title: Messages about methadone and buprenorphine in reality television: a content analysis of celebrity rehab with Dr. Drew.
abstract: Medication-assisted treatment for opioid dependence is safe and effective, yet negative perceptions about methadone and buprenorphine may discourage patients from entering treatment. One source of information that may influence viewers' perceptions is television. We performed a content analysis of a popular reality television program on addiction treatment. Although many patients had histories of opioid use, there were no positive messages about methadone or buprenorphine. The two main messages were that they (1) are primarily drugs of abuse, and (2) not acceptable treatment options. These messages reinforce negative stereotypes and may perpetuate stigma. There were multiple missed opportunities to provide evidence-based information.
authors.affiliation: Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Division of Substance Abuse, Bronx, New York 10451, USA. rroose@dosa.aecom.yu.edu
authors.forename: Robert
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Roose
authors.forename: Liza
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Fuentes
authors.forename: Mandeep
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Cheema
mesh_terms: D002047:Buprenorphine / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D008691:Methadone / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D009294:Narcotics / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D058850:Opiate Substitution Treatment; D010565:Persuasive Communication; D011639:Public Opinion; D012047:Rehabilitation Centers; D013240:Stereotyping; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000534:rehabilitation; D013690:Television
chemical_list: D009294:Narcotics; D002047:Buprenorphine; D008691:Methadone