It is estimated that each day more than 1000 people are treated in emergency departments for not using prescription opioids as prescribed. Combine this with illicit drug use and the cost of treatment and productivity losses related to addiction and we have a current epidemic costing Americans over 500 billion dollars and rising.

Outcome Objectives:
Upon completion of this CME/CE activity the healthcare provider will be able to:

1. Describe the pathophysiology of opioid receptors in the dopamine reward pathway and how different opioids and opioid antagonists interact and bind to these receptors.
2. Describe the common clinical features of chronic opioid abuse and suspected opioid withdrawal including appropriate diagnostic work-up.
3. Discuss the current best practice treatment options for suspected opioid overdose including routes of administration and formulations as well as medication assisted treatment options.
4. Identify new or emerging areas of research and treatment options for opioid dependence including pharmacologic and psychosocial strategies.