Although opioids are useful in the management of pain and other symptoms, they’re also extremely addictive. Patients with opioid addiction often need professional treatment to recover. The experienced staff at New Life Recovery Solutions offers opioid addiction treatment to patients in Bellevue, Washington. To schedule a confidential consultation, contact the clinic today.
request an appointmentWhat is an opioid?
An opioid is a chemical that binds to specific receptors found in the body naturally. The body produces some of its own opioids, such as endorphins. However, opioid addiction can occur when patients take opioids that aren’t produced in the body. Examples of opioids that may be addictive include:
- Heroin
- Morphine
- Oxycodone
- Hydrocodone
Some of these medications may be prescribed for the temporary relief of pain, such as after surgery. Unfortunately, if patients take opioids for a significant period of time or in high doses, they can cause addiction quickly.
What is opioid addiction?
Opioid addiction occurs when a patient becomes physically and/or psychologically dependent on opioids. In most cases, patients become addicted to a specific opioid, such as heroin. Opioid addiction is dangerous for the patient, as it puts them at risk of serious health problems. Opioid addiction can also interfere with a patient’s personal and professional life considerably.
What causes opioid addiction?
When a patient takes opioids for a significant period of time, their body becomes accustomed to receiving the drug. If the patient tries to stop taking the drug, their body will react badly, which causes withdrawal symptoms. In addition, as a patient continues to take opioids, their body gradually builds a tolerance to the drug causing them to need larger doses of the drug to get the same effect. Both of these factors produce opioid addiction.
How can New Life Recovery Solutions help patients overcome opioid addiction?
New Life Recovery Solutions helps patients overcome opioid addiction by providing them with medical assistance and support designed to minimize withdrawal symptoms and help them learn to live without the drug.
During the first phase of treatment, many patients will participate in a medically assisted detoxification program. The patient will receive medications that reduce cravings and limit withdrawal symptoms, as well as continuous access to medical support until withdrawal has ended. Patients who choose to undergo opioid addiction treatment at New Life Recovery Solutions will also have access to:
- Individual counseling
- Family counseling
- Relapse prevention
- Other services to help them during recovery