Unmasking the Opioid Crisis: Veterinarian’s Vital Role Revealed, Episode 1

Thank you to Covetrus for sponsoring!

Welcome to "Unmasking the Opioid Crisis: A Veterinarian's Vital Role Unveiled!" Presented by Vet Candy and narrated by Clay Palmer, this episode explores the origins, statistics, and pathways to recovery. Join us on the journey to understanding and addressing the opioid crisis.  In this eye-opening podcast, we dive headfirst into the origins of the opioid crisis.

The story begins in 1980 with a seemingly innocuous five-sentence letter that found its way into the New England Journal of Medicine. The author's assertion that the risk of addiction associated with opioid administration was quite low set in motion a chain of events that would shape the course of history.

Our host, David Herzberg, a distinguished professor of history at the University of Buffalo, is not just an expert on the opioid epidemic but a seasoned explorer of the broader history of prescription drugs, illicit substances, and addiction. He'll guide you through the pivotal moments that led to the crisis, from the surge in opioid prescriptions during the 1980s to the FDA's approval of Oxycontin in 1995.

But the story doesn't stop there. The late 90s and early 2000s saw aggressive marketing strategies that fueled an almost tenfold increase in Oxycontin prescriptions. Beth Macy, author of the bestseller "Dopesick," sheds light on how certain regions, particularly Appalachia, were specifically targeted.

The numbers are staggering. In 2006, there were 72 opioid prescriptions for every 100 people. By 2008, the United States was consuming over half of the world's prescription opioids. In 2016, approximately 62 million patients had filled at least one opioid prescription.

But it's not just about statistics. The podcast delves into the human side of the crisis, highlighting how many individuals transitioned from nonmedical use of opioid pain relievers to heroin. And as we explore the world of addiction medicine, Dr. Joshua J. Lynch, a Clinical Associate Professor at the University at Buffalo, shares his insights into opioid use disorder and the path to recovery.

Opioid use disorder is a complex issue that affects millions worldwide. The podcast reveals how it's not just about dependence but also addiction, with individuals driven by a strong desire to obtain and use opioids despite facing adverse consequences.

The journey through opioid addiction is not an easy one, and we uncover the role of medications like methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone in helping individuals on their path to recovery. Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) combines these medications with counseling and therapies, offering hope for sustained recovery.

As we navigate through the podcast, it becomes clear that addiction is a disease that deserves the same understanding and treatment as any other. The stigma and blame that have plagued addiction for decades are slowly fading as we gain a better understanding of its far-reaching impact.

If you or a loved one is considering treatment for Opioid Use Disorder, there are various pathways to recovery, and this podcast is your guide to understanding and accessing the right care and support. Whether it's medication, inpatient care, counseling, or more, recovery is possible.

And if you need immediate assistance or information, the National Helpline is here for you. It's a confidential and free resource provided by public health agencies to help you find substance use treatment. Reach out at 1-800-662-4357.

Join us on this podcast journey as we unravel the opioid crisis, learn from history, and explore the pathways to recovery.

 Special thanks to the University of Buffalo,  the Association of Shelter Veterinarians, Veterinary TeleSpecialty by VOCN, and the Chapman Law Group.  This program is brought to you by Covetrus. 

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