In 2017, the Department of Health & Human Services officially declared a public health emergency for opioid addiction and created a much-needed 5-point strategy to help combat the issue. With that said, the assistance available to aid in the fight against opioid addiction is enormous. If you or someone you love needs rehabilitation, the information below provides details about opioid addiction treatment programs. Just keep reading!
Opioid Treatment Programs
Opioids were the cause of 46,802 overdose-related deaths in 2018, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Those numbers are staggering and the sooner addicted individuals get help, the better! Here are some options.
Long Term Drug Rehab Treatment
Most substance abuse treatment programs are separated into several stages, which include medically monitored detoxification, rehab therapy, and aftercare support. The different variations of treatment are available in both an outpatient and inpatient setting. Long-term drug rehab facilities typically put patients through several days of monitored detox, followed by three to six months of intensive addiction therapy. Extended drug treatment programs are recommended for people who’ve had multiple relapses or difficulty completing other programs.
Therapy
Therapy is a huge part of helping addicted individuals achieve long-term recovery. Detoxification is important when beginning a long-term drug rehab program, but the counseling that comes along with it is vital. Patients have to understand that they are not alone in their fight and there is a supportive community of people around them. Not only that, but many people discover that there are deep-rooted issues that drive them to become substance abusers. When those problems are uncovered, it makes it easier for them to combat their urges and make a change.
Medically-Assisted Treatment
Medically-assisted treatment helps patients to wean off drugs and minimize cravings by neutralizing the transmitters within the body. The purpose of these kinds of opioid treatment programs is that it assist individuals in losing the euphoric feeling that comes from drugs. As a result, the body is able to separate from its dependence on the substance. It might seem strange to use medication to help patients recover from an addiction, but it works. The opioid receptors used in MAT are approved by the Food and Drug Administration, which also means they are safe to consume. Furthermore, there are several med options available for MAT, making it easier for physicians and therapists to customize treatment plans.
Common MAT Medications
These are some common medications used during medication-assisted treatment.
Methadone
Methadone is great for treating individuals with opioid addiction. It’s designed to reduce cravings and stabilize withdrawals. Furthermore, it helps to slow the effects of other opioid medications.
Naltrexone
This particular medication shields against the “happy” feeling that brought about by opioids. The wonderful thing about Naltrexone is that it helps effectively in stopping relapses because it takes away the high that’s associated with opioids.
Buprenorphine
Buprenorphine also diminishes the effects of opioid dependence. It assists in cutting down cravings and withdrawals.
What Are Opioids and Makes Them Addictive?
Opioids are a class of medications used to treat pain by tricking the body into ignoring its discomfort. The “trick” happens by altering the chemical levels within the brain. Generally, the brain cells release a burst of dopamine when a person has a rewarding experience. Opioids trigger the brain to release lots of dopamine, making the person taking the drug feel at ease. The happy feeling that’s released is highly addictive, and people who take these drugs have the urge to continue to feel a satisfying boost. Sadly, taking too many opioids can complicate breathing and could lead to death.
Signs You May Have an Opioid Addiction
Since opioids are a prescription medication, it might be easy to dismiss addiction as a need for pain medication. However, if you find yourself buying synthetic opioids or taking the drug when you don’t have pain, that’s a sign of addiction. Furthermore, putting yourself in compromising situations like forging prescriptions notes at the pharmacy is also an indicator. Whenever you notice that you are dependent upon your opioid medication and you cannot function without it, that’s a problem. If you detect any of these symptoms, it’s time to get help. Here are other indicators to look out for:
- Drowsiness
- Weight loss
- Lack of hygiene
- Isolation from loved ones
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Reduced libido
- Uncontrollable cravings
- Constant flu-like symptoms
- Struggle to maintain finances
The best way to prevent opioid dependence is to follow the directions on the label or the instructions given by the pharmacist. Never increase the dosage for your medication, unless it’s approved by your doctor. Also, you should stay away from taking another person’s prescription and do not share your medication with anyone else. Also, be sure to store all medication in a safe place.
A New Lease on Life
The opioid treatment programs in this article are designed to give addicted individuals long-term recovery. A battle with substance abuse doesn’t have to become a loss. Opioids provide a false sense of happiness while on the drug, but the effects of indulging in them are horrific. Thankfully, there is hope for a drug-free future. If you or your loved one needs a treatment program, our facility can help. We service the New Jersey area and provide group therapy, mediation detox, addiction counseling, and more! If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team of professionals are here to assist with whatever you need!
