Substance-Specific Education

Opioid Use Disorder

Opioid use disorder is treatable. EvolveMD combines medication, medical care, harm reduction, recovery support, and the SURF framework according to each patient’s needs and goals.

What opioids do

Opioids can reduce pain and produce euphoria, but they can also slow breathing. With repeated exposure, tolerance and physical dependence can develop; opioid use disorder involves continued, difficult-to-control use despite harm.

Overdose

Very slow or stopped breathing, inability to wake, and pinpoint pupils can signal opioid overdose. Give naloxone when overdose is suspected and get emergency medical help immediately.

Treatment works

Medications for opioid use disorder include buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone. The best option depends on medical history, preferences, access, and treatment goals.

Starting buprenorphine: induction timing and dosing are individualized. The patient handouts below contain specific protocols and should be used with your EvolveMD clinician rather than as one-size-fits-all instructions.

Patient Resources

Decisions in Recovery: OUD Handbook MOUD Shared Decision-Making Tool The Facts About Buprenorphine Starting Buprenorphine at Home Buprenorphine Induction Handout How to Take Sublingual Buprenorphine/Naloxone Naloxone Quick Start Guide

Videos & Guidelines

Medications for Opioid Use Disorder MOUD — Additional Video How to Take Buprenorphine Sublingually Facts About Fentanyl Naloxone Training ASAM Opioid Use Disorder Patient Guide 2025

How treatment works at EvolveMD

We use the SURF framework—Stabilize, Understand, Restore, Flourish—to organize care around safety, understanding, rebuilding, and long-term wellbeing.

Learn about SURF →