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The Curbsiders Addiction Medicine Podcast

S1 Ep5: #5 Amp Up Your Treatment of Stimulant Use Disorder with Dr. Paxton Bach

Aug 4, 2022
Dr. Paxton Bach, Co-Medical Director at the British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, delves into stimulant use disorder. He discusses the intricacies of stimulant consumption and effective patient communication. Key topics include recognizing signs of 'overamping,' managing stimulant intoxication in emergency settings, and the role of contingency management in treatment. The conversation highlights harm reduction strategies and the importance of a supportive environment for patients on their recovery journey.
01:01:18

Episode guests

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Quick takeaways

  • Stimulant use, particularly cocaine and methamphetamine, often stems from self-medication for issues like ADHD or anxiety, necessitating tailored treatment approaches.
  • Acute stimulant intoxication requires compassionate care strategies focusing on de-escalation techniques and avoiding coercive methods like restraint to ensure patient-centered support.

Deep dives

Understanding Stimulant Use and Disorders

Stimulants encompass a wide range of substances, with cocaine and methamphetamine being the most commonly misused in North America. These drugs work primarily by increasing levels of neurotransmitters in the brain, leading to heightened alertness, euphoria, and improved concentration. Many individuals start using stimulants to self-medicate for issues such as ADHD or anxiety, or to counterbalance the effects of other substances like opioids. Understanding the reasons behind stimulant use is essential for creating effective treatment plans, as recognizing the specific roles these substances play in a person's life can directly inform therapeutic approaches.

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