Unpacking the Opioid Crisis with Dr. Claudia Cotca
If medications are needed, they should be looked at as a bridge, not a dependency component, and this is where it really has mass effect.
What happens when modern medicine turns into a double-edged sword? In this eye-opening episode of 'Chase The Vase', host Brock Bevell welcomes Dr. Claudia Cotca, a renowned aesthetic restorative dentist and international lecturer, to tackle the pressing issue of the opioid epidemic in America. Dr.
Cotca's impressive academic background, including a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and Cellular Molecular Biology, a Master of Public Health in Toxicology, and a Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Michigan, sets the stage for a deep dive into this complex topic. Dr. Cotca and Brock explore how opioids, initially prescribed to manage severe pain, often become long-term crutches, leading to dependency and widespread misuse.
They discuss why opioids are still being prescribed long after injuries have healed and whether there are viable alternatives for pain management. Dr. Cotca raises some tough questions: Is it okay to feel pain? How can pain be beneficial? The conversation also highlights the roles of drug manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, and pharmacies in perpetuating the crisis. Dr. Cotca emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary guidance and the need to uphold the Hippocratic Oath in medical practice.
She advocates for viewing medications as temporary aids rather than permanent solutions. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the complexities of pain management and the opioid epidemic, making this episode a must-listen for anyone affected by or interested in these issues. Dr. Cotca's call to action encourages patients to explore all treatment options and educate themselves about the potential risks and benefits of pain medication.
Tune in to 'Chase The Vase' for a thought-provoking discussion that aims to educate and inspire change in how we approach pain management and tackle the opioid crisis.