Treating Opioid Use Disorder and Co-Occuring Disorders

Abstract

Harm reduction is a public health strategy that was developed initially for adults with substance use disorder for whom abstinence was not feasible. Harm reduction approaches have been effective in reducing morbidity and mortality in some adult populations. In this presentation "Treating Opioid Use Disorder and Co-Occuring Disorders" by Amy L. Harrington, MD, learn the specifics of what the term "harm reduction" means as it is applied in various settings. When a treatment plan is considered for a patient, it is important to understand if other medical conditions also exist in addition to the substance use disorder. How do co-morbid conditions affect treatment for substance use disorder? Understand why a "one size fits all" treatment strategy may not be successful. Learning Objectives: Harm Reduction, Medication Assisted Treatment, and Considering Co-morbid Disorders When Deciding Treatment Learn about the philosophy of harm reduction as it relates to substance use disorders Learn about harm reduction strategies used to minimize secondary harm from opioid use Learn about how co-morbid disorders can affect substance use treatment