Substance use disorder involves excessive and compulsive use of alcohol or drugs. It causes health problems or disability. It limits your ability to meet responsibilities at work, school or home.¹ Substance use disorder is a disease, not a failure of will or weakness of character. It can be serious and life-threatening. It is also treatable and many people can recover if they seek the proper care. Help is nearby. Call the Substance Use Disorder Helpline at 1-855-780-5955 to speak with a licensed clinician.

Opioids are prescription-only narcotic pain medications. They treat and manage moderate to severe pain by blocking pain signals in the brain. The most common opioid medications include:

• hydrocodone — common brands include Vicodin®, Lorcet® and Lortab®
  
• oxycodone — common brands include Percocet®, OxyContin®, Roxicodone® and Xtampza ER®
  
• morphine — common brands include MS Contin®, Kadian® and Avinza®
  
• fentanyl — common brands include Duragesic® and Fentora®
  

Doctors have prescribed opioid medications to treat pain for several years. They were thought to be safe and not addictive. This has proven wrong, however. Opioids are very addictive. This has caused millions of people around the country to become dependent on these medications. If they’re unable to obtain more prescription medication, people often turn to heroin and other illegal drugs. Heroin addiction affects more than half a million people. Every day, 16 people die from an overdose of opioids.

Prescription opioid abuse is a serious public health issue. Understanding the potential risks and how to take, store and dispose of these powerful medications properly can help avoid serious risks.

Do not take your medication more frequently than prescribed, and never take extra doses without consulting your doctor or pharmacist. To avoid dangerous interactions, talk with your doctor or pharmacist about all medications you take. Never mix alcohol or other sedating drugs, such as sleeping pills (zolpidem, Ambien®) or anxiety medications (diazepam, Valium®, alprazolam, Xanax®, lorazepam, Ativan®). Opioids are designed to be taken as needed. Once pain is under control, it is acceptable to take them less frequently or change to alternative options. Never share your medications with others.

Pain relief options come in many forms — many with fewer risks and side effects than opioids. These include:

• Over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen (Motrin®), acetaminophen (Tylenol®) or naproxen (Aleve®)
  
• Prescription strength anti-inflammatory drugs such as celecoxib (Celebrex®), diclofenac (Voltaren®)and etodolac (Lodine®)
  
• Select prescription non-opioid medicines which target the nerves that produce pain, such as gabapentin (Neurontin®) and pregabalin (Lyrica®)
  
• Injectable and topical non-opioid therapies
  
• Chiropractic services, physical and massage therapy, exercise and cognitive behavioral therapy
  

• Tolerance — needing higher and higher doses to achieve the same effect
  
• Dependence — having symptoms of withdrawal when the medication is stopped
  
• Addiction — uncontrollable cravings and an inability to control drug use
  
• Overdose or even death

There are many signs that tell it’s time to seek help. Here are just a few:

• Mood swings or mysterious change in personality
• Neglecting responsibilities or abrupt change in friends
• Weight loss or decline of appearance.

When it comes to treatment, there is no "one-size-fits-all" solution because everyone's situation is unique. An individualized treatment strategy begins with an assessment by a licensed clinician. In general, treatment options may include one or more of the following:

• Detoxification
• Local, short-term, intensive residential treatment
• Medication-assisted treatment
• Intensive outpatient treatment
• Individual substance use disorder counseling
• Group therapy

You can speak to a licensed clinician right now. They can evaluate your situation and arrange for an almost immediate face-to-face evaluation with one of our trusted network experts who can create a unique care strategy that’s right for you — usually within 24 hours.

In MOUD, medications are given under strict supervision from a doctor. These medications safely control withdrawal symptoms and cravings. This gives the patient time to recover and reduces the risk of relapse. Research shows that medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) is the most promising treatment. When combined with counseling and other support, MAT is extremely effective.⁶

Without MOUD, 90% of individuals with Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) will relapse within one year. With MOUD, the relapse rate for those with OUD decreases to 50% at one year.

According to the U.S. Office of National Drug Control Policy, methadone is “a rigorously well-tested medication that is safe and efficacious for the treatment of narcotic withdrawal and dependence.” Pharmacologically, methadone is a man-made opioid. It is known chemically as a “full agonist.” In other words, it completely binds to the opioid receptors in the brain like all other prescription pain medications, including heroin. Methadone is available in the form of a pill or oral solution, and has been available in the US for more than 65 years.

Methadone is prescribed under strict state and federal guidelines only by providers with the appropriate training, certification and credentials. When utilized to treat chronic pain, methadone can be prescribed by a physician and filled in a pharmacy. When used to treat OUD, methadone can only be provided in a licensed, regulated methadone treatment program or Opioid Treatment Program (OTP).

Methadone is long-acting and does not generate the euphoric feeling like that of a short-acting opiate, such as heroin. When provided at the correct dose, methadone does not cause impairment to mental function or daily activities. Instead, methadone eliminates acute symptoms of opioid withdrawal and relieves craving.

Buprenorphine has been available since 2002 for the treatment of OUD. It can be prescribed by a qualified medical provider and filled in a pharmacy. Unlike prescription pain medications, medical professionals must have a special license through the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to prescribe buprenorphine.

Like all other opioids, buprenorphine acts on the opioid receptors in the brain. Unlike methadone, prescription pain medications, and heroin, buprenorphine does not completely bind to opioid receptors. As such, it is chemically known as a “partial agonist” and only binds to parts of the opioid receptor resulting in relief from symptoms of withdrawal and decreased cravings.

Buprenorphine does not require increasing dosage with long-term use to achieve its effects, which is different from full agonists. And, even in high doses, buprenorphine does not cause the respiratory depression.

Since 2002 buprenorphine has been FDA-approved in many different forms and routes of administration including a pill, dissolvable tablet, buccal film, 6-month implantable rods, and most recently a 30-day IM injection. As a result, buprenorphine can be tailored to the needs of individuals within a comprehensive, long-term treatment plan.

FDA approval of MOUD, in all its forms, allows individuals to seek treatment without the preoccupation of physical cravings or the anxiety of impending withdrawal. MOUD can be tailored to individual needs, and can be provided in multiple settings. A simple way to remember the different forms of MOUD is to understand how they work on the opioid receptors to achieve the same result of long-term recovery and prevention of fatal overdoses.

Three different classes:

• Full agonist (methadone)
  • An opioid that binds completely to the opioid receptor in the brain
  • May only be dispensed in a federally regulated methadone clinic for the treatment of OUD
  • Must be taken on a daily basis
  • Eliminates withdrawal symptoms and relieves drug cravings
  • Does not require increased dosing to achieve the same therapeutic effect
• Partial agonist (buprenorphine)
  • Binds partially to the opioid receptor in the brain
  • May only be prescribed by a physician, nurse practitioner or physician assistant that has the appropriate FDA license/Data 2000 Waiver Certification
  • Can be filled by a community pharmacy
  • Must be taken as prescribed in a pill, dissolvable tablet, buccal film, 6-month implantable rods or 30-day IM injection
  • Eliminates withdrawal symptoms and relieves drug cravings
  • Does not require increased dosing to achieve the same therapeutic effect
  • Does not induce respiration depression resulting in fatal overdoes
• Antagonist (naltrexone)
  • Inhibits opioids introduced into the system from binding to the opioid receptors in the brain that cause euphoria, dependency, respiratory depression and overdose
  • Does not require appropriate FDA-licensure and may be prescribed by a physician, nurse practitioner or physician assistant acting under the scope of their licensure
  • Can be filled by a community pharmacy
  • Does not require increasing dosing to achieve the same therapeutic effect
  • Must be taken as prescribed in a pill or 30-day IM injection

All disorders of addiction are chronic conditions with very real biochemical components. Research is conclusive that Substance Use Disorder is linked to specific receptors involved with the “reward system” in the brain. This is especially true for OUD, which also involves receptors that are responsible for pain relief and feeling pleasure. For the treatment of OUD, MOUD works on these same receptors in varying ways. With the exception of methadone, MOUD does not treat pain. When taken as prescribed and under appropriate supervision, MOUD used in the treatment of OUD is not addictive. Unlike heroin, MOUD prescriptions do not induce feelings of euphoria or cause habitual, unhealthy or compulsive use. When taken as directed, MOUD does not cause either intoxication or withdrawal as seen with prescription pain medications and heroin.

More importantly, continual use of MOUD enhances long-term recover by decreasing cravings. In fact, studies have shown that after short-term use of MOUD for “detox” only, relapse is most likely to occur, and can result in a fatal overdose. Misguided beliefs about MOUD and how they work only continue to stigmatize individuals suffering from Substance Use Disorder.

The World Health Organization has placed methadone and buprenorphine for the treatment of OUD on their list of “essential medications.” The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM), National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA) and Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) recognize MOUD as the Standard of Care and Evidenced-Based Treatment for individuals suffering from Substance Use Disorder.

When used as prescribed under appropriate supervision, MOUD can safely be taken without damaging side effects. But, as with any medication, there are potential side effects. When experienced, these side effects are known to be minor, with no long-term health risks, and most reduce over time, once a stable dose of medication is reached.

The decision about MOUD should be made only after discussion with a medical professional about the potential side effects, as well as obtaining a clear understanding of the risks and benefits of incorporating---and not incorporating---MOUD into a long-term treatment plan.

Incorporating MOUD into any treatment plan should be designed to address each individual’s unique situation. Duration of treatment varies and should take into consideration the individual’s treatment response, needs and circumstances. There is no FDA limit on how long an individual may utilize MOUD in their treatment. The rule of thumb is that one should remain on MOUD to achieve and maintain recovery goals.

Methadone has been used for pregnant women with OUD since the 1970’s and has been recognized as the gold standard of care since 1998.

In addition, The FDA issued safety labeling changes for buprenorphine products when prescribed for use during pregnancy. Research has demonstrated the following benefits from methadone and buprenorphine treatment during pregnancy:

• Stabilizes fetal levels of opioids
• Reduces repeated prenatal withdrawal
• Improves neonatal outcomes
• Increases maternal HIV treatment and reduces the fetal transmission
• Promotes better prenatal care
  

There are several FDA-approved medication for alcohol use disorder (MAUD) treatments, which include:

• Medications used to reduce reward from alcohol intake:
  • Naltrexone, Revia® and VIVITROL® (naltrexone IM injection)
    
• Medication used to reduce cravings
  
  • Campral EC (acamprosate)
    
• Medication used to cause adverse effect of alcohol ingestion
  
  • Antabuse® (disulfiram)
    

There are many factors that can help you achieve a successful recovery. Providers should use evidence-based practices, show a track record of positive results, and have the highest level of credentialing. You should have choices in treatment because there are many paths to recovery. A program should also include community services and participation of family and friends who can support your recovery process.

Call the Substance Use Disorder Helpline at 1-855-780-5955 for immediate access to a licensed clinician. They can guide you to a qualified practitioner. You can also visit Liveandworkwell.com for a list of trusted providers.

The chances for recovery improve when a treatment and recovery plan is designed and conducted within the patient’s local community. This creates a strong, nearby, long-term support system. Local treatment enables rebuilding of relationships with family, friends and others to support a successful recovery.²

Substance use disorder can be a chronic condition. Relapse is possible during recovery. Your care team should be nearby and readily accessible. We can help you find trusted care providers in your area. Our experts at the Substance Use Disorder Helpline at 1-855-780-5955 can match you with a local provider.

Yes, and we can help you understand what services are covered and provide options that may minimize your out-of-pocket expense. To learn more, call the Substance Use Disorder Helpline at 1-855-780-5955. Licensed clinicians can guide you to a treatment provider or treatment center in your covered network. Your benefit information is also available on Liveandworkwell.com under the "Claims and Coverage" section of the website.

Yes, some services offered by your health plan may require prior authorization. This means that you or your treatment provider must seek a medical necessity approval prior to receiving services. Medical necessity criteria are defined by nationally recognized standards of care. Some out-of-network providers may not be aware of medical necessity criteria. They may recommend a higher level of care or more restrictive treatment. Or they may offer you treatment in the only setting that they have available.

We can also help you understand what kinds of treatment require authorization and walk you through the process. Simply call the Substance Use Disorder Helpline at 1-855-780-5955 today to get started.

There may be a cost to you. This depends on two main factors:

• a) Your treatment provider. In general, in-network providers offer lower out-of-pocket costs than out-of- network providers. In-network providers meet our strict quality standards of care to achieve better results and lower costs for you.
• b) Level of care appropriate for you. Usually, the more intensive the setting, the higher the cost, but this may be dependent on your benefit plan.

Once you have a personal assessment from a licensed clinician, call the Substance Use Disorder Helpline to get an estimate of out-of-pocket costs.

In-network treatment typically means lower out-of-pocket costs. These providers and facilities are contracted with your health plan. They are familiar with medical necessity, coverage determination guidelines, and your plan's benefit design. In-network providers handle the insurance paperwork to obtain authorizations and submit claims for you. They usually do not bill you for any charges other than your copayments, deductibles or coinsurance.

If your insurance plan allows services through out-of-network providers, you will very likely pay more for using these services. Costs include a higher deductible and coinsurance, plus any amount over the allowed maximum set by your plan. Please note that some services from out-of-network facilities may not be covered by your plan at all. This can result in more unanticipated out-of-pocket costs. If you agree to see an out-of-network provider, you would be responsible for those costs.

You may have to personally guarantee payment with a credit card before treatment with an out-of-network provider. They are not limited in what they may charge. You may be billed for the remaining balance of provider charges after your health insurer pays its portion. These providers may not request pre-authorization for services or advocate on your behalf for payment of services. They generally do not submit claims for you. And they may not provide enough information for your health insurer to approve the care provided or pay the claim.

Call the Substance Use Disorder Helpline today at 1-855-780-5955. The team can schedule a professional assessment for you, usually within 24 hours. There are local in-network treatment options in all areas where we provide coverage.

Family involvement is recommended throughout the treatment and recovery process,³ unless there is a clinical reason to limit family participation.⁴ Your family may work with community resources to help them understand and support your recovery. A provider may offer family education and sessions with you as part of the treatment process. If you believe this is integral to your recovery, be sure that the treatment provider you choose offers this option.

Signing a release of confidential information allows family members to participate and receive treatment updates. A release may not be required if the person is under 18, but this may vary from state to state.

Recovery is a life-long process. It is important that you remain engaged in outpatient treatment and aftercare programming after you complete formal treatment.⁵ Check with your treatment provider to determine which support services will work best for you. The Substance Use Disorder Helpline can offer guidance and resources for your important transition back into the community.

Substance use treatment is always confidential and is protected by federal and state laws.

We are available 24/7 to answer your questions. These may include your personal health, care for a family member, coverage, cost of care, and more. We are committed to making it as easy as possible for you to access the services you or your loved one may need. Simply call the Substance Use Disorder Helpline today at 1-855-780-5955.