Discussion: Use of Pharmacotherapies The use of pharmacotherapies, or the treatm

Discussion: Use of Pharmacotherapies
The use of pharmacotherapies, or the
treatment of an addiction with the use of medication, has been
prevalent in psychology during the past 50 years. Addiction counselors
and doctors work in conjunction by prescribing medication to assist
users as they wean off of their drug of choice, replacing one addictive
substance with another.
In 1965, researchers
began using methadone, a human-made chemical substance, to block the
effects of heroin and lessen the withdrawal symptoms of opiate addicts.
Methadone maintenance treatments are still used today, and researchers
continue to question its use in assisting addicts. For example, “Despite
the [reported] effectiveness of methadone in reducing heroin use and
the associated medical co-morbidities . . . there have been reports
about patients using heroin while being in methadone maintenance
treatment (MMT)” (Fareed,Vayalapalli, Stout, Casarella, Drexler, &
Bailey, 2011, 28).
What do you consider the
possible benefits and drawbacks may be of replacing one addictive
substance with another? How can researchers and addiction counselors be
sure these methods are helping addicts?
To prepare for this Discussion:
Review the articles “Effect of Methadone Maintenance Treatment on
Heroin Craving, a Literature Review” and “Principles of Drug Abuse
Treatment: A Research-Based Guide,” as well as Chapter 12 in your course
text
Evaluate the benefits and drawbacks of replacing one addictive substance with another.
Consider the possible drawbacks specific to the use of methadone maintenance for opiate addicts.
By Day 4
Post an informed
argument regarding the possible benefits and/or drawbacks of
pharmacotherapy. What are the drawbacks in using methadone maintenance
for opiate addicts?
Be sure to support your postings and responses with specific references to the Learning Resources.