Protocol · Mental Health/Addiction
Opioid Use Disorder Supportive Care Protocol
NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine) and Omega-3 Fatty Acids are the core of this stack, with 4 supporting supplements. Each row gives the amount the protocol lists and the grade our evidence database holds for that supplement in Opioid Use Disorder Supportive Care.
We are re-verifying the studies cited on protocol pages; only confirmed citations are shown.
The stack
6 supplements · none graded yet
| Grade | Supplement | Amount listed | Why it’s in the stack | Evidence on file |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary stackThe core of this protocol | ||||
| NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine) | Amount listed: 1,200–2,400 mg daily in divided doses | Modulates glutamate; studied for various substance use disorders; may reduce cravings | Not graded yet | |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | Amount listed: 2–3 g EPA+DHA daily | Supports brain health; may help with mood and cognitive function during recovery | Not graded yet | |
| Supporting stackListed as additions to the core | ||||
| Vitamin D | Amount listed: 2,000–4,000 IU daily | Often deficient in substance users; supports mood and immune function | Not graded yet | |
| Magnesium | Amount listed: 300–400 mg daily | Supports nervous system; may help with sleep and anxiety during withdrawal/recovery | Not graded yet | |
| B-Complex Vitamins | Amount listed: High-potency B-complex daily | Often depleted in substance users; supports nervous system and energy | Not graded yet | |
| Probiotics | Amount listed: 10–20 billion CFU daily | Gut-brain axis support; opioid use disrupts gut microbiome | Not graded yet | |
How this protocol works
In plain language
Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) is a chronic medical condition characterized by problematic patterns of opioid use that cause significant impairment or distress. It affects millions of people and has reached epidemic proportions.
SIGNS OF OUD:
- Taking opioids in larger amounts or longer than intended
- Unsuccessful attempts to cut down
- Spending significant time obtaining, using, or recovering
- Cravings
- Failure to meet work, school, or home responsibilities
- Continued use despite problems
- Giving up activities
- Using in hazardous situations
- Continued use despite health problems
- Tolerance and withdrawal
CRITICAL: OUD is a medical emergency requiring professional treatment. This protocol is SUPPORTIVE ONLY and NOT a substitute for medication-assisted treatment (MAT).
EVIDENCE-BASED TREATMENTS:
- Buprenorphine: Partial opioid agonist; prevents withdrawal and cravings
- Methadone: Full agonist; highly effective; requires specialized clinic
- Naltrexone: Opioid blocker; prevents effects of opioids
- Behavioral therapy: CBT, contingency management, counseling
- Support groups: NA, SMART Recovery
WHY MAT IS ESSENTIAL:
- Reduces mortality by 50%+
- Reduces illicit opioid use
- Reduces overdose risk
- Reduces criminal activity
- Improves quality of life
- NOT "substituting one addiction for another"
OVERDOSE PREVENTION:
- Naloxone (Narcan) saves lives - all patients and loved ones should have it
- Never use alone
- Fentanyl test strips
- Start low after any period of abstinence (tolerance drops)
NAC* has been studied for various substance use disorders.
Omega-3s and B vitamins* support brain health during recovery.
Probiotics* may help restore gut health disrupted by opioids.
Expected timeline: Recovery is a long-term process. MAT should be continued as long as needed - often years or indefinitely.