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New Hope in Addiction Treatment

In a groundbreaking study published in Frontiers in Psychiatry, researchers have revealed that a novel neurostimulation device developed by NET Recovery may effectively reduce both opioid and stimulant use. Given the alarming rise in drug overdose rates across the United States—where nearly half of all overdose fatalities involve both opioid and stimulant medications—this finding comes as a significant advancement in addiction treatment options.

Understanding the Study's Findings

The research focused on individuals undergoing treatment for opioid use disorder at four residential treatment facilities in Kentucky. Participants who utilized the NET Device™ for a minimum of 24 hours reported a marked decrease in opioid and stimulant use in the three months following their treatment. This study stands out as the first peer-reviewed investigation to demonstrate that a medical device can help mitigate the effects of both substance use disorders simultaneously.

Joe Winston, CEO of NET Recovery and co-author of the study, emphasized that providing relief from withdrawal symptoms enables individuals to remain engaged in their treatment longer, thus fostering essential stability for recovery. With approximately three million Americans struggling with polysubstance use, the implications of these findings should not be understated.

The NET Device™ Explained

The NET Device is a transcutaneous alternating current stimulator (tACS), intended for use in tandem with standard medications and supportive therapies for managing opioid withdrawal symptoms. Its application under the supervision of trained medical staff further highlights its potential role in modern addiction treatment protocols. Participants who engaged with the NET Device™ for at least one day not only reported reduced drug use but also demonstrated increased involvement in their treatment programs, signaling early indicators of longer-term recovery.

Dr. Mark Greenwald, lead author of the study and Director of the Substance Addiction Research Division at Wayne State University, states that for patients seeking non-pharmacological interventions, experiencing stimulation from the device could lead to reduced use across various substances. This synergy of care could establish a new model for addressing the complexities of addiction.

Addressing a Serious Treatment Gap

Currently, there are no FDA-approved medications specifically targeting stimulant addiction, creating an essential treatment gap. The outpatient services necessary for various patients struggling with both opioids and stimulants are lacking, which leaves many individuals without viable options for recovery. This new data provides a glimmer of hope, addressing a critical need among those affected by dual substance use disorders.

Potential for Long-Term Impact

As we turn our focus toward the future, the potential of the NET Device™ to facilitate earlier stabilization during the detoxification process and promote sustained engagement with therapy could revolutionize the way addiction is treated. The study involved 103 adults with a history of opioid use disorder, mainly consisting of users of fentanyl and methamphetamine. Findings suggest that with continued research and rigorous clinical trials, non-pharmacological tools like the NET Device may emerge as indispensable assets in the fight against addiction.

Considering the dynamic landscape of addiction treatment, the opportunity for advancements like these to offer lasting help is promising. As the addiction crisis continues to escalate, innovative solutions are needed to forge effective paths towards recovery. With emerging technologies like the NET Device™ paving the way, we may be on the brink of a significant shift in how addiction is understood and treated.

For more insightful information, visit netrecovery.net or check clinicaltrials.gov for further updates on ongoing research efforts.