Drug addiction politics

Repurposing Drugs in Addiction

by

Repurposing existing drugs for addiction offers faster, low-cost treatment options but faces challenges like limited evidence, safety risks, low industry interest, and ethical concerns. Government agencies help guide regulation, research, and access. Repurposed Medications for Addiction Treatment Repurposing existing medications—originally developed for other health conditions—is a promising and efficient strategy in addiction treatment. Since many … Read more

Changes in Addiction Treatment

by

As addiction treatment policy shifts under the Trump administration, there is a growing emphasis on state control, reduced federal funding, and a law enforcement-focused approach over public health. These changes may limit access to evidence-based care, especially for vulnerable groups relying on Medicaid or community services. In response, stakeholders must advocate for treatment access, equitable … Read more

ER Opioid Treatment Barriers

by

Many ERs face barriers to treating opioid use disorder (OUD), due to lack of protocols, limited training, and poor care coordination. While hospitals work to improve systems, patients and families can take action now. Using clear self-advocacy and family support strategies, they can request evidence-based care—like buprenorphine—and improve access to treatment during ER visits. Why … Read more

Health Equity in Addiction Therapy

by

Equity in addiction treatment ensures that all individuals, regardless of background or circumstances, have access to fair and effective care. However, systemic barriers like discrimination, financial limitations, and lack of culturally competent care often create inequities. To address this, self-management practices, family support, and community resource strategies are key. Self-management empowers individuals in their recovery, … Read more

Medication Prior Authorization

by

Prior authorization (PA) is used by insurance companies to approve healthcare services, including medications and therapies. While it aims to control costs, PA can delay care and create administrative challenges, especially in addiction treatment. Self-management strategies help individuals navigate the process, while family support provides advocacy. Community resources, such as publicly funded programs and integrated … Read more

Addiction Deflection Program

by

A deflection program redirects individuals with substance use disorders from the justice system to treatment, treating addiction as a health issue. While beneficial, challenges include limited access, funding issues, and ethical concerns. Success depends on commitment to recovery and family support, which enhance long-term outcomes. Breaking the Cycle: How Addiction Deflection Programs Offer a Path … Read more

Addiction Genetic-Based Therapy

by

Genetic-based therapy for addiction personalizes treatment by analyzing an individual’s genetic makeup, aiming to improve effectiveness through tailored interventions like pharmacogenomics. Driven by research on genetic influences in addiction, this approach offers potential benefits but also raises ethical concerns, privacy risks, and the challenge of overemphasizing genetics over psychological and social factors. While promising, its … Read more

Patient Brokering and Addiction

by

Patient brokers are intermediaries who connect individuals seeking addiction treatment with facilities, often for a fee. While they may offer quick access to treatment, they can also exploit vulnerable individuals by directing them to substandard or unlicensed centers. The ethical dilemmas include fraud and conflicts of interest. To avoid exploitation, self-management strategies, family support, and … Read more

Addiction and Violence Behavior

by

Addiction is linked to violence as substance use impairs judgment and triggers aggression. Prevention requires self-management, family support, and community resources. These strategies, along with policies and judicial interventions, promote rehabilitation and reduce violence. The Link Between Addiction and Violence: Understanding the Contributing Factors Addiction is often associated with violent behavior, as substance use can … Read more

Addiction Prevention Strategies

by

Addiction prevention and management approaches involve efforts from the federal government, state governments, society, and social media. The federal government focuses on national policies, funding, and research, while state governments tailor resources to local needs. Society plays a key role in reducing stigma, supporting recovery, and educating the public. Social media helps raise awareness, build … Read more