Utilization of Common Analgesic and Anxiolytic Medications by Registered First Nations Residents of Western Canada

The study examined utilization of acetaminophen with codeine and benzodiazepine drugs among Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) program registered First Nations residents in the four western provinces of Canada and sought preliminary indicators of factors influencing utilization. A small percentage of NIHB clients in the four western provinces were excessive users of acetaminophen with codeine and/or benzodiazepines, but overall utilization of these central nervous system drugs was moderate and within the bounds of non-First Nations population use examined in this study. The study also demonstrated that utilization of acetaminophen with codeine among NIHB claimants was inversely related to the stringency of provincial regulation.