Treating opioid addiction is notoriously difficult. Opioids are among the most addictive substances known to science and despite many advances in providing addicts with appropriate treatment options relapse rates are still very high. It is therefore vital that we develop effective treatment protocols for helping those who are fighting an opioid addiction and there are now a number of different approaches that can be broken down into three distinct categories:
“Opioids are among the most addictive
substances known to science and despite many
advances in providing addicts with appropriate
treatment options relapse rates
are still very high.'”
Ibogaine
Ibogaine is a less common treatment, but it has been shown to be incredibly effective. It is not suitable for everyone; those with heart issues, for example, should avoid it. Ibogaine is extracted from the roots of an African tree and has been used, in one form or another, for thousands of years by a number of tribes as part of rite of passage ceremonies. Ibogaine is a psychedelic that lasts 12-24 hours and before deciding whether to experience Ibogaine it is important that users research the effects thoroughly. You can find some useful information about how Ibogaine works and what treatment programs entitle through Experience Ibogaine.
Therapy
Psychological interventions usually revolve around various forms of therapy; group therapy is a popular tool for helping users to reduce, and ultimately eliminate, drug use from their life. The psychological component of drug addiction is very strong and is often harder to break than the physical component.
Opioid drugs mimic the effect of a class of neurotransmitters known as endorphins. The structure of an endorphin is very similar to that of the morphine molecule; in fact, the word endorphin is shorthand for ‘endogenous morphine’. Endorphins are involved in a number of processes in the body, including acting as the body’s natural way of killing pain as well as reinforcing positive social interactions and other behaviors. Because of this, some studies estimate that the rate of relapse for opioid addicts is as high as 90%. By mimicking endorphins, opioids flood the brain with dopamine; a neurotransmitter which is involved in controlling movement, mood, motivation, and feelings of pleasure. By increasing the amount of dopamine in the brain, opioids create a feeling of euphoria.
Therapy is a key aspect of drug rehabilitation because overcoming a drug addiction requires that the addict break the psychological links they have developed which reinforce the behavior.
Maintenance Therapy
Opioid maintenance therapy is a protocol by which patients who are physically dependent upon opioids are prescribed similar drugs which can reduce cravings and allow the user to focus on developing other areas of their life. There are two drugs used for this purpose: buprenorphine and methadone. Opioid replacement therapy has been shown to be effective in allowing users to pursue normal lives and not be controlled by their addiction. Initially the dosage of a maintenance drug will be titrated upwards until it is successfully preventing withdrawal symptoms. After a period of stabilization, the dose is then gradually reduced until the patient is completely drug free.
There are now a number of different treatment options open to those looking to break an opioid addiction. Which approach works best will vary from person to person and you should consult with a professional as to which option might be best for you.
Have you or a loved one had treatments for opioid addiction?
Share your thoughts and comments with us.
“PIN & SHARE”
Leave A Comment