Treatment for opiates in a drug treatment clinic

Opiates are a class of narcotic drugs that act on opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord. They can be naturally occurring (e.g. morphine, codeine), semi-synthetic (e.g. heroin) or synthetic (e.g. oxycodone, fentanyl).

Dependence on opiates develops because of several factors:

• With regular use of opiates, the body adapts to the presence of these substances and changes its physiological chemistry. This leads to the development of tolerance, meaning that a larger dose of opiates is required to achieve the desired effect. When the dose is reduced or discontinued, withdrawal symptoms such as muscle pain, seizures, anxiety, insomnia, sweating, etc. may occur.
• Psychological dependence on opiates is related to the constant desire and urge to use these substances to achieve pleasure, to feel euphoria, to relieve stress or to avoid unpleasant emotions. The patient may become psychologically dependent even after physical dependence has been eliminated.
• Opiates affect the brain’s reward system by stimulating the release of dopamine, a substance associated with feelings of satisfaction and pleasure. It creates pleasurable sensations and strengthens the link between opiate use and reward, which fosters addiction.
• External factors such as stress, environment, peers who use drugs, level of social support and co-occurring mental health disorders can increase the risk of developing opiate dependence.

Treatment for opiate dependence usually involves a combination of physical detoxification, psychotherapy, group support and, in some cases, the use of opiate substitution therapy or other medication.

Opiate Addiction Treatment Prices (Cost)

How opioid addiction is treated

Treatment for opioid dependence is usually phased, involves a comprehensive approach and can be individualised to meet the needs of each patient. Therapy typically includes:

• Medical supervision – the patient may be placed under medical supervision to manage withdrawal symptoms and safely remove opiates from the body (detoxification).
• Symptomatic treatment – appropriate medication may be prescribed to relieve physical withdrawal symptoms such as muscle pain, nausea, vomiting and insomnia.
• Opioid substitution therapy – in some cases opioid substitution medication such as methadone or buprenorphine may be used to help manage physical dependence, to reduce the need for opioids.
• Individual or group psychotherapy is an important part of opioid dependence treatment. It helps the patient to understand the reasons and factors contributing to drug use, develops relapse prevention strategies and teaches healthy ways to cope with stress and difficulties.
• Participation in group therapy or support group meetings helps the patient to find opportunities to connect with others with experience of opioid dependence and to receive support, inspiration and advice.

It is important to note that each patient is unique and the treatment plan may vary depending on their needs and circumstances. Treatment for opioid addiction should always be supervised by qualified medical professionals. It is not possible to get rid of the problem at home. 

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