What Are the Anti-Craving Medicines Used in MAT?
Studies show that individuals with an opioid use disorder (OUD) who attempt total abstinence following detox are significantly more likely to relapse than individuals with other addictions. Relapse is a normal part of the recovery process. However, relapsing on opioids carries a higher risk for fatal overdoses. Because of the power of opioids, individuals with OUD often detox and relapse multiple times. Each time, it can be more dangerous. One highly effective way to combat this is incorporating medication-assisted treatment (MAT) in Florida into comprehensive addiction treatment. While many believe that MAT simply substitutes one addiction for another, at Next Wind Recovery, we know that these FDA-approved anti-craving medications are a critical component of successful and lasting recovery from opioids and alcohol. Find out if MAT is appropriate for you by calling us at 201.331.6569. What Are the Anti-Craving Medications Used in MAT? Medication-assisted treatment is an evidence-based treatment, meaning that its effectiveness has been proven in clinical trials. MAT is promoted and supported by public health agencies, including the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the American Medical Association (AMA). Despite this, it remains highly controversial. Helping more people secure MAT means working to break the stigma associated with some of the medications used. Anti-Alcohol Craving Medications Because alcohol is legal and such a part of American culture, many people do not understand the severity of alcohol addiction. Alcohol withdrawal symptoms can be severe and even life-threatening. Particularly in severe cases of alcohol addiction, MAT is essential. The medications used include: Acamprosate – This unique drug does not eliminate withdrawal symptoms but helps people avoid alcohol after they quit drinking by stabilizing the chemical imbalances caused by alcohol addiction.Disulfiram – Also used after detox, this drug changes how the body eliminates alcohol, causing side effects such as headache, nausea, and vomiting if alcohol is consumed. Anti-Craving Medications for Opiates Opioid addiction quickly causes significant changes in brain and body chemistry that result in extreme psychological and physical cravings. When these powerful drugs leave the system, intense withdrawal symptoms set in quickly, a feeling known as “dope sick.” Those addicted to opioids repeatedly return to their drug of choice to avoid these intense withdrawal symptoms. MAT medications that help include: Buprenorphine – Taken as directed, this drug significantly reduces opioid dependence by reducing and suppressing opioid cravings and limiting withdrawal symptoms. Methadone – This drug reduces the cravings for opioids and can block the effects that opioids have on the body. Much like using the patch to quit smoking, methadone is used to help titrate down from opioid addiction. The Benefits of Naltrexone in MAT Naltrexone is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat both alcohol use disorder (AUD) and opioid use disorder (OUD). Contrary to popular belief, Naltrexone is not an opioid. It is also not addictive and does not cause withdrawal symptoms when it is stopped. Naltrexone blocks the euphoric and sedative effects of opioids and alcohol, reduces cravings, and helps prevent relapse. Naltrexone can only be used following detox when there are no traces of alcohol or opioids in the system. Individuals who drink or use opioids while taking Naltrexone will experience severe side effects. Contact Next Wind Recovery for Medication-Assisted Treatment Medication-assisted treatment for addiction recovery is a highly effective but significantly underused approach to treatment. MAT is often mistakenly viewed as substituting one addiction for another. At Next Wind Recovery, we are dedicated to helping reduce the stigma of medication-assisted treatment. We do this by providing constant support and guidance for clients participating in MAT to ensure their medications remain at a therapeutic level. We understand that the fear of going through withdrawal often prevents people from seeking treatment for alcohol or opioid addiction. MAT can make the detox process more tolerable and reduce the risk of relapse. Contact Next Wind Recovery at 201.331.6569 if you have questions about medication-assisted treatment or want to find out if MAT can assist you in your recovery.
Outpatient Addiction Treatment Timeline
Detox is the first step toward recovery from drug or alcohol abuse and addiction. Choosing the best detox program depends upon your unique needs and the severity of your substance use disorder. Withdrawal symptoms are different for everyone and are determined by the type of substance, length of use, and amount in your system upon arrival at detox. Withdrawal from alcohol and opioids can be dangerous and sometimes even life-threatening without medical supervision. Therefore, it is critical to understand the detox process and the differences between inpatient and outpatient detox programs. Contact Next Wind Recovery at 201.331.6569 for detox and outpatient addiction treatment in Florida. Do You Need Outpatient Detox in Florida? It can be difficult for individuals struggling with a substance use disorder (SUD) to recognize when professional help is needed. Many people are in denial about their problem, especially when they have not yet experienced significant consequences resulting from their SUD. The reality is that most people abusing alcohol or drugs will eventually develop an addiction. If you question whether or not you need SUD treatment, you likely do. While the signs and symptoms of substance abuse and addiction will vary between individuals, the following are common indications that professional treatment is needed: Increasingly needing to take more of the substance to get the desired effect Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not drinking or using drugs The inability to stop using drugs or alcohol despite repeated attempts Reliance on drugs, alcohol, or both to cope with anxiety, depression, stress, or any emotional or psychological challenges Avoiding responsibilities and withdrawing from previously enjoyed activities Obsessing over when you can next get and use drugs or alcohol or being afraid of not having access to your substance of choice Changes in appetite, sleep patterns, and physical appearance The main goal of detox is to address the physical aspects of addiction so that individuals can deal with the underlying psychological factors contributing to their SUD. Fear of this process doesn’t have to hold you back. At Next Wind Recovery, our outpatient detox center provides supportive, medically supervised care to help you through this challenging time. How Long Do Outpatient Detox Programs Take? One of the first questions most people want to be answered about addiction treatment is how long it will take. It is essential to accept that addiction is a chronic disease, so the process of recovery is lifelong. Having patience is critical to being successful in treatment and beyond. Remember, your addiction did not happen overnight, and neither will your recovery. A complete outpatient detox typically takes about six days but can range anywhere between three and fourteen. How long outpatient detox programs take depends on several factors, including: Which substance you are abusing Whether or not you are abusing multiple substances Method of use (injecting, snorting, smoking, etc.) Length and severity of substance abuse Medical history and general health Presence of co-occurring mental health disorders Age and gender Outpatient detox programs are generally less expensive and more convenient for many. Not everyone with a substance use disorder requires inpatient treatment. Further, not everyone can walk away from work, school, or family obligations to attend inpatient treatment. Outpatient addiction treatment allows you to remain employed and fulfill your responsibilities. That said, outpatient detox and subsequent addiction treatment are not appropriate for individuals with severe addiction. Additionally, because you are not in a controlled environment, the chances of relapse are higher. The best candidates for outpatient treatment will have a stable home environment where others are not using alcohol or drugs and a solid support network. Reach Out to Next Wind Recovery for Outpatient Detox and Addiction Treatment in Florida When you reach out to Next Wind Recovery for outpatient detox and addiction treatment services, the first step will be a thorough assessment from our highly-skilled, compassionate treatment team. This assessment will form the foundation of your individualized treatment plan. We understand the fears surrounding the decision to seek addiction treatment, but Next Wind Recovery will be with you every step of the way, from detox to aftercare planning. Reach out to us online or by calling 201.331.6569 to learn about your addiction treatment options.