Opioids are natural or synthetic chemicals that interact with opioid receptors on the nerve cells in the body and brain and reduce feelings of pain. They are a class of drugs that include prescription pain relivers, synthetic opioids, and heroin. Prescription opioids are meant to be used to treat acute pain (such as recovering from injury or post-surgery), chronic pain, cancer treatment, palliative care and end-of-life care. Many people rely on prescription opioids to help manage their conditions under the care of a physician. Opioids reduce the perception of pain, but can also cause drowsiness, mental confusion, euphoria, nausea and constipation. At high doses they can depress the respiratory system (which can result in one stopping breathing). Prescription opioid pain relievers include oxycodone, hydrocodone, codeine, morphine, and others. Synthetic opioids include fentanyl, pethidine, tramadol, and carfentanil.
Effective treatments are available, however, only about one in four people with opioid use disorders receive specialty treatment. Medication Assisted Treatment/Recovery (MAT/MAR) is an effective treatment for individuals with an opioid use disorder. It involves the use of medication along with counseling and behavioral therapies. Brain chemistry may contribute to an individual’s mental illness as well as to their treatment. For this reason, medications might be prescribed to help modify one’s brain chemistry. Treatment typically involves cognitive behavioral approaches, such as encouraging motivation to change and education about treatment and relapse prevention. MAT/MAR has been shown to help people stay in treatment and to reduce opioid use, opioid overdoses, and other risks associated with opioid use disorders. Three FDA-approved medications are commonly used to treat opioid addiction which are Buprenorphine (Suboxone), Methadone, and Naltrexone. These medications help to prevent withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, and can even block the effects of other opioids, preventing the sought after feeling of euphoria. (We currently prescribe Methadone at our facility.)
MAT/MAR has proven to have high rates of success in individuals with opioid use disorders. It can help these individuals to gain and maintain employment, repair damaged relationships with family, and lead a normal and productive life again. If you know anyone who is suffering from opioid use disorder and would like help in getting into treatment, please contact the office to set an appointment for your intake/evaluation.
Medication Services are available Monday - Saturday with a take-home dose for Sunday. We offer split dosing for clients who qualify. All services are overseen by a licensed psychiatrist and nursing staff. Did we mention we offer morning and afternoon/evening dosing?
Costs: Intake = $50.00 (includes medication) Daily dose = $9.25 We are in network with numerous insurance companies which may reduce or eliminate these costs. Please talk with one of our staff to identify your options.
