Regardless of how severe addiction is, there is a wide range of treatments available to pull a person out of substance abuse and get on the road to recovery. Evidence-based treatment and holistic care are two of the primary forms of treatment. Also, there are also various types of medication-assisted treatment available.
Medication for addiction is non-addictive, FDA approved, and safe to use. It can also reduce cravings or counter the effects of a drug if a person attempts to relapse. Treatment specialists use some medications to help a person who has mental health disorders related to their addiction.
Let’s explore different types of medication-assisted treatment further so that you can see their uses and benefits.
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How Does Addiction Medication Work?
Addiction medication works in various ways, such as:
Countering the Effects of the Drug
Some types of addiction medication can counter the effects of a drug. For instance, a person who takes medication and then drinks alcohol may not get drunk. The medication removes the effects of alcohol on the brain. Other medications exist to counter the effects of cocaine, heroin, methamphetamines, etc.
Curbing the Cravings
When a person completes detox, all of the withdrawal symptoms disappear. However, the cravings may not go away for a few weeks. A therapist may prescribe medication to reduce the cravings and give the person a greater fighting chance of long-term recovery.
Producing Bad Side Effects
When combined with a drug or alcohol, some medication produces severe side effects that make the individual sick. If a person takes the medication, then drinks alcohol, they may throw up and stay nauseated for several hours. This may remove their desire to drink or take drugs.
Helping with Anxiety or Depression
Different types of medication-assisted treatment can help someone who may be going through anxiety or depression during rehab. Although therapy is the primary form of treatment, medication can act as a supplement.
Keep in mind that each of these treatments is designed to work short-term. Unless a person has a severe mental disorder that requires treatment, a specialist will only prescribe the medication to address the immediate problem. This keeps a person from ending one addiction and starting another.
Different Types of Medication-Assisted Treatment
Drugs that a person may use to manage their addiction or help with cravings or other issues may include:
- Disulfiram (Antabuse)
- Naltrexone (Vivitrol)
- Modafinil (Provigil)
- Buprenorphine (Suboxone, Probuphine)
- Bupropion (Zyban, Wellbutrin)
- Mirtazapine (Remeron)
- Gabapentin (Neurontin)
Other drugs for addiction include Vigabatrin (Sabril), Baclofen (Lioresal), Topiramate (Topamax). With a broad spectrum of drugs, a person who has an addiction has more options for treatment suited to their condition.
A treatment specialist may meet with a person to discuss their particular condition and then make recommendations. Not all drugs affect people in the same so that the results may vary. Also, a person may recommend a drug after other methods have been tried and not as the first wave of treatment.
Getting Treatment for Drug and Alcohol Addiction
While medication-assisted treatment is often effective in helping a person during detox or the early stages of rehab, it is not a long-term solution. Therefore, individuals should seek therapy as a primary form of care. Evidence-based treatment, combined with support groups and holistic care, provides a better foundation for a long-term recovery.
If you are ready to begin your treatment for addiction, then contact Phoenix Rising today. We offer a wide range of treatments that include detox, rehab, and aftercare. Also, we offer different types of medication-assisted treatment. Call 8552328211 to find out more about your treatment options and to get started today.
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