Fentanyl Levels and Opioid Withdrawal: Dr. Ashish Thakrar’s Groundbreaking Research
Episode Overview
Dr. Ashish Thakrar shares his journey and experience in addiction medicine, highlighting the need for evidence-based practice in patient care. The study reveals a correlation between urine fentanyl concentration and the severity of opioid withdrawal, potentially informing a more personalised approach to treatment. Dr. Thakrar discusses the implications of the research findings on clinical practice and the need for a nuanced understanding of fentanyl exposure in patients. Insights into the potential use of fentanyl concentration assessments to tailor opioid withdrawal medication dosing for individual patients. The episode concludes with a thought-provoking discussion on the importance of considering patients' fentanyl usage in treatment protocols, advocating for a more personalised approach.
One of the most important takeaways for clinicians is to think carefully about how much fentanyl patients are using and to try to think through what impact they might have on their experiences in treatment.
Ever wondered how fentanyl levels in urine could impact opioid withdrawal? In this episode of 'Addiction Medicine: Beyond the Abstract', host Shawn McNeil, MD sits down with Dr. Ashish Thakrar, an addiction medicine specialist and Assistant Professor of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Thakrar shares his fascinating research on the correlation between urine fentanyl concentration and the severity of opioid withdrawal symptoms.
He discusses how these findings could revolutionize clinical practices, paving the way for more personalized treatment plans for patients battling opioid addiction. This conversation not only dives into the scientific aspects but also touches on the real-world implications for those in recovery. Whether you're a healthcare professional, a student, or someone interested in addiction science, this episode offers valuable insights that could change the way we approach opioid withdrawal treatment.