Educational Activities Archives

Other substance use disorders can often co-occur with opioid use disorder (OUD). These can include benzodiazepines and other tranquilizers, cocaine and stimulants, and cannabis. Alcohol and nicotine are also considered commonly used substances alongside opioids. In this educational activity, these other substances will be reviewed leading to a discussion of principles of diagnosis and evaluation of treatment for each substance by themselves, and in the context of OUD.

Join our 4-session online case-based learning collaborative series focused on treating opioid use disorder. Delve into strategies to effectively assess and manage opioid withdrawal and explore real-world cases provided by addiction experts, applying knowledge to practical situations. Each session is presented live online and spans 1.5 hours. Designed for healthcare team members new to treating patients with opioid use disorder and opioid withdrawal, the series aims to offer additional insights, knowledge, and confidence. 

Substance Use disorders in Older Adults is a growing problem not only in the United States but throughout the developed world. The Baby Boomer generation, born between 1946 and 1964 is turning 58-76 years old this year. This group is presenting with more Substance Use Disorders and need for substance use treatment now. The use of an artificial cut off age of 65 years of age as the definition of elderly or old is somewhat arbitrary and this will be discussed. The module will look at the prevalence, screening and treatment of tobacco, alcohol, opioids, non-medical use of prescription drugs and illicit opioids as well as stimulants and cocaine, marijuana and non-opioid sedative hypnotic agents. A case vignette will drive the CME portion and elucidate the tenants of the module.

As the opioid use crisis continues to progress, communities across the country are now being faced with additional dangers such as the misuse of Xylazine, a powerful sedative commonly used for animals in the drug supply. Recent studies indicate these potent substances when used with opioids increase overdose risk and complicates treatment and long-term healthcare. Join us today as we discuss the history and context of Xylazine and opioid use as well as options for treatment and care.

Low back pain is a prevalent issue that presents challenges in its treatment. While opioids are often used to manage low back pain, evidence supporting their long-term effectiveness is limited, and they come with significant adverse effects. This instructional module aims to provide the entire healthcare team with a structured approach to integrating opioids into the management of low back pain. The instructors will stress the significance of incorporating opioid usage within a comprehensive pain management strategy that: 1. Takes into account psychosocial factors contributing to pain; 2. Recognizes that opioids are not the first-line treatment for low back pain and may not be suitable for all patients; 3. Utilizes non-opioid treatment options; 4. Consistently incorporates strategies to minimize risks and reassess patients periodically.

Throughout this document the term “MAT Program” is used to mean the integrated delivery of medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and counseling/behavioral health services rendered for patients struggling with opioid addiction. The MAT Program will require prescribing physician(s)/provider(s) and professionals serving as behavioral health consultants (BHC). For purposes of this document, the prescribing physician/provider is defined as the “MAT Provider.” The BHC function is further defined in the glossary of key terms.