Emerging Technology to Fight Substance Use Disorders

Substance use disorders are neurological conditions in which the ability to control the use of substances is hindered despite harmful consequences [4]. Drug addiction is a main component of substance use disorder and is caused by the use of drugs in social situations in which individuals may feel pressure or for leisurely activities. Although there is not one defined factor for substance abuse, some factors include genetic, environmental, and developmental factors [4]. The more of the substance an individual uses, the larger the dose required in order to feel the same effects, which in turn alters biological makeup over time. Repeated uses of the substance may result in neuroadaptation; this is when the brain alters to maintain homeostasis, resulting in tolerance and reduced dopamine receptors, resulting in impaired executive control [4]. 

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Screening for Addiction Risk

Researchers funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) developed an AI tool that can detect patients at risk for an opioid use disorder [1]. The AI system helped doctors identify patients earlier and reduced hospital readmissions [1]. The AI screener primarily analyzed electronic health record (EHR) data to find specific patterns related to an opioid use disorder risk [1]. It looked at information from electronic health records in real time [1], including clinical notes, medical history, and other documentation to identify patterns associated with this disorder, and then when it detected signs, it immediately sent an alert to healthcare providers. 

Telehealth Addiction Treatment

People with opioid use disorder who received telehealth services during the COVID-19 pandemic were less likely to overdose and more likely to stay on medication [2]. Telehealth has been an emerging technology used to improve access to treatment for individuals with substance use disorder [2]. This technology allows patients to receive support and care remotely through online platforms. Telehealth is specifically beneficial for those living in rural or underserved areas, as well as for adolescents who may have limited transportation or difficulties accessing addiction services [2]. Through video calls, online platforms, and digital monitoring systems, patients can participate in therapy sessions without needing to travel to a healthcare facility. 

Wearable Biofeedback Patches

Researchers at Harvard-affiliated Mass General Brigham developed a wearable smart patch to help people recovering from substance use disorder to manage stress and reduce cravings [3]. The device monitors physiological signs such as heart rate variability [3], which is linked to stress and emotional regulation, and uses biofeedback to inform the user to perform breathing exercises when in distress. In a clinical study of adults in early recovery, participants who used the wearable patch reported fewer cravings and lower negative emotions and were less likely to use alcohol or drugs compared to those who received the standard treatment [3]. 

Conclusion

Emerging technologies are transforming the treatment of substance use disorder and also supporting prevention and overall health. Together, these innovations empower individuals to take control of their health and build resilience, showing that technology can play a key role not only in recovery but also in prevention and long-term well-being.

References

[1] “AI Screening for Opioid Use Disorder Associated with Fewer Hospital Readmissions,” National Institutes of Health (NIH), May 07, 2025. Accessed on: Mar. 20, 2026. [Online]. Available: https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/ai-screening-opioid-use-disorder-associated-fewer-hospital-readmissions?utm_source=

[2] “Telehealth Improves Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder,” National Institutes of Health (NIH), Feb. 09, 2026. Accessed on: Mar. 20, 2026. [Online]. Available: https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/telehealth-improves-treatment-opioid-use-disorder?utm_source=

[3] Mass, “Smart Patch Reduces Cravings for Alcohol and Drugs,” Harvard Gazette, Oct. 2025. Accessed on: Mar. 20, 2026. [Online]. Available: https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2025/10/wearable-patch-reduces-cravings-for-alcohol-and-drugs/?utm_source=

‌[4] Mayo Clinic, “Drug Addiction (Substance Use Disorder) – Symptoms and Causes,” Mayo Clinic, 2022. Accessed on: Mar. 20, 2026. [Online]. Available: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/drug-addiction/symptoms-causes/syc-20365112