The opioid epidemic has increased in numbers to a staggering amount. An estimated 10 million people misuse prescription opioids per year. Of that, over 47,000 people die from an overdose each year.
It is no secret that the opioid epidemic is tragic. It is devastating for affected individuals and their families and friends.
What if there was an effective way to get addiction under control? Good news- there is. Medication-assisted treatment is a lifesaving treatment plan.
Is a medication-assisted treatment program right for your recovery? Continue reading to learn more about the treatment and its advantages.
What is Medication-Assisted Treatment?
Medication-assisted treatment utilizes FDA-approved medications to treat substance abuse disorders. The medications used in this treatment are methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone.
Medication-assisted treatment works by administering a safe drug. The drug acutely resembles the addictive substance. But, this medication is much safer and easier to control.
There are many benefits of medication-assisted treatment. Here are 5:
1. Lessened Cravings and Withdrawals
The medications in medication-assisted treatments work to lessen drug-related cravings.
The medications succeed by clinging to opioid receptors and activating them without the need for the addictive substance. Or, the receptors that cause euphoria are completely blocked. This removes the pleasant feeling attached to drug use.
Withdrawing from opioids often causes people to feel very sick. Symptoms can include nausea, anxiety, headaches, and more. Medication-assisted treatment helps curb symptoms of drug withdrawal.
2. High Retention Rates
The goal of any treatment program is for the patient to make a full recovery. With participation in medication-assisted treatment programs, patients have proven to show high retention rates.
The treatment is attainable to stick with. The longer a patient sticks with treatment, the lesser the need for inpatient care.
3. Lower Risk of Relapsing
Although there is no shame in relapsing, it can be devastating. The individual often feels like they’ve taken a step back.
Even though relapsing is often a normal part of recovery, it can lessen confidence levels. Thankfully, with medication-assisted treatment, there is a lower risk of relapsing.
Since the treatment operates by lessening cravings and withdrawal symptoms, there is a reduced risk of relapsing.
4. Affordable
The fact of the matter is that almost all treatment programs have a cost. But you can’t put a price on getting your life back.
Medication-assisted treatment programs are more affordable than you might think.
As of 2018, state Medicaid programs must cover medication-assisted treatment. States must cover all FDA-approved drugs licensed for medication-assisted treatment.
5. Combine with Therapy for Increased Success
Combining medication-assisted treatment with counseling or behavior therapy dramatically increases success rates.
Patients can take part in group therapy, individual counseling, or 12-step meetings. There are many approaches to drug and alcohol rehab that can help get patients back on their feet.
Find a Medication-Assisted Treatment Program Near You
Does a medication-assisted treatment plan sound like the right choice for you? If so, you deserve to begin to heal.
The treatment programs require close medical supervision. If you’re looking for a medication-assisted treatment program in Pennsylvania, we can help.
If you’re ready to take your life back, contact us today for a free consultation.
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