Person-centered, evidence-based treatment guide for fentanyl and methamphetamine use disorders in Mexico.
Authors:
Piñeiro López, Nicolás Elías, Borràs Cabacés, Tre, Martínez Oró, David Pere.
Year:
2025
Keywords:
Mexico, CONASAMA, COPOLAD, Person-centered and evidence-based treatments, Fentanyl, Methamphetamine.
Person-centered, evidence-based treatment guide for fentanyl and methamphetamine use disorders in Mexico.
This guide, developed by Episteme Social within the framework of the Cooperation Program between Latin America, the Caribbean, and the European Union on Drug Policy (COPOLAD) for CONASAMA, represents a strategic response to the growing phenomenon of fentanyl and methamphetamine use in Mexico. The document promotes a fundamental paradigm shift: treatment must be rigorously person-centered and evidence-based, adopting the concept of “substance use disorder” under a biopsychosocial model. The approach prioritizes absolute respect for human rights, dignity, and comprehensive well-being, recognizing that recovery is a multifactorial process that goes beyond abstinence.
The main objective is to provide health professionals with an updated technical and clinical framework, offering clear guidelines for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up. The guide seeks to strengthen the capacity of personnel to implement individualized, continuous, and culturally adapted interventions, integrating international learning into the Mexican context.
Specific clinical approaches are detailed. For fentanyl use disorder, the guide indicates that opioid agonist therapy (OAT/OST) is the first line of treatment, complemented by psychosocial interventions such as Motivational Interviewing and Contingency Management. For methamphetamine use, the central approach is structured psychosocial interventions—such as the Matrix Model and Community Reinforcement Approach (CRA)—while pharmacotherapy is used as an adjunct for acute symptoms or craving.
Finally, the document emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive approach that ensures continuity of care and long-term follow-up. This includes community mental health strategies, links to social networks, and prevention in family, school, and work contexts, ensuring the patient’s comprehensive recovery and social inclusion.
