A quick trip to the emergency room may not be enough to get the addiction help you need. Often times, emergency rooms provide little more than informational pamphlets and phone numbers. Many times, it is not clear where to turn to find help. Trying to find the right medical center may be confusing, and trying to navigate insurance and waiting lists is even worse. Fortunately, there is help available. This article will provide you with a step-by-step guide to Medical Treatment for Addiction.
Medication-Assisted Recovery
Medication-Assisted Recovery for addiction uses drugs to help individuals overcome their addiction to substances like opioids. These drugs reduce cravings and other symptoms of withdrawal, and help the brain achieve a state of balance. Treatment can be conducted in inpatient rehab or a sober living facility. The type of medication used for treatment varies from one addiction to another, but all drugs are approved by the Food and Drug Administration. The benefits of this approach have been proven by research.
Medication-Assisted Recovery (MAT) is a treatment method that involves combining behavioral therapy and medications. It can be a successful way to address opioid addiction. When used with behavioral therapies, MAT works to treat the whole person. In some cases, these drugs can prevent relapses by blocking the negative effects of alcohol and other substances. While MAT does not replace the treatment process, it can help people sustain recovery.
Medication to reduce cravings
Medication to reduce cravings in medical treatments for addiction can be effective for a number of different reasons. For instance, anti-seizure medications can be effective at controlling the body’s response to certain addictive substances, such as alcohol or opiates. They work by slowing brain cell activity, which reduces the urge to use these substances. This treatment is particularly useful for people suffering from moderate or severe addiction. It is important to follow a doctor’s advice on dosage and timing of use, however.
Among the different medications available for addiction treatment is methadone. This medication acts by binding tightly to the opioid receptors in the brain and helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Methadone is used most commonly for individuals suffering from severe opiate addictions, and is a permanent form of maintenance treatment for people who can’t stop taking their addictive substances on their own. However, it is important to remember that methadone is an opioid, and should only be taken under the supervision of a medical professional.
Medication to reduce withdrawal symptoms
The symptoms of withdrawal are a natural part of the recovery process for people who are in need of medical treatment for addiction. Withdrawal symptoms can range in intensity from sleeplessness and agitation to nausea and diarrhea. Other symptoms include dilated pupils, increased heart rate, and clammy skin. Some people experience paranoia, tremors, and disorientation. For these reasons, medication is used to treat the symptoms.
Various medications are used to alleviate the symptoms of opioid withdrawal. These medications include clonidine, buprenorphine, and methadone. Depending on the type of drug used, medication for opioid withdrawal can reduce the symptoms and allow the patient to continue treatment. Some of these drugs have a relatively short withdrawal period and require daily administration. However, long-term replacement medications can prevent the PAWS and cravings associated with Heroin withdrawal.
Medication to help with family dynamics
When it comes to family dynamics when treating addiction, medications are a useful tool. When an addict has a family, the members often fall into a pattern of negative communication and limited positive interaction. Other family members may be overlooked, and the addict may fail to address the needs of those who are closest to him or her. Children may develop a lack of independence, or parents may adopt enabling behaviors. Taking medication will help family members become more aware of their roles and work to promote healing.
Often, the father in a family with a substance abuser will express resentment and concern about losing his drinking buddy. He may even feel pressured to “have a few beers at a game,” but this pressure can cause continued substance use and upset family dynamics. As a result, the father will often use alcohol or drugs even if he doesn’t want to be around his child.
Long-term residential treatment for addiction
The difference between medical treatment for addiction and long-term residential treatment lies in the breadth and length of each treatment program. While both types of treatment are designed to address the underlying causes of addiction, long-term residential care emphasizes the long-term goal of restoring the person to a normal, productive lifestyle. Treatment includes examining mistaken beliefs and challenging self-destructive behaviors. It can also include counseling and the development of healthier ways of coping with everyday stress.
During the treatment process, patients often require case management. These programs address the co-occurring disorders of the substance abuser. Because the presence of these disorders may lead to relapse, they often include treatment for mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. Additionally, many programs also offer child-related and pregnancy-related services. The intensity of these programs can vary, but most are lower than partial hospitalization.