Effective Strategies for Managing Substance Use Disorders

Importance of Cannabidiol in Substance Use Treatment

Cannabidiol (CBD) has gained attention as a potential therapeutic agent for managing substance use disorders. Its non-psychoactive properties and perceived safety profile make it an attractive option for treatment. A systematic review assessing the efficacy of CBD alone or in combination with Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) for managing SUDs found mixed results. Redonnet et al. (2025) noted that while CBD demonstrated effectiveness in alleviating cannabis withdrawal and craving, evidence supporting its efficacy for other substances, such as alcohol, tobacco, and opioids, remains inconclusive (1).

Mechanisms of Action

CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which is involved in regulating mood, reward, and stress responses. It potentially modulates neuronal circuits related to addiction, exhibiting anti-craving, anxiolytic, and mood-stabilizing properties (1). However, the evidence is limited, leading to the conclusion that while CBD may aid in managing withdrawal symptoms, it should not be considered a standalone treatment for substance use disorders.

The Role of Occupational Therapy in Stroke Rehabilitation

Occupational therapy (OT) is pivotal in the rehabilitation of stroke patients. It focuses on enhancing daily living activities, cognitive function, and physical capabilities, thereby improving the quality of life for survivors. A systematic review identified significant improvements in activities of daily living (ADLs) and cognitive function among stroke patients receiving OT (2).

Key Interventions

The effectiveness of OT interventions can be attributed to various approaches, including:

• Cognitive Orientation to Daily Occupational Performance (CO-OP): This approach emphasizes personalized goal setting and problem-solving techniques to improve ADLs.
• Virtual Reality (VR) Training: VR has been shown to enhance engagement and motivation, promoting recovery through simulated daily activities (2).
• Functional Electrical Stimulation: This method improves motor function and supports independence in ADLs.

Innovations in Pulmonary Embolism Prevention and Treatment

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a critical complication of substance use disorders, particularly in individuals with comorbidities. Recent advancements in PE prevention have focused on enhancing awareness and improving prophylactic measures. A study indicated a significant reduction in venous thromboembolism (VTE) rates in hospitals implementing computerized clinical decision support systems (3).

Effective Measures

Key strategies for reducing the incidence of PE include:

• Increased Screening: Regular assessment of patients for VTE risk factors.
• Protocolized Treatment Plans: Standardized protocols for initiating anticoagulation therapy can enhance treatment efficacy and patient safety.
• Patient Education: Educating patients about the risks associated with substance use and the importance of prophylactic measures can significantly impact outcomes.

Addressing Opioid Use Disorder with Buprenorphine Therapies

Buprenorphine is a critical component in the treatment of opioid use disorder (OUD). It acts as a partial agonist at opioid receptors, providing a balance between reducing withdrawal symptoms and cravings while minimizing the risk of misuse. A recent claims analysis identified risk factors for non-adherence to buprenorphine treatment, highlighting the need for specialized care approaches (4).

Factors Influencing Adherence

Key factors affecting patient adherence to buprenorphine include:

• Comorbid Substance Use Disorders: Patients with additional substance use disorders, such as cocaine use disorder, demonstrated higher rates of non-adherence (relative risk [RR]: 1.63) (4).
• Psychiatric Comorbidities: Co-occurring mental health conditions significantly impact treatment adherence and overall outcomes.

Enhancing Recovery from Chronic Stroke through Technology

Technology has emerged as a powerful ally in stroke rehabilitation, facilitating personalized and engaging treatment programs. Integrating technological tools such as VR training and cognitive rehabilitation systems can significantly improve patient outcomes.

Technological Innovations

• Virtual Reality (VR): Simulates daily activities to motivate and engage patients in their rehabilitation process.
• Robotic-Assisted Therapy: Provides tailored interventions to enhance motor recovery and functional independence.
• Tele-Rehabilitation: Allows remote monitoring and therapy delivery, improving accessibility for patients in rural areas.

Conclusion

Managing substance use disorders requires a comprehensive approach that incorporates innovative treatments, occupational therapy, and awareness of potential complications related to comorbidities. Strategies such as utilizing CBD for withdrawal management, employing occupational therapy for stroke rehabilitation, enhancing pulmonary embolism prevention, and addressing opioid use disorder with buprenorphine can significantly improve patient outcomes. Continued research and implementation of these strategies are essential for advancing care in this challenging area.

FAQ

What is Cannabidiol (CBD) and how does it help in substance use treatment? CBD is a non-psychoactive compound derived from cannabis that may help manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings in individuals with substance use disorders.

How does occupational therapy aid stroke recovery? Occupational therapy focuses on enhancing daily living activities, cognitive function, and physical abilities, which can significantly improve the quality of life for stroke survivors.

What are the risks associated with pulmonary embolism in substance users? Substance use can increase the risk of pulmonary embolism due to factors such as immobility, co-existing health conditions, and the effects of certain drugs on the cardiovascular system.

Why is buprenorphine important for opioid use disorder? Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist that helps reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings while minimizing the risk of misuse, making it a crucial treatment option for those with opioid use disorder.

References

1. Redonnet, B., Eren, F., Avenin, G., Melchior, M., & Mary-Krause, M. (2025). Efficacy of cannabidiol alone or in combination with Δ‐9‐tetrahydrocannabinol for the management of substance use disorders: An umbrella review of the evidence

2. Vásquez-Carrasco, E., Jamett-Oliva, P., Hernandez-Martinez, J., Riquelme-Hernández, C., Villagrán-Silva, F., Branco, B. H. M., & Sandoval, C. (2025). Effectiveness of Occupational Therapy Interventions on Activities of Daily Living, Cognitive Function, and Physical Function in Middle-Aged and Older People with Chronic Stroke: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 14(7), 2197. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14072197

3. (2025). What’s going right with pulmonary embolism. Pulmonary Critical Care Medicine, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pccm.2025.02.003

4. Janak, J. C., Flynn, C., Jerry, M., Tran, A. T., Thompson, M., & Mullen, W. (2025). Commercially Insured Patient Profiles and Risk Factors Attributing to Nonadherence Among Patients With Opioid Use Disorder Treated With Monthly Injectable Buprenorphine: A Retrospective Claims Analysis. Original Research.