
Course Title: Management of Other Substance Use Co-Occurring with Opioid Use Disorder
Presenter(s): Edward V. Nunes, MD
Course Description: Other substance use disorders can often co-occur with opioid use disorder (OUD). These can include benzodiazepines and other tranquilizers, cocaine and stimulants, and cannabis. Alcohol and nicotine are also considered commonly used substances alongside opioids. In this educational activity, these other substances will be reviewed leading to a discussion of principles of diagnosis and evaluation of treatment for each substance by themselves, and in the context of OUD.
Educational Objectives:
At the conclusion of this activity, participants should be able to:
- Describe other substance use disorders that often co-occur with opioid use disorder (OUD)
- Review specific substances such as alcohol, benzodiazepines, stimulants, cannabis, and nicotine
- Diagnose and formulate a treatment plan for misuse/ use disorders, with emphasis on when they co-occur with OUD
- Recognize the importance of screening for co-occurring psychiatric disorders
Curriculum Overview: Healthcare professionals are often on the front lines of treating substance use disorders (SUDs), yet many have limited formal training in this area. The SUD 101 Core Curriculum is designed to build a strong foundation in current research, evidence-based practices, and available resources.
The curriculum includes:
- Foundational Courses: Eight interactive, case-based courses that simulate real-world clinical scenarios and provide foundational SUD training
- Supplemental Courses: These courses offer a deeper exploration of specialized topics and expand on core concepts
Together, these courses enhance healthcare professionals’ competence and confidence in caring for patients with SUDs across the continuum of care, with a particular focus on opioid use disorders (OUD).
This is a foundational course within the SUD 101 Core Curriculum. Visit the SUD 101 Core Curriculum page to explore additional educational trainings as new courses become available.