Addiction Medicine Made Easy | Fighting back against addiction What Every Doctor Should Know About Addiction: Buprenorphine, Naltrexone, and More
Jun 9, 2025
The discussion delves into treating opioid and alcohol use disorders through medication-assisted approaches. It emphasizes addiction as a challenge of self-regulation, distinguishing between dependence and disorder. Key medications like buprenorphine are highlighted for their effectiveness in reducing cravings and overdose risk. The podcast also tackles the fentanyl crisis and encourages the use of person-first language to combat stigma, promoting a more compassionate understanding of addiction. Off-label medications for alcohol treatment are discussed, offering further insights into comprehensive care.
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Addiction as Self-Regulation Shift
- Addiction involves shifting self-regulation from substances to non-substance methods.
- Many familiar medications in primary care can aid this transition.
Opioid Dependence Explained
- Opioid dependence is a physical brain chemistry change from sustained exposure.
- Treating dependence requires either giving opioids or enduring withdrawal.
Addiction as Executive Dysfunction
- Opioid use disorder includes compulsive use, cravings, and consequences.
- Addiction is a disorder of executive functioning affecting decision-making.