Medication for Opioid Use Disorder: An Overview for Clinicians

Course overview

Opioid use disorder (OUD) is a chronic, treatable medical condition associated with significant morbidity and mortality. It involves measurable changes in brain function. Medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) are considered a first-line treatment and are supported by extensive clinical evidence. MOUD reduces overdose risk, improves treatment retention, and enhances outcomes. Despite this evidence, MOUD remains underutilized in many healthcare settings. Barriers include stigma, misinformation, regulatory complexity, and uncertainty about implementation. This course provides behavioral health professionals with an overview of the medications primarily used when implementing MOUD, their side effects, and best practices.