Who Should Treat Addicts? A Journey Through the History of Opiates
Iatrogenic or physician-caused addiction to opiates is a recurring theme in the history of The United States and one that you must pay attention to.
Imagine a time when doctors were forbidden from treating the very addicts they had helped create. This episode of 'Weekly Infusion' takes you back to those days, shedding light on the tumultuous history of opiate use and addiction. The conversation kicks off with a look at how World War II disrupted the opium trade, making it easier for the U.S. to crack down on drug trafficking.
However, by the late 1940s, heroin use was on the rise, leading to a surge in addiction rates. Dr. Marie Nyswander emerges as a key figure in this narrative, championing the use of Methadone to treat addicts. The episode's guest expert, Dr. David Courtwright, author of 'Age of Addiction', brings a wealth of knowledge to the discussion. He delves into the pioneers of methadone maintenance and their impact on addiction treatment.
But it's not all success stories; the episode also tackles the failures of drug treatment programs and the recurring issue of iatrogenic addiction—addiction caused by medical treatment itself. One of the central themes is the importance of treating addiction as a medical problem rather than a moral failing. The episode underscores the responsibility of the medical community in addressing this issue, highlighting both past mistakes and future possibilities.
Whether you're a healthcare professional, someone affected by addiction, or just curious about the history of opiates, this episode offers valuable insights and thought-provoking discussions.