MOUD
Also written as: MOUD — Medications for Opioid Use Disorder
Medications for Opioid Use Disorder, the preferred terminology for evidence-based pharmacological treatments.
Full Definition
MOUD represents the current standard terminology for medications used to treat opioid use disorder, including methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone. This term has largely replaced 'medication-assisted treatment' (MAT) to emphasize that medications are not merely assistive but are primary evidence-based treatments. The terminology shift reflects evolving understanding that these medications constitute complete treatment modalities rather than adjunctive therapies to counseling and behavioral interventions.
Usage
Usage note: Preferred over 'MAT' in current clinical documentation; always capitalize.
In Context
- "The clinic's MOUD program includes both methadone and buprenorphine treatment options." — Program description
- "Current best practices emphasize MOUD as first-line treatment for opioid use disorder." — Clinical guideline