Laser Therapy Institute Podcast
STUDY: PBM for Opioid Use Disorder
Oct 18, 2021
This podcast explores a study on using light therapy as a non-opioid treatment for opioid use disorder. It discusses the urgent need for alternative solutions to addiction and the devastating impact of the opioid epidemic. The study reveals the efficacy of transcranial photobiomodulation in reducing cravings and opioid use. The role of medication-based intervention and selectively stimulating one hemisphere of the brain are key aspects. The study shows a 71% improvement in cravings for the light therapy group compared to a sham treatment group. The potential of combining light therapy with buprenorphine treatment is also discussed.
16:41
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Quick takeaways
- Unilateral transcranial photobiomodulation reduces opioid cravings and use, even when patients are already receiving medication-based interventions.
- Transcranial photobiomodulation activates mitochondria, increases blood flow, inhibits negative emotions, and shows promise as a treatment for opioid addiction.
Deep dives
The Opioid Crisis: Current Situation and Urgent Need for Solutions
The opioid epidemic continues to cause significant suffering, death, and societal damage. Current treatments, such as medication management, are unable to address the underlying factors contributing to addiction. The urgent need for additional safe and effective treatments is evident, especially given the high rates of relapse and dropout associated with existing interventions.
