Rethinking SUD Medications - Trends in Substance Use Disorder with Dr. Mark Gold

Rethinking SUD Medications - Trends in Substance Use Disorder with Dr. Mark Gold

How do people find hope in the darkest times? In this episode of Spero Health Clinical Insights, host David Hayden welcomes back Dr. Mark Gold, an eminent figure in addiction medicine, to shed light on the evolving landscape of Substance Use Disorder (SUD) medications. With a career spanning over four decades, Dr. Gold shares his extensive knowledge and challenges the traditional notion that recovery equates to abstinence.

Instead, he advocates for a more nuanced understanding that embraces medication-assisted treatment (MAT) as a lifelong tool for many. The conversation dives into the complexities of addiction, addressing the brain's long-term changes due to opioids and the critical role of MAT in saving lives. Dr. Gold discusses the importance of retaining individuals in treatment and protecting them from overdose, emphasising that the goal is not just sobriety but survival.

The episode also explores behavioural approaches, like contingency management, which uses positive reinforcement to encourage recovery, especially in cases involving methamphetamine use. Dr. Gold's insights highlight the importance of early intervention and education to combat misinformation and stigma surrounding addiction. This episode offers a refreshing perspective on addiction treatment, urging listeners to consider a broader definition of recovery that accommodates both medical and behavioural therapies. As Dr.

Gold aptly puts it, "Treatment only works when you're taking it." So, how do we redefine recovery to include these life-saving measures? Tune in to find out.