Methadone and Alcohol Use Disorder

This video provides practical guidance for identifying and managing unhealthy alcohol use among patients receiving methadone in opioid treatment programs (OTPs). It reviews the prevalence and clinical impact of co-occurring opioid use and alcohol use, including increased risks of overdose, medical complications, and treatment disengagement. Viewers will examine evidence-based approaches to routine alcohol screening, clinical assessment, alcohol testing, patient education, and treatment planning. The video also highlights the importance of using an impairment-based approach to methadone dosing decisions that prioritizes patient safety while supporting treatment engagement, and reviews strategies for addressing alcohol use disorder through counseling, medications, and coordinated referral when appropriate.