Drug Addiction Archives - Page 4 of 4 - Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

How Buprenorphine Is Used to Treat Opioid Use Disorder

Posted on March 5, 2021 by cmarnew

Addiction is an ongoing epidemic across the world. From illegal drugs and alcohol to food and even prescription drugs, it is possible to become addicted to many things. Whether a person is using with the intent to get high or becomes dependent on a prescription drug, addiction is real, and help is often needed to recover and lead a healthy life. Opioids are among the most widely abused drugs in America, causing over half of the overdose deaths. But recovery is possible. Buprenorphine treatment can be helpful for those who are struggling with opioid use disorder when used in tandem with therapy and counseling.

What Is Opioid Use Disorder?

If an individual uses opioids after surgery and becomes dependent on them, they can become addicted easily. While these medications help reduce pain and are often necessary, they are highly addictive even after a short period. Some people are also aware of the high opioids provide and turn to the drugs for this purpose, eventually becoming addicted.

Common opioids include:

Morphine
Codeine
Oxycodone
Hydrocodone
Oxycontin
Vicodin
Percocet
Fentanyl

Using Medication to Treat Opioid Addiction

While there are many approaches to treating opioid use disorder, such as counseling, this alone is not enough. Medicated OUD treatment is usually necessary. With some medications, clients can overcome their dependence on the drugs by reducing the withdrawal symptoms that often make it impossible to quit in the first place. Buprenorphine is one medication that can be used to manage chronic pain and help those addicted to opioids on their journey to long-term recovery.

Buprenorphine Treatment

Buprenorphine is a partially synthetic drug made in labs. It is used to treat severe, often chronic, pain. It is also effective at helping those with opioid use disorder avoid withdrawal symptoms. It is considered an opioid still because it has components derived from opium poppies.

When a client goes through buprenorphine treatment, they may take sublingual tablets, use patches, or get injections. It is often used to treat pain in those with known histories of opioid addiction because it is considered therapeutic. This is because it delays withdrawal symptoms while addressing cravings for more potent opioids.

Using buprenorphine is helpful because it can reduce the risk of overdose and other health issues related to drug use. It is more readily available and is the first medication to treat OUD that can be prescribed and given in physicians’ offices, which helps increase access to treatment.

Buprenorphine has been used for over two decades and is considered safe and effective. It is quickly replacing the more common methadone to treat OUD, so much so that it is also commonly used to treat babies born with opiates in their systems.

Buprenorphine Treatment Risks

Buprenorphine use must still be monitored because it can cause overdoses. Watching for these signs is important:

Dizziness
Feeling faint
Sedation
Respiratory distress

While addiction liability is low, it can become habit-forming. Signs of abuse include:

Compulsive thoughts regarding buprenorphine
Craving more when doses are lowered
Loss of control of use
Continuing use despite negative consequences

In addition, clients younger than 60 that have no other medical conditions and take no other medications are more likely to experience side effects. However, seniors, children, and those with pre-existing conditions will experience a broader range of side effects. Side effects include:

Difficulty breathing
Sleepiness, dizziness, and the inability to drive
Severe interactions with alcohol
Vertigo, nausea, or headache
Lowered blood pressure
Liver function issues

Buprenorphine Treatment at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

Effective treatment for opioid addiction can be found at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery. Our clients can benefit from therapists who vary their treatment approach based on both proven techniques and medical intervention. Understanding the different ways to treat opioid addiction and how medication can help manage withdrawal symptoms means providing a complete recovery to clients. Contact us at 833.448.0127 or reach out online for more information.

Dangers of Percocet

Posted on February 17, 2021 by cmarnew

Percocet is a type of opiate drug used to treat moderate to severe pain. The drug contains oxycodone hydrochloride along with acetaminophen, and improper use may lead to dependence and addiction. When this happens, it becomes difficult for a person to stop using on their own. A treatment program can help those who are struggling with Percocet abuse overcome maintain sobriety long-term.

What Makes Percocet Dangerous?

Percocet, or more precisely, the oxycodone within it, causes significant changes in the function of the brain. It is prescribed as a way to change the way the brain feels pain. This can provide a person recovering from injury or surgery to manage pain better. In this way, it can be a helpful, necessary drug.

When used outside of a prescription, Percocet can cause additional changes. This includes changing the brain’s chemistry. Percocet triggers the area of the brain related to pleasure and the reward system. As a result, the brain encourages the use of the drug on a consistent basis, needing to have it present to function properly. This is what causes dependence, a condition that leaves a person until to stop using the drug without professional treatment.

Overdose Risks for Percocet and Oxycodone

Another of the dangers of using Percocet is the risk of overdose. As dependence develops, a person’s body may become used to the drug. This is called tolerance. As tolerance builds, the body needs more of the drug or needs it more frequently to feel the effects. However, too much can lead to toxicity, leading to the brain, heart, and other organs shutting down. This can cause overdose, a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical help.

Addiction is a bit different than dependence, though the two often occur at the same time. A person who is addicted recognizes the dangers of continued use. Even so, they continue to use, often compulsively.

Long-term use of Percocet can be dangerous based on the changes and damage it can cause to the body. This includes:

Hypotension or hypertension
Slowed heartbeat and breathing
Seizures
Depression
Hallucinations

Over time, continued use can cause liver and kidney failure. It can also cause suppression of the immune system. Cognitive function can also be a concern.

Withdrawal from Percocet

A person with a dependence on Percocet is likely to go through withdrawal as they try to stop using it. Withdrawal creates intense cravings, as well as both psychological and physical symptoms. That makes it hard to stop using.

Because of how complex Percocet abuse can be, withdrawal from it can be challenging for many people. While certain medications can ease the detox process, some people may experience cold sweats, upset stomach, depression, anxiety, and agitation during this process. It can also make it hard to concentrate and lead to mood swings, joint pain, and tremors. Much of this can be eliminated through a proper treatment program for Percocet addiction.

How We Can Help with Addiction and Dependence

For those using Percocet or any type of oxycodone, our team can provide exceptional support and guidance through a complete treatment program. This program aims to eliminate addiction and dependence and encourage full-body healing. It is possible to manage pain, if present, in an effective manner without the use of opiates.

Our treatment programs are here to help. This includes:

Those struggling with addiction to oxycodone or Percocet can trust Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery for help. Our team of expert clinicians and trusted providers can provide you with the tools you need to overcome your dependence and reclaim your future. To learn more, call 833.448.0127 or connect with us online today.

What Is a Harm-Reduction Approach to Recovery?

Posted on December 20, 2020 by cmarnew

The harm-reduction approach to therapy is a set of eight principles that center around meeting people where they are and slowly bringing them along to recovery. Treatment specialists recognize that not everyone is ready or capable of ending their addiction at a given time. Instead of assuming where an individual should be in their addiction recovery, therapists use evidence-based methods to treat the addiction symptoms.

Harm-reduction treatment programs can prevent addiction-related harm instead of helping the individual end their addiction. Programs offer education, resources, disease prevention, and medical care to those suffering from addiction and need help right away. A person who receives medical care for addiction may decide that it is time to enter a drug or alcohol rehab program. To learn more about our addiction treatment center approach, contact Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery today at 833.448.0127.

What Are the 8 Principles of the Harm Reduction-Approach?

The harm-reduction approach to treatment includes a variety of strategies that involve safer drug or alcohol use, managed use, full abstinence, and addressing medical conditions or mental health issues for drug or alcohol users. Programs operate on eight main principles.

Principle 1: Acceptance

Treatment professionals involved in mental health and behavioral treatment must first accept that prescription and illicit drug use is a part of their reality. Their primary goal is to minimize the harmful effects of drugs instead of ignoring or condemning them.

Principle 2: Understanding

Healthcare and mental health treatment professionals must understand that drug addiction is a complicated problem that involves various behaviors that range from severe use to abstinence. They must acknowledge that some ways of using substances are safer than others.

Principle 3: Wellness

Treatment professionals and facilities must first establish a treatment that enhances a person’s quality of life, not just addresses their addiction. Improving the quality of life needs to be the criteria used to assess and identify successful intervention and treatment.

Principle 4: Non-Coercive Services

Non-coercive and non-judgmental services must be offered to those who are struggling with addiction. This treatment may include services, such as:

Medical treatment
Clinical treatment
Case management services
Educational resources

Services must be designed to reduce any harm that may come to those who receive treatment. Recipients must not feel judged or pressured into receiving addiction treatment.

Principle 5: Empowerment

Those who are struggling with addiction or mental health issues must be allowed to contribute to the creation of addiction treatment therapies designed to help them recover. Those with addictions may have some ideas on how best to help them get clean and stay clean for life.

Principle 6: Affirmation

The harm-reduction approach affirms that people who use drugs are the primary people who reduce the harm drugs cause. Harm-reduction treatment empowers drug users to share information and support other users with strategies that meet their needs.

Principle 7: Recognition

Treatment professionals recognize that factors such as social inequality, sex-based discrimination, past trauma, social isolation, racism, class, and poverty all contribute to the vulnerabilities of those addicted to drugs. They also affect a person’s ability to deal with drug-related harm.

Principle 8: Acknowledgment

This type of treatment fully acknowledges the danger and harm that is associated with illicit drug use. In no way or form does it try to ignore or minimize the physical and mental impact of drugs.

Learn More at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

If you are struggling with addiction, you can get help for the harmful effects of drugs without feeling like we’re judging or alienating you. Contact Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery at 833.448.0127 today. We will discuss your condition, get answers to your questions about the harm-reduction approach, and explore your treatment options. We are here to help you get on the road to recovery.

Do You Need an Oxycontin Treatment Program?

Posted on November 1, 2020 by cmarnew

Oxycontin is a common gateway drug to heroin. Whether you buy the medication legally or illegally, if dependency develops, seek professional help from an Oxycontin addiction treatment program. Skilled experts, such as the Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, can use innovative treatment methods to help you overcome the pandemic. To learn more about our programs, contact Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery today at 833.448.0127.

The Significance of Oxycontin Treatment Programs

Individuals experiencing chronic pain can use Oxycontin to eliminate the burden and to find the pain relief they’re seeking. However, users must understand the dangers of Oxycontin addiction in CO and take immediate action if they cannot quit.

If you develop a dependency, accepting the problem and checking into rehab will help you avoid severe long-term consequences. The condition starts with enhanced tolerance, whereby you have to increase your dose to achieve the desired effects. Drug dependency can change the way of thinking and put you in trouble. For example, some people can do anything, including stealing, to get money for the drug.

Drug dependency can cause you to lack interest in vital day-to-day activities. In most cases, individuals ignore their responsibilities to look for more drugs. Such issues impact many areas of life, including finances, relationships, and health, leading to legal problems.

Some people think they can use their willpower to deal with the problem, but they often relapse. If you try quitting without following a personalized oxycontin addiction treatment program, you may find yourself suffering from uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. The experience can be life-threatening.

What to Expect During Oxycontin Treatment

Drugs have chemicals that alter your brain and body functions. Such changes make it challenging for the user to quit despite understanding the potential harm. Fortunately, rehab centers can use personalized treatment programs and evidence-based therapies for a successful recovery process. Every person is unique and requires an individualized approach. At rehab, you can benefit from many treatment programs, including:

If you’re struggling with Oxycontin addiction in CO, you’ll find that this is a common problem, so you should not battle it alone. The journey to recovery requires guidance and support from professionals who understand your situation. Besides, rehab treatment offers an opportunity to meet peers and share experiences. Therapists focus on helping their clients to recover and achieve their goals.

Oxycontin Addiction Diagnosis and Symptoms

When can you seek help for oxycontin abuse? If you use the drug without a prescription or take a more considerable amount than instructed, this is misuse. Some people may consume it in different ways than what is recommended by their physicians. For example, long-term users try to increase potency by crushing and inhaling the powder form.

Intense craving for the drug when it is not available is a sign of dependency. If you have these issues, consult a rehab professional for an oxycontin treatment program. The most common signs and symptoms of addiction include:

Lack of motivation
Anxiety and depression
Slurred speech
Altered sleep habits
Poor coordination
Enhanced euphoria
Shallow and slow breathing

Oxycontin addiction can lead to a fatal overdose. In such a situation, the person needs emergency medical attention to reverse the effects. Act immediately and call for help if the person shows signs like vomiting, constricted pupils, unresponsiveness, and slow breathing.

Contact Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery for Addiction Treatment

Are you struggling with oxycontin dependency? If left untreated, the condition can cause severe health problems, some of which can be fatal. Do not let an avoidable situation ruin your life. Seek help from an oxycontin treatment program where addiction treatment professionals will ensure you achieve permanent recovery. Contact Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery today at 833.448.0127 for a customized treatment program.

Why Peer-Support Is Necessary In Sustaining Recovery From Opioid-Addiction

Posted on September 6, 2020 by cmarnew

Recovery is not something that can be done alone. In fact, every major treatment-outcome study shows a clear link between peer-support & long-term addiction recovery. Opioid dependence is no exception. Yet unfortunately, over 90% of those receiving treatment for opioid-dependence are granted no access to a supportive peer group. 90% of Clinics (Methadone & Suboxone), addiction psychiatry practices, and addiction medicine practices in Colorado fail to provide even a single peer-support group during an addict’s treatment. At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we offer peer support to help you recover from opioid addiction.

Evidence-Based Alternatives

Clinics and “suboxone doctors” prescribe, dispense, and sometimes provide some case management or counseling, but little more. Why? Because these providers are only trying to help, patients achieve one single outcome: survival. At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, on the other hand, we designed a more evidence-based alternative, which seeks to empower each patient to not just survive, but thrive. We want our patients to live happy, productive, socially healthy lives. We want them to use the gift of recovery to live, love, laugh, feel, connect, and so on.

Recovery From Opioid Dependence

Though CMAR certainly integrates first-rate addiction medicine, integrated & comprehensive group therapy programs & individual therapy programs, family therapy programs, and case management, CMAR also provides peer-led support groups. This group creates a community for our patients, all of whom share the common bond of being in recovery from opioid dependence. This group helps create lasting connections, peer-support systems, and accountability. Yet another reason why CMAR is Colorado’s most comprehensive, evidence-based opioid program. Learn more at CMAR or call us at 833.448.0127.

Signs of Addiction

Posted on August 1, 2020 by cmarnew

Addiction is a chronic disease that causes physical and psychological dependence on a drug. A person may lack control over their behavior despite the risks associated with drug use. Identifying the signs of addiction can help one seek treatment for problematic drug use. This step may also help one learn how to avoid using drugs after completing treatment at CMAR. If you are wondering if you’re showing the signs of addiction, contact our Colorado addiction treatment center at 833.448.0127 today.

Physical and Psychological Signs of Addiction

A drug addict may show physical symptoms of addiction when they overdose or withdraw substance use. However, some physical signs may be difficult to identify, particularly if they use drugs in isolation. Some of the most common physical signs of drug addiction are changes in weight and dilated or enlarged pupils. A user may also neglect personal hygiene measures such as combing hair and bathing.

Drug addiction can influence one to use a significant amount of a substance, leading to an overdose. Depending on the drug used, one may show signs of an overdose, such as hallucinations, trouble walking, and agitation. Prolonged drug usage can also cause alterations in the structure of the brain. Hence, a person will show psychological symptoms of addiction, like anxiousness and mood swings. Moreover, one can experience personality changes and lack the motivation to engage in various activities. If you are showing signs of addiction, contact CMAR to learn more about our addiction treatment therapies.

Behavioral and Social Signs of Drug Addiction

Behavioral signs of addiction refer to the pattern of conduct that a person shows after prolonged drug use. These symptoms are mainly an indicator of the side effects of the drug they are using. For instance, a user may think about using and obtaining a drug obsessively. The drugs become a priority in their life, in that they neglect other obligations. As such, a person may choose to buy drugs over meeting basic needs, like housing. One can also lose control over their usage even when they want to reduce usage or quit drugs.

Addiction can affect a person’s ability to reason, making them engage in irrational behavior. Such behaviors may include starting unnecessary arguments, which may lead to fights. Drug abuse can also influence how a person interacts and socializes with other people. For example, prolonged drug use will affect a user’s health and make it hard for them to participate in sporting activities. Hence, one will come up with excuses to avoid exercising and engaging in sports. One may also seclude themselves to prevent other people from noticing that they use drugs.

Treating Drug Addiction

Seeking addiction treatment can help a person in the recovery process. Most addiction treatment centers have various programs one can join, depending on the nature of addiction. Moreover, other factors, such as multiple substance use and mental health conditions, determine the program one joins at a mental health treatment center. It is recommendable for people with chronic addiction to join a medication-assisted treatment program. This type of plan allows one to receive medication that will help minimize withdrawal effects. A person can also enroll in a nearby outpatient treatment center. Such establishments offer programs that will allow them to carry out other activities, such as working while receiving treatment.

Therapy and counseling are also a crucial component of addiction recovery. This step helps one learn more about the effects of their drug usage. Moreover, the specialists will educate you or a loved one on how to avoid the triggers of drug abuse. Some of the therapies used in treating addiction are:

Cognitive-behavioral therapy
Dialectical behavior therapy
Family therapy
Group therapy
Individual therapy

Recovering From Addiction at CMAR

Showing signs of addiction is an indicator that a person needs professional help. At CMAR, we can help you recover from addiction to opioids such as heroin. We test our patients’ mental condition to treat co-occurring conditions. This measure helps to ensure that you have a better and life-long recovery. Call CMAR today at 833.448.0127 to enroll for an effective addiction treatment program.