Treatment of Patients with Opioid Dependence – MM1611
The prevalence of opioid dependence is growing with the increased use of pharmaceutical opioids. A number of effective interventions exist for patients with opioid dependence, including withdrawal services, opioid substitution treatment and psychosocial interventions, supported by self-help groups and harm-reduction services. Although historically most opioid-dependent users have used illicit opioids such as heroin as their primary drug, doctors are more often encountering patients who either misuse pharmaceutical opioid medications not prescribed for them or, alternatively, develop dependence on opioid medications used in the treatment of chronic pain.
Modern Medicine – November 2016
