The first step in treating a heroin addiction is to visit one of our three drug treatment centers located near West Palm Beach. Our physicians and other staff members will be able to evaluate your needs and offer an individualized care plan. These drug abuse professionals can help you learn the proper way to use medications to fight your drug addiction. They can also conduct periodic assessments and provide referrals to other treatment services such as counseling and AA/NA meetings.
Suboxone
Suboxone treatment is commonly used for recovering heroin addicts. It can help you get through drug detox without intensely craving the drug. The buprenorphine in Suboxone works by binding to the opioid receptors in your brain, which blocks withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Suboxone also contains naloxone, which prevents recovering addicts from abusing the drug. Suboxone is taken sublingually being placed under the tongue. If you’re prescribed sublingual Suboxone, you’ll place the prescribed dosage underneath your tongue and allow it to dissolve.
Methadone
Methadone has been used for decades to treat heroin addiction. Methadone is an opioid agonist that helps prevent withdrawal symptoms during drug detox . It also prevents the feeling of euphoria that fuels addiction. This medication is frequently used for recovering heroin addicts who were not able to successfully beat their addiction through other medications. If you’re prescribed methadone, you’ll have to go to an outpatient drug treatment clinic every day. Unlike Suboxone, methadone is only dispensed on a daily basis.
Naltrexone
Naltrexone is a non-addictive opioid antagonist that works by interfering with the actions of opioids in the brain. One possible drawback to naltrexone is that patients often have difficulty complying with their prescription instructions. A long-acting formulation of naltrexone is now available to counteract this problem. You could receive the injection once per month at an outpatient clinic, instead of taking daily doses.
Behavioral Therapy
Medications are essential for successfully overcoming heroin addiction. However, combining medications with counseling can be even more effective. The physician at your outpatient substance abuse center may refer you to a psychologist for behavioral therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy and contingency management have been shown to be particularly helpful for recovering heroin addicts.