Essential substance use disorder medications in Asia Pacific countries: An observational study

Aim: To analyze national lists of essential medicines (NLEM) of Asia Pacific countries for inclusion of substance use disorder (SUD) medications.Methods: An observational study was conducted using the most recent versions of NLEM of all 55 Asia Pacific countries till April, 2022. SUD medication details were extracted and analyzed.Results: NLEM of included nations contained a median 2 medications for long term SUD management. Sixteen countries had atleast one medication for opioid use disorder and 13 for alcohol use disorder. Four countries had atleast one medication for opioid, alcohol, and tobacco use disorders.Conclusion: NLEM expansion is needed considering public health burden of SUDs.