This presentation explains the opioid crisis in America. Current Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data is reviewed. The history of opioid use is reviewed, as well as the surge in prescription opioid use and diversion over the past two decades. The rapid increase in heroin use disorder associated with this surge is explored. The third variable in our present crisis, fentanyl and the fentanyl analogs, is also examined. MAT is reviewed, as well as Naloxone. Addiction, the way opioids interact with brain functioning, is explained and discussed. Both DSMV and ASAM Brain Disease criteria is reviewed. There will be discussion of Harm Reduction measures. Participants will:•Develop understanding of factors combining to cause current opioid crisis;
•Assess the present extent of this public health crisis;•Understand what is meant by Brain Disease or Opioid Use Disorder;•Describe different types of Medication Assisted Treatment;•Explain Naloxone and how it reverses overdoses.