Addressing the Rising Trend: Pediatricians Role in Preventing Drug Overdose Deaths among Childre
2 min read
Title: Pediatricians Urged to Increase Buprenorphine Prescriptions as Teenage Overdose Deaths Soar
In a bid to tackle the escalating opioid crisis among teenagers, the American Academy of Pediatrics is recommending the prescribing of buprenorphine as an effective treatment option. Shockingly, a recent study revealed that only 6% of pediatricians in the United States currently administer this medication to addicted teens.
Alarmingly, overdose deaths among teenagers aged 10 to 19 have more than doubled, making it the third leading cause of death for children in the country. Despite this deadly surge, buprenorphine prescriptions for adolescents are declining, leaving medical professionals concerned about the lack of intervention.
Indeed, many pediatricians cite a lack of training or personnel as reasons for not providing addiction care to teenagers. However, those few who have taken on the responsibility of managing addiction in their patients argue that they do not require additional staff support.
A major contributing factor to the increase in drug-associated deaths among adolescents is the prevalence of fake pills laced with the powerful opioid fentanyl. Recent statistics reveal that nearly 25% of overdose deaths in young people are linked to counterfeit pills. This dangerous trend highlights the urgent need for intervention and safe treatment options.
Pediatricians can play a crucial role in fighting addiction by proactively screening for drug use and initiating conversations about it with patients. Furthermore, they can contribute significantly by prescribing naloxone, a nasal spray that can rapidly reverse an overdose.
One example that demonstrates the effectiveness of in-office addiction treatment is the case of Sam, a 17-year-old patient. He recently received his first Sublocade shot, an injection form of buprenorphine that provides a sustained release for 30 days. Sam’s mother and pediatrician were present during the procedure, showcasing the potential for effective addiction treatment within a clinical setting.
As opioid-related deaths among teenagers continue to rise, it is crucial for pediatricians to overcome the barriers preventing them from providing addiction care. With the support of additional training and resources, these medical professionals can make a significant impact on combatting the adolescent opioid crisis and saving young lives.
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