The
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration issued guidance for
health care and addiction professionals using methadone, naltrexone, or
buprenorphine to treat patients with opioid use disorder. Mandated by the
Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act, the guidance offers appropriate
prescribing practices and strategies for supporting patients. It also educates
patients, families, and the general public about the medications. "We know
that people can and do recover from opioid use disorders when they receive
appropriate treatment, and medication-assisted treatment's success in treating
opioid use disorders is well documented," said Dr. Elinore McCance-Katz,
assistant secretary for mental health and substance use at the Department of
Health and Human Services.