Treatment for Opioid Addiction

What are opioids?

Opioids are chemicals that attach themselves to the numerous opioid receptors that are typically found in the central and peripheral nervous systems as well as the gastrointestinal tract. It has been said that the use of opium predates recorded history are some of the oldest known drugs in the world. This was evidenced by the use of the opium poppy because of its therapeutic benefits and analgesic (painkilling) effects. This is the primary reason for the popularity of opioids among recreational drug users.

These effects stem from a decreased perception of pain, a decreased reaction to pain, and an increased tolerance for pain. Opioids are also the primary ingredients in anti-tussive products (i.e. cough syrups). However you should be aware of their primary side effects such as:

•  constipation
• euphoria
• respiratory depression
• sedation

Where recreational use of opioids is concerned it is their euphoric effects that make them so tempting to use. Whether opioids are prescribed medically or used recreationally, tolerance builds up quickly and the onset of dependency occurs rapidly, hence their powerfully addictive characteristics. As a result of the above, there are numerous drug rehab and recovery facilities that offer treatment for opioid addiction programs. The treatment program’s first stage is detoxification where the individual observes complete abstinence from the substance of abuse. This stimulates the excruciating withdrawal symptoms which are minimized with the help of medicines under medical supervision.

Adverse side effects and withdrawal symptoms

There are three particular drugs that lead to opiate or opioid addiction and dependency including heroin, OxyContin, and Vicodin. The more common, adverse side effects opioid addiction and dependency exhibits include constipation, drowsiness, dry mouth, itching, miosis (pupil constriction), nausea, and vomiting. The following are the more common withdrawal symptoms that occur when the use of opioids is abruptly interrupted or stopped:

•   anxiety
•   chills and sweats
•   depression
•   insomnia (sleeplessness)
•   pain
•   restlessness

It has also been shown that men develop sub-normal testosterone levels when they take moderate to high doses of opioid painkillers. Additionally, if they do not undergo treatment for opioid addiction, decreased muscle strength and osteoporosis can result.

Our treatment for opioid addiction program can help you

If you or a loved one is suffering with opioid addiction or dependency, we would like to talk to you about our integrative treatment for opioid addiction program that is based on our 5-phase “step-down model” or our Strength to Change program. If you would like information regarding these programs, call the toll-free phone number listed above to speak with one of our addiction specialists immediately. We’ll be happy to assist you with any of the opioid treatment programs.