Latest news with #UseDisorder
Time Business News
22-07-2025
- Health
- Time Business News
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): What You Need to Know
Introduction to Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) Medication-Assisted Treatment, often abbreviated as MAT, is a clinically driven strategy for treating substance use disorders that fuses pharmacological intervention with behavioral therapies. It is not a substitute for willpower, nor is it a shortcut to sobriety. Rather, MAT serves as a stabilizing force, restoring neurochemical imbalances caused by chronic substance use. Despite its efficacy, MAT remains enveloped in layers of stigma and misunderstanding. Detractors often mischaracterize it as 'trading one addiction for another,' a notion both scientifically inaccurate and socially damaging. In reality, MAT helps individuals regain control, not lose it. Lingering Scents and Misconceptions Many people wonder whether simply being around the odor of cannabis can lead to a high. The truth is, unless you're in an enclosed, poorly ventilated space with heavy smoke, it's highly unlikely. Passive exposure doesn't provide enough THC—the psychoactive compound—to affect someone significantly. So, while the smell may be strong or even irritating to some, can the smell of weed get you high? Not under normal circumstances. Brief exposure to the scent in public or from a nearby smoker won't result in intoxication, though it might cling to clothing or trigger sensitivity in some individuals. How MAT Works At its core, MAT operates on the principle of neuroregulation—helping the brain adjust to life without the euphoric rush of addictive substances. Medications used in MAT are not designed to induce a high. Instead, they normalize brain chemistry, block the euphoric effects of drugs and alcohol, and relieve physiological cravings. The medications most commonly used include methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone for opioid use disorder, and disulfiram, acamprosate, and naltrexone for alcohol use disorder. Each functions uniquely. Some bind to opioid receptors to dull withdrawal symptoms, while others act as antagonists to prevent substances from exerting their effects. MAT for Opioid Use Disorder The opioid epidemic has catalyzed a reevaluation of treatment modalities, with MAT emerging as a cornerstone intervention. Methadone, a full opioid agonist, has been used for decades in tightly regulated settings to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Buprenorphine, a partial agonist, offers similar benefits with a lower risk of misuse due to its ceiling effect. Naltrexone, distinct from the other two, is an opioid antagonist—it entirely blocks the receptor sites, making it impossible to feel the euphoric effects of opioids. This medication is particularly effective in individuals who have already detoxed and wish to avoid relapse. Comparative studies have consistently shown that MAT significantly reduces the risk of fatal overdose, promotes treatment retention, and enhances social functioning. MAT for Alcohol Use Disorder Although less publicized than opioid-related MAT, medication support for alcohol use disorder has also proven transformative. Naltrexone, used for both alcohol and opioid addiction, reduces the rewarding effects of alcohol consumption. Disulfiram, on the other hand, induces acute sensitivity to alcohol, triggering unpleasant reactions when drinking occurs—a deterrent mechanism. Acamprosate works differently. It aims to stabilize brain activity disrupted by chronic alcohol intake, helping individuals maintain abstinence after detox. These pharmacological tools, when combined with counseling and support, elevate recovery prospects significantly. Benefits and Challenges of MAT The benefits of MAT are multifaceted. It enhances survival rates, reduces illicit drug use and criminal activity, improves birth outcomes among pregnant women with substance use disorders, and increases retention in therapeutic programs. For many, it provides the physiological stability needed to engage fully in behavioral therapies and rebuild their lives. Yet MAT is not without its obstacles. Accessibility remains a pressing issue, especially in rural or underserved areas. Misconceptions continue to circulate, leading some to eschew this life-saving treatment. Additionally, side effects—ranging from mild gastrointestinal issues to mood fluctuations—can deter compliance. Healthcare systems must address these barriers with evidence-based education, policy reform, and increased investment in integrated care models. Regulatory and Clinical Guidelines MAT is governed by a complex web of federal and state regulations. Methadone, for example, is only available through licensed opioid treatment programs (OTPs), while buprenorphine requires a prescribing waiver under the Drug Addiction Treatment Act. Recent legislative shifts, including the removal of the DATA 2000 waiver, are aimed at expanding access. Clinicians must adhere to best practice protocols, including comprehensive assessments, treatment planning, monitoring, and coordination with psychosocial support services. Regular drug screening, patient education, and informed consent are all essential elements of responsible MAT delivery. Integrating MAT into a Holistic Recovery Plan Medication alone is not a panacea. True recovery demands a multi-dimensional approach that addresses not only the biological aspects of addiction but also the emotional, psychological, and social underpinnings. MAT should be integrated with evidence-based behavioral therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and peer support systems. Every individual's path to recovery is distinct. Some may require short-term pharmacological support, while others benefit from long-term maintenance. Flexibility, personalization, and compassion are key to successful treatment outcomes. When Small Choices Lead to Bigger Problems Certain lifestyle habits can unknowingly aggravate common health issues. For instance, alcohol consumption may seem harmless during social gatherings, but it can pose unexpected complications. One such concern is that does alcohol make a yeast infection worse—and the answer is yes. Alcohol can disrupt the body's natural balance, weaken the immune system, and feed the growth of Candida due to its sugar content. This creates an ideal environment for yeast to thrive, worsening symptoms like itching, irritation, and discharge. Reducing alcohol intake while managing a yeast infection can support faster recovery and prevent recurring flare-ups. Conclusion Medication-Assisted Treatment is more than a clinical intervention—it is a bridge to recovery, dignity, and restored potential. As science continues to evolve, so too must society's understanding of what it means to heal from addiction. MAT provides a proven path forward, not just for managing symptoms, but for reclaiming lives. By championing a balanced, informed approach, communities can transform stigma into support and resistance into resilience. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Globe and Mail
31-03-2025
- Health
- Globe and Mail
New Developments in Opioid Use Disorder Research Highlighting the Need for Integrated Care Approaches
Chicago, IL - A new study titled 'Predictors of Mortality Among Patients With Opioid Use Disorder: Insights From the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP) Nationwide Readmission Database' has uncovered critical factors influencing mortality among patients with Opioid Use Disorder. The research, led by Naga Venkata Satish Babu Bodapati, Sandipkumar Patel, Rana Veer Samara Sihman Bharattej Rupavath, Omkar Reddy Polu, Balaiah Chamarthi, and Chrishanti Anna Joseph, provides valuable insights that could improve survival outcomes for this vulnerable population. The study found that mortality among patients with Opioid Use Disorder is significantly influenced by factors such as age, comorbidities, hospital characteristics, and healthcare disparities. These findings emphasize the urgent need for integrated care approaches that address both the medical and psychiatric conditions associated with Opioid Use Disorder. The research highlights the importance of providing holistic treatment strategies to improve patient outcomes and reduce mortality rates. Ms. Emily Clark, Senior Journalist at Alpine Vision Media, stated, 'This study offers vital insights into the complex factors that contribute to mortality among patients with Opioid Use Disorder. By recognizing the role of comorbidities and healthcare disparities, we can develop more targeted interventions that address the multifaceted needs of this population. In the United States, the opioid crisis continues to claim thousands of lives each year, with opioid-related deaths exceeding 100,000 annually. The findings from this research suggest that a more integrated care model, which includes coordinated medical and psychiatric treatment, could lead to improved survival rates". These strategies, combined with harm reduction approaches, could significantly reduce the mortality rate among individuals struggling with Opioid Use Disorder. Leading experts from around the world are already recognizing the importance of these findings. Dr. Eduardo J. Gómez, a prominent addiction specialist from Colombia, and Dr. Nasser Al-Ghanim, a leader in public health from Kuwait, both of whom have dedicated their careers to improving healthcare outcomes in underserved regions, acknowledge the value of integrated care in improving survival outcomes for patients with Opioid Use Disorder. Their work, alongside the insights from this study, could influence the global approach to addressing opioid addiction and its associated risks. The study's implications are far-reaching. "With over 16 million people suffering from opioid use disorder worldwide, these findings highlight the need for more comprehensive, patient-centered care strategies that focus on both physical and mental health. In addition to the health benefits, this research is poised to result in significant financial savings. The cost of opioid-related healthcare in the U.S. is astronomical, with opioid overdoses and related conditions contributing to over $78 billion annually in medical, lost productivity, and criminal justice costs. By reducing mortality rates and improving patient care through more targeted and integrated interventions, this research could save billions in healthcare expenditures. Optimizing the treatment approach for those with Opioid Use Disorder not only improves lives but also holds the potential to significantly alleviate the financial burden on healthcare systems worldwide," stated Ms. Clark. Targeted interventions to mitigate high-risk factors and enhance harm reduction strategies will be essential for improving survival rates and reducing the burden of opioid-related mortality globally. Citation: Bodapati N, Patel S, Sihman Bharattej Rupavath R, et al. (March 29, 2025) Predictors of Mortality Among Patients With Opioid Use Disorder: Insights From the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP) Nationwide Readmission Database. Cureus 17(3): e81405. DOI 10.7759/cureus.81405
