Medically Supervised Withdrawal for Opioid Dependence

Abstract

Physicians treating opioid dependency must be familiar wilh the basic pharmacology of opioids and physiologic manifestations of withdrawal. This patient population is complex, and requires a comprehensive evaluation prior to treatment. There is a significant overlap of this population with those who have chronic pain. These patients present a tremendous challenge lo the health care system. Evidence based studies have shown that OAT with methadone, and now with buprenorphine, combined with behavioral therapy can improve the success in the treatment of opioid dependence. As prescription opioid abuse is addressed through legislative means and the availability of opioids is reduced, the treatment for these patients who are dependent becomes increasingly important for them. Society will benefit from the reductions in crime, infectious disease, and over utilization of health care costs. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)