The goals of treatment patients with opioid use disorder (OUD) include preventing lethal opioid overdoses, preventing or reducing the use of drugs, and improving their physical and psychological health, which can often be impacted very negatively by illegal drug use. Medications for the treatment of OUD are an important component of any comprehensive treatment program and help achieve these goals. Medications approved by the FDA for the treatment of OUD include methadone and buprenorphine both of which are opioids and when used under medical supervision are safe and effective options. Alternatively, naltrexone is another FDA approved medication for OUD works differently by preventing the effect of opioids on the patient’s body and reduce cravings for opioids. Each of these carries limitations and the choice of treatment for any given patient should be individualized to address their needs and other risk factors.
Access “Overview of Medication Assisted Treatment”” at: https://pcssnow.org/medication-assisted-treatment/
More information can be found at:
https://www.fda.gov/drugs/information-drug-class/information-about-medication-assisted-treatment-mat
https://www.fda.gov/drugs/information-drug-class/information-about-medication-assisted-treatment-mat