Opioid Recovery Medication

The first step in recovery treatment is to meet with a doctor or clinician. They’ll ask questions to create a treatment plan right for your needs.

The process may take 30 minutes, but it could also take a couple hours. Try to stay relaxed and answer honestly. Remind yourself that you are ready for treatment. 

Next, you will probably talk about medication to help you with withdrawal.

There are several medications used to treat opiate addiction. Each works differently and has different requirements. Most facilities only offer one type of medication for opioid treatment. 

Buprenorphine (Suboxone)

• You can take it at home with a prescription 

• Your prescription will usually give you a week supply to cover you until your next appointment

• You’ll meet with your medical doctor/ prescriber weekly

• You’ll be encouraged to also attend counseling and case management services 

• The longer the drug is in your system, the stronger the effects will be 

• Your doctor may suggest taking the medication less often to manage the effects

Side effects:

• Nausea, vomiting, and constipation

• Muscle aches

• Irritability

• Fever

Methadone

• You’ll take it in a highly structured environment

• You’ll need to take it for a minimum of 12 months

• Usually, during your first 90 days and or longer, you are required to pick up your medication from a doctor or a nurse every day. Then, you’ll pick it up each week and take it at home

• You’ll take this medicine orally

• One dose lasts one day, it is important that you do not miss a dose or take more than prescribed when you do not feel it working

• You’ll see your doctor for progress checks. You’ll attend support groups, and maybe go to substance abuse counseling and/or get case management services

• Drinking alcohol is NOT recommended while taking methadone

Side effects:

• Difficulty breathing or shallow breathing

• Lightheaded or faint

• Hives or rash, swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat

• Chest pain

• Fast or pounding heartbeat

• Hallucinations or confusion

Opioid Recovery Services

Everyone’s opioid addiction treatment plan is different. Most people use a few methods and approaches, not just one thing. Using medication, counseling and case management all together can make you more treatment more successful. Many providers also offer the following:

Treatment is based on your progress and your needs. There is no set timeframe that you will need to be in treatment.

Appointments & Walk-ins

If you have missed your first appointment that was scheduled prior to discharging, there are walk-in clinics available to obtain your medication!

Help With Recovery

Recovery is a journey. There are people ready to help you at every step.