What percentage of opioid dependent patients are reported to smoke cigarettes?

The percentage of opioid-dependent patients who are reported to smoke cigarettes is more than 80 percent. This high prevalence can be attributed to various factors, including shared neurobiological pathways and psychosocial factors that contribute to both substance use disorders. The interaction between nicotine and opioids can lead to an increased reliance on both substances.

Moreover, smoking may be utilized by individuals as a way to self-medicate or cope with the challenges and stress associated with opioid dependence. Understanding this relationship is critical in developing comprehensive treatment plans for patients with substance use disorders, as addressing both smoking and opioid dependence can improve overall health outcomes and enhance recovery efforts. This robust link reflects the significant overlap between these two forms of addiction in the population of individuals with opioid dependency.