Medications often play a vital role in addiction treatment and recovery, and they may be dispensed and monitored through a medication management program. Many individuals who struggle with substance abuse or addiction also have other medical and/ or psychological issues at play. For individuals who require the use of certain medications during their treatment for substance abuse and/ or addiction it is essential to employ the guidance of a medical professional. Individuals must make sure that all medications being taken are properly monitored and an individual is adequately supervised to ensure safety. Depending on the substance abused, certain medical precautions or assistance may be necessary. The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) publishes that medication management may serve to enhance treatment outcomes. Medications are generally only part of a comprehensive treatment plan that will also include therapies, counseling, and ongoing support. A medication management program can help to foster and enhance a sustained recovery.
Medication-Assisted Treatment
Substance abuse and addiction can wreak havoc in all areas of one’s life. There are several different treatment options for an individual struggling with substance abuse. Every individual is different and will respond distinctly to varying treatment methods available. Depending on the individual and his or her situation, a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program may be advised. For example, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, assert that medication-assisted treatment is an effective method of treatment for individuals struggling with opioid abuse and/ or opioid use disorders (OUD). Medication-assisted treatment is a combination of counseling and behavior therapies in conjunction with the use of medication to treat one’s substance use disorder. The two most common medications prescribed as a component of medication-assisted treatment are Methadone and Suboxone.
Medication Maintenance
Any individual who takes a controlled substance or any type of medication while in treatment should do so under the direct supervision of a medical professional. It is not uncommon that individuals who have abused drugs and/ or alcohol to have altered chemicals (body creates an excess of certain chemicals or is unable to produce an adequate amount of chemicals) in one’s body to a point that medication is necessary to help with recalibrating. It is also common for individuals who struggle with substance abuse to suffer from comorbid disorders that may require medication. In these situations, an individual who requires ongoing use of medications must remain under the continued supervision and care of a medical and mental health professional.
For Information and Support
If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one regarding substance abuse and/ or addiction, we recommend reaching out for help as soon as possible. If left untreated, substance abuse can result in long lasting and potentially life-threatening consequences. Keep in mind: you are not alone! There is an entire network of professionals that are available to help and support you and your loved one throughout the recovery process. The earlier you seek support, the sooner your loved one can return to a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life.
Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions regarding our specific program at Haven House Addiction Treatment and/ or general substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment related information. Our highly trained staff is readily available to discuss how we might best be able to help you and your loved one. We can be reached by phone at 424-318-3777. You are also welcomed to contact anytime us via email at admissions@hhtxc.com.
