Here is all that you need to know about medication for addiction.
Medication for Addiction
Medication for addiction and dual diagnosis treatment helps addicts make a smooth transition into their recovery. In some cases, medications overlap because the symptoms of the addiction and mental health conditions are similar. Medications can be given to individuals with a chemical dependency on an addictive substance, as well as to individuals with a dual diagnosis.
It is helpful to have additional knowledge about medication protocol within addiction and dual diagnosis treatment when making the decision to enter treatment. The kind and level of treatment an individual undergoes should not be selected by self diagnosis, alone. Addicts should be assessed by a professional admissions counselor in order to decide whether addiction treatment or dual diagnosis treatment is best.
MAT (Medication Assisted Treatment)
Medication assisted treatment (MAT), including opioid treatment programs (OTPs), combines medications and behavioral therapy to treat substance use disorders. The American Society of Addiction Medicine now defines addiction as a “multifaceted disease”. Addiction is identified by the inability to consistently and successfully abstain from drinking or using drugs, impairment in personal behavioral control, the presence and persistence of cravings, reduced ability to recognize significant problems with one’s behaviors and interpersonal relationships, and dysfunctional emotional responses.
As with other chronic diseases, addiction often involves vicious cycles of relapsing and remission. Without treatment or the encouragement to engage in recovery activities, addiction is progressive and can result in a prolonged disability or worse, an early grave.
The classes of medications that are used for substance abuse addiction treatment are as follows:
- Antidepressants
- Beta blockers
- Antipsychotics
- Hypnotics
- Sedatives
- Anticonvulsants
- Sleep aids
- Anti-craving
When an individual suffers from addiction and a mental health disorder, he or she has a dual diagnosis. Dual diagnosis medication treatment should be specialized to fit the needs of each individual addict, as well as decrease the symptoms of addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders. Each disorder has a medication that best helps eliminate symptoms related to the specific components of the disorder.
At Asana Recovery, we understand how difficult recovering from these addictions through our daily work to help those struggling most from this disease. While some may believe they can make it alone, rehabilitation programs are essential in the fight to break dependency. The road ahead is not a smooth or easy one, but you can traverse it if done so with the support of the right team. Counseling and aftercare processes can assist you by addressing the psychological facets that led you to addition and help you build a structure from which to better cope with life without succumbing to addiction.
The supervised detoxification and residential treatment programs at Asana Recovery are offered in a supportive, relaxing, and inspiring environment. We’re deeply committed to ensuring your long-term recovery, and guiding you on your path to a healthier and happier future. There is no better time than Recoverynow, and we’re always available to speak with you. Call us at (949) 438-4504 to learn more about our comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment program today.
