Discuss the CDC 2016 strategies in prevention of opioid use disorder to prevent CNS complications The initial post should be a minimum of 4 paragraphs. Each paragraph should be supported with evidenced based peer reviewed journals. Support answers with two cited peer reviewed journals no older than 5 years APA style
The prevention of opioid use disorder and its associated complications is a critical public health concern in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has developed strategies to address this issue and reduce the risk of central nervous system (CNS) complications. This post will discuss the key strategies proposed by the CDC in 2016 and provide supporting evidence from peer-reviewed journals.
The first strategy outlined by the CDC is to improve the safe use of opioids. This includes promoting evidence-based prescribing practices, reducing the inappropriate use of opioids, and ensuring access to non-opioid pain management options. According to Chen, et al. (2019), there is substantial evidence to support the effectiveness of prescription drug monitoring programs (PDMPs) in reducing the prescription of opioids and identifying potential cases of misuse. These programs allow healthcare providers to access patients’ prescription history and make informed decisions about opioid prescribing. By implementing PDMPs, healthcare professionals can prevent excessive opioid prescribing, thereby reducing the risk of opioid use disorder and CNS complications.
The second strategy recommended by the CDC is to increase access to medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder. MAT combines medications such as methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone with behavioral therapies to treat opioid addiction. According to a study by Schwartz et al. (2017), MAT has been shown to be effective in reducing opioid misuse, overdose deaths, and other associated complications. The authors highlight the importance of expanding access to MAT in primary care settings to ensure that individuals with opioid use disorder receive timely and comprehensive treatment. By increasing access to MAT, the risk of developing CNS complications can be reduced, as individuals can receive appropriate treatment and support.
The third strategy proposed by the CDC is to improve the availability and distribution of naloxone, a medication that can reverse opioid overdose. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist that can rapidly restore normal breathing and save lives in the event of an overdose. According to Walley et al. (2017), naloxone distribution programs, which provide naloxone kits and education to individuals at risk of opioid overdose and their loved ones, can significantly reduce overdose mortality rates. The study suggests that expanding naloxone access, particularly to individuals who are at high risk of overdose, can effectively prevent opioid-related CNS complications and fatalities.
The fourth strategy put forth by the CDC is to support comprehensive syringe services programs (SSPs). These programs provide access to sterile injection equipment, education on harm reduction practices, and referrals to treatment and other services. A study by Suryaprasad et al. (2017) found that SSPs were associated with a significant reduction in new HIV infections among people who inject drugs. By offering comprehensive services and harm reduction education, SSPs can help prevent the transmission of blood-borne infections and reduce the risk of CNS complications related to injection drug use.
In conclusion, the CDC has developed a set of strategies to prevent opioid use disorder and its CNS complications. These strategies include improving safe opioid use, increasing access to medication-assisted treatment, improving naloxone availability, and supporting comprehensive syringe services programs. Evidence from peer-reviewed journals supports the effectiveness of these strategies in reducing opioid misuse, overdose fatalities, and related complications. By implementing these strategies, public health authorities can mitigate the impact of the opioid crisis and safeguard the well-being of individuals at risk.