The Life-Saving Work of Dr. Jeff Ripperda in Addiction Medicine
So if somebody does buprenorphine and then does heroin on top of it, it turns out the heroin actually can't do anything because the buprenorphine has taken up all the receptor spots.
Ever wondered what drives a doctor to specialize in addiction medicine? In this episode of 'Human Stories of Recovery', host Alex Colyer chats with Dr. Jeff Ripperda, a dedicated Addiction Medicine and Family Medicine Doctor. Dr. Ripperda opens up about his journey into the field, sparked by his work with a court system that inspired him to create an addiction treatment program. He discusses the ethical dilemmas he faces, such as the tough decisions around rationing healthcare resources.
One of the most eye-opening parts of the conversation is when Dr. Ripperda explains the role of mu receptors in addiction, highlighting why quitting can be so challenging for those affected. But it's not all about the challenges; Dr. Ripperda shares uplifting stories of success with medication-assisted treatment, where patients have managed to stop using illicit drugs within just a week.
This episode also touches on the critical need to reduce the stigma around addiction and mental health, and the importance of educating medical professionals about these issues. If you're interested in understanding more about the intricacies of addiction medicine and the real-life impact of these treatments, this episode is a must-listen.