First, it is essential to clear the mist that there is no single approach to medication-assisted treatment for opioid craving. It is widely believed that each person’s recovery is as unique as they are. The best possible solution is to learn about the medication to reduce opioid cravings and later on, search for an opioid addiction treatment program that works for you.
What is Medication-Assisted Treatment?
MAT or medication-assisted treatment includes using medications, in concert with other psychosocial treatments and therapy. This treatment is done to treat a patient’s substance use disorder and their whole self.
Our medication-assisted treatment for opioid cravings includes individualized care for those suffering from an addiction to opioids. But there are situations where medications alone are not enough to treat an addiction. In such cases, patients often find success with additional support to heal the mind, body, and spirit to enjoy long-term recovery and add psychosocial treatments as well.
For most people seeking to overcome their opioid addiction, MAT has been the safest and considered the best practice for treatment.
Here are some of the most common medications to reduce opioid cravings:
- Naltrexone
Known by the brand name Vivitrol, Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist which attaches itself to opioid receptors in the brain. Such antagonists prevent other opioids such as heroin or painkillers from exerting the effects of the drug.
- Buprenorphine
Known by the brand name Suboxone, Buprenorphine is a partial agonist which attaches to the opioid receptors in the brain and activates them. It is an oral tablet but if you use it against the doctor’s instructions, there is a risk of addiction.
- Methadone
This liquid is ingested orally and is dispensed through a certified opioid treatment program (OTP) at a clinic until the patient receives take-home doses. Methadone is an opioid agonist which basically activates opioid receptors in the brain to produce an effect. If this medication-assisted treatment for opioid cravings is used against the doctor’s instructions, addiction is at risk.
- Suboxone
Suboxone is in direct opposition to a drug like heroin and oxycodone and is one of several medications used in medication-assisted treatment (MAT) that are referred to as “opioid antagonists.” Since it is an opioid antagonist, it works to stop the effects of opioids and helps manage cravings.
If you or someone you care about is struggling with opioid addiction, contact or call us, at Mallardlakedetox.com near Houston, TX to learn about our opioid addiction treatment program.