Attitudes toward Medication for Opioid Use Disorder among Substance Use Treatment Providers.

Provider attitudes can be a powerful reinforcer of stigma toward medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD). This study examines attitudes toward MOUD among substance use treatment providers and identifies personal and professional characteristics associated with more positive attitudes. Treatment providers (N = 570) working at publicly-funded substance use programs in Michigan self-administered a web-based survey (November 2020 through July 2021), reporting their socio-demographics, professional experience, and attitudes toward MOUD.

Cumulative barriers to retention in methadone treatment among adults from rural and small urban communities.

Background: Though methadone has been shown to effectively treat opioid use disorder, many barriers prevent individuals from accessing and maintaining treatment. Barriers are prevalent in less populated areas where treatment options are limited. This study examines barriers to retention in methadone treatment in a small Midwest community and identifies factors associated with greater endorsement of barriers.

Predictors of Safe Prescription Opioid Storage and Participation in Drug Take-Back Events: Results from a Statewide Survey.

Improper storage and disposal of prescribed opioids can lead to diversion or accidental poisonings. Studies of emergency department and cancer patients suggest prescription opioids are rarely stored securely or disposed of when unneeded. Safe storage and disposal practices reduce risks for others living in or visiting a household.

Overestimation of Prescription Pain Reliever Misuse and Heroin Use among Adults.

Estimates from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration [SAMHSA], 2019) suggest 3.6% of persons aged 12 and older misused prescription pain relievers in the past year and 0.3% used heroin.

Correlates of Expressed Emotion Among Family Members of Individuals Who Sought Treatment for Opioid Use.

Expressed emotion has been robustly associated with negative mental health outcomes. Understanding correlates of expressed emotion by family members of individuals with opioid use disorder is important, as this group faces high levels of stress and can play an important role in their loved ones' treatment. Thus, immediate family members of individuals who sought treatment for opioid problems (N = 195) completed a web-based survey that included measures of expressed emotion, self-stigma, social support, and demographic characteristics.

Public Perceptions of Risks Associated with Mixing Opioid Pain-Relievers with Alcohol and Benzodiazepines.

Use of alcohol or benzodiazepines with opioid pain-relievers increases risk of overdose and overdose death. A substantial proportion of adults receives an opioid prescription each year, and a number of these adults also use benzodiazepines or alcohol. As public opinion continues to shape public policy, it is imperative to understand correlates of recognizing risk of mixing substances in order to inform public outreach and prevention efforts.