Molecular Genetics in Strategies for Opioid Addiction Management

Abstract

The enduring crisis of drug abuse has shaped societal dynamics across history, notably through events such as the Opium Wars and the recent opioid epidemic in the United States, which has led to over 50,000 overdose deaths annually and substantial economic burdens exceeding $500 billion per year. This study aims to illuminate contemporary strategies for treating opioid use disorder (OUD) amidst a backdrop of inadequate treatment access for the over 2.6 million diagnosed individuals. We assess current pharmacotherapies which include full agonists like methadone, partial agonists like buprenorphine, and antagonist treatments like naltrexone, noting their efficacy and limitations in long-term addiction management. Furthermore, we explore the roles of pharmacogenetic testing and epigenetic modifications in optimizing treatment for OUD, highlighting individual genetic susceptibilities that influence addiction behaviors. Our findings underscore the critical need for a multifaceted approach to OUD treatment, incorporating emerging strategies that bridge scientific research with clinical application to effectively address the complexities of addiction. We advocate for enhanced clinician training, reduced stigma around medications, and innovative treatment modalities as essential components in combating the current opioid crisis and preventing future epidemics.