Drug Addiction Archives - Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

3 Signs You Need a Heroin Rehab Center

Posted on July 5, 2023August 26, 2024 by cmarnew

Heroin is an incredibly addictive drug, and it’s important to be aware of the signs that someone may be abusing it. Because heroin addiction can develop quickly, it’s important to be able to recognize the signs and get someone help as soon as possible. This illicit drug can cause a number of physical and mental health issues, so knowing what to look out for is vital.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, our heroin rehab center can give you a fighting chance at recovery through medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and behavioral therapy. Our heroin addiction treatment program will help you see the devastating effects heroin has on your mind and body and give you healthy coping skills to maintain your sobriety effectively. If you or a loved one is addicted to heroin and wants to quit, call 833.448.0127 today to learn more about heroin addiction treatment in Colorado at our center

The Top Signs You Need a Heroin Rehab Center

Heroin addiction is devastating physically, mentally, and socially. Even though you can see and feel the damage that heroin is causing, your brain will continue to push you to use more.

Recognizing the signs of heroin abuse is the first step in overcoming this powerful addiction.

Some of the top signs of heroin abuse or addiction include:

Physical signs – You may think that you have your heroin use under control. Unfortunately, as addiction takes over your body, several physical symptoms may become apparent. These can include confused thinking or disorientation, persistent dry mouth, constricted pupils, nausea, vomiting, constipation, cognitive challenges such as impaired decision-making, and excessive tiredness or drowsiness.
Broken relationships – Heroin addiction can make you do things you would not even consider doing before your addiction took over. While addicted to heroin, people will lie, cheat, and steal from family and friends, even threatening physical harm. Their only goal in life is to get more heroin, and nothing will stop them from getting it. If you notice your relationships are splintered or broken, this may be a sign that heroin addiction has come between you and your loved ones.
Mental health decline – The use of heroin or other substances may be interrelated with other mental health issues. If you identify that you may also be experiencing depression or anxiety, your drug use may be a symptom of a dual diagnosis or combination of mental health and substance use disorder. It is important to understand that neither of these will resolve themselves independently without the support of trained professionals to help you overcome and start on the road to recovery.

While any one of these signs may not indicate that you need a heroin rehab center, the combination should be a sign that you require assistance in a heroin addiction treatment program.

How a Heroin Rehab Center Can Help

One of the most effective approaches to heroin addiction rehab is medication-assisted treatment. MAT combines counseling or behavioral therapies with prescription medications like Suboxone to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Medication-assisted treatment can make it easier to focus on the underlying triggers for heroin abuse, develop new coping skills, and successfully maintain long-term recovery. This approach does not simply swap one drug for another—the medications used in MAT are essential to help reduce cravings and get your brain chemistry back in balance. As your body adjusts to sobriety, you can work with addiction specialists in our heroin rehab center to develop healthier life skills and behaviors.

Benefits of a Heroin Addiction Treatment Program

An effective heroin addiction treatment program will include medication-assisted treatment and behavioral therapy for a well-rounded treatment program. At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we will evaluate you when you first arrive and design your heroin addiction treatment program around your individual needs.

A heroin rehab program can help you:

Improve your self-esteem and confidence
Form healthy coping skills
Build a stronger family bond
Give you a second chance at life

Our medical staff will administer and monitor your MAT program to decrease your withdrawal symptoms and cravings. At the same time, our trained therapists will work with you to discover the reasons behind your addiction and help you build healthy coping skills that you will use throughout your life to maintain your sobriety.

Call Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery for Effective Heroin Rehab Today

Our staff of trained professionals at our heroin rehab center in Thornton, Colorado, is here to help those fighting heroin addiction using a holistic approach. Our heroin addiction treatment program treats the whole person, not just the disease. Every step of the way, we will be with you and your family, providing the support, guidance, and encouragement that is essential for successful recovery.

If you or a loved one is ready to break free from heroin addiction, call 833.448.0127 today to learn more about our heroin rehab center.

When Does OxyContin Use Turn into Abuse?

Posted on July 3, 2023August 26, 2024 by cmarnew

When a doctor prescribes pain medication, they prescribe an appropriate amount that will reduce pain and allow you to get through your day. OxyContin abuse begins when patients begin taking more than their prescribed amount to maintain the euphoric feeling. OxyContin addiction can be extremely difficult to get over without the help of an OxyContin addiction treatment program that uses behavioral therapy and medication-assisted therapy to help alleviate the painful withdrawal symptoms common with OxyContin addiction.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, our OxyContin addiction treatment program will help you break your addiction to prescription medications and give you a better understanding of addiction and how it can consume your life. If you or someone you know is struggling with OxyContin abuse, call 833.448.0127 today to learn more about OxyContin addiction treatment in Colorado.

How OxyContin Abuse Begins

What is OxyContin? OxyContin is the trademark name of the drug oxycodone hydrochloride, a narcotic that is very effective for pain relief for chronic pain from neurological degeneration, severe bone pain, injuries, and the end stages of cancer. When taken as prescribed, OxyContin provides patients with pain relief and an overall sense of well-being.

Over time, your body will develop a tolerance, and that euphoric feeling goes away. Many people mistakenly think the medication is not working because they don’t get the same high. Even though they are still getting the same pain relief, this is when abuse can begin as people begin taking more and more to maintain that high.

One reason that OxyContin abuse is dangerous is because tolerance can build so quickly. Over time, those who abuse this medication might start crushing or snorting it or, in some cases, injecting it to get an even stronger effect. Turning to heroin or another street drug is also a potential consequence of OxyContin abuse, as it can be easier to obtain than a legitimate prescription.

Common Signs of OxyContin Abuse

If you suspect someone in your life is abusing their prescription, look for these common symptoms of OxyContin abuse:

Impaired decision making
Confusion
Running out of their medication early
Lack of concentration
Obtaining multiple prescriptions from different doctors

Overdosing on OxyContin can be deadly as it can cause cardiac arrest and irregular breathing. First-time users who abuse OxyContin by injecting or chewing the pills are at a higher risk of death than long-term users.

How Starting Treatment for OxyContin Abuse Can Help

OxyContin has a high level of abuse due to its euphoric feelings, similar to heroin and other illicit drugs. OxyContin is considered a gateway drug due to its high addiction level and the number of patients who turn to heroin to keep feeling that high. When trying to quit alone, OxyContin abuse can produce painful withdrawal symptoms that make quitting without the help of an OxyContin rehab center nearly impossible.

An OxyContin addiction treatment program can help you in many ways. It can help you get through the sometimes painful and debilitating withdrawal symptoms of OxyContin abuse, which can include:

Muscle and bone pain
Sweating
Nausea
Diarrhea
Seizures
Insomnia
Vomiting

These symptoms can make it difficult to quit OxyContin abuse. However, a quality OxyContin treatment center can help you get back on track. They will provide you with the support, therapy, and medications necessary to help you manage the withdrawal symptoms and cravings associated with OxyContin abuse.

Medication-Assisted Treatment for OxyContin Abuse

One of the most helpful approaches for opioid addiction is medication-assisted therapy (MAT). MAT combines medications such as buprenorphine and naltrexone to reduce cravings and help you stay sober. The medications are combined with behavioral therapy to ensure that you understand the root causes of your OxyContin abuse and how to prevent relapse in the future.

While in a quality OxyContin rehab center, you will learn skills and strategies to help you cope with cravings, stress, and challenging emotions without turning to drugs or alcohol. The combination of therapy, medications, and support will help you get through the withdrawal period and be successful in long-term recovery.

Choose Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery for Your OxyContin Rehab

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we can help you with your OxyContin abuse and help you regain control of your life. When you first arrive at our facility, you will be evaluated by our medical staff and therapists so we can determine your level of addiction and the appropriate treatment for your OxyContin addiction treatment.

As you progress through the program, your treatment will update to coincide with your progress and reduce the need for medication. If you or a loved one is struggling with OxyContin abuse, call 833.448.0127 or reach out online today to enroll in our OxyContin addiction treatment program and begin your road to recovery for the last time.

Symptoms of OxyContin Addiction

Posted on June 22, 2023August 26, 2024 by cmarnew

OxyContin is a prescription brand painkiller with a high rate of addiction and misuse. OxyContin is safe for long-term pain when patients follow the prescription and regularly check in with their doctor. Unfortunately, some who receive a prescription for this medication will abuse OxyContin and develop an addiction. Symptoms of OxyContin addiction can be severe and depend on various factors, including the individual’s age, family history, and mental health. Our treatment center offers an OxyContin addiction treatment program in Colorado to help those who develop an addiction like this and want to overcome it.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we can help you with your OxyContin addiction through our discreet outpatient addiction treatment program. If you or a loved one is struggling with OxyContin addiction, call 833.448.0127 today to contact our caring support staff and speak with them about learning to spot OxyContin addiction symptoms and how our OxyContin addiction treatment program can help.

What Is OxyContin?

OxyContin is a prescription brand drug name for oxycodone, a fast-acting opioid with a high addiction rate. Oxycodone is a narcotic analgesic that comes from the poppy plant Papaver somniferum. It works on the central nervous system (CNS) to reduce pain and helps you relax. Oxycodone is typically used for chronic pain when non-opioid pain medications do not work. People struggling with the following conditions are often prescribed OxyContin:

Cancer-related pain
Long-term post-surgical pain
Arthritis or joint pain
Neuropathy due to diabetes or other medical conditions

While there is a risk of addiction, patients who follow their prescriptions generally do not develop dependence.

How OxyContin Works

Oxycodone binds with the mu-opioid receptors and blocks the neurotransmitters that send pain signals to the CNS. It also releases a massive amount of dopamine and serotonin responsible for the relaxed, euphoric feeling that makes this drug popular. The effects of oxycodone typically last between four to six hours and come in a fast-acting capsule or a slow-release tablet.

OxyContin Withdrawal Symptoms

Those with underlying mental health issues like depression, bipolar disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are more susceptible to developing addiction and should talk with their doctor before taking OxyContin. It would be best if you did not stop taking OxyContin suddenly as you may experience withdrawal symptoms, such as:

Irritability
Depression
Anxiety
Insomnia
Body aches

When you no longer need OxyContin, you should reduce the amount taken over time to avoid withdrawal symptoms. It would be best to refrain from taking OxyContin when you no longer need pain relief to lower the chances of developing an addiction.

Symptoms of OxyContin Addiction

Symptoms of OxyContin addiction will vary depending on how long the abuse has been occurring and how much the individual is taking.

Physical Signs

Physical symptoms of OxyContin addiction include:

Sweating
Itching
Constipation
Loss of appetite
Nausea
Vomiting
Dry mouth
Headache
Fatigue

Those not following the prescribed amount will face severe symptoms, including respiratory complications, hallucinations, and death.

Behavioral Signs

Behavioral symptoms of OxyContin addiction include:

Confusion
Anxiety
Nightmares
Insomnia
Depression
Suicidal thoughts

OxyContin can be fatal if those struggling with addiction do not seek help from an OxyContin addiction treatment program. Opioids like OxyContin are responsible for nearly three-fourths of all overdose-related deaths in the United States.

How Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery Can Help

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we can help you with all types of drug and alcohol addiction through our private addiction treatment facility. We will base your addiction treatment on your current health and the severity of your addiction. Our staff will create an effective addiction treatment program that includes various addiction therapy treatments, such as:

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
Group and individual therapy
Neurofeedback therapy

We also include MAT to help reduce withdrawal symptoms and curb cravings. Medical professionals will administer medications for addiction treatment approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They will monitor your progress and update your medications as your need for them reduces.

Find an Outpatient Oxycontin Addiction Treatment Program at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

If you or a loved one is struggling with OxyContin addiction, contact our team at 833.448.0127 today to learn about our OxyContin addiction treatment program.

Top Naloxone Benefits for Opioid Addiction

Posted on June 7, 2023August 26, 2024 by cmarnew

Naloxone is an opioid addiction treatment medication that rapidly reverses the effects of an opioid overdose. One of the top naloxone benefits for opioid addiction is that it binds to opioid receptors in the brain. This action reverses or blocks the effects of other opioids that enter the central nervous system. The drug can prevent fatalities or long-term health problems that arise from an overdose.

The FDA has approved naloxone is approved to prevent overdoses from illicit drugs and prescription medications. Therefore, it is relatively safe to use. The top naloxone benefits for opioid addiction make it a popular medication at our opioid addiction treatment center in Colorado. To learn more about the benefits of this medication, contact Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery at 833.448.0127 or online.

Understanding Medication-Assisted Treatment for Addiction

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is an evidence-based practice for treating addiction to opioids and alcohol. MAT combines medication with counseling and behavioral therapies. The medications used in MAT act on the same parts of the brain affected by opioids and alcohol, but they do not cause a high or lead to dependence. In addition to minimizing withdrawal symptoms and cravings, MAT can help patients make lifestyle changes that will enable them to stay sober in the long run.

MAT is most effective when used in combination with counseling, behavioral therapies, and other resources and services. In addition to increasing the chances of success in recovery, MAT plays an important role in helping people avoid overdose deaths. Overall, MAT is a safe and effective form of treatment that can help people achieve long-term sobriety and significantly improve their quality of life. With access to the right resources, people struggling with addiction can learn to manage their substance use disorder and live healthy, happy lives.

What Is Naloxone?

Naloxone is an opioid antagonist. The drug can prevent overdoses from common opioids, such as:

Oxycodone
Morphine
Valium
Heroin
Hydrocodone
Fentanyl

The drug is designed to block the effects of these other opioids. For instance, when you take morphine, the drug binds to the opioid receptors already in your brain. Binding to the receptors blocks the pain signals from the central nervous system to the brain. As a result, you feel less pain when you take opioids.

Opioids also produce a euphoric effect that produces pleasure. It makes you feel good. If you increase your morphine dosage, you may suffer from an overdose. Naloxone blocks the effects of morphine on the opioid receptors, essentially reversing their effects.

What Are the Top Naloxone Benefits for Opioid Addiction?

There are many benefits of using Naloxone to treat opioid addiction. Some of the most significant benefits are outlined below.

Overdose Prevention

Opioids affect the part of the brain that regulates breathing. When you overdose on opioids, you may experience slowed breathing. A high dosage can cause you to stop breathing and die. Naloxone reverses the effects of opioids, allowing you to breathe normally once again.

Craving Reduction

You can start to have cravings in as little as six hours after your last opioid dosage. A medication-assisted treatment program is able to reduce your cravings so that you do not relapse.

Reduction of Withdrawal Symptoms

In addition to having cravings, you may experience an array of withdrawal symptoms when you stop using opioids. Withdrawal symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, shaking, insomnia, mood swings, high blood pressure, or even seizures. A naloxone treatment program can reduce withdrawal symptoms, making detox more tolerable.

Non-Addictive

Another one of the top naloxone benefits for opioid addiction is that, unlike other opioids, naloxone is non-addictive. Furthermore, naloxone does not work in your body unless there are other opioids present. So, you can’t get high from the drug or use it for recreational purposes.

Take-Home Medication

Some medication-assisted treatments must be monitored heavily. You can only use them inside a treatment center. Naloxone is one of the few drugs that you can use at home without supervision. You can use it when you are experiencing cravings regardless of where you are.

What to Consider Before Taking Naloxone

Although naloxone is an effective treatment in an opioid addiction treatment program, there are some things you need to consider before taking the drug. First, naloxone is not a primary form of addiction treatment. It should not be a replacement for therapy. Second, although naloxone does not have addictive properties, people can abuse it. If you find yourself abusing it, speak with your therapist.

Get Opioid Addiction Treatment at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

With the right treatment, you have a fighting chance to overcome your addiction. Naloxone may be the key to help you overcome your cravings and withdrawal symptoms. To learn more about the top naloxone benefits for opioids addiction, contact Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery at 833.448.0127 or online. We can help you get on the road to recovery.

How Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Is Used in Addiction Treatment

Posted on May 2, 2023August 26, 2024 by cmarnew

People often think that rehab is the only solution when dealing with addiction. They might imagine using heavy drugs to detox or spending time in isolation while in recovery. But that is not how recovery works, and an important component of addiction treatment involves therapy. One of the most common types of therapy used to help people overcome addiction is cognitive-behavioral therapy, also known as CBT.

Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery offers cognitive-behavioral therapy in Colorado. CBT is a type of talk therapy that looks at how thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors interact to influence feelings and actions. We understand the importance CBT can be for a patient’s addiction recovery. If you think CBT could be beneficial for you, please get in touch with us at 833.448.0127 to speak with one of our team members about how CBT can be effective for addiction.

What Is Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy?

Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a type of therapy that leads people through problematic thoughts, feelings, and behaviors so that they can learn new patterns of behavior and overcome addiction. CBT helps patients discover connections between their thoughts, feelings, and actions and increases awareness of how each impacts their recovery. Armed with this knowledge, individuals in recovery can begin taking steps toward a healthier life.

CBT is commonly used to treat other disorders that can co-occur with addiction, including:

Eating disorders
Post-traumatic stress disorder
Obsessive-compulsive disorder
Bipolar disorder
Anxiety and depression
Attention deficit disorder

So, you’re probably wondering, “Is CBT effective for addiction?” The answer is yes. Studies have shown that CBT is an effective form of treatment for addiction and helps individuals develop healthier coping skills to cope with their cravings. With the proper guidance from a therapist, people can gain the tools they need to break free from their addictions and make lasting changes in their lives.

How Does CBT Work?

By engaging in cognitive-behavioral therapy, patients learn that many of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are not rational. Many stem from environmental factors, past experiences, or current stressors. Understanding these things and how they relate to addiction empowers them to be more successful in the recovery process.

Therapists help patients identify their automatic, negative thought patterns and discover where they originate. These subconscious thoughts are often based on misconceptions and lead to impulses that are hard to control. Those dealing with addiction will then self-medicate to avoid the pain that comes with it.

CBT is based on the belief that facing these negative thought patterns and the subconscious reasons behind them helps reduce the pain associated with them. When the pain is lessened, patients can replace the negative behaviors associated with addiction with new, positive approaches and techniques they learn during treatment.

How Does CBT Help Those with Drug or Alcohol Addiction?

There are many benefits to using CBT in addiction recovery. Because CBT deals with thought processes and how they affect behaviors, changes in how patients deal with negative thinking bring about positive results. CBT essentially equips patients with the tools needed to sustain lasting results. There are several other benefits of CBT for addiction recovery:

Teaches patients how to communicate effectively
Gives patients a healthier way to handle negative emotions and situations
Equips patients with tools to improve their moods and handle stress
Helps patients resolve the negative or false beliefs that led to addiction
Provides patients with ways to deal with triggers and cravings
Helps patients recognize and identify what led to their addiction

Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery offers cognitive-behavioral therapy services that are tailored to each individual’s needs. To learn more about how cognitive-behavioral therapy can aid your recovery journey, please get in touch with us at 833.448.0127. We would be more than happy to discuss the effectiveness of CBT for addiction with you.

Various CBT Techniques

Each therapist will have a different approach, but many of the techniques used are similar. A therapist who uses a cognitive-behavioral therapy approach might ask a client to keep a thought journal to disprove their negative thoughts. They may work on behavioral experiments with the client where negative and positive thought patterns are compared to determine which is more effective.

This reframing of thoughts helps the client take a more positive approach. Another approach is to create a self-care list. This is a list of healthy, enjoyable activities meant to encourage positive emotions and break up the day’s routine. Imagery-based exposure is another technique that involves recalling painful memories in detail to eventually reduce the pain they cause. These are just a few techniques therapists can draw from to help with addiction treatment.

Benefits of CBT in Combination with an Addiction Treatment Program

Is CBT effective for addiction?—the truth is that cognitive-behavioral therapy has been proven to be effective for addiction recovery. Research shows that people have higher success rates when CBT is combined with other therapies and treatments, such as 12-step programs or medications.

CBT helps those dealing with addiction by providing them with the tools needed to identify negative thought patterns and replace them with healthier actions. When combined with other treatments, it can provide an even greater benefit to those recovering from addiction. Some other significant benefits of CBT in combination with an addiction treatment program can include :

Reduction of cravings and relapse risk
Improvement in self-control and decision making
Increase in social skills
Enhancement of stress management techniques
Increase in motivation for recovery and long-term abstinence from substance use

Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery is devoted to helping those struggling with addiction. We understand how difficult it can be to break free from addiction, and we offer cognitive-behavioral therapy as one of the tools that can help you.

Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery Uses CBT in Addiction Treatment

Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery can help patients looking to use therapy in their addiction treatment. Whether dealing with alcohol dependence, opioid withdrawal symptoms, or another type of addiction, we work toward a complete recovery for patients using CBT and other therapy methods. Options include telehealth and outpatient programs to meet a variety of needs. Visit our website or contact us at 833.448.0127 for more information.

The Stages of Addiction Recovery

Posted on April 26, 2023August 26, 2024 by cmarnew

Addiction recovery is not a simple process, but one that occurs over a period of time through several steps. To achieve sobriety, a person needs to recognize where they are right now, gaining an awareness of what’s happening to them. They may need to work through detox before receiving comprehensive treatment, aftercare, and relapse prevention. Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery offers a thorough process to guide individuals through the various stages of addiction recovery, ultimately leading to the most favorable long-term results. If you need help finding addiction treatment programs near you, call us at 833.448.0127, and one of our team members can help you or a loved one.

Understanding the Complexity of Addiction

While addiction can occur quickly, the damage it does to the brain is significant. It takes time for the brain to relearn and heal. A component of that is physical healing, but the other part is recognizing the challenges of recovery, gaining awareness, and creating a plan to manage the psychological damage that’s occurred. There are several steps or stages a person will go through during the addiction recovery process to achieve these goals.

Precontemplation

During this stage, a person doesn’t recognize there’s a problem and is unlikely to have experienced any type of negative outcome yet. The substance use feels good. In this phase, people often experience one or several of the following:

They don’t recognize a problem
They don’t have any desire to change
They don’t want to be told what to do, and that keeps them using the substance
They are overwhelmed by their habits, and that’s made it feel impossible to change
The person believes they know the answers as to why substance abuse isn’t a factor for them

Contemplation

At this stage, a person comes to an awareness of the problem, though they have not made a decision to change. They may want it to change but cannot make the commitment to do so. However, they are more likely to want to learn about their options at this stage. This stage can last for years before a person decides to change.

Preparation

At this stage, often, something has changed. They are ready to take action to achieve sobriety. This is where addiction recovery begins to become more real. Many will reach out for help with an assessment at this point.

Action

This is the stage where something happens—they enroll in a detox program or move into a residential treatment program. They engage in some way with treatment for their addiction. They learn the tools and strategies necessary to cope with stress, deal with addiction, and maintain sobriety.

Maintenance

During maintenance, a person continues to receive care, but it is in the form of aftercare. They are working to maintain their sobriety, but this is also where relapse risk is the strongest.

Termination

In this area of recovery, the individual can maintain their sobriety without continual fear of relapse. This is the goal of addiction recovery—to not be weighed down by the addiction itself.

Why Is It Important to Understand Addiction Recovery Stages?

Understanding the stages of addiction recovery is crucial for several reasons:

Setting expectations – Knowing what to expect at each stage of recovery can help individuals and their loved ones prepare mentally and emotionally for the journey ahead. It helps one understand that recovery is a process, not an event.
Guiding treatment plans – Understanding these stages allows healthcare professionals to develop and adjust treatment plans according to the individual’s progress. Each stage requires different interventions and supports, so knowing where a person is in their recovery can guide the treatment approach.
Providing appropriate support – For families and friends, understanding these stages can help them provide the right kind of support when it’s needed most. Each stage presents unique challenges, and being aware of these can help loved ones offer meaningful assistance.
Promoting patience and compassion – Understanding that recovery is a process involving various stages can foster patience and compassion, both for the individual in recovery and those supporting them. This understanding underscores the fact that setbacks are part of the journey, not failure.

To effectively and compassionately manage the addiction recovery process and promote a sustainable recovery journey, it is important to have an understanding of the stages of addiction recovery. At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we provide the guidance and support needed to navigate them successfully.

How Addiction Recovery Programs Can Help

Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery offers support for those who are ready to start on the recovery path to achieve long-lasting sobriety. Addiction recovery takes time—for some months or more years. However, our team can offer help and guidance with a range of treatment programs, including:

If you’re looking for addiction treatment programs near you or a loved one, our team can help. We offer discreet and compassionate care, personalized to meet the needs of each individual we work with.

Get the Help You Need at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

Understanding the stages of addiction recovery is a key part of addiction treatment. At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, addiction recovery starts with a call to our team. Let us help you with each stage of the process, including awareness, detox, and achieving sobriety. With programs such as aftercare and relapse prevention, it is possible to overcome these challenges with our comprehensive programs. Start now by calling 833.448.0127 or connecting with us online.

Drug Overdose Symptoms

Posted on February 21, 2023August 26, 2024 by cmarnew

One of the most dangerous risks associated with drug use is the potential for an overdose. Knowing the signs and symptoms of a drug overdose can help you prevent a tragedy from happening.

Drug overdoses are actually brain injuries that result when a patient lacks sufficient oxygen supply to the brain. Overdoses may be intentional or unintentional, although the latter happens more frequently. Every time you use recreational drugs (or even prescribed drugs outside their indications), you run the risk of suffering drug overdose symptoms and needing to seek drug addiction treatment. All drugs should be strictly used according to a qualified physician’s prescription. And if you’re struggling with an addiction to opioids, such as heroin or OxyCodone, contact our drug addiction treatment center at 833.448.0127 today.

Why Do Drug Overdoses Happen?

Drug overdoses occur when the dose used exceeds what your body can handle, leading to a dangerous and potentially fatal reaction. One common cause of overdose is when an individual takes multiple drugs at once, such as mixing opioid painkillers with alcohol or taking a combination of illegal and prescribed drugs.

Relapse can also be a factor in overdose. Someone who has been abstinent or clean for an extended period of time may accidentally take too large of a dose if they return to using due to cravings. Medication-assisted treatment can be the key to avoiding this problem, as it helps to control cravings and manage withdrawal symptoms. Some medications can also prevent overdoses by blocking the effects of drugs and alcohol.

Common Drug Overdose Symptoms

Common symptoms of drug overdose include:

Physiological symptoms – Rapid heartbeat, increased body temperature, dilated pupils, and blue lips or fingertips
Respiratory symptoms – Chest pain, difficulty or cessation of breathing, and airway obstruction (gargling or choking sounds)
Gastrointestinal symptoms – Nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain
Behavioral and neurological symptoms – Confusion, aggression or violent behavior, unconsciousness, and seizures

The signs of drug overdose vary according to the type of drug and body chemistry of the person. Different people may experience various symptoms, even after overdosing on the same drug. If you or anyone else think they may have overdosed on any drug, you need immediate drug overdose treatment. In the longer term, addiction treatment therapy can help you or your loved one beat their addiction.

Opioid Overdose

Opioids are drugs or medications that come from the opium plant. These can induce a euphoric high, but they can be dangerous drugs when taken in large quantities. Signs of opioid overdose include:

Extremely dilated or pinpoint pupils
Slack or droopy muscles
Being awake but unable to talk
Pale or clammy skin
Slow or erratic heartbeat and breathing

The first thing to do when you suspect alcohol poisoning is to call 911. If you have access to the medication naloxone, use it as quickly as possible. If you need medication-assisted treatment, contact CMAR.

Heroin Overdose

Heroin is a type of opioid that carries the risk of overdose whenever it is used. Common signs of drug overdose from heroin include slow or shallow breathing, looking or feeling spaced out, bluish lips, nails and fingertips, weak pulse, lethargy, confusion, dry mouth, tiny pupils, and unresponsiveness.

Experiencing or watching someone experience a heroin overdose can be frightening, and this overdose can easily turn fatal if not managed swiftly. Always seek emergency medical attention if you suspect someone has overdosed. If you are struggling with opioid abuse, contact our opioid addiction treatment center.

What to Do if Someone Has Overdosed

Many Americans are more likely to die from drug overdose than from motor vehicle accidents. Opioid overdose is currently the most common cause of preventable deaths in the U.S. Therefore, it is crucial for everyone to know what to do in the event you come across someone who is showing drug overdose symptoms. If you think you or another person has overdosed, call 911 and stay with the person until the paramedics arrive. Ensure that they stop using whatever drug they’re on and report your suspicions to the emergency line. Someone will guide you regarding what to do as you wait for assistance.

Find Effective Treatment at CMAR Today

If someone you love has recently overdosed on opioids, it is clear that drug addiction treatment is needed. After emergency treatment for drug overdose symptoms, you need to get yourself or your loved one professional drug overdose treatment and rehabilitation therapy. Treatment can help to prevent a relapse and further overdoses.

CMAR is here to provide you with evidence-based substance use disorder treatment in Colorado. Reach out to our team at 833.448.0127 or contact us online to learn more.

How Effective Is Drug Rehab?

Posted on February 14, 2023August 26, 2024 by cmarnew

When you are looking for an addiction treatment center for you or your loved one, it is normal to be skeptical about whether a drug rehab program will be effective. While statistics regarding success rates of different rehab centers are good indicators of a drug rehab’s effectiveness, the individual’s commitment to the program matters more. Motivation can come from different places. Those who are reluctant to begin treatment might find the motivation they need from sessions with an experienced therapist. For others, an intervention from loved ones makes a difference. And medication-assisted treatment can help many of those who struggle with addiction reach a place of stability from which to rebuild their lives.

The effectiveness of a drug addiction treatment center also has to do with whether it’s tailored to each patient’s individual needs. If you’re looking for a recovery center that offers behavioral health services, a supportive environment, and highly effective medication-assisted treatment, look no further than Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery. Reach out to our treatment center today at 833.448.0127 to learn more.

What Makes a Drug Rehab Program Effective?

If you’re looking for effective drug rehab, there are certain factors to consider. These include:

Individualized treatment plans – A successful drug rehab program considers each patient’s individual needs rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach.
Medication-assisted treatment – A medication-assisted program utilizes effective medications such as buprenorphine and naltrexone to help patients address their physical dependence on drugs and alcohol.
Therapy – Every effective drug rehab program includes individual and group counseling that uses evidence-based strategies to help patients understand their addiction and develop effective coping skills.
Aftercare – Aftercare is essential for effective drug rehab. Aftercare services continue to provide support and resources after a patient completes the program to ensure long-term sobriety.

CMAR’s drug rehab program in Thornton, CO is devoted to effective drug addiction treatment. We assist those in recovery through every step of the process. Our rehab program’s goal is to help a person stop using drugs and restore them as functioning members of a family, workplace, and community. In most cases, the goal of treatment may include helping the individual develop new healthy habits.

How Effective Drug Rehab Programs Support Patients

However, it is crucial to understand that drug addiction treatment is a complex matter made of unique treatment methodologies directed toward different people with varied goals. Therefore, we have to provide individualized treatment programs which treat the unique needs of each individual. An effective rehab program should, at the very least, lead to the following:

Reduced use of the drug
Improvements in employment
Improved mental health status
Improved general health and medical status
Better interpersonal relationships
Improved legal status
Improved education status

We mark the effectiveness of our drug rehab program not only by the rate of abstinence but also by how the patient functions at home, at work, and in the community.

What to Look For in a Drug Rehab Program

Deciding which addiction treatment therapies are best for you or your loved one can be difficult. However, a variety of factors may contribute to the effectiveness of a drug rehab program. These factors include but are not limited to:

Environment – A rehab center in a safe environment that is free from distractions works best for those in recovery. The environment also needs to be supportive and provide a place where patients can open up about the challenges they’ve faced without fear of judgment.
Treatment – A drug rehab program’s ability to custom tailor a treatment plan is instrumental in achieving the best results from every therapy session. Therefore, instead of a one-size-fits-all treatment program, a Colorado bespoke treatment program is undoubtedly more effective.
Support – Support groups play an essential role in facilitating recovery. They remind people of the coping skills they built during treatment and how addiction affected their lives. A rehab treatment program that places an individual as a part of a group is likely to be more effective.
Aftercare – Recovery is a lifelong process that requires those in recovery to be mindful of their thoughts and actions. To achieve long-term abstinence, aftercare is a crucial component in treatment. The chances of someone in recovery relapsing become minimal when we incorporate aftercare into the treatment services.

Look for a rehab center that offers personalized care in a welcoming, comfortable environment. Additionally, look for a center that offers behavioral therapies alongside medication-assisted treatment, as this approach can be highly effective. Lasting recovery is possible.

Reach Out to Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery Today

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we provide individualized care designed to meet the multi-dimensional needs of our patients. Our effective drug rehab programs can help you or your loved one reach their recovery goals safely and efficiently.

Find an effective, clinically driven rehab program at our addiction treatment center. Contact Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery today at 833.448.0127 to schedule an appointment or connect with us online to learn more about your treatment options and to get started on your recovery journey.

What Is Rehab Like?

Posted on February 13, 2023August 26, 2024 by cmarnew

Drug and alcohol abuse can make individuals and families feel overwhelmed and helpless. Addiction impacts all areas of life, from job performance and mental function to relationship health and emotional wellness. If you or a loved one is feeling out of control because of addiction, know that there are resources available to help. If you’re wondering what rehab is like or seeking a women’s or men’s rehab center near you, call Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery (CMAR) today. We’re standing by at 833.448.0127 or online to answer your questions and get you started on the path toward mental and physical healing.

How Do I Know if Drug or Alcohol Rehab Is Necessary?

There are many possible indications that a rehab program could be the right choice for you or your loved one. Here are a few common signs this may be the case:

You experience trembling, nausea, body aches, mood disturbance, or other withdrawal symptoms if you stop drinking or using drugs.
You have a mental illness such as major depression or bipolar disorder and self-medicate with drugs or alcohol to manage your symptoms.
Your medical doctor has advised you to seek addiction treatment.
It feels necessary to hide or lie about drug or alcohol use to friends or family.
You drink or use drugs alone, not just in social contexts.
Social events and hobbies that used to interest you no longer do, or you select social engagements largely based on whether drugs or alcohol will be available.
Your partner, spouse, friends, or family have let you know your drug or alcohol use is concerning or staged an intervention.
You’re prone to angry or even violent outbursts.
You feel emotionally distant or numb much of the time.
Blackouts are common when you use, meaning there are periods of time that you cannot clearly remember.
You’ve gotten involved in risky behavior like driving under the influence or having unsafe sex.
Any attempts you’ve made to stop drinking or using without assistance have been unsuccessful long term.
You suffer from a disease that’s either brought on by or worsening due to your drug or alcohol use. Examples include cirrhosis of the liver, high blood pressure, seizures, gout, depression, and cardiovascular disease.

What to Expect from Drug and Alcohol Rehab

In the case of serious addictions, it may be necessary to start with medication-assisted detox. This means that patients receive personalized care from doctors who can help them through the first days of getting free from physical substance dependence. Medications may be prescribed at this step to help with pain management or other withdrawal symptoms such as nausea. Depending on the substance, the physical symptoms of withdrawal may be painful or even dangerous, so medically monitored and assisted detox may be a literal lifesaver for some people working toward sobriety.

Next, patients in rehab engage in individual therapy. This offering is generally available within a variety of treatment levels, including inpatient, outpatient, and even telehealth, making it great for people with less intense treatment needs and a desire for flexible scheduling. Evidence-based approaches like cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and trauma-informed care may all be applied to help patients develop the skills they need for sobriety.

Examples of topics addressed include identifying and managing one’s triggers to drink or use and cultivating mindfulness to manage emotions more effectively. Individual therapy can also address the root causes for drinking or drug use, identifying and treating past trauma as well as any underlying mental illness that may form a dual diagnosis with substance abuse.

Group offerings such as family therapy or peer support groups round out many rehab programs. These create a sense of community, accountability, and shame-free empathy for those in recovery. Working with families and loved ones is especially important for healing any relationship damage created by a loved one’s addiction. This, in turn, lays the foundation for a functional home and lasting sobriety.

Learn More About Drug and Alcohol Rehab at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery Today

You and your loved one’s recovery and thriving are our top priority at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery. Call us at 833.448.0127 or reach out online to get your questions answered or begin the intake process. We’re committed to getting you the best care, so don’t hesitate to reach out no matter what step of the journey you’re at.

How Can Medication-Assisted Treatment Help You?

Posted on January 3, 2023 by cmarnew

Detox can be the most challenging stage of recovery to complete. During detox, you may experience mild to severe withdrawal symptoms, as well as cravings that make detox tough to get through. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) can help you reduce your cravings and withdrawal symptoms, giving you a fighting chance to complete detox and move forward into rehab.

Addiction treatment centers in Colorado use MAT in combination with other forms of treatment such as emergency medical care, 24/7 supervision, and a fully licensed medical staff to ensure that you recover safely without relapsing. MAT can also be instrumental in helping you overcome your cravings during the rehab stage of your recovery. To find out more about MAT, contact Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery at 833.448.0127 today.

Learn More About Medication-Assisted Treatment

What is MAT? It is the use of medication combined with other forms of treatment. In most cases, it gives you more control over your recovery by reducing withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Some forms of medication can reverse the effects of drugs such as opioids, preventing life-threatening overdoses and other side effects.

Although MAT is not a primary form of treatment, it can lighten rehab’s burden by making you more comfortable, normalizing your brain chemistry, and blocking the euphoric effects of certain drugs. Best of all, most medications that we use are non-addictive. So, you do not have to worry about transferring your addiction from one drug to another.

One of the reasons why MAT is so effective is because it treats addiction as a chronic disorder. The goal is to manage your symptoms and cravings over an extended period of time, making it easier for you to focus on other therapeutic methods and build a lasting foundation for your recovery. As you work through the underlying causes of your addiction, you become more likely to maintain your recovery in the future.

What MAT Programs Are Available for Treatment?

There are several different medication types on the market today, many of them approved by the FDA for addiction treatment. Some of the most common medications include:

Naloxone – Used to reverse the effects of opioids, such as heroin and fentanyl
Naltrexone – Blocks opioid receptors, preventing the euphoric effect of opioids
Methadone – Used to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms
Buprenorphine – Used to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms
Disulfiram – Used to create an unpleasant reaction when combined with alcohol

Acamprosate – Used to reduce cravings for alcohol

Each of these medications is used for different reasons and can address the effects of different drugs. When used correctly, they are highly effective in helping you overcome your addiction.

4 Benefits of MAT in Addiction Treatment

There are a number of ways that medication-assisted treatment at an addiction treatment center can help you, including:

Overdose Survival

When you overdose on opioids, your breathing will slow down or stop. This symptom can cause multiple health problems or fatalities. Although opioid addiction treatment centers provide a full medical staff, medications such as naloxone can reduce the effects of opioids and stop overdose. It can be a life-saving medication for many of those struggling with addiction.

Better Recovery Rates

One of the biggest struggles you may face in a substance abuse treatment program deals with your cravings. MATs are highly effective in curbing your cravings and blocking the effects of opioids and other drugs. In essence, they clear the path of recovery, giving you a better chance of completing your program without relapse.

A Decrease in Criminal Activity

People who use drugs are more likely to commit crimes to continue their addiction. Getting arrested and facing penalties does not always deter users from looking for more drugs. MAT programs are effective in reducing illicit drug use and related crimes. It can help someone who must complete a mandatory addiction treatment program after being charged with drug possession or distribution.

Higher Employment Rates

If your drug habit keeps you from getting and keeping a job, medication-assisted treatment can help. MAT programs help you practice more self-control. As a result, you show up to work on time, get your work done, and perform consistently. You don’t have to worry about losing another job.

Medication-Assisted Treatment Available at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we want to help you overcome your addiction to drugs or alcohol. Our medication-assisted treatment program is able to promote a lasting recovery without addiction. Call Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery at 833.448.0127 to get started with your treatment program today.