for Chronic Pain: Findings from a Prescription Claims Analysis - Report - MDSpire

Influence of Sex, Gender, and Sociodemographic Variables on Recurrent Prescription Refills for Chronic Pain: Findings from a Prescription Claims Analysis

  • By

  • Marimée Godbout-Parent

  • Nancy Julien

  • Hermine Lore Nguena Nguefack

  • M. Gabrielle Pagé

  • Line Guénette

  • Lucie Blais

  • Nancy Ménard

  • Sylvie Beaudoin

  • Anaïs Lacasse

  • April 22, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Report: Influence of Sex, Gender, and Sociodemographic Variables on Recurrent Prescription Refills for Chronic Pain

Overview

This study investigates the impact of sex, gender, and sociodemographic factors on the frequency of prescription refills for chronic pain medications. Findings reveal significant variations in refill patterns, particularly for opioids and antidepressants, among different demographic groups.

Background

Chronic pain affects a substantial portion of the population, with notable disparities in its management across different sexes and genders. Understanding these disparities is crucial for optimizing treatment approaches and ensuring equitable access to care. The interplay of sociodemographic factors with medication use patterns can inform better prescribing practices and improve patient outcomes.

Data Highlights

Medication ClassPercentage of Repeated Refills
Antidepressants48%
Anticonvulsants35%
Opioids19%
NSAIDs18%

Key Findings

  • Women with private drug insurance had lower odds of repeated opioid prescription refills (aOR: 0.38; 95% CI: 0.15–0.95).
  • Unemployed older men had lower odds of repeated antidepressant prescription refills (aOR: 0.45; 95% CI: 0.24–0.87) compared to unemployed women.
  • Antidepressants were the most commonly prescribed medications for chronic pain (48% of repeated refills).
  • Significant differences in refill patterns were observed across sociodemographic subgroups.
  • Chronic pain management remains suboptimal despite high medication usage rates (62% to 94%).

Clinical Implications

Healthcare providers should consider the influence of sex, gender, and sociodemographic factors when prescribing medications for chronic pain. Tailoring treatment plans to address these disparities may enhance medication adherence and improve patient outcomes.

Conclusion

The findings underscore the need for a nuanced understanding of how sex and gender intersect with sociodemographic factors in chronic pain management. Addressing these disparities is essential for optimizing treatment and ensuring equitable care.

References

  1. Author(s)/Org, Source, Year -- Title
  2. Author(s)/Org, Source, Year -- Title
  3. Author(s)/Org, Source, Year -- Title
  4. Author(s)/Org, Source, Year -- Title
  5. Guideline Recommendations and Guiding Principles | Overdose Prevention | CDC
  6. US Trends in Long-Term Opioid Therapy - PMC
  7. 2024 Global Year About Sex and Gender Disparities in Pain - IASP
  8. Guideline Recommendations and Guiding Principles | Overdose Prevention | CDC
  9. US Trends in Long-Term Opioid Therapy - PMC
  10. 2024 Global Year About Sex and Gender Disparities in Pain - IASP

Original Source(s)

Influence of Sex, Gender, and Sociodemographic Variables on Recurrent Prescription Refills for Chronic Pain: Findings from a Prescription Claims Analysis

  • by Marimée Godbout-Parent, Nancy Julien, Hermine Lore Nguena Nguefack, M. Gabrielle Pagé, Line Guénette, Lucie Blais, Nancy Ménard, Sylvie Beaudoin, Anaïs Lacasse

  • April 22, 2026

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