Psychiatry & Psychotherapy Podcast Opioid Use Disorder with Dr. Cummings
Jun 8, 2023
Dr. Michael Cummings, a seasoned psychiatrist, dives deep into opioid use disorder and its staggering impact. He unpacks the historical journey of opioids and the current crisis characterized by alarming addiction rates. The discussion highlights neurobiological factors and innovative treatment options like buprenorphine implants. Cummings emphasizes the need for psychosocial support and critiques the role of pharmaceutical companies in the epidemic. A must-listen for anyone wanting to understand the complexities of addiction and recovery!
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Opioid Evolution and Potency
- Opioid use evolved from ancient pain remedies to modern potent drugs like fentanyl.
- Fentanyl is 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine and heroin, driving the current overdose epidemic.
Fentanyl in Street Drugs
- Cutting back on prescribed opioids led many to seek street drugs.
- Fentanyl is often mixed into illicit drugs unknowingly, increasing overdose risks.
Rising Opioid Deaths and Fourth Wave
- The opioid epidemic's death toll rose from 3,000-7,000 to over 109,000 annually.
- A potential fourth wave involves fentanyl mixed into various drugs, sometimes unknowingly.