Abstract

Abstract

Using medications in the treatment of substance abuse disorders has become as an important part of available treatment options offered by medical practitioners. In this paper data will be presented to show the benefits and barriers associated with using several types of medication-assisted treatment to treat opioid use disorder. There are three drugs approved by the FDA for the treatment of opioid dependence: Buprenorphine, Methadone, and Naltrexone. There has been limited adoption of pharmacotherapies in the treatment of substance use disorders. In treatment of addiction, medications are used to reduce the intensity associated with withdrawal symptoms, reduction of cravings for the substance, and help reduce the chance of continued use or relapse. This is accomplished by blocking the effects of the drug. Opiate treatment programs offer medication assisted treatment (MAT) to patients who have been identified with an opiate use disorder from a qualified professional. Opioid treatment programs offer an array of services. The purpose of services includes reducing, eliminating, or preventing the use of illicit drugs; as well as reducing possible illegal action and the increase of communicable diseases including HIV. The substance abuse and chemical dependency treatment field has been challenged to implement evidence-based practices. There has recently been a dramatic increase in the number of interventions for substance use prevention and medication-assisted treatment is one of those interventions.

Year Manuscript Completed

Fall 2019

Senior Project Advisor

G. Michael Barton

Degree Awarded

Bachelor of Integrated Studies Degree

Field of Study

Health Care Administration

Document Type

Thesis

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