Please read Dr. Crystal’s article in Substance Abuse Journal titled, “Medications for opioid use disorder in state prisons: Perspectives of formerly incarcerated persons.“
Opioid use disorder (OUD) is common among incarcerated persons and risk of overdose and other adverse drug-related consequences is high after release. Recognizing their potential to reduce these risks, some correctional systems are expanding access to medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD). This study explored the experiences and perspectives of formerly incarcerated individuals on MOUD use while incarcerated and after release. Methods: We interviewed 53 individuals with self-reported OUD who were released from New Jersey state prisons. Interviews explored motivations to use MOUD while incarcerated and after release, and experiences with prison-based MOUD and transition to community-based care. We performed cross-case analysis to examine common and divergent perspectives across participants. Results: A common reason for accepting prerelease MOUD was recognition of its effectiveness in preventing drug use, overdose, and other drug-related consequences. To read the full article.
Medications for opioid use disorder in state prisons: Perspectives of formerly incarcerated persons. Treitler PC, Enich M, Reeves D, Crystal S. Subst Abus. 2022;43(1):964-971. PMID: 35420973 DOI: 1080/08897077.2022.2060448