A number of UK experts will be presenting their work in the field of opioid use disorder research, treatment and prevention this week at the 2021 Rx Drug Abuse and Heroin Summit, held virtually this year due to the ongoing pandemic.

“I’m looking forward to enhancing screening and management of substance use disorders in our primary care practice at the Polk-Dalton Clinic. This will increase access to treatment for many patients, and we will also be able to improve education for our medical students and residents who rotate through the clinic.”

The research team will recruit 800 Black American nonmedical prescription opioid users and interview them to develop an understanding of the characteristics associated with their drug use and treatment use.

Wasp dope is a crystalline substance created by electrifying pyrethroid-containing substances – such as wasp sprays – that may give users a methamphetamine-like “rush.” Recent reports have highlighted the emergence of this new drug as an issue of concern, research into the substance is so far lacking.

To curb overdose deaths, ease the financial burden on health care, and improve patient outcomes, the researchers worked with patients who need tools for recovery from opioid use disorder, such as mental health therapists, relapse-prevention services, and necessary medications.  

Two University of Kentucky faculty will be featured in an upcoming episode of “Your Fantastic Mind,” an Emmy-nominated television series featuring compelling stories on brain-related health and wellness.

“It’s difficult for people who use drugs to be open about [their drug use] because of the stigma it carries and the potential of criminal justice involvement,” Young said. “We tried to create a welcoming environment in our field office, and we put ourselves out there.”