Partners
Injectable Medications (New Aced It Episode)
In this episode, I explore how long-acting injectable medications, like Vivitrol, Sublocade, and Brixadi, are reshaping treatment for opioid use disorder by reducing daily dosing burdens and improving treatment adherence. I review evidence on their clinical effectiveness, patient experiences, and the practical and ethical considerations involved in implementing these medications in both community and carceral…
Read MoreDigital and Telehealth Tools (New Aced It Episode)
In this episode, I examine how digital and telehealth tools, from smartphone apps and wearable sensors to virtual overdose-monitoring services, are being used to address opioid use disorder and overdose risk. I explore what the research says about their effectiveness, how people who use drugs perceive them, and the challenges of making these technologies accessible,…
Read MorePsychedelic-Assisted Therapy (New Aced It Episode)
In this episode, I explore the growing scientific interest in psychedelic-assisted therapy as a potential treatment for substance use disorders, particularly opioid addiction. I trace the historical roots of psychedelic therapy, review emerging evidence on substances like lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), ketamine, psilocybin, and ibogaine, and highlight the challenges of translating promising findings into safe,…
Read MoreSafe Supply/Prescribed Alternatives (New Aced It Episode)
In this episode, I talk about the emerging practice of safer supply and prescribed alternatives, highlighting how Canada has implemented these programs to reduce overdose deaths and support people who use drugs. I walk listeners through evidence on outcomes, participant and provider perspectives, and key lessons for U.S. states beginning to explore safer supply models.…
Read MoreExtended-Release Buprenorphine Utilization in Justice Settings: Insights From Two JCOIN Studies
Friends Research Hub conducted two recent JCOIN 1.0 studies that offer complementary perspectives on how extended-release buprenorphine (XR-B) can be initiated and sustained across incarceration and reentry. These studies were conducted across several Maryland jails to help correctional systems understand both the feasibility of starting treatment in custody and the patient experience that shapes ongoing…
Read MorePeer Support and Recovery Groups (New Aced It Episode)
In this episode, I talk about how peer support and recovery groups contribute to treatment engagement, overdose prevention, and long-term recovery for people with opioid use disorder. I discuss studies showing that strong involvement in 12-step programs can enhance psychological well-being and that peer-led outreach is effective in connecting individuals to care. I also highlight…
Read MoreOutpatient Counseling (New Aced It Episode)
In this episode, I talk about the role of outpatient counseling and overdose response in supporting people with opioid use disorders (OUDs). I begin by discussing why outpatient services are central to recovery and how they often function as the first and most common point of care. I review research showing that many outpatient programs…
Read MoreResidential and Inpatient Rehab (New Aced It Episode)
In this episode, I explore the purpose, structure, and effectiveness of residential and inpatient rehabilitation for opioid use disorder. I discuss why these programs are needed, what treatments they provide, and how individuals experience them. I review research showing that inpatient care can support early withdrawal but does not always lead to stronger long-term outcomes,…
Read MoreBehavioral Therapies (New Aced It Episode)
In this episode, I explore the behavioral therapies used to support recovery from opioid use disorder. I walk through the evidence behind the use of cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and contingency management. I review evidence on how these therapies work, what research shows about their effectiveness, and where their limitations appear. I also discuss…
Read MoreMedications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) (New Aced It Episode)
In this episode, I introduce Season 13 of the ACED IT podcast and set the stage for our focus on how prevention, treatment, and recovery strategies are adapting to the ongoing crisis. I dive into medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD), explaining what these treatments are, how they work, and why they matter. I walk…
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