Opioids and opiates can be synthetic or natural drugs that are related to drugs found in opium, such as heroin or Methadone.
However, opioids can be in many prescription pain medications and can be just as addictive. Many times opioid-containing pain medications are prescribed legitimately for severe pain, but over time can cause dependence.
Opioid dependence is a disease in which there are biological or physical, psychological and social changes. Some of the physical changes include the need for increasing amounts of opioid to produce the same effect, symptoms of withdrawal, cravings and changes in sleep patterns. The hallmarks of opioid dependence are the continued use of drugs despite their negative affect, the need for increasing amounts and symptoms upon cessation. They may include sweating, vomiting, yawning, chills, diarrhea, anxiety, irritability, hypersensitivity to any pain, depression, stomach cramps, muscle cramps and dysphoria.
Recovery from opioid dependence is not an easy or painless process. This process involves changes in drug use and lifestyle, such as adopting new coping skills. Treatment for opioid dependence is best considered a long-term process. Recovery can involve hard work, commitment, discipline and a willingness to examine the effects of opioid dependence on your life.
There are many aids available in coping with Opioid withdrawal, most recently the introduction of an opioid partial agonist SUBOXONE® (buprenorphine HCl/naloxone HCl dihydrate) sublingual tablet. During the treatment process, Suboxone will help you avoid many, or all, of the physical symptoms of opioid withdrawal. These typically include craving, restlessness, poor sleep, irritability, yawning, muscle cramps, runny nose, tearing, goose-flesh, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
Opioid dependence is not cured or controlled in one visit or with one treatment. It is a long-term treatment plan; the length of treatment is individualized to the patients needs. Your physician must posses a special license to prescribe Suboxone. He or she will ask you to have a liver function test and you will have periodic urine tests to monitor your progress. Support groups or counseling are also recommended during your treatment plan. You can achieve successes with opioid withdrawal with proper medical guidance and patience.
For more information, please call 661-284-6115.