Opiate Recovery

Recovery from opiates is a long, difficult process. Many need to take prescription medication to assist in reducing withdrawal symptoms. Several medications and treatment programs available to those who are recovering from an opiate addiction.

Methadone

• Methadone is one of the most widely prescribed treatments for opiate withdrawal. A synthetic narcotic, it helps alleviate withdrawal symptoms and has a sedative effect on the body. While effective, methadone can also be addictive.

Buprenorphine

• Buprenorphine is another synthetic narcotic that may be used instead of methadone. It is a newer drug and appears not to have as many addictive effects. However, like methadone, it must be prescribed by a doctor and used as part of a treatment program.

In-patient Recovery

• There are many drug rehab facilities where recovering addicts may participate in a treatment program lasting one to three months. There may be a waiting list for those offering free or low-cost care.

Out-patient Recovery

• Some addicts may opt for an out-patient program. This offers more freedom during treatment, but patients must meet frequently with counselors and medical professionals while in rehab. They must also submit urine samples, and some require attendance at peer recovery meetings.

12-step Program

• This is the famous recovery program of Narcotics Anonymous (NA). It is faith-based, although patients need not adopt a particular religion to participate. It is financed by donations only, and no fees are required to participate in this program.