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PCSS Podcast

PCSS Projects

  • Episode 7: Naltrexone as Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder

Episode 7: Naltrexone as Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder

Monday 22nd May 2017

Dr. Adam Bisaga discusses naltrexone's benefits and challenges in treating opioid use disorder on the PCSS Podcast.
42 minutes
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PCSS Podcast
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Innovative Treatments & Recovery Paths
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Naltrexone: A Game-Changer in Opioid Addiction Treatment with Dr. Adam Bisaga

This medication is to stabilize the opioid system, is to make sure that there is no up and down of intermittent use of opioids and increased in opioid effect and then suddenly dropping the opioid effect, which is what patients experience when they're using, you know, heroin or opioids, and that's what it's so disruptive to their mood, to their physiological functioning, to their, you know, hormonal functioning and, of course, to their safety.
Imagine a medication that can block the effects of opioids and reduce cravings without the risk of addiction. In this episode of the PCSS Podcast, Dr. Adam Bisaga, a leading psychiatrist and addiction specialist, dives into the transformative potential of naltrexone for treating opioid use disorder. Dr.
Bisaga brings his extensive experience as a Professor of Psychiatry at Columbia University and a Research Scientist at the New York State Psychiatric Institute to the table, sharing invaluable insights into how naltrexone works and why it stands out among other treatments like buprenorphine and methadone. Unlike these alternatives, naltrexone doesn’t produce a euphoric effect, making it non-habit-forming but equally effective in stabilizing the opioid system.
This episode covers everything from the science behind naltrexone’s opioid-blocking action to practical considerations for healthcare providers and patients. Dr. Bisaga sheds light on common misconceptions about naltrexone, addressing concerns about its impact on pain management and its administration challenges. He also highlights the importance of patient adherence, particularly in the initial stages when the medication must be taken under direct observation.
For healthcare providers looking to expand their toolkit in addiction treatment, this conversation offers a comprehensive overview of naltrexone’s benefits and limitations. It’s an enlightening discussion that underscores the role of healthcare professionals in guiding patients through their recovery journey with this promising therapy.