Medications for Substance Use Disorders

Medications for Substance Use Disorders

There are several different medications approved by the FDA to treat alcohol use disorders (AUD) and opioid use disorders (OUD). These medications relieve the withdrawal symptoms and psychological cravings that cause chemical imbalances in the body. Medications used are evidence-based treatment options and do not just substitute one drug for another.

Medications for Alcohol Use Disorder (MAUD)

Acamprosate, disulfiram, and naltrexone are the most common medications used to treat alcohol use disorder. They do not provide a cure for the disorder but are most effective for people who participate in a treatment program. 

Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD)

Buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone are the most common medications used to treat OUD. These medications operate to normalize brain chemistry, block the euphoric effects of alcohol and opioids, relieve physiological cravings, and normalize body functions without the negative and euphoric effects of the substance used.

Buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone are used to treat OUD to short-acting opioids such as heroin, morphine, and codeine, as well as semi-synthetic opioids like oxycodone and hydrocodone. These medications are safe to use for months, years, or even a lifetime. As with any medication, consult your doctor before discontinuing use.

Opioid Overdose Prevention Medication

Naloxone and nalmefene are both FDA-approved opioid overdose reversal medications (OORMs) that are used to prevent opioid overdose by reversing the toxic effects of the overdose. 

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