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Physical Side Effects of Alcohol Addiction

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Alcohol addiction has steadily risen despite the numerous harmful side effects it has on the body. Unfortunately, the effects of alcohol addiction can take a toll in more ways than most people realize. An alcohol addiction treatment program can help you or a loved one learn the dangers of alcohol and help recover from their alcohol addiction.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, our alcohol addiction treatment programs can help those suffering the physical side effects of alcohol addiction and are ready to put in the time and work necessary to begin their recovery. Call 833.448.0127 to learn more about the physical effects of alcohol addiction and how we can help you or a loved one begin a life of sobriety.

How Alcohol Affects the Body

One or two drinks a night can steadily increase over time without you realizing it. The harmful effects alcohol has on the brain, heart, and liver are worse than most people realize.

Brain

Slurred speech, memory loss, and poor judgment are just the early stages of cognitive impairment. Long-term abuse changes your brain chemistry and the way you think, possibly leading to permanent brain damage and death.

Heart

Alcohol has an immediate effect on your heart, increasing your heart rate. The more you drink, the more your heart is working and can lead to heart disease, such as:

  • Cardiomyopathy
  • Arrhythmia
  • Stroke
  • High blood pressure
  • Heart attack

Liver

Your liver is a filter. It filters the blood from the digestive system and helps filter out toxins before it reaches the bloodstream. Alcohol is a poison, and drinking too much can overwork your liver and damage it. Leading to such diseases as:

  • Cirrhosis
  • Steatosis
  • Alcoholic hepatitis
  • Fibrosis
  • Cellular mutation
  • Pancreatitis

In the U.S., one in three cases of pancreatitis is from alcohol abuse. The pancreas turns alcohol into toxins that affect the pancreas and digestive system and has some painful side effects:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Weight loss
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Pale colored, oily stools
  • Back pain
  • Diabetes

Cancer

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services lists alcohol as a known human carcinogen. Long-term drinking is behind several forms of cancer, including:

  • Breast cancer
  • Esophageal cancer
  • Liver cancer
  • Head and neck cancer
  • Colon cancer

Your body is a machine, and if it is overworked, it will break down over time. Your immune system cannot adequately protect you if it is busy repairing the damage from alcohol poisoning. Illnesses like pneumonia and tuberculosis will affect those suffering from alcohol addiction more than those with a healthy immune system.

Treating the Physical Side Effects of Alcohol Addiction

In some alcohol addiction treatment programs, a detox or inpatient treatment can break the power addiction has over some patients at the start of their treatment. When completed, further treatment can continue as you are just beginning your addiction recovery.

An outpatient treatment program can give those who have completed detox and are ready to continue their work toward recovery. An effective and complete recovery program will include a mixture of behavioral programs designed to weed out the underlying cause of the addiction and help you maintain your sober life.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we offer several behavioral therapy programs designed to help you with your alcohol addiction treatment that will include:

  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
  • Dialectical behavior therapy (CBT)
  • Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
  • Individual and group therapy
  • Family therapy

Alcohol Addiction Treatment in Colorado

At CMAR, Colorado’s only licensed outpatient addiction treatment center, our alcohol addiction treatment programs can help you along your journey to recovery. If you or a loved one are struggling with the physical side effects of alcohol addiction and are ready to get control of your life, our certified behavioral therapists will design a tailor-made program for your recovery that will give you the best chance for recovery. Verify your insurance with us to start your journey.

Call 833.448.0127 today to learn more about our behavioral and medication-assisted treatment programs for alcohol addiction.

What to Look For in an Addiction Treatment Center

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How do you know if an addiction treatment center is right for you or a loved one? Your first step is to find a treatment facility run by a professional and caring staff dedicated to your recovery as much as you are. The facility you choose should offer outpatient and telehealth therapy options for more accessibility. That can give you the freedom you need to continue your life while working on your addiction recovery.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, our addiction treatment programs are tailored specifically to your personal needs. Treatment cannot be one-size-fits-all. Our medication-assisted treatment (MAT) programs can help you break free from addiction. We’ll help you reach a place of stability so you can develop the healthy coping skills you need for lifelong recovery. Call 833.448.0127 today to learn more about our treatment programs and how they can help you heal.

Finding the Right Addiction Treatment Center for You

Not all addiction recovery programs are the same. A residential or inpatient treatment facility is not the best option for those who can keep up their responsibilities at work or at home. Instead, many individuals benefit from outpatient care. This flexible treatment option is ideal for those who have a supportive living situation.

Additionally, the underlying causes that may have contributed to substance use issues are as unique as you are. Your addiction treatment center should create a treatment plan with that in mind.

Understanding Your Addiction Through Behavioral Therapy

From an early age, you might have watched our parents drink and have a good time with friends and family. It is no wonder that many individuals associate alcohol with fun before even taking the first sip. Addiction is a mental disease where individuals repeat a task like drinking or taking drugs and cannot stop, even when it begins to affect those around them negatively.

Behavioral therapy is the preferred method of treating addiction and other mental health diseases. It helps you get to the reason behind your addiction so you can better recognize your triggers and learn to avoid them.

What Is Medication-Assisted Treatment?

Medication-assisted treatment programs involve a combination of medication and behavioral therapy programs. This approach can help patients suffering through long-term withdrawal effects and remain functional while they seek treatment.

These drugs are administered alongside behavioral therapy programs to reduce the dependence on opioids to allow a gradual decline of withdrawal symptoms:

  • Buprenorphine
  • Suboxone
  • Lucemyra

These medications can relieve withdrawal symptoms as well as curb cravings.

Benefits of Enrolling in an Addiction Treatment Center With Varying Treatment Options

Inpatient and residential treatment programs are not suitable for everyone. If you cannot take time off work, an outpatient or telehealth service can still give you the benefits of a residential program. At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, our behavioral therapy programs can help you root out the causes behind your addiction. The therapies we offer include:

  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
  • Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
  • Individual and group therapy
  • Family therapy

We offer our behavioral and medication-assisted programs through outpatient and telehealth services for those who need a more flexible addiction treatment program that fits their schedule without sacrificing their recovery efforts.

Learn More About Treatment at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

The stigma of addiction can cause many to avoid seeking the treatment they need to continue their recovery. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction and are ready to seek the support needed to recover, reach out to Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery today.

Call 833.448.0127 today to see how a professional recovery program at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery can help you or a loved one begin on the journey to lifelong sobriety. We can help you verify your insurance with us today.

Types of Addiction Treatment for Recovery

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There is likely a misconception among many people with addiction issues that all treatment programs are the same. The fact is that there are many types of addiction treatment. There are addiction treatment center programs that also include a wide variety of addiction treatment therapies.

The recovery-oriented treatment at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery includes comprehensive programs and individualized treatment plans.

Common Approaches to Addiction Treatment

There are some similarities and yet some significant differences in the various recovery-oriented treatment programs. The type of program that a person enters depends on the type of drug or drugs that the person is addicted to, whether they also struggle with mental health issues, and whether they need to go through detox.

There is sometimes a misconception that a twelve-step program like Alcoholics Anonymous is a form of addiction treatment. Twelve-step groups provide support, but they are not treatment programs.

Detox is often the first step for many individuals that want or need treatment for their addiction issues. Some people mistakenly think that when they complete detox that they have completed treatment. Detox, in fact, is not a treatment program. It is a process that rids your body of alcohol and other drugs that may be the source of the addiction issues.

Medication-assisted treatment, or MAT, is often used while a person prepares for treatment. Medication-assisted treatment helps to manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms. For many, this option can lead to long-lasting sobriety.

Outpatient treatment is a highly effective treatment option. There are many successes with outpatient treatment programs. The benefits include:

  • Being able to continue living at home
  • Being able to continue working or attending school
  • Maintaining independence while in recovery
  • Participation in a variety of addiction therapy programs

Intensive outpatient programs involve spending more time in treatment. An individual in an intensive outpatient program may be required to be at the treatment center for more time each day or for more days of the week compared to those in a regular outpatient treatment program.

Residential treatment involves residing at the treatment center while receiving treatment. People in a residential treatment program take time away from their home, family, job, or other responsibilities to receive treatment for their addiction.

Specialized Treatment Programs and Therapies

Dual diagnosis treatment programs require can help those with both a substance use disorder and a mental health disorder. This type of treatment does not include having an addiction to two or more drugs or having two or more mental health disorders. The criteria are strictly for people with both mental health and addiction disorders.

There are several therapies that might be part of an addiction treatment plan. These include:

Participation in these therapies can help those in recovery build healthy coping skills.

Individual therapy along with group therapy is typically included in most treatment programs. During sessions, patients can build a strong network of support and can work through challenges they’ve faced on the road to recovery.

Contact Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery to Learn More About Addiction Recovery

There is no one type of recovery-oriented treatment that is right for everyone. There are several details about each person’s treatment needs that determine which treatment program and addiction therapies are best for that person. The type of substance they’ve used, the severity of their addiction, and any co-occurring mental health issues can impact their needs for treatment.

We understand the different treatment needs at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery. Contact us today at 833.448.0127 or connect with us online to learn more about the types of addiction treatment and to start your journey to recovery today.

Intensive Outpatient Treatment in Colorado

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An intensive outpatient treatment program offers comprehensive services to patients throughout the program. Some people may need details about the difference between outpatient and intensive outpatient programs. It can be helpful to know more about the types of programs that are available at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery. Learn more about the components and benefits of each option, then reach out to our treatment center today.

What Is Intensive Outpatient Treatment?

Intensive outpatient treatment offers a bridge between the strict controls of an inpatient treatment program and the environment of an outpatient treatment program. These services are often offered to clients that are in need of treatment for co-occurring disorders.

Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery focuses on providing comprehensive services to every client that needs to start or continue their recovery. Addiction treatment programs help patients recover from their addiction to alcohol, opioids, or other substances. Many of our patients benefit from intensive outpatient treatment. The IOP program that Colorado residents can benefit from most is found at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery.

Some people prefer a single-gender environment for treatment. A men’s rehab program or women’s rehab program can offer a safe, supportive space.

The first step on the road to recovery for many is medication-assisted treatment, which we provide to help patients during withdrawal. Medication-assisted treatment is always paired with behavioral therapies. This combination helps patients focus on their recovery without painful withdrawal symptoms or cravings.

Benefits of Intensive Outpatient Treatment

Several sources, including research and the results of several studies, point to the benefits of outpatient treatment, and in particular, the benefits of intensive outpatient treatment programs.

Some benefits include:

  • The ability to offer somewhat flexible services such as to a particular treatment group
  • Results of studies indicate that intensive outpatient programs often prove more successful compared to inpatient programs
  • Patients that remain in treatment are more likely to continue their recovery
  • The benefits of intensive outpatient treatment services continue for a considerable time after patients complete the program
  • Outpatient treatment is likely to be less expensive than inpatient options

There are several other benefits to completing an intensive outpatient treatment program. One benefit includes including substantial support from treatment team members and from peers. This strong support may not be available in detox or in short-term outpatient treatment programs.

Additionally, the flexibility that is featured in intensive outpatient treatment allows treatment facilities to offer services to specific populations. One example is a men’s treatment program, a program specifically for women or women with children, or one that is specifically targeted to patients with a dual diagnosis.

Another important benefit to this type of treatment is that patients are allowed to continue residing at home or at a sober living home. They do not have to choose between their family or work responsibilities the way that they may have to if considering treatment at an inpatient treatment facility. Patients are allowed to spend time with their families, continue working, or going to school without interruption.

Reach Out to Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery Today

The first step to start your recovery today is to reach out to Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery. Our caring staff will perform an assessment to determine your treatment needs and the addiction treatment therapies that can help you reach your goals. The next step is to create an individualized treatment program to help you start on the path to lifelong recovery. Through medication, comprehensive support, and evidence-based therapies, you can begin to heal.

Contact Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery at 833.448.0127 today to learn more about our intensive outpatient program. Discover how we can help you start living a life free of addiction.

Choosing the Right Heroin Treatment Program

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The devastating effects of heroin are experienced across the country among those with heroin addiction issues and their family members every day. Heroin can take a substantial toll on the health, well-being, and even the lives of those with an addiction to heroin. A heroin addiction treatment program guides people that have an addiction to the drug through the treatment process and into life-long recovery.

Learn more about what to look for in a heroin treatment program. Then, reach out to a recovery center near you today.

How Heroin Addiction Develops

Heroin is an opioid drug that comes in a number of forms. People typically think of heroin as an injectable drug, but it can also be snorted or smoked. Some people mix heroin with other drugs to feel different effects

People can become addicted to heroin with a single use of the drug. It is highly addictive and incredibly dangerous. Many people use other opioids, such as prescription pain relievers, before turning to heroin. Statistics from several sources indicate that a high number of people that started their drug use did so by abusing prescription drugs. The abuse of prescription drugs occurs when people either misuse their own prescription drugs or they purchase or share prescription drugs. This often leads to the need for oxycontin addiction treatment or treatment for opiate addiction.

Heroin addiction is an epidemic across the U.S. The addiction issues are not limited to a specific age group. Instead, heroin addiction affects individuals of all age groups and across all income levels. The addiction to heroin often leads to overdose visits to the emergency room and to heroin overdose deaths. Fortunately, many people are able to reach out for treatment to help them build a strong foundation for recovery.

The Short Term and the Long Term Effects of Heroin Use

There are a wide variety of effects related to heroin use, even in people that use it for the first time. People that continue to use heroin likely face increased dangers, up to and including death.

Some short-term effects of heroin use include:

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Severe itching
  • Feelings of heaviness in the arms or in the legs
  • Flushing of the skin
  • Mental functioning disturbances
  • Going back and forth between consciousness and unconsciousness

Some long-term effects of using heroin include:

  • Experiencing chronic insomnia
  • Developing liver or kidney disease
  • Experiencing lung complications such as pneumonia or other illnesses
  • Collapsed veins after injecting heroin
  • Infection of the lining or valves of the heart

Some other issues related to the effects of heroin addiction include clogged blood vessels that may cause permanent damage. Some individuals might engage in risky behaviors like unsafe sex or driving while under the influence. A heroin addiction treatment program can help prevent serious negative consequences relating to drug use.

What Can I Expect in a Heroin Addiction Treatment Program?

Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery’s team members understand the fears associated with entering treatment for heroin addiction. However, our heroin treatment program is the first step on the road to long-term recovery. During treatment, you’ll rid your body of the drugs and prepares you to start your recovery.

Patients in our heroin addiction treatment program benefit from personalized treatment plans that include comprehensive addiction treatment therapies. Your addiction treatment therapies may include case management and peer support, cognitive-behavioral therapy, a dialectical behavior therapy program, or other therapies.

Contact us at 833.448.0127 to get started on the journey to healing. You can learn to live a life free of heroin or other dangerous drugs. We offer the support that you need when in recovery. Call us today now to learn more about our heroin treatment.

Finding an OxyContin Treatment Program Right For You

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Addiction to OxyContin takes an incredible toll on people and their families. The risk of addiction to this pain reliever affects many thousands of people. Sources show that there are continuing risks to addiction and overdoses related to OxyContin. An OxyContin treatment program offers hope and the opportunity to recover from addiction to OxyContin.

What Are the Risks of an OxyContin Addiction?

Oxycontin was first approved several decades ago for the relief of moderate to severe chronic pain. It is still today recommended for the management of moderate to severe pain. It is considered to be an effective and efficient medication for millions of people across the country who suffer from chronic pain each year.

It did not take long for researchers and medical professionals to realize that there were issues with the misuse and addiction to OxyContin. People that take more of the drug than their prescribed dose, that share the medication with other people, or that sell it to others all risk addiction to the drug. Additionally, it is an abused drug that people often obtain in the streets. When this happens, it is likely as a result of the many people that become addicted to OxyContin and run out before they are able to obtain another prescription or people that were never prescribed OxyContin and take it strictly for illicit purposes.

Studies and surveys show that many people admit to taking OxyContin that was never prescribed to them. They stated that they took it solely to get high on the drug. Millions of people admit to taking OxyContin that was not prescribed for them or that was prescribed for them but that they took more than the dosage instructions.

There are several dangerous effects of OxyContin addiction, including:

  • Decreased respiration
  • Experiencing hypothermia
  • Experiencing a euphoric effect
  • Changes in the brain
  • Coma or death

People take OxyContin in ways other than swallowing the whole pill. Some people snort the drug, while other people inject it or combine it with alcohol or other drugs.

The Side Effects of OxyContin Use

Misuse of OxyContin may lead to several side effects that vary from one person to another person that has an OxyContin addiction issue. Some side effects include:

  • Dizziness or confusion
  • Increased sensitivity to pain
  • Increased sleepiness or drowsiness
  • Profuse sweating or severe itching
  • Feelings of depression

Over time, OxyContin use and abuse can lead to tolerance, where an individual needs to use more to feel the same effects. One way that an OxyContin treatment program can help you heal is by

Reach Out to Colorado Medication-Assisted Treatment Today

People that think that they can suddenly just stop taking OxyContin are likely in for a surprise. When a person suddenly stops taking a drug that they are addicted to they may experience unpleasant and even dangerous effects of trying to overcome addiction on their own. Going through an addiction treatment program offers those struggling with addiction the best chance at long-term recovery.

OxyContin addiction treatment requires professional staff that have experience in therapy and medication-assisted treatment programs. Treating an addiction to OxyContin also requires qualified addiction treatment specialists that help patients through their personalized treatment program. Services and therapies like case management and cognitive-behavioral therapy may also be included in the treatment program.

Starting the recovery process is not without challenges. When you have the support and treatment options from a comprehensive treatment center, you have the opportunity to have a successful recovery. Reach out to Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery today to learn more about OxyContin addiction treatment or any of our addiction treatment programs. Contact us today at 833.448.0127 or connect with us online to get started now.

Benefits of Seeking Alcohol Addiction Treatment

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Alcohol addiction takes a serious toll on individual people and on the families of people with an addiction to alcohol. The short-term effects and the long-term effects of addiction of alcohol addiction may have serious effects on the body, on the mental health of someone, and on the overall health of people that are addicted to alcohol. Fortunately, a comprehensive alcohol addiction treatment program can help people through their recovery and help them learn to live their life without abusing alcohol.

Alcohol Addiction and the Human Body

Alcohol has a profound effect on the body. Although some people may experience different effects when compared to others with alcohol addiction issues, the cumulative effects of drinking can have devastating results.

There are both short-term and long-term effects of alcohol addiction. There are many effects that extend beyond the hangover the next day after drinking alcohol. Many people start the next day by drinking alcohol all over again, likely increasing their risks of serious side effects or engaging in risky behaviors.

Some areas of the body that are affected by an addiction to alcohol include:

  • Alcohol interferes with the communication pathways of the brain resulting in many difficulties with thinking and the possibility of developing mood disorders
  • Alcohol addiction takes a severe toll on the liver and can lead to serious health conditions such as cirrhosis or fatty liver
  • The effects of alcohol addiction on the pancreas may result in the production of toxic substances
  • The heart is often affected by alcohol addiction and may lead to high blood pressure or stroke or other issues
  • Alcohol can weaken the immune system and limit the ability to fight off illnesses and disease

Alcohol also contributes to the development of several types of cancers, according to several medical sources and several study results. Some cancers that people addicted to alcohol may experience include breast cancer, esophageal cancer, cancer of the head or neck, colorectal cancer, or cancer of the liver.

Another dangerous effect of alcohol addiction is the fact that many people often use other drugs while drinking alcohol. This increases the severe risks associated with alcohol use. Several sources indicate that there are thousands of alcohol-related deaths every year in the U.S.

The Economic Burden of Alcohol Addiction

There is a tremendous economic burden attributed to people that have an alcohol addiction. It goes much further than drinking away the paycheck and not having money for the drinks for the next day.

Many individuals cannot hold a job because of their alcohol addiction. Costly mistakes may be made when people with an alcohol addiction think that they are still able to continue their employment. The economic burden related to the misuse of alcohol in the U.S. alone extends into billions of dollars in a single year.

Start Your Recovery at a Comprehensive Alcohol Addiction Treatment Center

Alcohol addiction treatment involves a variety of treatment steps. The first step is to detox from the alcohol. Ridding the body of alcohol prepares you to start your treatment program.

Take the first step to receive treatment for alcohol addiction at an alcohol rehab Denver location and start your recovery today. Our alcohol addiction treatment program includes an individualized treatment plan that is tailored to your treatment needs. Additionally, addiction treatment therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, group therapy, and individual therapy are often included in the treatment plan.

Start your alcohol addiction treatment today when you contact us at 833.448.0127. Learn how to regain control over your life and learn how to live without the dangerous effects of alcohol addiction. Contact Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery today.

How Buprenorphine Is Used to Treat Heroin Addiction

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Heroin affects the brain and body in ways that can eventually lead to a serious addiction. It doesn’t discriminate, so people from any background can become vulnerable to its effects. Getting the right help can be key to overcoming heroin addiction. Buprenorphine treatment is one way that Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery helps individuals struggling with a dependency on heroin. It’s administered as part of our medication-assisted treatment program as an alternative to taking an abstinence-only approach.

What Is Buprenorphine?

Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist that produces an effect similar to taking heroin but at a lower level. It’s been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating individuals diagnosed with an opioid use disorder. Clients at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery typically receive buprenorphine treatment alongside other counseling and behavioral therapies as part of an overall treatment plan for heroin addiction.

Clients receive the medication in tablet form at the recommended dosage once per day. We try and make sure clients receive buprenorphine treatment at the same time each day for consistency. You should never take more than the recommended dosage of buprenorphine to avoid the potential of developing a dependency, similar to the one that you might form with heroin.

How Does Buprenorphine Help with Addiction?

Taking buprenorphine helps clients reduce their need for heroin and other opioids over time. It helps alleviate cravings and can reduce the risk of a client having an overdose. You should stop taking any kind of opioids around 12 to 24 hours before starting buprenorphine treatment. Clients are often in the early stages of withdrawal when they start taking the medication. Heroin withdrawal symptoms can include:

  • Cravings for heroin
  • Sweating
  • Nausea
  • Abdominal distress
  • Depression
  • Agitation
  • Muscle spasms

The discomfort caused by heroin withdrawal can dissuade people from trying to kick an addiction to heroin. That’s where buprenorphine treatment can make a real difference. Alleviating a client’s withdrawal symptoms can increase their desire to complete a rehab program and continue treatment while in recovery.

Clients work with our addiction specialists and doctors to gradually wean themselves off of buprenorphine treatment. One of the reasons that the drug is popular for use with MAT is that it doesn’t typically cause clients to develop a psychological dependency.

Because each client has different needs when it comes to heroin treatment, everyone should have a choice when it comes to care. While an abstinence-only approach to heroin addiction can work for some, it’s not the path forward for everyone. That’s why Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery provides a range of treatment options for clients.

What Are the Side Effects of Using Buprenorphine?

You should let your doctor know if you have known allergies to buprenorphine or ingredients used to make buprenorphine. Make sure you fully disclose other substances you may be taking, including vitamins, nutritional supplements, OTC medications, and prescriptions. Doctors need that information to make sure that you won’t have an adverse reaction to buprenorphine treatment.

People receiving buprenorphine treatment may experience the following side effects:

  • Sweating
  • Dry mouth
  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness
  • Constipation
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Tremors
  • Palpitations
  • Sleep issues
  • Muscle pain

Inform your doctor immediately if your symptoms worsen to include respiratory distress or signs that you are developing a dependency. Your physician may adjust your dosage or make other arrangements for treating your heroin addiction.

Receive Buprenorphine Treatment at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

Our facility offers other treatments and therapies to help clients with addiction issues, mental health disorders, or a combination of the two. Clients get the chance to educate themselves about their addiction and better understand how to manage situations that might cause them to relapse.

If you or a loved one need help to overcome a heroin addiction, reach out to Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery at 833.448.0127.

Does Vivitrol Cure Drug or Alcohol Addiction?

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Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) gives rehab centers the ability to provide clients with a treatment option that can help sustain recovery. While it’s mainly used to treat drug addiction, it can also benefit individuals battling an alcohol addiction. Vivitrol treatment involves giving clients an extended-release form of naltrexone. Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery believes in the benefits of MAT therapy using Vivitrol.

How Does Vivitrol Work?

Vivitrol is a brand-name version of the medication naltrexone. Clients in MAT programs can take the medication as an injectable or in tablet form. Your system must be free of opioids, alcohol, or other toxins before you can start MAT with Vivitrol. That will keep you from experiencing withdrawal symptoms when they begin taking the medication.

People end up attracted to substances for different reasons. Opioids create euphoria feelings by stimulating the opioid receptors in your brain, while alcohol functions as a depressant to your central nervous system. Vivitrol blocks the receptors that typically respond to these substances, so they can’t produce the highs and other expected sensations typically produced when you consume drugs or alcohol.

How Can Vivitrol Help With Drug and Alcohol Addiction?

The FDA first approved the use of Vivitrol for alcohol addiction treatment back in 2010. Individuals who take the drug as part of MAT typically experience fewer cravings, which can help them avoid relapsing. It does the same for individuals working to overcome opioid addiction. The net effect is that people tend to stay in rehab longer, allowing them to absorb the lessons taught in therapy and apply them to their regular life.

Again, your body must be completely free of other substances if you want to experience the full benefits of Vivitrol. If you’re already taking buprenorphine, then the Vivitrol would interfere with the effects of that drug, which might make your withdrawal symptoms worse. Vivitrol stops opioid receptors from bonding with endorphins produced by opioids, making it extremely effective for treating opioid addiction.

Can Vivitrol Cure an Alcohol or Drug Addiction?

Once you become addicted to drugs or alcohol and become sober, you must remain in recovery mode for the rest of your life. While Vivitrol helps clients get through the rehab process with fewer cravings and withdrawal symptoms, it doesn’t cure your addiction issues.

Vivitrol treatment typically works as a complement to other therapies in a client’s treatment plan. Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery looks to treat all aspects of a client’s addiction issues. You also get the opportunity to participate in sessions consisting of dialectical behavior therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy, both of which have benefited clients who come in to treat an addiction.

Many who come to us for help may have underlying mental health disorders. People often turn to drugs or alcohol as a way of self-medicating the symptoms. They may not realize that issues like depression, anxiety, and PTSD could exacerbate their addiction problems.

That’s why the staff at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery takes the time to understand our clients so that we understand the full scope of their issues. That allows us to come up with individualized treatment plans to address every aspect of your illness.

Get Help For Addiction at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

While we can’t make promises of miracle cures at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we can promise to be there for you during every step of your sobriety journey. The comfort and safety of our clients are one of our top concerns. We work hard to provide you with the resources necessary to live a life free of drug and alcohol addiction.

Call Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery at 833.448.0127 if you’re ready to move your life in a more positive direction.

How Naltrexone Is Used to Treat Opiate Addiction

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The way that opioids interact with the brain makes opiate addiction difficult to overcome. It used to be that the main approach to helping people with opioid addiction was to have them go through withdrawal before receiving therapy and other forms of treatment. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) takes a different approach. Clients receive medication that alleviates withdrawal symptoms associated with opioids and other substances. Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery uses naltrexone as part of the MAT treatment offered at our facility.

What Is Naltrexone?

Naltrexone is a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved drug cleared for treating individuals with an opioid or alcohol addiction as part of MAT. It’s available in both a pill and injectable form and can be prescribed by those licensed to give out prescriptions to clients. Unlike other medications often provided through MAT, naltrexone is not an opioid.

Because it’s not an opioid, there’s a much lower risk of clients developing an addiction to naltrexone. You also don’t experience side effects if you decide to discontinue its use. Naltrexone itself can’t help a client overcome an addiction. It’s often used in conjunction with other elements of a client’s treatment plan like dialectical-behavior therapy and dialectal behavior therapy.

How Can Naltrexone Help with Addiction?

People turn to drugs and alcohol because of the feeling of euphoria or relaxation they produce. Opioids specifically bind with opioid receptors in the brain responsible for producing feelings of pleasure. Once your brain starts associating your opioid use with those emotions, you end up with a dependency that can eventually turn into an addiction. Alcohol can have a similar effect on various parts of your nervous system.

Naltrexone blocks the effects produced by drugs and alcohol by keeping the substances from binding with your opioid receptors. That means you don’t experience the highs from opioids or sedated feelings that come with drinking excessive amounts of alcohol. Naltrexone also reduces cravings and helps with opiate withdrawal, which can help you get through a treatment program and achieve recovery.

Your system must be completely clear of any toxins associated with drug or alcohol abuse before you start taking naltrexone. Clients should steer clear of using other illegal drugs or drinking while receiving the drug as part of MAT.

What Are the Side Effects of Taking Naltrexone?

Some clients do experience certain side effects from naltrexone treatment, including:

  • Diarrhea
  • Nervousness
  • Headaches
  • Vomiting
  • Stomach troubles
  • Muscle pain
  • Sleep issues
  • Fatigue

Make sure you inform your doctor about any adverse effects of naltrexone treatment. They can adjust your dosage or change you to a different medication. You should only take naltrexone as part of MAT and alongside other programs that provide you with the psychological and social support necessary to overcome your substance use disorder.

Naltrexone treatment can reduce your tolerance for opioids or other substances. Discontinuing your use of naltrexone can leave you more vulnerable to a potential overdose because you overestimate what your system can handle.

Receive Medication-Assisted Treatment at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

While naltrexone treatment can make it easier for you to get through a recovery program, it’s not a cure-all for addiction. You must still put in the effort needed to face the underlying issues driving your addiction. Our team of specialists sticks with you every step of the way as you learn to live a life free of substance abuse.

Other programs and services available at our recovery center include:

It’s not too late to change the direction of your life. Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery gives clients the chance to overcome addiction and restore their health. Start your new journey today by calling us at 833.448.0127.

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Cortland Mathers-Suter

MSSA
Managing Partner

Cortland Mathers-Suter entered the treatment space after his own battle with addiction. He first worked as a peer mentor, before starting clinical work while completing his Masters of Science in social administration from Case Western Reserve University where he focused on policy and direct practice. Cortland moved to Colorado in 2015 to start his first addiction treatment program, AspenRidge Recovery. Under his tenure, AspenRidge Recovery became a two-location, nationally accredited organization. He has since spent the last two years researching and developing what is now Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery (CMAR).

According to Cortland, “Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery is the most important organization I have had the honor to help build. We’re offering a service that seeks to not only improve the lives of our patients but also evolve how we look at medication-assisted treatment in Colorado entirely. Most individuals receiving medication-assisted care only receive medication and urinalysis. Sure you can call that ‘treatment,’ but you can’t call that ‘recovery.’ Our model is about adding the missing recovery component, and thus affords an opportunity to achieve lasting change for each patient and the industry.”

Cortland and his treatment programs have received numerous honors. These include Colorado Business Magazine’s “GenXYZ” award, the 2020 “Titan 100” award, and his program AspenRidge Recovery was both a finalist for “Best Healthcare Company” and named in the “Company’s to Watch” by Colorado Business Magazine as well. He has been interviewed and quoted by numerous publications for his “addiction expertise”, including News Week, 5280 Magazine, the Denver Post, Elephant Journal, Colorado Biz Mag, and TheRecoverySource.org.

Tyler Whitman

Compliance/HR Administrator

Tyler is originally from Omaha, Nebraska. He worked in manufacturing administration for 18 years until he chose to pursue recovery from alcohol addiction, which led him to Chicago, Illinois. Since then, Tyler gained experience in retail, retail pharmacy, and healthcare as a vaccine coordinator for a local Colorado clinic. At the clinic, Tyler discovered that healthcare was the career change he had been looking for. His newfound passion for healthcare, combined with his lived experience with addiction, brought him to Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery as an Office Administrator.

In his free time, Tyler enjoys cooking, hiking, and skiing. He is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Health Services Administration from Regis University.

Simmeren Boanvala

BA
Outreach and Admissions Representative

Simmeren comes to CMAR after several years working admissions in inpatient psychiatry and addiction. A first-generation Colorado Native, Simmeren attended CU Boulder, where she earned a BA in psychology. Simmeren is currently completing her CAC III while working toward her master’s degree in marriage and family therapy.

According to Simmeren, “I joined CMAR because I believe in the quality and importance of the program whole-heartedly. My goal at CMAR is to guide each prospect who calls CMAR to find the best possible pathway to their recovery”. Simmeren currently lives in her hometown with her dog and cat.

Tyler Hale

Tyler Hale

Community Partnership Lead

Tyler Hale began his career in addiction treatment following a decades-long fight with his own substance abuse issues. Since achieving long-term recovery, Tyler has held various positions in direct care, client services, admissions and outreach departments at various addiction treatment organizations. From sober living program director to outreach director to admissions director at a drug and alcohol treatment program, Tyler consistently finds himself in leadership roles within the addiction treatment space.

Tyler is originally from Chicago, IL, where he graduated from Loyola University Chicago with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Bioethics. Thereafter, Tyler built a successful career in the tech industry, before finding sobriety and a subsequent calling to help others. Tyler joined the team at CMAR because he believes in the efficacy of comprehensive and patient-centered outpatient treatment. In his free time Tyler enjoys camping, hiking and spending time with his newborn son.

Kirstin O’Carroll

MSW
Engagement and Relations Director

Kirstin O’Carroll started her career in addiction and mental health services 23 years ago after graduating with an MSW from The Oho State University. Hired directly from an internship program, she served as a case manager and vocational specialist on a community treatment team in Columbus, OH, working to help severely mentally ill adults remain at home and in a community setting. Within the same organization, she later transitioned to clinical assessment and crisis intervention services with children, adolescents, and adults. Through these experiences, she learned the importance of providing empathetic, high-quality care and the need to “start wherever the patient is” with regard to finding the best treatment & solutions for her patients.

After seven years, Kirstin made a career change to diagnostic sales and worked for several Fortune 500 companies as an acute care sales specialist. She is delighted to return “home” to her passion for helping others and believes her new role as community engagement coordinator for CMAR is the perfect alignment of both her clinical and sales skills. When not promoting CMAR, she can be found reading, running, hiking, watching movies, and spending time with her husband Dennis and senior canine son Reggie.

Thomas Mazzarella

LAC
Primary Therapist

Thomas is a Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC) in the State of Colorado and a Licensed Addictions Specialist (LCAS) in the State of North Carolina with particular expertise in the treatment of chronic Substance Abuse Addiction and Dependency.

Thomas is dedicated to Individual, Couples, Family, and Group Counseling and Therapy for individuals with Substance Use and Mental Health issues and concerns.

James Jackman

CAS
Primary Therapist

James Jackman is a Certified Addiction Specialist and has been practicing addiction treatment in Colorado since 2015. James is pursuing his bachelor’s degree in psychology from Metropolitan State University Denver. James is a traditional CBT therapist specializing in childhood events that lead to adult addictions.

James has received special training in Family Systems, Inner Child, Maladaptive Schemas, and Adverse Childhood Experiences. James has worked in many treatment settings throughout his career and uses a client-centered treatment approach to help one recover from destructive patterns that facilitate addiction. In addition, James enjoys working with rescue animals and advocates for several local rescue organizations outside of work.

Outside of the office, Megan enjoys spending time with her two German Shepherds and her cat. She is passionate about fostering animals through various local rescues to find adoptive homes for dogs and cats in need.

Megan Hanekom

LPC, LAC, NCC
Therapist & Clinical Compliance Officer

Megan is a licensed counselor who has worked in various mental health and addiction treatment environments. She practices cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing and believes in pulling from various therapeutic approaches to best support each individual. Megan received her bachelor’s in psychology and Spanish from Concordia College. She relocated from North Dakota to Colorado where she earned a master’s in counseling psychology from the University of Denver.

Outside of the office, Megan enjoys spending time with her two German Shepherds and her cat. She is passionate about fostering animals through various local rescues to find adoptive homes for dogs and cats in need.

Maggie Coyle

MA, LPC
Primary Therapist

Maggie Coyle, MS, MA, LPP, LPCC has worked in the mental health and addictions counseling field for the past six years. She has extensive experience in working in the varying levels of mental health and addictions treatment as well as with diverse populations.

She practices cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy as primary intervention methods. She has earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology as well as a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling both from Northern State University in Aberdeen, SD. She has also earned a master’s degree in addictions counseling from the University of South Dakota in Vermillion, SD. Maggie moved from South Dakota to Colorado in June 2020 and is excited to be a part of the CMAR team.

Michael Damioli

LCSW, CSAT
Clinical Director

Michael Damioli has been passionately working in the fields of addiction treatment and mental health since 2012. He has held a variety of different roles within the addiction recovery space, ranging from peer support to direct clinical practice. Notably, Michael was part of a leadership group that developed a small therapy practice into a nationally branded addiction treatment program, which offers multiple levels of care to recovering professionals. Michael is a strong believer in the family disease model of addiction and has focused much of his clinical work and training on supporting families impacted by addiction. He also specializes in treating individuals suffering from co-occurring chemical and process addictions.

Michael is honored to be leading the clinical care team at CMAR and believes that excellent clinical care begins by simply treating a patient with dignity and respect. Michael is a strong advocate for ethical reform within the addiction treatment field and is excited to promote CMAR as an ethical and thought leader throughout the treatment & recovery industry. Michael earned his master’s degree in social work from the University of Denver and is independently licensed as a clinical social worker with the state of Colorado. He holds an advanced post-graduate certificate in marriage and family therapy from the Denver Family Institute as well as an advanced certificate in sexual addiction counseling from the International Institute of Trauma and Addiction Professionals.

Dwight-Duncan

Dwight Duncan

Psy.D
Psychologist

Dr. Duncan was born and spent most of his early life in California. He received his doctorate in clinical psychology from the University of Denver in 1987. He is a licensed psychologist as well as a licensed addiction counselor. He has had extensive training and experience throughout his professional career in medical psychology, mindfulness, integrated behavioral healthcare, and substance abuse.

Dr. Duncan is married and has one daughter, a neurologic physical therapist in Los Angeles.

Susan-Miget

Susan Miget

NP
Medical Provider

Susan has been in healthcare for more than 20 years. She was an ICU nurse for nine years, then returned to school and completed her master of nursing and family nurse practitioner degree at the University of Missouri-St. Louis in 2007. She practiced pain management for many years before developing her current passion for addiction treatment.

Susan has transitioned her practice to focus entirely on addiction treatment. She has worked in residential treatment, partial hospitalization (PHP), and intensive outpatient (IOP) programs. Susan most enjoys working with patients one-on-one in a private office to protect their confidentiality and ensure top-rate care. Knowing that addiction can affect anyone, anywhere, and at any time, Susan continues to strive to make treatment more accessible and confidential.

Whitney-Grant

Whitney Grant

MSN, FNP-BC, ARNP, RN, CPN
Medical Provider

Whitney Grant is an experienced family nurse practitioner with experience and expertise in medication-assisted treatment. Whitney earned her BSN at the University of Miami before moving on to achieve a master of science in nursing degree there as well, becoming a nurse practitioner immediately thereafter.

Whitney has since achieved board certification from the ANCC as a family nurse practitioner. After spending her entire formative and educational years in South Florida, Whitney moved to Denver in 2018 to pursue a career as a provider in family practice, sub-specializing in addictions medicine. Whitney has worked under the guidance of Dr. Nathaniel Moore, CMAR’s medical director, since moving to Denver.

Nathaniel Moore

MD
Medical Director

Dr. Nathan Moore is board-certified by the American Board of Family Medicine. Dr. Moore attended Stanford University in Palo Alto, CA for his undergraduate work and then attended Duke University School of Medicine and obtained his M.D. in 1995. Dr. Moore then came to Colorado and completed his residency in family medicine at the University of Colorado’s Family Medicine Program at Rose Medical Center.

Dr. Moore practices primarily at our Aurora location. He provides comprehensive family medicine services and has a special interest in addiction medicine, treating patients with opioid use disorder as well as alcohol addiction.

Dr. Moore is married with three children. He enjoys mountain biking, running, and golf.