Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder

The opioid use epidemic has reached epidemic proportions in the United States. In 2016, there were approximately 2.1 million people with opioid use disorder. In 2017, 47,000 people died from opioid overdoses. Opioid addiction is associated with a range of physical, psychological, and social consequences. In addition to the risk of death, individuals with opioid use disorder are more likely to suffer from cardiovascular disease, infectious diseases, and incarceration.

Depending on the patient’s needs, the length of opioid addiction treatment will vary. For some, the process may last a few months while others may require several years. Although every patient’s journey is different, long-term opioid treatment center is associated with improved health. Ultimately, the question becomes: “What is the first line of treatment for opioid use disorder?”

While primary care physicians may be well-versed in the field, they may not be as familiar with the treatment options for opioid use disorder. While this is a valid concern, many people are not seeking treatment because they do not perceive a need for it. To decrease opioid-related mortality and morbidity, clinicians must understand the opioid-dependent population and find ways to engage them in appropriate treatment.

Although the first line of treatment for opioid use disorder is often a series of supportive therapies, patients with this condition will likely need multiple forms of care. An individual can be in an early remission if they have not used opioids in more than three months or more. While sustained remission is considered the best course of treatment, it is also possible to achieve a full recovery without the need for any treatment.

Several medications have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Buprenorphine, methadone, and buprenorphine/naloxone are all effective treatments for opioid use disorder. Currently, long-acting buprenorphine have been approved for the treatment of patients 16 and older. But a new method is being developed that could help patients with their addiction.

What is the First Line of Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder?

MAT (medication-assisted treatment) is the first line of treatment for opioid use disorders. It can not only help patients sustain their recovery, but also decrease the risk of opioid overdose. MAT is a comprehensive treatment program that integrates counseling and behavioral therapies. MAT therapies are evidence-based and proven to reduce the risk of relapse. Additionally, MAT can help individuals with co-occurring disorders such as HIV, AIDS, and Viral Hepatitis.

In addition to opioid-addicts, there is an increasing need for psychosocial treatments for opioid use disorder. While Suboxone and other naltrexone medications have shown positive effects, long-term abstinence rates are still low. This underscores the need for further improvements of current treatments. Addition of supportive elements such as NA and 12 step facilitation may improve outcomes and provide more support for people with opioid use disorder.

Pregnant women should discuss the possibility of becoming pregnant with their healthcare provider. Some women are prescribed opioid medication during pregnancy to treat their disorder. Withholding opioid medication could affect the chance of a healthy pregnancy. In addition, opioid medications are highly addictive and can cause a variety of other problems in pregnancy. Ultimately, it is important to work with your healthcare provider to create an opioid treatment plan that is safe for both you and your unborn baby.