Effects of Drug Rehab

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) notes that drug abuse and addiction are a substantial burden to society, costing over $181 billion for illicit drugs. Drug rehab encompasses a variety of methods used to help the abuser get clean. The strategies are utilized for different purposes and therefore have varying effects.

Medications

• Medications are used to treat addiction to opioids (heroin, morphine). Medications such as methadone and buprenorphine are helpful in alleviating painful opiate withdrawal symptoms.

Therapy

• Behavioral treatments focus on pinpointing the cause of the addiction. They also teach the patient necessary coping skills to handle environments that may tempt him use drugs.

Medication and Therapy

• Medications do not address the underlying cause of the addiction; therefore, medications are most effective when combined with other therapies.

Residential Programs

• Residential treatment programs can be highly useful, particularly for individuals with serious drug issues. It is a well-organized program that allows the patient to stay at a residence for six to 12 months.

Court-ordered Treatment

• According to NIDA, involuntary treatment (e.g. criminal justice setting) can be very effective. It can help to prevent a violator's return to criminal activity, especially if he continues to receive treatment after re-entering his community.