Mastering Chronic Pain & Opioid Use Disorder with Dr. Jessie Merlin
Episode Overview
Holistic care is crucial for managing opioid use disorder alongside chronic pain. Buprenorphine can be split into doses for better pain management. Cognitive behavioural therapy offers non-drug alternatives. Genetic factors play a role in how patients respond to opioids. Personalised approaches are needed to tailor treatments effectively.
People can have both chronic pain and opioid use disorder, and they can interact with each other in ways that are important.
In this episode of The Curbsiders Addiction Medicine Podcast, Dr. Jessie Merlin, a seasoned expert in addiction medicine and chronic pain management, shares her wealth of knowledge on handling opioid use disorder in patients with chronic pain. With an impressive background in internal medicine, infectious disease, palliative care, and addiction medicine, Dr. Merlin offers a unique perspective on how these conditions interact and the challenges they present in clinical practice. The hosts, including Dr. Carolyn Chan and Dr.
Shawn Cohen, engage in a lively discussion with Dr. Merlin, who sheds light on the intricacies of managing chronic pain alongside opioid use disorder. She addresses common misconceptions and emphasises the importance of holistic and patient-centred care. Dr. Merlin discusses practical strategies for integrating medications like buprenorphine and methadone into treatment plans, while also considering non-pharmacological approaches such as cognitive behavioural therapy. Dr.
Merlin highlights the limitations of current research and underscores the need for personalised medicine approaches to better tailor treatments to individual patients. Her insights into patient-oriented dosing and the role of genetics in opioid response provide valuable information for clinicians aiming to optimise care. The episode is a treasure trove of advice for healthcare professionals seeking to improve their skills in managing complex cases involving chronic pain and substance use disorders. With a blend of humour and expertise, Dr.
Merlin and the hosts offer guidance that is both informative and engaging. So, if you're curious about how to navigate the tricky waters of chronic pain and opioid use disorder, this episode is packed with pearls of wisdom that could change your practice. Dive in and discover new ways to support your patients more effectively.