Four Articles That Revolutionised Addiction Treatment Practices
Episode Overview
Buprenorphine can protect against fentanyl overdose even if usage continues. Initiating medications for alcohol use disorder at discharge reduces hospital returns. Cannabis use is linked to higher risks of stroke and heart attack. Frequent urine drug screenings may lower retention rates in treatment programs. Transparent discharge policies improve patient trust and retention.
Buprenorphine is protective, not just because it makes you take less fentanyl, but because it actually blocks the fentanyl and protects you from overdose.
In this episode of Addiction Medicine Journal Club, Dr. Sonya Del Tredici and Dr. John Keenan dive into four groundbreaking articles that have significantly altered their approach to addiction treatment. They kick things off by discussing the protective effects of buprenorphine on fatality risk during acute fentanyl exposure, highlighting how this medication can be a life-saving tool even for those continuing to use fentanyl.
Next, they explore the benefits of initiating medications for alcohol use disorder at hospital discharge, demonstrating how this proactive approach can drastically reduce hospital returns. The conversation then shifts to the association between cannabis use and cardiovascular outcomes, offering a fresh perspective on the risks associated with cannabis, particularly its impact on stroke and heart attack rates.
Finally, they examine the impact of random and observed urine drug screenings on long-term retention in opioid treatment programs, suggesting that less frequent testing might actually improve patient retention and trust. With real case studies and practical advice, this episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone involved in addiction medicine. Don't miss out on these game-changing discussions – your practice might just thank you for it!