EXPERT
Dr. C. Lord, MD
Addiction Medicine Specialist | Addiction Medicine
Dr. Clifton Lord (Fred) is Medical Director of Connecticut Valley Recovery Services in Windsor VT and the Acadia Health Comprehensive Treatment Center/ Opioid Treatment Program in West Lebanon, NH, providing evaluation and treatment of substance use and related disorders including FDA approved medications for opioid use and alcohol use disorder. CVAR also provides treatment for Hepatitis C, individual and group counseling and case management.
A 1978 graduate of the University of Vermont (now Larner) College of Medicine, he trained in General Surgery at Bridgeport Hospital (Yale University Affiliated Surgery Program), Orthopedic Surgery at the Brown University Combined Orthopedic Residency program (Rhode Island Hospital and Providence RI Veteran Affairs Medical Center) where he was a Haffenreffer Fellow in Surgical Sciences, and Orthopedic Oncology at the Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. After a 15-year career, he retired from active surgery and, after a brief hiatus in administration, completed the Addiction Medicine Fellowship at the University of Florida. He returned to Windsor in 2007 and established CT Valley Recovery Services, the precursor to the present practice.
Dr. Lord has been principal investigator and network/project director for several Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) and Healthcare and Rural Services Administration (HRSA) grants dealing with health information technology and network development in rural healthcare settings. He was the project director for a HRSA Rural Opioid Response (RCORP) grant (20GA1RH39550), to improve prevention and treatment of opioid use disorder in Windsor County, VT from 2020 to 2023. He serves as a preceptor for Addiction Psychiatry Fellows at the Geisel School of Medicine, where he is Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry. He is also a preceptor and Adjunct Faculty for the Master of Physician Assistant Studies program at Franklin Pierce University.
Dr. Lord is a member and Fellow of the American Society of Addiction Medicine and a member of the American College of Academic Addiction Medicine. He is currently President of the Northern New England Society of Addiction Medicine
A 1978 graduate of the University of Vermont (now Larner) College of Medicine, he trained in General Surgery at Bridgeport Hospital (Yale University Affiliated Surgery Program), Orthopedic Surgery at the Brown University Combined Orthopedic Residency program (Rhode Island Hospital and Providence RI Veteran Affairs Medical Center) where he was a Haffenreffer Fellow in Surgical Sciences, and Orthopedic Oncology at the Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. After a 15-year career, he retired from active surgery and, after a brief hiatus in administration, completed the Addiction Medicine Fellowship at the University of Florida. He returned to Windsor in 2007 and established CT Valley Recovery Services, the precursor to the present practice.
Dr. Lord has been principal investigator and network/project director for several Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) and Healthcare and Rural Services Administration (HRSA) grants dealing with health information technology and network development in rural healthcare settings. He was the project director for a HRSA Rural Opioid Response (RCORP) grant (20GA1RH39550), to improve prevention and treatment of opioid use disorder in Windsor County, VT from 2020 to 2023. He serves as a preceptor for Addiction Psychiatry Fellows at the Geisel School of Medicine, where he is Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry. He is also a preceptor and Adjunct Faculty for the Master of Physician Assistant Studies program at Franklin Pierce University.
Dr. Lord is a member and Fellow of the American Society of Addiction Medicine and a member of the American College of Academic Addiction Medicine. He is currently President of the Northern New England Society of Addiction Medicine
46 years
Experience
Dr. Clifton F. Lord, MD
- Windsor, VT
- University of Vermont College of Medicine
- Accepting new patients
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Why is very addictive medicine even prescribed?
because they are effective for the conditions they are intended to treat. If prescribed and used responsibly they are safe. It is when one party- prescriber or patient- act IRRESPONSIBLY READ MORE
because they are effective for the conditions they are intended to treat. If prescribed and used responsibly they are safe. It is when one party- prescriber or patient- act IRRESPONSIBLY that patient's go over to the dark side.
Is it normal to be dependent on antidepressants and anti-anxiety meds?
If the anti-anxiety med is a benzodiazepine, no its not a great idea to be on them for very long unless ones anxiety is just intractable. Benzos were never intended to be used READ MORE
If the anti-anxiety med is a benzodiazepine, no its not a great idea to be on them for very long unless ones anxiety is just intractable. Benzos were never intended to be used for more than a couple of weeks at a time while other modalities/meds are having an effect. They are dependence producing. HOWEVER- they should NOT be stopped abruptly. They have a ferocious withdrawal syndrome that is dangerous, including a risk of seizures. Some antidepressants should also not be abruptly stopped because they also can have withdrawal sx= Paroxetine is one that withdrawals are most common with. I get that youre a bit skeptical about medications- if the prescriber is a competent psychiatrist, or a savvy PCP with experience with this, I would say that untreated depression is a lot unhealthier than taking the meds. I hope she is receiving good psychotherapy from a competent therapist in addition to her medication. CFL
What's the science behind Suboxone?
Buprenorphine occupies the opioid receptors in the brain and blocks other opioids from attaching and causing any effect, while suppressing withdrawal symptoms and cravings for READ MORE
Buprenorphine occupies the opioid receptors in the brain and blocks other opioids from attaching and causing any effect, while suppressing withdrawal symptoms and cravings for opioids. It differs from methadone in that it does not fully stimulate the receptor and so has practically no risk of overdose and respiratory depression.
Can medications cure alcohol addiction?
No addiction can be "cured". It can be managed into remission, like diabetes. There are medications that can manage alcohol dependence- naltrexone, acamprosate, and disulfiram READ MORE
No addiction can be "cured". It can be managed into remission, like diabetes.
There are medications that can manage alcohol dependence- naltrexone, acamprosate, and disulfiram (Antabuse) are all FDA-approved. Other meds can be used "off label" -that is, not for the purpose for which the FDA approved it, for example, topiramate. An Addiction Medicine specialist can help you decide how to go about this.
There are medications that can manage alcohol dependence- naltrexone, acamprosate, and disulfiram (Antabuse) are all FDA-approved. Other meds can be used "off label" -that is, not for the purpose for which the FDA approved it, for example, topiramate. An Addiction Medicine specialist can help you decide how to go about this.
Is there a cure for nicotine addiction?
No addiction can be "cured". It can be managed into remission, like diabetes.
Can alcohol addiction be cured?
No addiction can be "cured". It can be managed into remission, like diabetes.
Does my son need to go to support group or rehab for alcohol?
First, kudos to your son for realizing he needs help,
As for how to start, it depends. If he develops withdrawal symptoms when he doesn't drink for more than a couple of hours READ MORE
First, kudos to your son for realizing he needs help,
As for how to start, it depends. If he develops withdrawal symptoms when he doesn't drink for more than a couple of hours (sweats, chills, nausea, increased anxiety) he may need medically managed withdrawal (what we used to call detox) and that may require being "in" somewhere, Realize, however, that detox isn't treatment- it's the first step. Medications are very helpful in helping with abstinence- less than a quarter of the folks who could benefit are ever offered medication. Support groups like AA, Smart Recovery, and Rational Recovery are all useful to the right person.
My best advice is to go on the website of the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM.org) and find the "find a doctor" tab- this will help him find a board-certified addiction medicine physician who can evaluate him in person and give him the best advice. Good luck.
As for how to start, it depends. If he develops withdrawal symptoms when he doesn't drink for more than a couple of hours (sweats, chills, nausea, increased anxiety) he may need medically managed withdrawal (what we used to call detox) and that may require being "in" somewhere, Realize, however, that detox isn't treatment- it's the first step. Medications are very helpful in helping with abstinence- less than a quarter of the folks who could benefit are ever offered medication. Support groups like AA, Smart Recovery, and Rational Recovery are all useful to the right person.
My best advice is to go on the website of the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM.org) and find the "find a doctor" tab- this will help him find a board-certified addiction medicine physician who can evaluate him in person and give him the best advice. Good luck.
Can you fully heal alcohol addiction?
No addiction can be "cured". It can be managed into remission, like diabetes.
What are signs of a heroin addiction?
This is from the handout I use when speaking to Scout leaders and parent groups: To detect heroin abuse in a family member, look for these signs: • Sleepiness, nodding off • Unexplained READ MORE
This is from the handout I use when speaking to Scout leaders and parent groups:
To detect heroin abuse in a family member, look for these signs:
• Sleepiness, nodding off
• Unexplained periods of euphoria and activity followed suddenly by severe fatigue
• Confusion, disorientation
• Declining responsibility and work or study performance
• Covering the body with long pants and long sleeves when not warranted by the weather
• Lying
• Thefts, criminal activity, missing money
• Odd sleeping patterns
• Weight loss
• Scabs and sores from picking at skin
• Runny or itchy nose
• Slurred speech
Drug paraphernalia that may be found includes syringes, spoons, tiny plastic bags or wrappers, water pipes.
Signs and Symptoms of Drug Use
There are many signs, both physical and behavioral, that indicate drug use. Each drug has its own unique manifestations, but there are some general indications that a person is using drugs:
• Sudden change in behavior
• Mood swings; irritable and grumpy and then suddenly happy and bright
• Withdrawal from family members
• Careless about personal grooming
• Loss of interest in hobbies, sports and other favorite activities
• Changed sleeping pattern; up at night and sleeping during the day
• Red or glassy eyes
• Sniffly or runny nose
Additionally, you can look up on line the DSM V criteria for substance use disorders. There are 11 criteria, each of which must be present for a minimum of 6 months to be a (+) answer.
To detect heroin abuse in a family member, look for these signs:
• Sleepiness, nodding off
• Unexplained periods of euphoria and activity followed suddenly by severe fatigue
• Confusion, disorientation
• Declining responsibility and work or study performance
• Covering the body with long pants and long sleeves when not warranted by the weather
• Lying
• Thefts, criminal activity, missing money
• Odd sleeping patterns
• Weight loss
• Scabs and sores from picking at skin
• Runny or itchy nose
• Slurred speech
Drug paraphernalia that may be found includes syringes, spoons, tiny plastic bags or wrappers, water pipes.
Signs and Symptoms of Drug Use
There are many signs, both physical and behavioral, that indicate drug use. Each drug has its own unique manifestations, but there are some general indications that a person is using drugs:
• Sudden change in behavior
• Mood swings; irritable and grumpy and then suddenly happy and bright
• Withdrawal from family members
• Careless about personal grooming
• Loss of interest in hobbies, sports and other favorite activities
• Changed sleeping pattern; up at night and sleeping during the day
• Red or glassy eyes
• Sniffly or runny nose
Additionally, you can look up on line the DSM V criteria for substance use disorders. There are 11 criteria, each of which must be present for a minimum of 6 months to be a (+) answer.
Can a Juul help me stop smoking?
A lot of people use e-cigarettes for this purpose. If you are serious and are dilligent about tapering the concentration of nicotine in the cartridge, many people have had luck. HOWEVER- READ MORE
A lot of people use e-cigarettes for this purpose. If you are serious and are dilligent about tapering the concentration of nicotine in the cartridge, many people have had luck.
HOWEVER- vaping is NOT FDA approved for smoking cessation and the vapor can be harmful to your lungs and windpipe all by itself. Therefor I don't recommend it. Conventional nicotine replacement with a system of gradually decreasing strength patches, nicotine gum or lozenges are more reliable. Chantix (varenicline) is also very effective but has to be prescribed and has some side effects that your doctor should discuss with you. Good luck
HOWEVER- vaping is NOT FDA approved for smoking cessation and the vapor can be harmful to your lungs and windpipe all by itself. Therefor I don't recommend it. Conventional nicotine replacement with a system of gradually decreasing strength patches, nicotine gum or lozenges are more reliable. Chantix (varenicline) is also very effective but has to be prescribed and has some side effects that your doctor should discuss with you. Good luck
How do I break my gambling addiction?
Most states have a toll-free number that can point you toward resources to help. No medication is specifically effective or evidence-based for gambling. A therapist experienced READ MORE
Most states have a toll-free number that can point you toward resources to help. No medication is specifically effective or evidence-based for gambling. A therapist experienced in this is your best bet.
People don't realize that process addictions are as hard to treat, or harder than substance dependence. Good for you for recognizing you need help and good luck.
People don't realize that process addictions are as hard to treat, or harder than substance dependence. Good for you for recognizing you need help and good luck.
What doctor to see for a gambling addiction?
Most states have a toll-free number that can point you toward resources to help. No medication is specifically effective or evidence-based for gambling. A therapist experienced READ MORE
Most states have a toll-free number that can point you toward resources to help. No medication is specifically effective or evidence-based for gambling. A therapist experienced in this is your best bet.
People don't realize that process addictions are as hard to treat, or harder than substance dependence. Good for you for recognizing you need help and good luck.
People don't realize that process addictions are as hard to treat, or harder than substance dependence. Good for you for recognizing you need help and good luck.
Can gambling addiction be fixed with therapy?
No addiction can be "fixed". Addiction (process or substance) is a chronic disease that can be put into remission with treatment and good ongoing care. Most states have a toll-free READ MORE
No addiction can be "fixed". Addiction (process or substance) is a chronic disease that can be put into remission with treatment and good ongoing care.
Most states have a toll-free number that can point you toward resources to help. No medication is specifically effective or evidence-based for gambling. A therapist experienced in this is your best bet.
People don't realize that process addictions are as hard to treat, or harder than substance dependence. Good for you for recognizing you need help and good luck.
Most states have a toll-free number that can point you toward resources to help. No medication is specifically effective or evidence-based for gambling. A therapist experienced in this is your best bet.
People don't realize that process addictions are as hard to treat, or harder than substance dependence. Good for you for recognizing you need help and good luck.
What doctor can help with gambling addiction?
Most states have a toll-free number that can point you toward resources to help. No medication is specifically effective or evidence-based for gambling. A therapist experienced READ MORE
Most states have a toll-free number that can point you toward resources to help. No medication is specifically effective or evidence-based for gambling. A therapist experienced in this is your best bet.
People don't realize that process addictions are as hard to treat, or harder than substance dependence.
People don't realize that process addictions are as hard to treat, or harder than substance dependence.
How long does it take for Suboxone to take effect?
It's pretty rapid- taken sublingually (under the tongue) onset should be within 30 minutes. Sounds like it's doing what it's supposed to. Good for him for getting into treatment. READ MORE
It's pretty rapid- taken sublingually (under the tongue) onset should be within 30 minutes. Sounds like it's doing what it's supposed to. Good for him for getting into treatment. I hope he continues to do well.
Is cocaine really addictive?
Yes, not to mention illegal. Like any other drug, if you do it occasionally, some people can get away with it without becoming addicted. However, he's tickling the dragon's tail READ MORE
Yes, not to mention illegal. Like any other drug, if you do it occasionally, some people can get away with it without becoming addicted. However, he's tickling the dragon's tail and every once in a while.The dragon turns around and burns you.
Withdrawal
Very unlikely. This is basically an antihistamine and the literature on it does not mention abstinence syndrome with cessation. If you Start feeling sick after discontinuing medication.Make READ MORE
Very unlikely. This is basically an antihistamine and the literature on it does not mention abstinence syndrome with cessation. If you Start feeling sick after discontinuing medication.Make sure you check with your doctor
Affect of drugs on lifespan
All things ging equal, yup.
Can alcoholism be cured?
Alcoholism can be treated and put into remission. Addiction is a disease, like diabetes, that can't be "cured" but can be managed.
Can medications help with alcohol addiction?
Yes. Consult with a board certified addiction doctor. There are meds that can be very effective
