Opiates have a long history throughout the world as means to relieve chronic pain. Opiates come in many forms, most of which are doctor-prescribed medications. These include oxycodone, hydrocodone, and hydromorphone. These medications may be used to help control pain or anxiety, but when taken longer or more often than prescribed, they can lead to opiate addiction. Illegal opiates, such as heroin, are used recreationally and may lead to serious addiction.
Our Opiate Addiction Treatment Process
Opiate addiction treatment requires a long-term, multi-faceted approach involving trained, medical professionals and a system of support. While some opiate addicts first became hooked on prescription medications, more than 75% of individuals seeking opiate addiction treatment became addicted by illegally obtaining the substance. In the last decade, more deaths resulted from opioid use than methamphetamine and cocaine put together. This fierce and destructive addiction requires professional and long-term treatment to overcome.
This addiction impacts the brain, vital bodily organs, and nervous system. The user’s body can become dependent on the opioids, leading to extreme withdrawal in the course of treatment. This withdrawal has physical and psychological impacts which is why those seeking treatment should have medical and professional supervision during every phase of recovery. Opiate treatment should occur at a qualified opiate treatment center or medical facility.
Steps to Recovery from Opiate Addiction
The first step in recovery is detoxification, the stage at which toxins and chemicals are cleansed from the body. Symptoms of withdrawal may include anxiety, tremors, muscle aches, vomiting, diarrhea, agitation, hot flashes, and other symptoms which vary according to the level of dependence, dosage level of the substance, and speed of withdrawal. Some opiate treatments involve weaning off the addiction through the use of carefully controlled doses of methadone or buprenorphine. Because of the pain and symptoms of withdrawal, medical staff should always be on hand to ensure the safety and wellbeing on the individual being treated.
Detoxification is only the first stage in recovery. Lasting success depends on addressing all aspects of the addiction including the mental and emotional connections to the addiction. Long-term maintenance therapy and post-detox treatment help addicts to remain clean after the detoxification stage.
Heather R. Hayes & Associates works to help families and loved ones find the right treatment for those in need. We assist in finding and engaging trusted treatment facilities for our clients’ unique needs. Call us today to learn more.
