Treatment for drug addiction can take a number of forms including rehab, therapy, support groups as well as medical treatment which may involve prescription drugs such as methadone or Suboxone. If you or a loved one struggles with drug addiction, help is available and should be sought out. You should not try to overcome your addiction alone. Medication assisted therapy is the use of medications, in combination with counseling and behavioral therapies, to provide a whole-patient approach to the treatment of substance use disorders. Research shows that when treating substance-use disorders, a combination of medication and behavioral therapies is most successful. Medication assisted treatment (MAT) is clinically driven with a focus on individualized patient care.
The Horizons Clinic offers Medication assisted treatment (MAT) using either methadone or Suboxone as well as other medications. Both of these drugs have been shown to be highly effective in substance dependence to opiate drugs such as heroin, diluadid, fentanyl and others. They work by blocking the euphoric effect of the opiate drug so that the brain will have less craving for the drug. They also ease the difficult, often painful withdrawal symptoms that happens when an individual stops taking the opiate.
A doctor who specializes in addiction treatment will help you determine whether methadone, Suboxone or some other treatment is most appropriate.
Anyone who takes opioids for an extended period of time can develop a dependency
With either of these drugs, it is important that they only be taken under the direction of a physician. Throughout the treatment, the physician will monitor the dosage, and how you doing with your life. As you regain your healthy habits you doctor may ask you if you would like to start reducing your dose. However, you do not need to stop the medication if you do not want to.
Admitting that you have a problem can be difficult but it is an important first step in your journey to recovery. Addiction does not have to be a life sentence. With the proper care and support, you can overcome your dependence and get your life moving in the right direction.
If a loved one has a drug addiction, they will need your support. If they are not presently enrolled in a treatment program, you should encourage them to get help. If they are in a treatment program, you can be a source of strength and encouragement for them on this difficult journey to recovery.