Not all addiction looks the same. When it comes to identifying signs of opioid addiction, it can be hard to know what to look for.
The symptoms range from physical changes or dependency to mental and behavioral challenges. Whether you’re struggling with opioid use or fear a loved one is battling opioid use disorder, the first step is learning to recognize the signs of addiction.
The challenge behind identifying opioid addiction in some scenarios is that your loved one isn’t always buying and using illicit drugs. In many cases, opioid use disorder begins with a doctor’s prescription and a growing dependency on the prescribed medicine. However, obtaining the opioids legally doesn’t make dependency any less dangerous. Whether the drugs come from a stranger or a well-educated medical professional, the warning signs look the same.
Suboxone, or buprenorphone, is a controlled substance used for the treatment of opioid or heroin dependence and addiction. The purpose of using this medication is to suppress symptoms of cravings and withdrawal in order for the patient to begin other forms of treatment therapy.
Suboxone has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for opioid addiction treatment. It has been shown as effective in reducing opioid and abuse and related harmful behaviors when used in conjunction with an extensive treatment program.
Suboxone, although hugely effective in reducing withdrawal and craving symptoms, is only one aspect of a treatment plan and should be used under the direct supervision of a doctor or licensed addiction specialist. Medication-assisted treatment should not be looked at with stigma or shame as it is no different than treating and managing other health conditions with medication and therapy.
Medication-assisted treatment provides an individually tailored approach with the combination of medication and behavioral therapy and support services with the goal of total recovery and the ability to regain control and direction over one’s own life. In addition, the medication-assisted treatment model has been shown to:
- Improve the rates of patient survival
- Increase patient retention in treatment
- Decrease unlawful opiate use and criminal activity associated with substance dependence
- Increase the individual’s potential to gain and maintain employment
- Improve the outcome of pregnancies in women who have an opioid abuse disorder
Contact Mind & Body Wellness to schedule your consultation with the provider to start your treatment plan today!