Craving and Opioid Use Disorder: A Scoping Review

QUESTION

Kleykamp, De Santis, M., Dworkin, R. H., Huhn, A. S., Kampman, K. M., Montoya, I. D., Preston, K. L., Ramey, T., Smith, S. M., Turk, D. C., Walsh, R., Weiss, R. D., & Strain, E. C. (2019). Craving and opioid use disorder: A scoping review. Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 205, 107639-107639. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2019.107639.

1. Answer the following questions:

2. What is the above research method, evidence level, and quality rating?

3. what is the population size and setting of the above research?

4. what are the study findings that will help answer the evidence-based questions?

5. Name measures used limitations in the study.

6. Identify the outcomes specific to the intervention measured by the research team.

7. Considering implementation fidelity, identify the steps you would take to during the design phase to translate/ implement this intervention in a practice setting.

ANSWER

Craving and Opioid Use Disorder: A Scoping Review

Introduction

This essay examines a scoping review published by Kleykamp, De Santis, et al. (2019) that explores the relationship between craving and opioid use disorder. The review aims to answer several evidence-based questions regarding craving in opioid addiction. This essay will provide a comprehensive analysis of the research method, evidence level, population size, study findings, measures used, outcomes of the intervention, and steps for implementing the intervention in a practice setting.

Research Method, Evidence Level, and Quality Rating

The research conducted by Kleykamp, De Santis, et al. (2019) is a scoping review, which aims to map the existing literature and provide an overview of the topic. The evidence level of this study is considered moderate, as scoping reviews are typically ranked lower in terms of evidence strength compared to systematic reviews or randomized controlled trials. However, scoping reviews are valuable in identifying research gaps and generating hypotheses. The quality rating of the review was not explicitly mentioned in the provided information.

Population Size and Setting

The scoping review does not focus on a specific population size or setting, as its purpose is to provide a comprehensive overview of the existing literature on craving and opioid use disorder. The review encompasses a wide range of studies from various populations and settings, including clinical and community-based samples.

Study Findings

The study findings identified through the scoping review help answer evidence-based questions related to craving in opioid use disorder. These findings include:
– Craving is a common and significant symptom in individuals with opioid use disorder.
– Craving is associated with higher rates of opioid misuse, relapse, and poorer treatment outcomes.
– Various factors, such as environmental cues, stress, and co-occurring mental health disorders, contribute to craving in opioid addiction.

Measures Used and Limitations

The scoping review utilized a range of measures and instruments to assess craving and its impact on opioid use disorder. The specific measures used were not mentioned in the provided information. However, the limitations of the study may include potential publication bias, as scoping reviews rely on published studies, and variations in study designs and methodologies across the included studies.

Outcomes of the Intervention

As a scoping review, this study does not directly investigate interventions or measure outcomes specific to interventions. Instead, it aims to provide a comprehensive overview of existing literature on craving and its relevance to opioid use disorder.

Implementing the Intervention in a Practice Setting

To ensure implementation fidelity during the design phase of translating the intervention discussed in the scoping review into a practice setting, the following steps can be taken:
1. Conduct a comprehensive review of the identified studies to understand the various interventions that have been effective in addressing craving in opioid use disorder.
2. Engage relevant stakeholders, such as healthcare providers, addiction specialists, and patients, in the design process to gain insights into the feasibility and acceptability of implementing the identified interventions.
3. Develop guidelines or protocols based on the evidence identified in the scoping review, outlining the recommended interventions for managing craving in opioid addiction.
4. Provide training and education to healthcare providers on the identified interventions, ensuring they have the necessary knowledge and skills to implement them effectively.
5. Monitor and evaluate the implementation process, collecting feedback from healthcare providers and patients to assess the intervention’s effectiveness, acceptability, and potential modifications required for better outcomes.

Conclusion

The scoping review conducted by Kleykamp, De Santis, et al. (2019) provides valuable insights into the relationship between craving and opioid use disorder. While scoping reviews do not directly measure intervention outcomes, the findings from this study highlight the importance of addressing craving in opioid addiction treatment. By following the steps outlined during the design phase, healthcare settings can successfully translate and implement evidence-based interventions to manage craving in patients with opioid use disorder. This process ensures that healthcare providers are equipped with the necessary tools and knowledge to address craving effectively, leading to improved treatment outcomes and patient well-being. Further research and exploration are warranted to investigate specific interventions and their impact on reducing craving and improving outcomes in the context of opioid use disorder.