TeleMOUD stands for medication for opioid use disorder via telemedicine. This innovative approach allows patients to receive treatment remotely from their homes without having to visit an in-person addiction clinic. The core of teleMOUD is the use of buprenorphine, a medication approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating opioid addiction.
You may also encounter the term “teleMAT.” QuickMD coined this term in March 2020, when QuickMD became the first medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program to treat patients with opioid use disorder exclusively through telemedicine.
What Are Opioids?
Opioids are drugs derived from opium that interact with opioid receptors in the brain. Common opioids include oxycodone, codeine, fentanyl, and morphine. While these medications are prescribed for pain relief, they can also induce a euphoric “high,” leading to potential misuse.
What Is Opioid Use Disorder (OUD)?
Opioid use disorder (OUD) encompasses a range of issues resulting from the misuse of opioids. Signs of OUD include:
- Increasing doses of the drug to achieve the same effect
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when attempting to stop the drug
- A strong compulsion to use opioids despite negative consequences
How Is OUD Treated?
OUD is treated through a combination of therapy, education, and medication. When medication is used, it is referred to as MOUD treatment. The combination of buprenorphine and naloxone is the most common prescription during MOUD treatment.
How Does Buprenorphine Work?
Buprenorphine acts on the same opioid receptors in the brain as opioids like morphine and heroin. However, buprenorphine is a partial agonist, which means it can reduce opioid cravings and allow patients to feel normal without the risk of feeling “high.” It also acts as a partial antagonist, which helps prevent potentially deadly overdoses caused by other opioids taken simultaneously. This medication is typically used in conjunction with counseling.
How Is Buprenorphine Administered?
Buprenorphine is most commonly administered as sublingual tablets or strips designed to dissolve under the tongue.
What Is the Cost of Buprenorphine?
The price of buprenorphine starts at around $20 for 60 sublingual tablets. Strips tend to be more expensive than tablets.
Where Can I Get TeleMOUD Care?
QuickMD provides personalized teleMOUD care. Contact a QuickMD provider to see if you are eligible for this treatment.
