Opioid Detox, Treatment, Rehab
Overview
Opioid addiction is a complex and difficult condition to manage, but there are several evidence-based strategies used to treat it successfully. When combined, these approaches can have a synergistic effect and be more effective than any one or two would be alone. These can include medical detox, inpatient and outpatient treatment, individualized therapies, relapse prevention techniques, and more.
Guardian Recovery is an innovative behavioral health treatment center staffed with a team of medical and mental health professionals dedicated to ensuring that each individual receives the support and resources they need to fully recover physically, emotionally, and spiritually from the challenging conditions affecting them.
Commonly Misused Opioid Medications
Prescription opioids, when used as prescribed by a healthcare professional, can be effective in managing pain. However, when these medications are used in excess or not taken as directed by a doctor, they can lead to dependence, addiction, and other severe health problems.
Commonly Misused RX Opioids Include:
– Oxycodone (OxyContin®, Percocet®)
– Hydrocodone (Vicodin®, Norco®)
– Morphine (Kadian®, Avinza®)
– Codeine (Tylenol® with codeine)
– Fentanyl
– Tapentadol
– Methadone
Signs & Symptoms of Opioid Dependence
Opioid dependence is considered a chronic, relapsing brain disease characterized by physical and psychological reliance on opioids. When an individual becomes dependent on opioids, their body adjusts to the drug’s presence, and stopping or rapidly reducing use will lead to potentially severe withdrawal symptoms.
Opioid Dependence Signs & Symptoms Include:
– Intense and persistent cravings or urges to use opioids
– Tolerance, or needing increasing doses of the drug to achieve the desired effect
– Withdrawal symptoms, including nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, muscle aches, anxiety, and depression
– Difficulty controlling or limiting opioid use despite adverse physical, mental, or social consequences
– Neglect of personal, occupational, or educational responsibilities as a result of opioid use
– Withdrawal from social activities, hobbies, or relationships as opioid use is prioritized
– Repeated unsuccessful attempts to reduce or discontinue opioid use
Can You Detox From Opioid Dependence on Your Own?
Attempting to detox from opioids without medical supervision can be challenging and potentially dangerous. While some individuals do choose to detox from opioids on their own, it is generally not recommended due to the potential risks and complications that can occur. Rather than undertaking a self-detox, seeking professional help is strongly advised.
Opioid Addiction Detox & Rehab Process
The process of detox and rehab for opioid addiction typically involves multiple stages and varies depending on individual needs and the severity of the condition.
- Assessment An overall health evaluation, including a history of substance use and any co-occurring psychiatric disorders, to devise an appropriate treatment plan
- Supervised Detox Medical monitoring and medications to manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings
- Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) MAT may be used to support ongoing recovery and manage cravings and prolonged withdrawal. These medications typically include methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone.
- Behavioral Therapies Approaches such as individualized therapy to address the underlying causes of addiction and help individuals establish healthy coping mechanisms
- Supportive Services These can include psychoeducation, vocational training, and 12-step programs
- Aftercare Planning Post-treatment services such as ongoing therapy, outpatient services, support groups, and relapse prevention strategies
How Long Are Opioid Detox & Rehab Programs?
Medical detox is often the first step in the process and typically lasts for a few days to approximately one week. Inpatient or residential treatment programs can range from 28 days to several months, depending on treatment goals. Outpatient programs vary in intensity and duration but generally require 920 hours per week and can last for several months. Less intensive outpatient programs require fewer treatment hours and can last up to a year, or as long as necessary.
Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Dual diagnosis treatment refers to an integrated approach facilitated by a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals that simultaneously addresses both substance use disorders and co-occurring psychiatric disorders.