Diverse treatments needed for addiction

We read the recent articles about opioid detox, and we commend The Daily Herald and Marie Wilson for their continuing efforts to publish important information about the challenges of opioid addiction and treatment options available. The articles describe several parts of addiction treatment, but there is a particular emphasis on hospital-based medically managed withdrawal, sometimes referred to as "detox." While this can be a part of the treatment process for patients, we also want to highlight medication assisted treatment (MAT), a longer term, evidence-based treatment that uses prescription medicine in addition to counseling to treat opioid addiction.

As addiction specialists, we realize there is no single treatment that works for all individuals. The road into treatment and recovery is complicated, and people should work with trained professionals to determine which treatment is best for them. We also recognize that "detox" is sometimes required for safety reasons, particularly for patients who are withdrawing from alcohol. It can also serve an important role for other patients in crisis. However, it is important to note that someone taking MAT options like buprenorphine (trade name Suboxone) or methadone does not need to go through "detox," and these medications can be started on an outpatient basis, typically at a significant cost savings compared to hospitalization.

Medical guidelines increasingly emphasize the importance of MAT and risks of opioid detox. As we continue to develop new programs and strategies to combat the opioid crisis, we must make sure to put our resources into the treatments that work best.

David C. Lott, President, Lott Behavioral Health

Elizabeth Salisbury-Afshar, Medical Director of Behavioral Health, Chicago Department of Public Health