MALVERN, PA — As the United States continues to grapple with the growing opioid and addiction crisis, a comprehensive force of stakeholders is gearing up for a significant congregation – the 13th annual Rx and Illicit Drug Summit. Set to take place from April 1-4 at the Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta, the summit aims to address the complex facets of prevention, treatment, and recovery.
Behind the event is the healthcare events and education titan HMP Global, which has observed the deadly evolution of the crisis with concern. From prescription drug misuse to the surge of synthetic fentanyl, and now to adulterated opioids – the epidemic has claimed over a million lives. The summit, which stands at the forefront of national collaborations on the issue, sees this as an opportunity for decision-makers and professionals to come together, study these trends and bring about transformative change.
Indeed, the crisis has taken an unsettling turn with the increasing presence of adulterants in illicit drugs. What this means is that the drugs, originally harmful themselves, are now being mixed with other noxious substances that have potential to cause even more harm. The dangers are undeniable and the summit aims to unravel and address the impact of this change.
Among the diverse offerings of the summit, certain key sessions stand out:
A social media analysis spanning nine years reveals insights into the fourth wave of the illicit drug crisis in America. Researchers have sifted through approximately 5 billion tweets from college locales, highlighting the need for a multi-pronged prevention strategy.
The discussion extends to the toxic adulterants found in the illicit drug supply. Notably, the veterinary drug xylazine, among others, poses serious implications for patient safety, harm reduction, cause of death determination, drug scheduling, and user education.
The summit also discusses evolving and emerging drug threats like xylazine and methamphetamine. These substances combined with fentanyl have been linked to a record level of fatal drug overdoses.
A session on psychedelics as potential treatments for substance use disorder (SUD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and depression provides a fresh perspective.
Among past participants are high-profile figures such as President Joe Biden, President Donald J. Trump and First Lady Melania Trump, President Barack Obama, and President Bill Clinton. The summit is expected to draw over 3,000 decision-makers, professionals, and industry supporters from all 50 states.
In addition to the sessions, the Exhibit Hall will feature a mobile treatment unit bus, a tiny home installation demonstrating solutions for unhoused individuals, and vending machines for harm reduction supplies. The Rx Summit will also spotlight Hope Ambassadors – individuals in recovery or those who have significantly supported recovery journeys.
In these critical times, the Rx and Illicit Drug Summit is a beacon of hope for those engaged with the healthcare industry. This event presents a united front and a platform to strategize on dealing with the complexities of the escalating drug epidemic.
For further details or to register, visit hmpglobalevents.com/rx-summit.
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