New AATOD Guidelines for Addressing Benzodiazepine Use in Opioid Treatment Programs

In their recent release, the American Association for the Treatment of Opioid Dependence (AATOD) outlines recent research into the use of Benzodiazepine when treating patients in Opioid Treatment Programs. 

Primarily, the foucs of the article is that "There is strong evidence that the use of benzodiazepines and other sedating medications combined with methadone or buprenorphine pose safety risks.  OTPs should work to ensure that patients considering controlled substances have had quality diagnostic evaluations to optimize diagnostic accuracy, and ensure that safer medication options have been considered. Careful monitoring and coordination of care that is respectful but not capricious or punitive is essential to ensure access to safe, effective and individualized care for patients in OTPs."

To read the full AATOD Guidelines, Click Here