Includes bibliographical references (pages 269-275) and index.

Foreword / by A. Thomas McLellan, PhD -- Introduction -- An epidemic like never before. Medical panacea or national nightmare? -- Opioid use in America: how we got here -- Opioid use disorder: a disease like any other? -- The science, practice, and challenge of treating OUD. Embracing the new medical approach to treating OUD -- The pharmacology of opioids -- Starting a patient on medication -- When treating OUD becomes a challenge -- A brief guide for families. How to encourage your loved one to get help-and how to help yourself -- Finding the right treatment -- How to support your loved one in treatment and recovery -- For patients: what to expect in treatment and beyond. Getting ready to stop using opioids -- The first days and weeks after you stop using -- The next months and years once you are drug free -- Epilogue: Overdoses as missed opportunities.