Prescription Opioid Misuse, Comorbid Substance Use, and Suicidal Behaviors Among US Young Adults: Findings from 2015–2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health

The study provides evidence of a dose-response relationship between the number of illicit drugs uses alongside POM and the suicide risk as a clinically important phenomenon with implication for intervention. Findings highlight that POM, with or without illicit drug use, can serve as a behavioral and clinical indicator for identifying young adults at heightened risk of suicidality. This group warrants prioritized intervention targets to ensure timely access to developmentally appropriate clinical treatment, aiming to mitigate addiction progression and prevent harm and mortality.