August 22, 2022
Learn how these four opioid addiction treatment medications can help reduce the effects of opioids in the body and how it helps patients in recovery.
Opioid addiction is an epidemic that continues to affect millions of Americans. Being addicted to opioids starts with drug dependence. Addiction first manifests when the person begins to rely on the effects of the drug until they develop a certain tolerance to opioids. As a result, they increase the dosage to feel the euphoria and numbing effects of the drug. Continued use leads to irregular sleeping habits, lack of hygiene, broken relationships, and weight loss.
The good news is if they’re willing, opioid addicts can enter a treatment center to recover from the addiction and rediscover a better way of life without drugs. In the facility, doctors often use medications to aid in the patient’s recovery from opioid addiction.
Wondering what types of medications are administered in these facilities? Here are four opioid addiction medications that you should know about.
Buprenorphine is an FDA-approved drug used for medication-assisted treatment of opioid use disorder (OUD). The medication acts as a partial agonist that produces effects of euphoria and respiratory depression at moderate doses. However, it is safe and effective as an opioid treatment medication as it can reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Buprenorphine can be in the form of film and tablets.
Brand Names: Subutex, Suboxone, Zubsolv, Bunavail, Probuphine, Sublocade
This ultimately depends on the brand. For example, Suboxone Sublingual Film is an orange film with a lime flavor that is placed under the tongue until it dissolves. The drug will not work properly if you chew or swallow the film. Subutex Sublingual Tablets work the same as films. Users are directed to place the tablet under their tongue and wait for it to dissolve.
The drug alone can’t treat OUD, but it works best if taken as part of an opioid addiction treatment program. Taking this medication can supplement psychological interventions such as counseling and therapies. There is no 100% guarantee that Buprenorphine will work for everyone. If the drug doesn’t produce the desired effects, work with your doctor to find a better medication.
The most common side effects include:
Naloxone is another FDA-approved medication for OUD but is specifically used to reverse opioid overdose rapidly. This drug is a first-aid medication for patients showing signs of opioid overdose. As an opioid antagonist, Naloxone binds itself to opioid receptors to prevent opioids from attaching. However, Naloxone is only a temporary medication for OUD. This drug is often mixed with Buprenorphine.
Brand Names: Prenoxad, Nyxoid
There are many ways to ingest Naloxone — intranasal, intramuscular, subcutaneous, or intravenous injection. Medical professionals, family, and friends may administer Naloxone to a loved one who is showing signs of opioid overdose. However, it’s best to let medical professionals inject Naloxone intravenously unless you or another family member has adequate training in administering Naloxone intravenously.
Naloxone temporarily blocks opioid receptors to prevent opioid drugs from attaching to them. This drug lasts only 30 to 45 minutes before it loses effectiveness. Once naloxone breaks free from the receptors, the remaining opioids will attach to these receptors. Naloxone is non-addictive, and users won’t feel euphoric effects when taking this drug. Patients who take naloxone won’t have a tolerance to the drug.
The side effects of naloxone are mild. However, receiving high doses of naloxone might produce withdrawal-like symptoms in opioid-dependent patients. Common side effects include:
High blood pressures and allergic reactions are rare side effects.
Methadone is an FDA-approved drug for OUD and pain management. This drug is part of a comprehensive treatment program that replaces heroin and other opioids. Methadone is an opioid agonist that blocks receptors. It is long-acting, usually staying longer in the system compared to naloxone.
Taking methadone helps in opioid craving and reduces the need to take opioids. As part of opioid addiction treatment medications, methadone can help recovering patients reclaim their lives.
Brand Names: Dolophine, Methadose, Diskettes Dispersible
Patients can ingest methadone orally in the form of syrup. It also comes in powder form and diskette form. Methadone is usually taken daily or as prescribed by the medical professional in charge of the patient’s treatment.
Methadone works best if it’s part of a treatment program as it can help reduce cravings and help the patient live a sustainable life. The usual dosage for methadone is once a day, but it can be less since it is long-lasting. Follow your doctor's prescribed dosage, and don’t go beyond the required dose.
Common side effects of methadone may include:
Pregnant and breastfeeding women can safely take methadone as long as prescribed by a medical professional.
Naltrexone is an opioid agonist that blocks the euphoric and sedative effects of opioid drugs like heroin and morphine. It also suppresses cravings, just like methadone. Naltrexone also attaches itself to opioid receptors, preventing opioids from attaching and causing euphoric effects. Extended-release formulas are available for naltrexone so that it stays longer in the body.
Brand Name: ReVia, Vivitrol, Depade
Naltrexone is often a maintenance drug for OUD patients. It is in tablet form, taken depending on the physician’s prescription. The dosage will depend on the patient’s needs and situation.
Naltrexone works best if used as part of a treatment program. However, this drug may not work in some patients. It’s best to work with your physician for alternative medications or replacements.
The side effects of naltrexone often go away after taking it for several days. Expect the following side effects:
It’s often difficult to overcome opioid addiction. But as challenging as the process may be, the fact that you’re seeking professional help means that you’re headed in the right direction. Help and guidance from medical professionals can make the recovery process easier and bearable with medication-assisted treatments to reduce cravings and ease withdrawal symptoms.
With Another Chance Rehab Center, IOP treatment for opioid addiction is only one call away. IOP doesn’t need hospitalization or confinement in a facility, so it’s the perfect program for working individuals. Call (971) 232-3850 now or fill out the contact form to get started.
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