Read the September 2023 issue of CFTN
Pharmacotherapies, or medications for opioid use (MOUDs), form the bedrock of treatment for those with Opioid Use Disorder (OUD). The laboratory is critical in managing OUD, specifically in monitoring MOUD compliance and assessing for co-occurring drug use. This article will provide an overview of the opioid epidemic, the critical importance of MOUD among all substance use disorder pharmacotherapies, and a discussion on the laboratory’s essential role in managing MOUD for OUD.
A gradual shift in the medical community’s perceptions of drug use for nonmedical purposes has occurred in recent years, along with the recognition that historical terminology related to drug use can increase the risk of stigma and negative bias. Stigma from drug use can have serious consequences; for example, discouraging individuals from seeking care. Several organizations have developed resources for words to use when discussing drug use. Although there is not yet a full consensus on appropriate terminology, for medical professionals in clinical settings these resources provide a toolbox for guiding productive conversations about drug use.
This year’s annual scientific meeting was held in Anaheim, CA, and celebrated the association’s 75th anniversary. This meeting also functioned as the transition point from AACC to our new name and branding as the Association for Diagnostics & Laboratory Medicine (ADLM). This year’s program continued to feature a toxicology track for attendees which included a variety of educational opportunities spanning meeting days and session types.
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