Cutting Back: Post-Surgery Opioid Use and Breakthroughs in Addiction Medicine
These results indicate that such a protocol is achievable for most patients with the potential for reduced opioid use.
Picture this: you've just had surgery, and instead of a hefty prescription for painkillers, you're given a much smaller dose. In this episode of 'Addiction Medicine Unpacked', host Claire Rasmussen takes us through a fascinating study from JAMA Oncology that looks at how a restrictive opioid prescription protocol (ROPP) can significantly reduce opioid use after surgery.
The study found that limiting opioid prescriptions to three days or less post-surgery drastically cut down on the average number of days patients used opioids, offering a promising approach to tackling opioid dependency right from the recovery room. But that's not all. This episode also dives into other groundbreaking research. Ever heard of psilocybin being used to treat depression?
A study discussed here shows that a single dose of this psychedelic substance can have lasting antidepressant effects for those with major depressive disorder. It's a mind-bending concept that could reshape mental health treatment. The episode doesn't stop there. Claire also brings to light a study from BMC Psychiatry, which reveals a troubling link between depressive symptoms and self-stigma in people battling substance use disorders. It's an eye-opener that underscores the need for compassionate care and support.
You'll also hear about new strategies for managing cannabis use around the time of surgery, innovative treatments for alcohol use disorder and hepatitis C, and the latest on alcohol-associated hepatitis. And for those dealing with opioid use disorder, there's insightful information on the use of buprenorphine. Whether you're a healthcare professional, someone personally affected by addiction, or just curious about the latest in addiction medicine, this episode is packed with valuable insights.
Tune in to 'Addiction Medicine Unpacked' for a deep dive into these critical topics and more.