HEALTH

Medication Effective At Treating Addiction Becomes More Readily Available

May 27, 2021, 6:35 PM | Updated: Apr 14, 2023, 2:41 pm

SALT LAKE CITY — During the coronavirus pandemic, opioid overdose deaths skyrocketed in the United States to an all-time high, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, but there is hope.

A proven medication to treat addiction has been made more accessible to those who need it. One Utah doctor said it’s a highly-effective treatment.

Buprenorphine has been prescribed since the 1970s.

“Helps with withdrawal, helps with cravings, helps people with their recovery,” said Paula Cook, M.D., addiction specialist and chief medical officer with the Odyssey House.

It hasn’t been widely used by doctors, according to Cook, because of the difficulties involved in prescribing.

“Previously, we’ve required a training and a waiver for prescribers to prescribe this medication,” she said.

Buprenorphine is a partial opioid and a controlled substance.

While prescribing it always carries risks — like sedation, overdose and abuse potential — Cook said it’s much safer than all other opioids.

She said the benefits of getting it to more patients who need it far outweigh the risks.

It stabilizes the brain, allowing patients to focus on recovery, giving them a greater chance at sobriety, according to Cook.

“More people are able to get away from opioid use and get back to living opioid-free lives,” she said.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, people taking the drug were less likely to die from overdose or to transmit HIV. They were also less likely to commit a crime.

“If you ask patients who are on Buprenorphine, they’ll tell you it’s a game-changer,” said Cook. “This just makes it more accessible. It means that more providers can step up.”

The drug can now be prescribed in outpatient clinics, reaching rural areas, as well as people who are unwilling to go to rehab.

“(It) allows more providers to come to the table and think of the medication as a first-line response to a medically diagnosable condition,” said Cook.

If you or someone you love is struggling with opioid addiction, help is available at the University of Utah Addiction Recovery Services. Their number is 801-583-2500.

KSL 5 TV Live

Health

Tina Gomez was 27 when she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis....

Emma Benson

‘It’s different every day’: Understanding multiple sclerosis and its prevalence in Utah

March is Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month, a chance to talk about this neurological condition which affects more than 30,000 Utahns.

17 hours ago

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - FEBRUARY 03: Larry David, comedian, writer, actor, and television producer loo...

Alli Rosenbloom, CNN

Don’t bother Larry David with menial pleasantries. He’s not interested

Just like the version of himself that he plays on “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” there are some things in life that Larry David can’t be bothered with.

19 hours ago

Hope Hero Foundation Logo on key chain...

Karah Brackin

Utah’s Hope Hero Foundation is saving teen lives

Discover how The Hope Hero Foundation empowers teens and prevents suicide. Be the hero of your own story!

19 hours ago

Alison Smart and her daughter Ruby, Alison Smart is going up against a major drug company, trying t...

Daniel Woodruff

Utah mom enlists Mark Cuban in fight for daughter’s access to insulin

A Utah mom is going up against a major drug company, trying to keep a type of insulin on the market that she says is essential for her family.

2 days ago

Intermountain Health's Murray made the list of Fortune Magazine's Top 50 heart hospitals....

Cary Schwanitz

Utah has two of Fortune Magazine’s Top 50 Heart Hospitals

Two Utah hospitals made Fortune Magazine’s top 50 cardiovascular hospitals.

2 days ago

Man sneezing because of seasonal allergies...

Katia Hetter, CNN

Are allergies making you feel sick? Here’s how to find out

Sniffling a bit more than usual? Welcome to spring allergy season in the Northern Hemisphere. Even if you don’t think you have allergies, it’s worth paying attention to those sniffles.

2 days ago

Sponsored Articles

Women hold card for scanning key card to access Photocopier Security system concept...

Les Olson

Why Printer Security Should Be Top of Mind for Your Business

Connected printers have vulnerable endpoints that are an easy target for cyber thieves. Protect your business with these tips.

Modern chandelier hanging from a white slanted ceiling with windows in the backgruond...

Lighting Design

Light Up Your Home With These Top Lighting Trends for 2024

Check out the latest lighting design trends for 2024 and tips on how you can incorporate them into your home.

Technician woman fixing hardware of desktop computer. Close up....

PC Laptops

Tips for Hassle-Free Computer Repairs

Experiencing a glitch in your computer can be frustrating, but with these tips you can have your computer repaired without the stress.

Close up of finger on keyboard button with number 11 logo...

PC Laptops

7 Reasons Why You Should Upgrade Your Laptop to Windows 11

Explore the benefits of upgrading to Windows 11 for a smoother, more secure, and feature-packed computing experience.

Stylish room interior with beautiful Christmas tree and decorative fireplace...

Lighting Design

Create a Festive Home with Our Easy-to-Follow Holiday Prep Guide

Get ready for festive celebrations! Discover expert tips to prepare your home for the holidays, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for unforgettable moments.

Battery low message on mobile device screen. Internet and technology concept...

PC Laptops

9 Tips to Get More Power Out of Your Laptop Battery

Get more power out of your laptop battery and help it last longer by implementing some of these tips from our guide.

Medication Effective At Treating Addiction Becomes More Readily Available