Drugs Used to Treat Opioid Addiction
Medications for Opioid Addiction Treatment: A Lifeline to Recovery
The opioid epidemic has been a pervasive and devastating crisis affecting individuals, families, and communities worldwide. However, there is hope in the form of medications that have proven highly effective in the treatment of opioid use disorders. In this blog, we will delve into three key medications used to treat opioid addiction: buprenorphine (Suboxone® and Subutex®), methadone, and extended-release naltrexone (Vivitrol®).
Buprenorphine (Suboxone® and Subutex®)
Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist medication used to treat opioid addiction. It works by binding to the same opioid receptors in the brain that opioids like heroin or prescription painkillers target. However, unlike full opioid agonists, such as heroin, buprenorphine only partially activates these receptors. This leads to several important benefits:
Key Points:
Reduced cravings and withdrawal symptoms: Buprenorphine alleviates the discomfort of withdrawal, making it easier for individuals to abstain from illicit opioids.
Lower risk of overdose: Buprenorphine has a "ceiling effect," which means that taking more of it does not produce stronger opioid effects, reducing the risk of overdose.
Improved retention in treatment: Buprenorphine helps individuals stay engaged in addiction treatment programs, increasing their chances of successful recovery.
Suboxone® and Subutex® are two common formulations of buprenorphine. Suboxone® also contains naloxone, an opioid antagonist, to deter misuse. Buprenorphine is typically administered as a sublingual (under the tongue) film or tablet.
Methadone
Methadone is a full opioid agonist medication used for opioid addiction treatment. It is longer-acting than most opioids, meaning it can help prevent withdrawal symptoms and cravings for up to 24 hours. Methadone is often administered through specially regulated clinics, where individuals receive daily doses.
Key Points:
Reduction in withdrawal symptoms and cravings: Methadone stabilizes individuals by providing steady relief from opioid withdrawal symptoms.
Supervised administration: Methadone clinics ensure safe and controlled medication distribution, reducing the risk of misuse.
Long-term treatment option: Methadone maintenance programs can be tailored to individual needs, supporting sustained recovery.
Extended Release Naltrexone (Vivitrol®)
Extended-release naltrexone, marketed as Vivitrol®, is an opioid receptor antagonist. Unlike methadone and buprenorphine, which are agonists that activate opioid receptors, naltrexone blocks these receptors. It is typically administered as a once-monthly injection.
Key Points:
Preventing relapse: Naltrexone helps prevent opioid use by blocking the effects of opioids, making relapse less rewarding.
Non-addictive: Naltrexone does not produce opioid effects, and there is no risk of physical dependence.
Suitable for motivated individuals: Vivitrol® is an excellent choice for individuals highly motivated to maintain abstinence.
Medications Play a Crucial Role in the Treatment of Opioid Addiction
Medications like buprenorphine, methadone, and extended-release naltrexone play crucial roles in the treatment of opioid addiction. These medications offer a range of options to meet individual needs and preferences, whether through partial agonism (buprenorphine), full agonism (methadone), or receptor blockade (naltrexone). When combined with comprehensive addiction treatment and support, these medications provide a lifeline to recovery for individuals struggling with opioid use disorders, offering hope for a brighter future free from addiction. Increased awareness, access, and education about these treatment options are essential in addressing the opioid epidemic and improving outcomes for those affected.
We are here to help.
North Tampa Executive Health Clinic is directed by Dr. Jack McGeachy. He provides confidential and comfortable addiction treatments and therapy for opioid and alcohol use disorder. Rather than a rehab or detox, meaning that each patient is cared for one-on-one by a medical doctor, in contrast to other treatment programs. Heed Help? Book your in office appointment in the Tampa office or via video conferencing today.
Helping patients with addictions in Tampa Florida, Temple Terrace, Brandon, Bloomingdale, Carrollwood, Thonotosassa, Town N Country, Lutz, Wesley Chapel, Land O Lakes, St. Pete, Clearwater, Oldsmar, Westchase, Palm Harbor, Tarpon Springs and surrounding areas.