Addicts who quit drugs under an abstinence-based program are at a high risk of fatally overdosing if they relapse. Within days, the abstinent body’s tolerance for opioids plummets and even a small dose of the drugs can shut down the lungs.
Health
Few Doctors Are Willing, Able to Prescribe Powerful Anti-Addiction Drugs
More than 900,000 U.S. physicians can write prescriptions for painkillers such as OxyContin, Percocet and Vicodin. But because of a federal law, fewer than 32,000 doctors are authorized to prescribe buprenorphine to people who become addicted to those and other opioids. Most doctors with a license to prescribe buprenorphine seldom — if ever — use it.
Research Gives Context To Addressing Nation’s Drug Abuse Crisis, Review Finds
Prescription painkiller abuse is drawing national attention as states battle increasing abuse cases, presidential candidates offer possible solutions and even President Barack Obama includes the issue in his State of the Union address Tuesday night.
Making The Most Of Military Medics’ Field Experience
Veteran Dave Manning served two combat deployments in Iraq and was the sole medical provider for more than 100 people on a Navy ship. But as he contemplated his post-military job prospects, he struggled.
Alaska Native Medical Center to host state’s first Ronald McDonald House
Alaska’s first “Ronald McDonald House” is opening next year at the Alaska Native Medical Center in Anchorage. The facility will provide temporary housing at little or no cost for pregnant women and families with children receiving care.
Doula Support For Pregnant Women Could Improve Care, Reduce Costs
Doulas provide emotional support for a woman through pregnancy and childbirth. A study finds that women with doulas are less likely to have cesarean or preterm births.
‘Our Voices Will Be Heard’ brings child sexual abuse to the forefront
Set in a fictional Tlingit village in the late 19th century, “Our Voices Will Be Heard” is Vera Starbard’s semi-autobiographical story of a mother whose daughter is sexually abused by a relative.
Private contractor adds staff to handle VA service problems
Veterans in Alaska will soon have more help making medical appointments and navigating health care. The third party contractor handling the bulk of appointments for veterans across the state is adding personnel to better handle problems that have arisen in the last year and a half.
Obscure rule may be driving up Alaska health care costs
Buried in state medical codes is a rule that essentially allows specialists to name a price that insurers are required to pay. “There’s nothing holding them back,” says consultant Jeff Ranf.
New Medications For Treating Opioid Addiction Are On The Horizon
A long-acting implant has gained approval from an FDA advisory committee. It could soon become the latest on a very short list of medical options for treating opioid addiction.