Lead: Association Between Telehealth Initiation Of Stimulant Therapy And New Substance Use Disorder DiagnosesLead: Association Between Telehealth Initiation Of Stimulant Therapy And New Substance Use Disorder Diagnoses
This Week in Addiction Medicine from ASAM
This episode examines the impact of telehealth on stimulant therapy and new substance use disorder diagnoses, along with other key studies in addiction medicine.
5:18•18 Mar 2025
Telehealth and Stimulant Therapy: New Insights into Substance Use Disorders
Episode Overview
- Telehealth stimulant therapy linked to higher new SUD diagnoses in unadjusted analysis.
- GLP-1 receptor agonists may help reduce alcohol intake.
- Higher methadone doses early in treatment improve retention rates.
- Urgent need for improved prevention strategies for youth overdose deaths.
- Sports gambling frequency linked to changes in alcohol-related problems.
“Patients initiated on stimulants via telehealth visits had higher rates of non-ADHD psychiatric comorbidities and new diagnoses of SUD.”
If you're interested in the latest trends and research in addiction medicine, this episode of 'This Week in Addiction Medicine' from ASAM is a must-listen. The episode dives into the effects of telehealth on stimulant therapy and its link to new substance use disorder diagnoses. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the DEA allowed controlled substances to be prescribed via telehealth, a policy extended through 2025.
This episode examines the debate around making this policy permanent by analysing data on newly diagnosed substance use disorders following telehealth versus in-person stimulant therapy initiations. The findings are mixed, with higher rates of new diagnoses in unadjusted analyses but no significant difference after adjusting for psychiatric comorbidities. The discussion underscores the need for further research to inform policy decisions. Additionally, the episode covers several other important studies.
One study highlights that GLP-1 receptor agonists, unlike DPP-4 inhibitors, significantly reduce alcohol intake, suggesting a potential new treatment for alcohol use disorder. Another study examines methadone induction dosing and its impact on retention in treatment, revealing that higher doses early on can improve retention rates. The episode also explores the rising overdose deaths among US youth and the critical need for better prevention strategies.
Lastly, it looks at the relationship between sports gambling and drinking behaviours, as well as a clinical trial showing that intermittent theta burst transcranial magnetic stimulation can significantly reduce alcohol consumption in those with alcohol use disorder. With expert insights and a comprehensive overview of current research, this episode provides valuable information for anyone interested in addiction medicine. Why not give it a listen and stay informed on these crucial topics?
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