Healing Through Substitution: A New Path To Recovery
How do medications like methadone and buprenorphine in Replacement Therapy effectively reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms for individuals recovering from opioid addiction? Our counsellors are here to help you today.
FREE ASSESSMENT081 444 7000Replacement Therapy, also known as medication-assisted treatment, involves substituting an addictive substance with a safer alternative. It is primarily used for opioid or nicotine addiction.
The most common form of Replacement Therapy for opioid addiction is through medications like methadone or buprenorphine. These medications help normalise brain chemistry, reduce withdrawal symptoms and decrease cravings. Opioid Replacement Therapy is a method in medication-assisted treatment for opioid addiction, where harmful opioids like heroin are substituted with legal, longer-acting opioids like methadone or buprenorphine. This replacement helps in reducing cravings and the risk of relapse. These medications work by occupying opioid receptors in the brain, thus preventing the high associated with illicit opioid use.
Methadone and buprenorphine are the primary drugs used in ORT. Methadone, a full opioid agonist, can be taken once daily due to its long half-life and is effective in reducing withdrawal symptoms and drug cravings. Buprenorphine, often combined with naloxone, is another option. Sometimes, medications like naltrexone are prescribed to block the effects of opioids.
Studies show that Methadone Maintenance Therapy (MMT) is effective in increasing retention in substance abuse programs and reducing heroin use. The duration of treatment is linked to recovery success. Despite its benefits, methadone, classified as a Schedule II controlled substance, has potential for abuse and requires close supervision and psychotherapeutic support.
For nicotine addiction, Replacement Therapy often involves the use of nicotine replacement products like patches, gum or inhalers. These products deliver a controlled dose of nicotine to the body, decreasing the severity of withdrawal symptoms and making it easier to quit smoking.
It is key to note that Replacement Therapy is often combined with counselling and behavioural therapies to address the underlying causes and triggers of addiction. This comprehensive approach increases the chances of long-term recovery and minimises the risk of relapse.
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Inpatient Rehab
Rehab care is a good option if you are at risk of experiencing strong withdrawal symptoms when you try stop a substance. This option would also be recommended if you have experienced recurrent relapses or if you have tried a less-intensive treatment without success.
Outpatient
If you're committed to your sobriety but cannot take a break from your daily duties for an inpatient program. Outpatient rehab treatment might suit you well if you are looking for a less restricted format for addiction treatment or simply need help with mental health.
Therapy
Therapy can be good step towards healing and self-discovery. If you need support without disrupting your routine, therapy offers a flexible solution for anyone wishing to enhance their mental well-being or work through personal issues in a supportive, confidential environment.
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Are you having persistent feelings of being swamped, sad or have sudden surges of anger or intense emotional outbursts? These are warning signs of unresolved trauma mental health. A simple assesment by a mental health expert could provide valuable insights into your recovery.
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