Engaging youth and their caregivers in medication treatment for opioid use disorders-Slides

Slides

Pdf Summary

This document, presented by Amy Yule, M.D. on April 3, 2025, focuses on engaging youth and their caregivers in medication treatment for opioid use disorders (OUD). It highlights the work of the Opioid Response Network (ORN), funded by SAMHSA, which provides resources and technical assistance to address the opioid crisis at the community level. The ORN offers local consultants and accepts requests for education and training to implement evidence-based practices.<br /><br />The document emphasizes the effectiveness of medications such as Buprenorphine, Methadone, and Naltrexone in decreasing overdose risks. Statistically, adolescents are less likely to receive medication for OUD compared to adults, which is a gap this initiative aims to bridge. It underlines the importance of engaging youth and their caregivers in treatment discussions, focusing on understanding the mechanisms of medications and promoting adherence and retention in care.<br /><br />The material outlines different types of opioid medications and their use, including Full Agonist (Methadone), Partial Agonist (Buprenorphine/Naloxone), and Antagonist (Naltrexone). It stresses the importance of careful communication and dealing with the stigma associated with medication treatments. The course also provides practical advice on harm reduction, including discussions on unsafe drug supplies, use of Naloxone, and the Good Samaritan Law, encouraging overdose prevention practices.<br /><br />Additionally, the document outlines barriers faced by youth in accessing treatment, such as siloed treatment systems and inconsistent messaging from caregivers and professionals. It advocates for flexible treatment plans that incorporate medication as a central component while also accommodating other recovery supports, emphasizing the ongoing need to educate and engage both youth and caregivers to improve outcomes in treating opioid use disorders.

Keywords

Opioid Use Disorders

Youth Engagement

Caregivers

Medication Treatment

Opioid Response Network

Buprenorphine

Methadone

Naltrexone

Harm Reduction

Overdose Prevention