Methadone is a synthetic opioid used to help individuals with natural opioid addiction, especially heroin. However, methadone treatment and rehab have been a common finding as one-third of individuals who use opiate-pain killers, die from an overdose of methadone due to its addiction. The rate at which this is happening has stimulated more research on how to minimize this effect.
Methadone has a dual nature, in that it helps to minimize the withdrawal symptoms associated with natural opioid addiction and can also result in significant addiction by individuals who use this medication. Methadone acts on the same receptors as heroin and morphine, this helps it to curb addiction to these natural opioids. It is also long-lasting and has some euphoric effects that can result in addiction. It is therefore necessary to get professional help in case of addiction especially because of the effective nature of the comprehensive methadone rehab programs.
Is Methadone Addictive?
Methadone is potentially addictive as it has a long-acting effect, which can result in some form of addiction over time. It, however, does not induce euphoria like the other natural opioids, especially in opioid-dependent individuals. Methadone is also safer to take under professional medical supervision than other natural opioids with unknown purity levels, because it is also taken orally instead of being injected like heroin, and could result in disease transmission if not properly taken. Look for more information on methadone addiction, withdrawal, and detox, on our website.
How Does Methadone Treatment Work?
The therapy for opioid use disorder (OUD) is usually not a one-size-fits-all strategy. This is largely because the duration of use of methadone for opioid addiction varies depending on the level of addiction. Some patients might use methadone for a lifelong treatment. This comprehensive and individualized approach ensures that healthcare providers tailor therapy to meet patients’ needs. Methadone binds to the same receptors as the other natural opioids, which makes it suitable for maintaining pain relief and gradually stopping opioid addiction. There are different treatment options in rehab facilities using this synthetic medication.
Treatment Options for Opioid Use Disorder (OUD)
These are:
- Inpatient treatment: This is a highly structured treatment modality that involves the use of a residential home where patients have access to a room, recovery support, and case management. In this type of treatment, there is 24/7 patient care within the facility. It is mostly ideal for patients who have low motivation for treatment as well as other associated complications. It could last up to several weeks or longer depending on the patient’s state of health.
- Partial hospitalization: This is quite similar to inpatient or residential treatment. The major difference is that the patients get to go back home after the completion of the day’s program. It is a structured daytime program, usually for those with more motivation for treatment than those seen in a full residential treatment setting.
- Intensive outpatient: This is different from outpatient treatment, in that patients spend more time than in the typical outpatient structure. It involves several hours of therapy each week. However, there are different schedules associated with it depending on its organization.
- Outpatient: This therapy occurs while living at home. It is a little less rigorous than the intensive outpatient structure. The amount of time spent is less, and there is also a lot of flexibility associated with it.
Irrespective of the treatment option embarked upon, it is important to monitor the mental health of such patients because of associated issues such as depression. Most of the intensive treatment options provide mental health assistance during the treatment process. This is important as a holistic approach to treatment.
Comprehensive Approach to Methadone Addiction Treatment
Methadone addiction treatment is a multifaceted process, as it should ideally involve medical professionals, therapists, and addiction specialists who can help in addressing different issues associated with this addiction. The specialists involved have specific roles that would go a long way toward ensuring a great recovery process.
Here are some of the important considerations that will provide a long-lasting foundation for recovery:
- The healthcare professional should carefully supervise the methadone detox, to ensure the patient’s safety and comfort. During the treatment process, professionals should monitor and check the patient’s reactions.
- Comprehensive care should be the focus. We should not ignore the other underlying medical issues, as they play a crucial role in the entire process.
- Healthcare providers should tailor and customize each patient’s treatment accordingly. Patients often have different needs, which can range from other underlying issues to overly intense addictions. Each program should specifically address the patient’s needs.
- A supportive and judgment-free environment should be a priority, especially for patients who are undergoing inpatient treatment. This will help the patients feel comfortable and be able to attain their recovery goals.
What to Expect in Rehab
There is a need to understand how rehab programs work and the goals associated with them. Professionals trained to meet your needs in a certified rehab will attend to you. Some of these needs could be specific or general. A typical rehab starts with an assessment of the new intakes.
On your first day at the rehab, you will undergo a comprehensive assessment to determine the extent of your addiction, any complications associated with it, any underlying conditions, and the level of treatment required. Specific tools will be utilized for this process to deliver the necessary information. During the transition from the assessment phase, healthcare providers will outline a treatment plan. The treatment plan will include specific details of program logistics, such as the setting, duration, and required professionals.
The next phase will be the detailed execution of the treatment plan. Each person involved will be kept informed and will take action as necessary.
During the treatment, some of the following will be put in place as required:
- Individual therapy to address personal challenges and develop coping strategies
- Group therapy to build a sense of community and learn from others’ experiences
- Family therapy to heal relationships and create a supportive home environment
- Holistic therapies like yoga, meditation, and art therapy promote overall well-being.
Following the completion of treatment, a personalized follow-up plan will be developed to support long-term recovery. This follow-up plan could include regular checkups, routine medication use, and therapy sessions, all depending on personalized needs.
What’s a Methadone Clinic?
A methadone clinic is a clinic specifically designed for patients with opioid addiction. Irrespective of your level of addiction, you need to know that you are not alone. At a methadone clinic, you will see a lot of similar minds trying to achieve the same thing by going through a program specially curated for them. All you need to do is to be determined to achieve your goals and then select a suitable methadone clinic.
When searching for a methadone clinic online, you will come across various clinics categorized based on ownership. Some methadone treatment centers are government-owned, while others are privately owned.
Before choosing a methadone treatment center, here are some guidelines to consider:
- Accreditation and licensing: In search of your desired methadone clinic, you need to be certain that the clinic is licensed in the state where the clinic is operating. Also, the Drug Enforcement Administration must register such clinics with proof of registration and certification.
- Staff qualification and experience: The expertise of the clinic needs to be checked. The professionals who will take part in the treatment process must be able to handle the demand professionally and suitably.
- Treatment approaches and philosophies: There are different treatment approaches peculiar to clinics. You need to be sure the philosophies surrounding the clinic’s methadone treatment programs are well suited for your needs.
- Success rates and testimonials: You should go over the success rates of the clinic you decide to choose. Patients with success stories from such programs will likely have reviews for the clinic. This will give you a good idea of how the clinic operates.
It’s time to get that admission into a methadone clinic of your choosing and discuss your unique needs. Don’t wait any longer, get help to attain your goals.
Conclusion
When trying to get off opioid addiction, professional help will always be necessary. These professionals train to provide systematic support throughout the entire treatment process. Also, there is usually a personalized program aimed at addressing every aspect of the treatment that will be beneficial to you.
Different success stories have suggested that, with the right support and treatment, recovery is possible. You, however, need to start by setting a determination to get it done. Get out of the loop of fear and indecisiveness. Search for a suitable methadone clinic that will address your specific needs, and reach out to them immediately.
