Revolutionary Kentucky-based opioid use disorder treatment device receives FDA approval

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) - It’s a revolutionary device in the world of addiction recovery.

“This can have a profound impact in our state. No question about it,” said Isaiah House’s Mike Cox.

The video above shows the NET Device. It’s an opioid use disorder treatment found exclusively at Isaiah House facilities. The neurostimulation therapy reduces opioid withdrawal symptoms within 24 hours.

“Adhesive electrodes are placed behind the ears. Through a carefully programmed series of tiny electrical pulses, it restimulates the production of the body’s own natural production of endorphins in the brain.”

For people in addiction, these naturally produced chemicals become depleted or replaced by their drug of choice. When they stop taking the drug, their bodies go into withdrawal. This tool significantly, or as Mike Cox says, almost miraculously reduces withdrawal.

“When a person is able to quickly get past the acute withdrawal symptoms, they’re then able to more quickly fully engage in treatment than they would otherwise. A lot of people want help to overcome addiction, but they’re afraid of being sick and going through withdrawal.”

According to the state, in 2023, 80 percent of overdose deaths involved opioids. This device, a nonpharmaceutical treatment that fits in the palm of your hand, could save many lives.

“I think this is just a gamechanger.”

Cox said they’ve only collected data for opioid use so far, but he sees it doing wonders for other drug abuse disorders.

Residents of Meade, Scott, Bullitt, and Shelby Counties are eligible to receive treatment free of charge, thanks to funding from local abatement grants.

You can learn more about Isaiah House and the treatment done there at the link here.