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01-12-2020 | Addiction | Debate

“The post-COVID era”: challenges in the treatment of substance use disorder (SUD) after the pandemic

Authors: Hugo López-Pelayo, Henri-Jean Aubin, Colin Drummond, Geert Dom, Francisco Pascual, Jürgen Rehm, Richard Saitz, Emanuele Scafato, Antoni Gual

Published in: BMC Medicine | Issue 1/2020

Abstract

Background

Citizens affected by substance use disorders are high-risk populations for both SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19-related mortality. Relevant vulnerabilities to COVID-19 in people who suffer substance use disorders are described in previous communications. The COVID-19 pandemic offers a unique opportunity to reshape and update addiction treatment networks.

Main body

Renewed treatment systems should be based on these seven pillars: (1) telemedicine and digital solutions, (2) hospitalization at home, (3) consultation-liaison psychiatric and addiction services, (4) harm-reduction facilities, (5) person-centered care, (6) promote paid work to improve quality of life in people with substance use disorders, and (7) integrated addiction care. The three “best buys” of the World Health Organization (reduce availability, increase prices, and a ban on advertising) are still valid. Additionally, new strategies must be implemented to systematically deal with (a) fake news concerning legal and illegal drugs and (b) controversial scientific information.

Conclusion

The heroin pandemic four decades ago was the last time that addiction treatment systems were updated in many western countries. A revised and modernized addiction treatment network must include improved access to care, facilitated where appropriate by technology; more integrated care with addiction specialists supporting non-specialists; and reducing the stigma experienced by people with SUDs.

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Title: “The post-COVID era”: challenges in the treatment of substance use disorder (SUD) after the pandemic
Authors: Hugo López-Pelayo
Henri-Jean Aubin
Colin Drummond
Geert Dom
Francisco Pascual
Jürgen Rehm
Richard Saitz
Emanuele Scafato
Antoni Gual
Publication date: 01-12-2020
Publisher: BioMed Central
Keywords: Addiction
Addiction
COVID-19
Telemedicine
Post-COVID Syndrome
Published in: BMC Medicine / Issue 1/2020
Electronic ISSN: 1741-7015
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12916-020-01693-9

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

“The post-COVID era”: challenges in the treatment of substance use disorder (SUD) after the pandemic

Abstract

Background

Main body

Conclusion

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Main body

Conclusion

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