OPIATE ADDICTION TREATMENT: Science vs Ideology and the End of One-Size Fits All Treatment

Program Description

The topic of addiction and recovery is filled with myths, half- truths and misinformation. Rehab facilities nationwide have a range of programmed responses, most of which are unsatisfactory or effective. It's little wonder that the frequency of one-year relapse is high.

In this interview,Dr. Mark Willenbring lists a number of currently accepted facts about addictions for the falsehoods they are, including: Myth #1) Rehab is necessary for most people to recover from addictions; Myth #2.) Highly trained professionals provide most of the treatment in addictions programs; Myth #3.) Drugs should not be used to treat a drug addict because total abstinence is required.

And, most importantly, he states that there is an alarming discrepancy between the treatments employed at many rehab centers and the treatments recommended by leading experts and supported by scientific research! Moreover, he states that substance abuse treatment begins with research, which most rehab facilities and Twelve Step programs ignore!

Learning Objectives

After listening to and/or reading this interview, participants should be able to
1. Understand why some people become addicted to opioids and others don't.
2. Understand and explain the effect of opioids on the brain.
3. Recognize the limitations of Twelve-Step programs.
4. Recognize the necessity of medically assisted treatment for opioid addicts.
5. Understand why medications like Methadone and Buprenorphine reduce cravings and prevent relapse.

Interviews