Prescription Stimulant Use Disorder and More: A Deep Dive into Addiction Medicine
Episode Overview
25.3% of adults reported prescription stimulant misuse. Updated urine drug screening policies can reduce racial disparities. Split dosing methadone during pregnancy improves outcomes. Cannabis use linked to higher cardiovascular risks. Pre-arrest diversion programs show positive mental health outcomes.
The prevalence of misuse was 3.1 times higher among those using prescription amphetamines than those using methylphenidate
This episode of 'This Week in Addiction Medicine' from ASAM is packed with important studies and discussions that anyone interested in addiction medicine should hear. The main focus is on prescription stimulant use, misuse, and use disorder among US adults aged 18 to 64 years. The findings are quite startling: 25.3% of adults reported misuse, and 9% had a prescription stimulant use disorder (PSUD).
The episode breaks down these statistics and highlights the need for better screening and treatment, especially for those prescribed amphetamines. You'll get a deep dive into the patterns of misuse and the severity of PSUD, shedding light on an often-overlooked issue in addiction medicine. The podcast also touches on racial equity in urine drug screening policies in labour and delivery units, showing how updated policies can reduce racial disparities without affecting the identification of substance use.
There's a fascinating discussion on the benefits of split dosing methadone during pregnancy, showing improved outcomes for both mothers and babies. Cannabis use is another hot topic covered, with a study linking it to increased cardiovascular risks in younger adults. The episode also delves into the health impacts of high-potency cannabis, highlighting the need for more research in this area.
You'll hear about civil rights laws related to opioid use disorder (OUD) treatment in emergency departments, stressing the importance of initiating medication-assisted treatment to comply with legal requirements. The benefits of pre-arrest diversion programs for nonviolent drug offenders are also discussed, showing positive outcomes for mental health and addiction recovery. Finally, the episode concludes with a call for a public health approach to tackle gambling harm, critiquing the current focus on individual responsibility.
If you're keen on staying updated with the latest in addiction medicine, this episode is a must-listen. It’s packed with data, expert opinions, and practical insights that could make a real difference in understanding and treating addiction.