Quitting drinking can feel scary, lonely, and like an uphill battle. But, there is help and support for people diagnosed with AUD. In fact, the sooner someone with an alcohol use disorder seeks help, the better the chances of avoiding serious health complications.

What is Alcohol Use Disorder?

As previously mentioned, the alcohol use disorder definition describes individuals with a chronic, relapsing brain disorder, impairing them from being able to control drinking alcohol. But, how does AUD develop?

One of the biggest misconceptions about AUD is that it occurs as a result of “failed willpower.” This is not the case. The cause of alcohol use disorder is a combination of a person’s genes and their environment. And, one study referenced by Harvard.edu demonstrates that 77% of people with AUD have additional medical and psychiatric conditions. These include, but are not limited to, cancer, liver disease, pancreatitis, depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder.

Equal to understanding that AUD is not failed willpower is that the condition is common. Upwards of 15 million people in the United States struggle with alcohol use disorder.

What are the Symptoms of AUD?

While experts define alcohol use disorder as the inability to stop or control drinking alcohol, you may be wondering if there are other symptoms. There are several signs that you or a loved one could have AUD:

• Drinking more or longer than you originally planned
• Trying to reduce your alcohol consumption or quit repeatedly, unsuccessfully
• Getting sick after long periods of drinking
• Experiencing cravings and urges to drink
• Drinking and becoming sick from alcohol has prevented you from appropriately tending to your family, job, school, and/or routine activities
• Continuing to drink despite having problems with friends, family, and/or your work
• Giving up on activities and interests that are important in favor of drinking
• Increasing your chances of getting hurt because of drinking (driving, operating machinery, going to dangerous places, and having unsafe sex)
• Blacking out, feeling depressed, or experiencing health problems, but will not stop drinking
• Feeling that it takes more and more alcohol to achieve the desired effect (buzz)
• Having withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, depression, nausea, and/or trouble sleeping when you try to cut back or stop drinking alcohol

If you have one or more of the symptoms above, it may indicate the presence of alcohol use disorder. If you have AUD, don’t worry—you are not alone. And, help is available to you. Reaching out for support is the first step to what can be a promising and fulfilling life journey.

At Pinnacle Treatment Centers, we realize how frustrating and despairing it can feel in the face of an alcohol-related disorder. But, you don’t have to do it on your own, our compassionate staff is here to support you every step of the way. If you think you or someone you love needs help for alcohol addiction or alcohol abuse, visit us online or call today at 1-800-782-1520.

Headquartered in New Jersey, Pinnacle Treatment Centers is a recognized leader in comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment serving more than 35,000 patients daily in California, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. With more than 125 community-based locations, Pinnacle provides a full continuum of quality care for adult men and women which includes medically-monitored detoxification/withdrawal management, inpatient/residential treatment, partial hospitalization/care, sober living, intensive and general outpatient programming, and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder.

The post Defining Alcohol Use Disorder appeared first on Pinnacle Treatment Centers.

According to the latest statistics, 69.5% of all drug overdose deaths in the U.S. are due to opioids. This makes (mostly synthetic) opioids the main source of drug overdose deaths in the nation.

Historically, many people considered opioid-related overdoses mainly due to heroin. Increased awareness, however, has brought to light the problems associated with commonly prescribed opioids such as oxycodone and fentanyl contributing to the opioid epidemic in America.

But, exactly how does opioid addiction start? It’s a common and important question that we’ll answer in more detail below.

How Opioid Addiction Starts

Opioids refer to drugs that affect the nervous system. They can produce feelings of both pain-relief and pleasure. Despite the prevalence and insidiousness of opioid addiction, the causes of the condition are not fully understood.

What evidence-based research does show is that there is a combination of contributing genetic, environmental, lifestyle, and social determinants of opioid addiction.

Opioids such as hydrocodone, oxycodone, oxymorphone, morphine, codeine, and fentanyl are particularly addictive because of the way they interact with the brain. These drugs bind and activate opioid receptors, blocking pain signals from the brain to the body. Dopamine is then pumped throughout the body. This produces feelings of euphoria and relaxation, and what also triggers a person to continue seeking the drug.

Cause and Effect of Continuing Opioid Use

While in the short term, people using opioids can feel happy and at ease, continued use can lead to a host of harmful side effects. These symptoms and outcomes can include:

• Confusion
• Constipation
• Drowsiness
• Nausea
• Slowed breathing

More serious complications and consequences can include:

• Hypoxia, resulting from the brain being deprived of oxygen
• Increased risk of contracting HIV and other infectious diseases (from sharing needles and engaging in unprotected sex)
• Overdose
• Death

The longer opioids are used, the more difficult they are to quit, and the higher the risk becomes for experiencing one of the consequences listed above. In addition to health problems, opioid addiction destroys relationships, livelihoods, and emotional wellbeing.

If you are concerned that you may have a problem with opioids, you are not alone. As previously mentioned, this type of drug disorder affects millions of Americans. Learning how opioid addiction starts is the first step toward getting help.

At Pinnacle Treatment Centers we understand the complexities and loneliness that come with drug addiction. But, you don’t have to overcome it on your own, our compassionate staff is here to support you every step of the way.

If you think you or someone you love needs help for opioid addiction, visit us online. Or, for more information about drug abuse and addiction definitions, signs, and symptoms, call us today at 1-800-782-1520.

Headquartered in New Jersey, Pinnacle Treatment Centers is a recognized leader in comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment serving more than 29,000 patients daily in California, Indiana, Kentucky, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. With more than 110 community-based locations, Pinnacle provides a full continuum of quality care for adult men and women which includes medically-monitored detoxification/withdrawal management, inpatient/residential treatment, partial hospitalization/care, sober living, intensive and general outpatient programming, and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder.

The post What Causes Opioid Addiction? appeared first on Pinnacle Treatment Centers.

Addiction to alcohol or drugs, both prescription and illicit, wreaks havoc on a person’s life. Drug and alcohol dependence also impact the family and loved ones of the person with the addiction issue. From a decreased interest in hobbies to loss of jobs, addiction can turn a person’s life around in a matter of just months, leaving them struggling to pay bills, survive, and get medical care.

Often in addiction treatment support groups, ‘hitting bottom’ is discussed. For each person this can be a different place. There is an age group that has become one of the higher risk groups for developing addiction to prescription painkillers. This is the senior citizen and older adult population in our nation. And for these individuals, a noticeable ‘hitting the bottom’ is uncommon.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2015, death from drug overdose increased in all groups including those over the age of 60. With the onset of the baby boomers entering this age group, these numbers are predicted to climb.

Identifying substance use disorders (SUD) in this age group can be tricky. Many of the symptoms of addiction also present like symptoms associated with aging like memory loss, confusion, and balance issues.

And while illicit drug use is not uncommon in this aging population, prescription drug abuse is more of a concern. A report by the National Center for Health Services revealed that from 2013 to 2014, there were 40 percent of people over the age of 65 years who took five or more prescription medications in the last month.

Chronic pain is common amongst the elderly and there has been an increase in opioid prescription painkillers which has resulted in increased rates of SUD for seniors across our nation. Adding to the dependence is the fact that the body’s ability to filter and process medications slows with age.

There are many seniors in the United States in need of addiction treatment. However, many seniors are on a fixed budget and have Medicare as their primary means of health insurance. So, the question is posed, are there quality addiction treatment centers for senior citizens that accept Medicare?

The answer is yes! There are drug rehabs that accept Medicare. However, it may be difficult to find a drug rehab that accepts Medicare or a Medicare substance abuse treatment center at first search.

Pinnacle Treatment Centers has rehab locations across the nation that take Medicare. Offering treatment for drug addiction, Pinnacle’s admission team works with you or your loved one to find the best treatment program for you.

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), the cost is one of the primary reasons individuals with an alcohol or drug dependence don’t seek or receive proper treatment. This is particularly true for the elderly on fixed incomes.

If you—or a senior you love—have Medicare and are in need of treatment for an addiction issue, finding a rehab center that accepts Medicare is essential.

Medicare Addiction Treatment

Finding a rehab that takes Medicare is the first step in recovery from dependence on any substance. Once you find a few that are Medicare approved rehab centers, you’ll want to look more closely at your (or your loved one’s) specific needs. Not only do you want a rehab that takes Medicare but also one that is experienced in addressing any other needs you may have.

It is common for individuals, including the elderly, with a substance use disorder (SUD) to also have a co-occurring mental health issue or a dual diagnosis. Often seniors are isolated and lonely which can lead to depression. This is why you’ll also want to locate dual diagnosis treatment centers that accept Medicare. The most common co-occurring mental health issues include depression, anxiety disorders, and mood disorders. At Pinnacle’s opioid treatment programs, counseling is a key component of treatment and is where a lot of co-occurring issues can be addressed.

You’ll also want to see if there are any other substance abuse issues in addition to the primary substance use disorder. For example, someone’s primary dependence may be to an opiate however, after a closer look a dependence on another substance like alcohol may be a problem too. For this reason, finding a drug rehab that accepts Medicare and treats both opioid use disorder and alcohol use disorder is vital.

Pinnacle Treatment Centers has locations across the United States offering a variety of programs and treatments. At Pinnacle, we vow to be with you every step of the way on your recovery journey. Contact Pinnacle for more information on our Medicare approved rehabilitation centers.

Headquartered in New Jersey, Pinnacle Treatment Centers is a recognized leader in comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment serving more than 29,000 patients daily in California, Indiana, Kentucky, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. With more than 110 community-based locations, Pinnacle provides a full continuum of quality care for adult men and women which includes medically-monitored detoxification/withdrawal management, inpatient/residential treatment, partial hospitalization/care, sober living, intensive and general outpatient programming, and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder.

Facility Spotlight:
Western KY Medical
609 Hammond Plaza
Hopkinsville, KY 42240

The post Finding Help for Addiction: Drug Rehab Centers that Accept Medicare appeared first on Pinnacle Treatment Centers.

Opioid addiction and the opioid crisis continue to impact millions across our nation. Opioid addiction in America has not only devastated families and communities, it also plagues the United States by taking approximately 175 lives per day. In October of 2016, President Trump declared the opioid epidemic a national public health emergency under Federal Law.

This declaration enabled the following to occur:

• Taking appropriate action to respond to the public health emergency including making grants
• Entering into contracts
• Conducting and supporting investigations into the cause, treatment, or prevention of the disease or disorder.

Later in March 2017, the President’s Commission on Combating Drug Addiction and The Opioid Crisis was formed. For anyone who has not somehow been touched first-hand by the opioid epidemic, the reason for such actions may be unclear. However, with a little information about the history of opioid addiction in the United States and the ongoing opioid addiction crisis, it becomes clear.

The History of Opioid Addiction in the United States

The opioid epidemic is like no other drug problem our nation has ever faced. The problem started in the 1990s when medical professionals began to prescribe opioid painkillers to treat pain. Unbeknownst to many at that time, the medications were highly addictive. And in fact, many maintain that the pharmaceutical companies knew otherwise but continued to tell medical professionals these prescription opioids like hydrocodone, oxymorphone, morphine, codeine, and fentanyl were not only non-addictive but safe for the patient. Sadly, this couldn’t be further from the truth.

Not only did this overwhelming prescription of opioids to patients begin to fuel what’s now an epidemic at the same time pharmaceutical companies’ marketing heavily promoted these opioid painkillers to the medical community. The results? America became the world leader in opioid prescriptions and now has more deaths each year (64,000 in 2016) from opioids for adults under the age of 50 than from car accidents, guns, or HIV/AIDS ever has in one single year. To make it even clearer, this one-year rate of death from opioids is a higher death toll than the Unites States’ military had in both the Vietnam and Iraq wars combined.

The opioid crisis in America is serious. And while the impacts can be seen and felt in every state, there are regions of the United States which are being hit the hardest with the Southwest and Appalachia region leading the way in deaths from overdose. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) illustrates this with an opioid addiction map which shows both overdose rates by state from 2014 through 2018 and U.S. overdose change rates by state from 2015 through 2018.

The President’s Commission on Combating Drug Addiction and The Opioid Crisis set forth recommendations in order to bring these numbers down. It is possible to stop the opioid crisis; it takes each person to play their part.

One of the main recommendations is to remove barriers to treatment. In the United States, it can be sometimes easier to get drugs, such as opioids, than it is to get into or find nearby affordable treatment for opioid addiction or addiction to alcohol or another drug. It was also recommended to work on non-addictive treatments for pain.

If you or someone you love is struggling with an addiction to an opioid, prescription or illicit, there is hope. Many who have lived in the pain and despair of opioid addiction have sought help and found they can recover from addiction. You or your loved one can too.

Pinnacle Treatment Centers helps people addicted to prescription or illicit opioids find their path to recovery every day. Remember, when it comes to addiction, no matter how bleak life may look, there is help and hope for you or your loved one. It all starts with finding the courage to take the first step. Contact Pinnacle today and we’ll support you or your loved one every step of the way.

Headquartered in New Jersey, Pinnacle Treatment Centers is a recognized leader in comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment serving more than 29,000 patients daily in California, Indiana, Kentucky, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. With more than 110 community-based locations, Pinnacle provides a full continuum of quality care for adult men and women which includes medically-monitored detoxification/withdrawal management, inpatient/residential treatment, partial hospitalization/care, sober living, intensive and general outpatient programming, and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder.

Facility Spotlight:
Aegis Treatment Centers – Eureka
2107 1st Street
Eureka, CA 95501
(707) 273-6395

The post Opioid Addiction Epidemic: Get the Facts appeared first on Pinnacle Treatment Centers.

Addiction to both prescription and illicit drugs in the United States is growing. Pennsylvania (PA) is one of the states with the highest rates in increases as well as overdose deaths. In 2018, opioids were involved in 46,802 overdose deaths in the state—nearly 70% of all overdose deaths. Deaths involving synthetic opioids, such as fentanyl, continued to rise with more than 28,400 overdose deaths in 2018. Pennsylvania drug rehab is needed by many in the state.

Pennsylvania rehab centers are welcoming more individuals into their drug detox centers than in previous years. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), in 2019, Pennsylvania rehab centers saw more than 19,000 admissions. There’s no doubt, quite a lot of people are seeking drug and alcohol treatment in PA.

Pinnacle Treatment Centers has a longstanding history of helping thousands of men and women every day recover from addiction. If you or someone you love is struggling with dependence or addiction to a drug or alcohol, there are many drug treatment centers in PA that can help. From medication-assisted treatment (MAT) to intensive outpatient programs (IOP), Pinnacle’s Pennsylvania rehab centers offer effective treatment programs. Finding the best drug rehabs in PA depends on each person’s unique treatment needs.

When considering drug treatment centers in Pennsylvania, it’s vital to take an honest look at your (or your loved one’s) drug or alcohol dependence. You’ll want to consider the following:

• How often the substance is consumed?
• How long has it been taken?
• What quantities are used?

Drug Treatment Centers in PA

Safely navigating the first step in recovery is crucial for long-term recovery from drugs or alcohol. Pinnacle Treatment Centers has 13 outpatient addiction treatment centers throughout PA. Each of the drug treatment centers in PA provides a variety of program options. From medication management to help sustain long-term recovery to individual and group therapy, these drug treatment centers offer individualized treatment programs to meet the unique needs of each client.

Our Pennsylvania drug rehabs have experienced, trained staff to help support patients through the next phases of recovery. Psychotherapeutic treatments are a key ingredient in sustaining long-term recovery. A Pennsylvania drug rehab offering evidence-based treatment programs such as Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT), Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET), and Motivational Interviewing should be sought for effective treatment.

It’s also important to assess other needs you or your loved one may have. Are there any co-occurring mental health issues such as anxiety or depression? Do you or your loved one also have a problem with another substance such as cannabis or alcohol? Are you able to leave your family and other responsibilities for residential treatment or do you need an outpatient program to begin?

Depending on the answers to these questions, the chosen Pennsylvania drug rehab should be able to address all of these concerns and more. Pinnacle Treatment Centers provides a full and comprehensive assessment of each person who comes to us for help. Following the assessment, we are able to customize a suggested program of recovery meeting the specific needs of each client.

At Pinnacle, we know the first step in getting help and finding one of the best drug rehabs in PA can be hard. We are here for you. With Pinnacle, you are not alone in your first days of recovery and we stick with you through your entire recovery journey. Contact Pinnacle today and discover if we have the right Pennsylvania rehab center for you or your loved one.

Headquartered in New Jersey, Pinnacle Treatment Centers is a recognized leader in comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment serving more than 29,000 patients daily in California, Indiana, Kentucky, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. With more than 110 community-based locations, Pinnacle provides a full continuum of quality care for adult men and women which includes medically-monitored detoxification/withdrawal management, inpatient/residential treatment, partial hospitalization/care, sober living, intensive and general outpatient programming, and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder.

Facility Spotlight:
Summit Medical Services
3121 Smallman Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15201
412-255-8717

The post Pennsylvania Drug Rehab: Find the Right One appeared first on Pinnacle Treatment Centers.

Illicit drug use and prescription drug use have skyrocketed in the last decade. Substance abuse or drug addiction devastates not only the person using but also the loved ones and family members of that individual. Relationships are damaged and broken, bills unpaid, homes and jobs lost, health negatively impacted, and more painful occurrences happen when a person becomes dependent on drugs.

Anyone who is living with drug addiction or substance use disorder (SUD) may say to themselves, “I need help,” but do not know what to do, may fear treatment, and may be embarrassed admitting they have an issue let alone asking for help.

Family members who love someone with a SUD may too ask themselves, “How do I help them?” It can be difficult and painful to watch someone you love to live in active addiction to any substance.

For anyone who is living with an addiction or cares about someone who has an active addiction, it’s important for you to know there is help and there is hope. Pinnacle Treatment Centers knows how hard it can be to take the first step and ask for help. Our compassionate, experienced treatment teams offer hope, tools, and the support you need to recover from drug addiction. We can also help you to understand how to help a loved one with drug addiction.

How to Get Help with Drug Addiction

Addiction impacts many more than just the person using the drug. It impacts family, friends, and even co-workers. When you want to help a friend with drug addiction, it can be challenging. After all, it really comes down to that person being ready to accept that they may have a problem and know they need help with drug addiction. This can often be the biggest obstacle faced.

Getting help for a drug addiction means first realizing there may be a problem. It’s important to realize that this can be very difficult for anyone with drug addiction. Although deep down they may know they need drug and alcohol addiction help, people who are addicted have come to rely on these various substances just to get through the day. The idea of facing life—on a daily basis—without their substance of choice, can often be too much to bear.

Detox An Important First Step

Detox is a vital part of any treatment for drug addiction. The body must first rid itself of the individual’s drug or drugs of choice (or alcohol) before effective therapy can begin. The detox or detoxification process should be managed under the care of experienced and caring medical and addiction treatment professionals. This is vital in order to safely get through the often-difficult withdrawal process. For many who attempt to detox on their own, they find that this acute phase of recovery has too many uncomfortable symptoms of withdrawal and they end up relapsing. In addition, quitting using alcohol or drugs suddenly and at home can be deadly.  It’s essential to find a quality treatment center with a detox program.

There are also medications that can assist with the detox process. These medications help to combat any potential complications as well as decrease withdrawal symptoms. Finding an addiction treatment center with a medically monitored detox program is crucial to getting through the first stages of recovery successfully. Pinnacle Treatment Centers offers a thorough initial assessment to see if medical detox is needed for each person who enters our facilities. If it’s revealed that detox will be required, many of Pinnacle’s locations have detox services on-site.

Consider Co-Occurring Issues

If you are living with a drug addiction, you may want to know how to get help. It’s vital to dig deep when considering places to get help and consider any underlying or co-occurring issues you or your loved one may have. Many people with alcohol or drug addictions also have co-occurring mental health issues. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), 7.7 million American adults have co-occurring mental health and substance abuse issues. Common mental health issues that are found with drug addiction are depression, anxiety, and trauma.

It’s essential to find a treatment center with experience and expertise in treating all conditions. Seeking treatment for both at the same place and same time has been found to increase the odds of sustainable, long-term recovery.

Pinnacle Treatment Centers understands the nuances and needs of those who have co-occurring mental health issues with a substance abuse problem. Often, one condition can hide or obscure the other. At Pinnacle, our experienced, compassionate team works to uncover any underlying conditions. This is a key part of helping find the right path forward for you or your loved one.

If you or a loved one need help with drug addiction, Pinnacle is here for you, offering hope, help, and the right path for you to find optimal, sustainable health and well-being. Contact Pinnacle today for getting help with drug addiction or an alcohol issue. A new, vibrant life is just a phone call away.

Headquartered in New Jersey, Pinnacle Treatment Centers is a recognized leader in comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment serving more than 29,000 patients daily in California, Indiana, Kentucky, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. With more than 110 community-based locations, Pinnacle provides a full continuum of quality care for adult men and women which includes medically-monitored detoxification/withdrawal management, inpatient/residential treatment, partial hospitalization/care, sober living, intensive and general outpatient programming, and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder.

Facility Spotlight:

Recovery Works Portage
6847 N Chestnut St
Ravenna, OH 44266
330-577-5116
*located on the 3^rd floor of University Hospitals Portage Medical Center

The post Drug Addiction Help: Who Needs It and How to Get It appeared first on Pinnacle Treatment Centers.

By Nicole Stopper, Executive Director, Williamsport Family Medical Center, one of Pinnacle’s 13 outpatient opioid treatment programs in Pennsylvania

Today there are many different treatment options when it comes to a substance use disorder (SUD), which is also commonly referred to as drug addiction. From specialized addiction treatment centers and programs to medications to help an individual detox safely as well as medications to help reduce cravings and prevent relapse, treatment for addiction has come a long way.

One of the most commonly used medications in recovery from addiction to opioids, both prescription opioids like hydrocodone, oxymorphone, morphine, codeine, and fentanyl, and illicit opioids like heroin, is methadone.

Methadone, along with a commitment to recovery, evidence-based behavioral therapy, and a strong support system, improves the odds of an individual experiencing long-term recovery from addiction to opioids.

Methadone is a synthetic, analgesic drug used for the treatment of pain as well as to treat narcotic drug addiction. It is similar to morphine with longer-lasting effects. Common brands are Diskets, Methadone Intensol, Methadose, and Dolophine. A prescription is required to obtain methadone.

Why is Methadone Used in Addiction Treatment?

Drug addiction and the process to stop using drugs are ongoing. The first step is to stop the use of the drug whether it be an opioid, alcohol, cocaine, meth, or any other substance. But stopping use is just the beginning. Addiction is a chronic, relapsing disease and just like other chronic diseases such as asthma, diabetes, or arthritis, there isn’t a cure. However, with daily maintenance, addiction can be managed and anyone who has a drug addiction can live happy, abundant lives free from the devastating cycle of a substance use disorder.

The first step in reclaiming one’s life is stopping the use of the drug or drugs. Often medications can be helpful in this stage. Medications, like methadone, help in this process. The effects of methadone can help with uncomfortable, often debilitating withdrawal symptoms, support an individual staying in treatment, and also help to prevent relapse.
Discontinuing narcotic drug use such as the use of opioids can be difficult. From anxiety, sleeplessness, nausea, depression, and other issues, the body will crave using the drug again. Often these cravings are very challenging to overcome without the help of a medication such as methadone. Medications like methadone can help the body to adapt by slowing drug cravings and having a calming impact on the body.

What Are Side Effects of Taking Methadone?

Methadone as well as other medications like buprenorphine, naltrexone, and lofexidine, can be very effective in helping an individual with opioid dependence to overcome their addiction. However, as methadone is a narcotic, it can also be abused. This is why methadone is a highly regulated drug. For this reason, patients who are prescribed methadone as a maintenance drug have to go daily to clinics for their dosages.

If anyone uses methadone outside of how it is prescribed, it is considered to be abuse. In fact, methadone has become the drug of choice for some. When someone is taking methadone, one of the side effects is the blocking of the effects of heroin. However, methadone itself produces euphoric effects and for that reason, it is sometimes abused.

Other side effects of methadone include:

• Sedation
• Decreased attention span
• Slower reaction times
• Weakness of muscles
• Drowsiness
• Lowered blood pressure
• Dry mouth
• Reduced reaction to light

It’s important to understand that individuals who are utilizing methadone to help them with opioid addiction are more at risk to becoming addicted to methadone. Methadone is a powerful opioid with side effects of use. If methadone is being abused, there is also a risk of overdose.

If you or a loved one are prescribed methadone, it’s vital to use it as prescribed. If you think you or your loved one may be developing a problem, let your treatment team know.

Methadone can provide immeasurable help in recovery from an opioid addiction if used in conjunction with other recovery tools. Finding the right treatment center that knows how to successfully treat opioid addiction can make all the difference between relapse and long-term recovery. Pinnacle Treatment Centers knows what it takes to help you recover from opioid addiction. Contact us today. At Pinnacle, we save lives.

Headquartered in New Jersey, Pinnacle Treatment Centers is a recognized leader in comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment serving more than 29,000 patients daily in California, Indiana, Kentucky, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. With more than 110 community-based locations, Pinnacle provides a full continuum of quality care for adult men and women which includes medically-monitored detoxification/withdrawal management, inpatient/residential treatment, partial hospitalization/care, sober living, intensive and general outpatient programming, and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder.

Facility Spotlight:

Williamsport Family Medical Center
2062 Lycoming Creek Rd., Suite 8
Williamsport, PA 17701
570-505-1123

The post Uses for Methadone appeared first on Pinnacle Treatment Centers.

The opioid crisis in our nation continues to claim lives on a daily basis. And those who pass away from death due to an opioid overdose leave behind mourning loved ones who are left to wonder what, if anything, they could’ve done to help. Sadly, in many cases, loved ones have done all they can and the fact is that if only the person who is struggling with an addiction to an opioid, alcohol, or another substance can help themselves.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) reports that between 21 and 29% of those who are prescribed opioids will misuse them, about 8 to 12% will develop an opioid use disorder (OUD), and 4 to 6% will end up using heroin. While these percentages may seem relatively low, this translates into thousands upon thousands of people becoming addicted to dangerous opioids each year.

When faced with an addiction issue, the future may seem bleak and hopeless. One seems to be living only to get their next ‘high’ so they can survive. Images of happiness, joy, and being a healthy part of society are all but gone—and for many, they have given up hope completely.

If you or someone you love is living with an addiction to an opioid, alcohol, or any other substance, there is hope and help for you—it’s just a call away. Despite the overwhelming numbers of addiction, thousands of people seek treatment for addiction every day. And thousands live in recovery celebrating life once again. You (or your loved one) can too.

Pinnacle Treatment Centers understands how difficult recovery can be and has compassionate, knowledgeable, and experienced staff who help thousands across the nation recover from addiction on a daily basis.

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) along with evidence-based behavioral treatment are the most effective ways to improve the chances of long-term recovery from opioid abuse. One of the most commonly used medications in MAT for opioid addiction is methadone.

Methadone is a long and slow-acting opioid used to treat heroin addiction or addiction to other opioids. It has been used since the 1950s to treat addictions to heroin and more recently other opioids. It is helpful for those with opioid addiction to ward off the most difficult withdrawal symptoms helping to prevent relapse.

Methadone is a prescription medication that must first be given by a doctor in either a tablet or liquid form. Most people taking methadone utilize a methadone clinic. Many clinics, such as those of Pinnacle Treatment Centers, do the initial medical assessment, administer the first dose and provide daily dosing beyond that. Many times people who either have an opioid addiction themselves or have a loved one with an addiction to opioids wonder the best way to stop using opioids and how methadone clinics work.

Understanding How Methadone Clinics Work

Methadone clinics are established solely for the purpose of dispensing medications used in medically assisted drug therapy treatments. Often what is referred to as a ‘methadone clinic’ also provides other medications such as Suboxone and naltrexone.

Most individuals on methadone maintenance therapy (MMT) need to have daily doses and are closely monitored for the first seven to 10 days. After this initial period, most are able to then visit their methadone clinic on a daily basis for at least six months to get their daily dose. After the first six months, if an individual is in compliance with the expectations of the clinic and their individual treatment plan, they may be permitted to take home supplies for a few days or in some cases weeks.

It’s vital to stay on the prescribed amount of methadone consistently and adhere to all the protocols established as this is how methadone clinics work at being successful in helping those with addiction issues work towards long-lasting recovery. Research has shown that when a person stays on MMT for one year or more there are positive lifestyle changes including a reduction in criminal behaviors and transmission of disease.

If you or someone you love is living with an addiction to an opioid, alcohol, or another substance, it’s important to know that there is help. There are people who understand and have been where you are, too. Taking the first step towards getting treatment for addiction is often the most difficult one. At Pinnacle, we vow to be there for you every step of the way—not just during your treatment but along your recovery journey. Take the first step today.

Headquartered in New Jersey, Pinnacle Treatment Centers is a recognized leader in comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment serving more than 29,000 patients daily in California, Indiana, Kentucky, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. With more than 110 community-based locations, Pinnacle provides a full continuum of quality care for adult men and women which includes medically-monitored detoxification/withdrawal management, inpatient/residential treatment, partial hospitalization/care, sober living, intensive and general outpatient programming, and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder.

Facility Spotlight:

Summit Medical Services
3121 Smallman Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15201
412-255-8717

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The United States is in the midst of an opioid epidemic. And the statistics on drug addiction are staggering. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), data from 2018 revealed that each day about 128 people die from overdosing on opioids. These opioids include both legal opioids such as pain killers as well as illicit drugs such as heroin and fentanyl.

Opioid misuse and addiction are taking a heavy toll on our nation. From economic impacts and deaths to the serious health issues faced by those abusing opioids and the children who lose one or both parents to this crisis, the statistics about drug addiction are sobering.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that the economic burden from opioid misuse in the United States is upwards of $78 billion a year. This U.S. drug addiction statistics include the cost of addiction treatment, criminal justice involvement, healthcare costs, and lost productivity.

If you or someone you love is living with a drug addiction to an opioid or another substance you are not alone—as these statistics of drug addiction clearly show. It’s important to know that there is hope. And while the drug addiction facts and statistics are bleak, help is only a phone call away.

Every day, people who represent one of the drug and alcohol addiction statistics take the first brave step toward recovery and seek help. You can too. At Pinnacle Treatment Centers, we know that the road to recovery can be challenging. But we want you to know that when you enter treatment at one of our locations, we are with you every step of the way.

The drug addiction treatment statistics reflect this – according to the 2015 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), an estimated 2.3 million Americans over the age of 12 received treatment for a substance use disorder (SUD). There are many more who need treatment but many are getting the help they need and discovering vibrant lives in recovery.

Signs of a Substance Use Disorder or Drug Addiction

When it comes to a SUD or drug addiction and the related signs, there are both physical and behavioral symptoms to watch for if you’re concerned. Here are some of the most common drug addiction symptoms:

Behavioral

• Moodiness such as agitation, irritability, and aggression
• Depression and/or anxiety
• Criminal activity
• Lack of motivation, lethargy
• Loss of interest in hobbies, work/school, family, friends
• Priority and interest changes

Physical

• Weight changes that are sudden
• Pupil changes such as very dilated or constricted
• Sleeping pattern changes
• Poor appearance or lack of attention to hygiene and personal appearance
• Physical coordination issues
• Eyes that appear bloodshot or glazed over

These are general signs of drug use or a problem with drug addiction. There are more specific symptoms for different substance abuse issues. However, if you observe these changes, it’s time to look closer at yourself or your loved one.

When you are ready to learn more about drug addiction or take the first step towards a vibrant life in recovery, Pinnacle Treatment Centers is here for you. Visit us online to learn more or call us at 1-800-782-1520.

Headquartered in New Jersey, Pinnacle Treatment Centers is a recognized leader in comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment serving more than 29,000 patients daily in California, Indiana, Kentucky, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. With more than 110 community-based locations, Pinnacle provides a full continuum of quality care for adult men and women which includes medically-monitored detoxification/withdrawal management, inpatient/residential treatment, partial hospitalization/care, sober living, intensive and general outpatient programming, and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder.

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Our nation is in the middle of a drug epidemic with opioid addiction leading the way. Opioid addiction doesn’t impact just the person who is struggling with the substance use disorder; the families—including parents, siblings, spouses, children, aunts, uncles, and cousins—as well as friends and co-workers also suffer from the fallout of addiction.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 2017, there were more than 46,000 drug overdose deaths from opioids with deaths from synthetic opioids increasing by 10% from 2017 to 2018.

If you or someone you love is in the grips of an opioid addiction you know firsthand the pain, the isolation, and the constant worry it brings. No matter how far you or your loved one has progressed with opioid addiction, there is hope. Thousands of people just like you who once thought recovery was impossible now live productive, happy, and vibrant lives free from opioid addiction. You can too.

Based on research, the most effective means to recover from opioid addiction is two-fold; evidence-based therapy and medication-assisted treatment for opioid addiction.

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) can be used for various substance use disorders (SUD) within opioid treatment programs (OTPs). OTPs offer both medication and behavioral therapy to help individuals overcome their addictions to all types of opioids including heroin, prescription opioids, and other synthetic opioids such as fentanyl.

There are different medications used for opioid addiction treatment. After assessment at an addiction treatment center, individuals become eligible for some of these drugs to treat opioid addiction. As each person is unique, so is their exact course of treatment. That is why the specific opioid addiction medication prescribed varies from one person to another. However, there are three medications currently used.

What Drugs Are Used to Treat Opioid Addiction?

As mentioned, there are three FDA-approved opioid addiction treatment medications used in conjunction with evidence-based behavioral therapy to help those working to recover from opioid addiction. Overcoming addiction, to any substance including opioids, is challenging. With the right people and the right medications, obstacles can be overcome, one step at a time.

Three FDA-Approved Medications for Opioid Addiction Treatment

1. Buprenorphine (Suboxone)
   There are several different types of buprenorphine medications used for opioid addiction treatment. The most well-known of these is the brand name Suboxone. Suboxone is a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone. Buprenorphine is the active drug in Suboxone and works as a partial agonist opioid, meaning it mimics working like an opioid with reduced effects. In addition, it has what is called the ‘ceiling effect’. This means that even with repeated doses, the effects level off, reducing the chance of dependency. It also helps with withdrawal and cravings, helping individuals stop using other opioids. Naloxone works as an opioid blocker.

2. Methadone
   Many have heard of methadone but often wonder how methadone works in treating opioid addiction. This drug is used to treat pain and dependence on opioids. It helps to reduce cravings and enables a person who is dependent on opioids to ease off of the opioid successfully. As with Suboxone, and all other medication-assisted treatment for opioid addiction, it is effective when used with a comprehensive behavioral treatment program.

3. Naltrexone (Vivitrol)
   This medication is used to treat dependencies on both opioids and alcohol. It works by blocking the effects of opioid receptors as well as reducing the cravings for opioids and alcohol. Because it helps to reduce cravings, this enables many individuals to sustain long-term sobriety and can help to prevent relapse.
   

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction to an opioid or another substance, there is hope and there is help. Pinnacle Treatment Centers knows overcoming addiction is challenging and vows to be there every step of the way in your recovery. If you are ready to take the first step, contact Pinnacle today and start a new life tomorrow.

Headquartered in New Jersey, Pinnacle Treatment Centers is a recognized leader in comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment serving more than 29,000 patients daily in California, Indiana, Kentucky, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. With more than 110 community-based locations, Pinnacle provides a full continuum of quality care for adult men and women which includes medically-monitored detoxification/withdrawal management, inpatient/residential treatment, partial hospitalization/care, sober living, intensive and general outpatient programming, and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder.

Facility Spotlight:

Daviess Treatment Services
3032 Hwy 60 East
Owensboro, KY 42303
270-685-5029

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Drinking too much alcohol at one time can cause immediate health issues. From headaches to vomiting, the overconsumption of alcohol can wreak havoc on the body in the short term. But what’s even worse than the short-term adverse effects of consuming too much alcohol are the long-term health concerns alcohol can cause. This is especially true when it comes to alcohol addiction.

If you or someone you love is living with an alcohol addiction, there’s no better time to get help. Every day that you continue to put alcohol into your body, you get closer to incurring serious health issues from alcohol. Long-term use or alcohol addiction can devastate the body. Addiction to alcohol can damage the brain, heart, liver, pancreas, and immune system, and has even been shown to increase a person’s risk of certain cancers.

There are millions of people living with alcohol issues. Let’s look at some alcohol addiction statistics. Alcohol addiction impacts 14.4 million adults in the United States according to the 2018 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH). Deaths from alcohol-related causes in the United States in 2018 were around 88,000, making alcohol the third leading cause of preventable death in the nation.

Do you think you (or someone you love) may have an issue with alcohol? It’s helpful to understand the difference between heavy drinking and the definition of alcohol addiction before you answer. What many think is heavy drinking may actually be an addiction to alcohol.

So, what exactly is alcohol addiction? The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) defines alcohol addiction or alcohol use disorder (AUD) as a chronic and relapsing brain condition characterized by the inability to stop or cut down despite adverse consequences in one’s social life, health, and/or job.

Heavy drinking is defined by the NIAAA as binge drinking five or more days in a month. Binge drinking is defined as a pattern of drinking that brings the blood alcohol level (BAC) to 0.08 g/dl.

Let’s take a closer look at the signs of alcohol addiction.

Symptoms of Alcohol Addiction

To be diagnosed with an alcohol addiction or AUD, an individual must meet certain criteria as outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). When someone experiences two of the following criteria for one year or longer, they are considered to have an alcohol addiction or AUD.

• Trying to cut down on how much you drink or how often but unable to do so
• Drinking more than intended or longer than planned
• Being sick from drinking
• Craving or ‘needing’ a drink
• Negating family, work, or school responsibilities to drink or because you were sick from prior drinking
• Continuing to drink despite negative consequences with family, friends, work, or having legal issues
• Having to drink more to get the ‘relief’ or ‘effect’ you had from less alcohol before
• Giving up or cutting back on hobbies or other activities you enjoyed before to make more time to drink
• Continuing to drink after experiencing a memory loss or blackout during drinking
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when the effects of alcohol were wearing off; anxiety, shakiness, irritability, depression, nausea, sweating, restlessness, etc.

If you relate to any of the above, you may have an addiction to alcohol. When it comes to alcohol addiction, life can seem lonely, hopeless, and full of pain. But remember, you aren’t alone and there is help. Every day thousands of people who have a problem with alcohol take the vital first step, learn how to battle alcohol addiction, and go on to find vibrant, happy lives in recovery. You can too!

At Pinnacle Treatment Centers we know that battling an alcohol addiction can be tough. But you don’t have to do it on your own. Our compassionate staff is here to support you every step of the way. If you think you or someone you love needs help for alcohol addiction, visit us online or call today at 1-800-782-1520.

Headquartered in New Jersey, Pinnacle Treatment Centers is a recognized leader in comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment serving more than 29,000 patients daily in California, Indiana, Kentucky, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. With more than 110 community-based locations, Pinnacle provides a full continuum of quality care for adult men and women which includes medically-monitored detoxification/withdrawal management, inpatient/residential treatment, partial hospitalization/care, sober living, intensive and general outpatient programming, and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder.

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According to the 2018 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 14.4 million Americans 18 years of age and older had an alcohol use disorder (AUD). An alcohol use disorder or AUD is what in years past was referred to generically as alcoholism, having a drinking problem, or being an “alcoholic.”

The definition of an alcoholic in the Merriam Webster dictionary is “a person afflicted with alcoholism”. Alcoholism is defined as “a chronic, progressive, potentially fatal disorder marked by the excessive and usually compulsive drinking of alcohol leading to psychological or physical dependence or addiction”.

And while the name for this chronic disease is changing, what defines an alcoholic, problem drinker, binge drinker, or even an excessive drinker remains much the same. What also remains the same, is the havoc, pain, and ongoing issues alcohol use disorders cause not only to the person struggling with the problem but also to their families and loved ones.

Understanding the Signs of an Alcohol Problem

Over the years, psychologists, doctors, families of loved ones with an alcohol issue, and even the person struggling with the alcohol problem have tried to understand this often baffling disease. The causes of it and how it can be treated or ‘cured’ are at the forefront of these questions.

It’s important to understand the difference between what is acceptable social drinking and what criteria make a person considered to have an AUD. For many, grabbing a drink with coworkers on a Friday or having a glass of wine or beer after work help them to relax and socialize. However, for some, this occasional couple of drinks can turn into daily drinking of more than just one or two. Since alcohol is such a socially acceptable way to socialize and unwind, the line between normal drinking and problem drinking can often blur—particularly in the early stages of an AUD.

Signs of an Alcohol Use Disorder:

• Trying to cut down on how much you drink or how often but unable to do so
• Drinking more than intended or longer than planned
• Being sick from drinking
• Craving or ‘needing’ a drink
• Negating family, work, or school responsibilities to drink or because you were sick from prior drinking
• Continuing to drink despite negative consequences with family, friends, work, or having legal issues
• Having to drink more to get the ‘relief’ or ‘effect’ you had from less alcohol before
• Giving up or cutting back on hobbies or other activities you enjoyed before to make more time to drink
• Continuing to drink after experiencing a memory loss or blackout during drinking
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when the effects of alcohol were wearing off: anxiety, shakiness, irritability, depression, nausea, sweating, restlessness, etc.

If you, or a loved one, are experiencing any of these symptoms, there could be an AUD present. The more symptoms you relate with, the greater the chance there is an AUD, and the more important it is to seek treatment.

Alcoholism or AUD is a progressive and chronic disease. This means that with time, the problem only gets worse. It also is important to understand that like other chronic diseases, such as diabetes and asthma, there isn’t a cure. However, there are treatments for the disease that can keep it under control and return normalcy, joy, and happiness to the lives of those with AUD and their families.

If you think you or someone you love may have an alcohol use disorder, Pinnacle Treatment Centers is here to help. With numerous locations across the nation, Pinnacle helps you overcome alcoholism and addiction to create a new, vibrant life in recovery. Contact us online or call 1-800-782-1520.

Headquartered in New Jersey, Pinnacle Treatment Centers is a recognized leader in comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment serving more than 29,000 patients daily in California, Indiana, Kentucky, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. With more than 110 community-based locations, Pinnacle provides a full continuum of quality care for adult men and women which includes medically-monitored detoxification/withdrawal management, inpatient/residential treatment, partial hospitalization/care, sober living, intensive and general outpatient programming, and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder.

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There is an opioid misuse and overdose epidemic in our nation. The rates of both opioid abuse and overdoses from opioids continue to increase. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in 2017 there were 70,000 deaths from drug overdoses and 68% of those were from a prescription or illicit opioid.

And while many in the nation continue to perish, there are also those who are seeking help and overcoming their opioid use disorder (OUD). If you are someone you love is struggling with an addiction to an illicit or prescription opioid, there is help, and life can change for the better.

Effective Treatment for Opioid Addiction: Methadone vs Suboxone

As research into causes of and effective treatment for addictions of all kinds, including those to opioids, increases, there are more options for overcoming an opioid use disorder. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), when medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is used in combination with behavioral therapy, recovery is possible.

So what is MAT and what medications work best? Some of the most commonly prescribed medications for opioid addiction are methadone and Suboxone. And while these medications both work well, it’s essential to understand that medication alone is not the answer. However, when medication is used, patients in therapy are more likely to continue therapy than those who are not undergoing MAT.

For anyone who is struggling with an opioid addiction, one of the most commonly asked questions when it comes to MAT is about Suboxone compared to methadone.

Is Suboxone the Same as Methadone?

Methadone has been used for decades to treat addiction to heroin and other opioids. It is on the list of schedule II-controlled medications and is a long-acting, full opioid agonist. This means it works on blocking the activation of opioid receptors. Not only does methadone block the effect of opioids, it also helps in reducing cravings and eases withdrawal symptoms. Methadone comes in liquid, diskettes, tablets, and powders.

When it’s initially prescribed, methadone must be taken under the supervision of a physician and through a SAMHSA-certified opioid treatment program (OTP). Once dosages are stabilized, patients may sometimes be able to take methadone at home in between visits to their OTP.  The length of time on a methadone program varies from person to person and is determined with the help of a treatment team.

Suboxone, one of the buprenorphine MATs, is also widely used to treat opioid addiction along with behavioral therapy and social support group attendance. One of the key differences with Suboxone compared to methadone is that it’s safer to use than methadone; because of this, it is easier to prescribe and doesn’t require daily visits to special methadone clinics. This significantly increases the availability of it for those in need of treatment.

Suboxone is an opioid partial agonist. When taken, it produces similar euphoric effects as opioids but the effect is much less than with heroin or prescription opioids. It is also long-acting so patients may not have to take it on a daily basis. When treatment is stopped, buprenorphine, or Suboxone, causes milder withdrawal than methadone.

When used as prescribed, both Suboxone and methadone can be very helpful in treating opioid use disorders. The treatments allow the brain circuits connected with addiction to rewire and heal as they work towards long-lasting recovery.  However, it’s important to be aware that when either of these MATs is being used to treat opioid addiction there is the potential for abuse. Still, MAT is considered the gold standard of treatment for OUD.

According to NIDA, less than one-half of private addiction treatment centers offer MAT despite the evidence showing how effective these medications can be when used in conjunction with therapy and support groups to help individuals overcome opioid addiction.

If you or someone you love is struggling with an addiction to an opioid, whether illicit or prescription, Pinnacle Treatment Centers can help you reclaim your life today. Contact us online or call 1-800-782-1520.

Headquartered in New Jersey, Pinnacle Treatment Centers is a recognized leader in comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment serving more than 29,000 patients daily in California, Indiana, Kentucky, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. With more than 110 community-based locations, Pinnacle provides a full continuum of quality care for adult men and women which includes medically-monitored detoxification/withdrawal management, inpatient/residential treatment, partial hospitalization/care, sober living, intensive and general outpatient programming, and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder.

The post Effective Treatment for Opioid Addiction: Methadone vs Suboxone appeared first on Pinnacle Treatment Centers.

Drug addiction, drug abuse, substance abuse, and substance use disorder are all terms which are oftentimes used to describe or define the same thing. And often with these terms come long-standing stigmas surrounding anyone who is labeled as suffering from drug addiction.

Addiction, including drug addiction, is a multifaceted issue that impacts people from all walks of life. Addiction is said not to discriminate and study upon study has found this to be true. While there are trends amongst those with substance use disorders (SUDs) or drug addictions, addiction to drugs or alcohol can affect anyone. Individuals from all genders, education levels, family backgrounds, socio-economic levels, occupations, etc. have all found themselves in the grips of drug addiction.

One of the most commonly misunderstood aspects of addiction is the conception that the person with the problem lacks the morals or willpower to quit. Observers who watch an individual with a drug addiction self-destruct often think if they were stronger or had been raised differently, really cared about their family, and endless other beliefs, they would be able to quit. Research shows that this simply isn’t true.

Is Drug Addiction Really a Disease? What Research Says

Luckily for those with addiction issues and their loved ones, much progress has been made in the field of addiction. And what has been revealed is that addiction is actually a chronic disease that impacts the brain. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), it is characterized by repetitive and compulsive drug-seeking despite the risk of or actual harmful consequences.

This is the behavior that makes many people who are uneducated about addiction believe that drug addiction is a choice, not a disease. When in fact, science shows that it is indeed a chronic disease. And like any other chronic disease such as asthma or diabetes, continual maintenance and treatment is needed to stay healthy. A chronic disease is one that cannot be cured but can be controlled.

According to the Center on Addiction, there are 40 million Americans, or one in seven, over the age of 12 who have a substance use problem or addiction. This number includes addiction to drugs, alcohol, and nicotine.

And while the question—is drug addiction a disease or choice—continues to be debated, many professional organizations such as the American Medical Association, the American Society of Addiction Medicine, American Psychiatry Association, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), and more agree that drug addiction is a disease.

In fact, because of the Affordable Care Act, numerous health care providers are now required to cover certain essential benefits including mental health and substance abuse treatment. The Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA) is extended so that coverage for both mental health and substance abuse treatment must be covered or have at least the same coverage as offered for physical health issues. This is just further acknowledgment and acceptance that drug addiction really is a disease.

What Causes Drug Addiction?

Like other chronic diseases, addiction is often thought to be caused by a combination of factors. These are biological, environmental, and behavioral. And as research deepens, the genetic component is believed to play a large part in predisposing an individual to addiction.

Once a person begins to regularly use a substance, their brain changes. This is because most substances make the brain release ‘feel-good’ chemicals which are normally naturally produced in the body. Once this drug use begins to happen more and more, the brain then becomes rewired particularly in the reward, motivation, and memory sections. The individual then ‘needs’ the substance to get that good feeling again and then eventually just to feel ‘normal.’ This deepens the addiction to the substance.

If you or someone you love has a drug addiction issue, there are ways to find help. Pinnacle Treatment Centers has numerous locations with a variety of treatment programs. Call 1-800-782-0520 to learn more.

Headquartered in New Jersey, Pinnacle Treatment Centers is a recognized leader in comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment serving more than 29,000 patients daily in California, Indiana, Kentucky, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. With more than 110 community-based locations, Pinnacle provides a full continuum of quality care for adult men and women which includes medically-monitored detoxification/withdrawal management, inpatient/residential treatment, partial hospitalization/care, sober living, intensive and general outpatient programming, and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder. For more information, visit pinnacletreatment.com or call 800-782-1520.

Facility Spotlight:

Williamsport Family Medical Center

2062 Lycoming Creek Rd., Suite 8
Williamsport, PA 17701
570-505-1123

The post Is Drug Addiction a Disease? appeared first on Pinnacle Treatment Centers.

By Brian N. Talleur, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, Aegis Treatment Centers, a Pinnacle Treatment Center Network

Opioid abuse has become an epidemic. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), data from 2018 revealed that every day 128 people in the United States alone die from an overdose on opioids. Not only are these deaths tragic and heartbreaking but many of these people leave behind spouses, children, parents, siblings, and friends who suffer indefinitely from the loss. Addiction impacts more than just the person with the substance use disorder (SUD).

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the estimated cost in the United States for opioid misuse is around $78.5 billion dollars. This includes costs for healthcare, addiction treatment, institutions, the criminal justice system, and more. And the economic burden continues to rise as do the overdose rates.

What are Opioids?

Opioids are a class of drugs that include prescription drugs as well as illegal drugs. Heroin, fentanyl, and pain relievers like Oxycontin, Vicodin, codeine, and morphine are all opioids. The opioid crisis began in the 1990s when pharmaceutical companies assured the healthcare industry that these prescription pain killers were not addictive and physicians began to heavily prescribe them. Unfortunately, as we now know, these drugs are highly addictive and many individuals have become addicted to opioids.

Today, nearly everyone knows someone who has used opioids or has used them themselves. And for many people who begin using opioids, opioid addiction follows. Addiction does not discriminate. People from all walks of life can find themselves struggling with a SUD including one to opioids.

If you or someone you love has an opioid addiction problem, remember there is help and there is hope. Every day thousands of people take the first vital step and seek help for their SUD. There is support available for you or your loved one.

Symptoms of Opioid Addiction

Before you seek treatment for an opioid problem, it’s vital to know if there is a problem. Most often, if you are asking yourself whether or not you or a loved one has an issue, the answer is yes. However, it’s important to learn a bit about opioid misuse and the signs of opioid addiction:

• Opioids are taken for longer than intended or in greater amounts.
• Attempts to stop or cut down on usage are unsuccessful.
• Time is spent trying to get the drug or in recovering from use of it.
• You or your loved one experiencing cravings for the opioid.
• Using the drug causes issues in fulfilling responsibilities at home, work, school, etc.
• Relationships and social interactions are negatively impacted by use.
• Activities once important are given up as a result of using the substance.
• Continuing use of the opioids despite negative physical or psychological consequences.
• Repeating use even in dangerous situations.
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using the substance.
• Showing tolerance and needing to use more of the drug to get the same effect.

According to the CDC, if an individual shows two of the above signs of opioid addiction during a twelve month period then a diagnosis of an opioid use disorder (OUD) can be given. It was estimated in 2016, that 2.1 million Americans had an OUD.

Treatment Options for Opioid Use Disorder

Every day people seek treatment for an OUD. And there are also millions who live in long-lasting recovery from a drug or alcohol addiction. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reports that those who seek treatment for a SUD or alcohol use disorder (AUD) not only are more likely to stop using the substance but also stop engaging in criminal activity, decrease drug and alcohol-related medical care and at the same time increase their employment and income.

Taking the first step is often the most important and most difficult one. However, it’s a step that will lead you to a life of freedom from opioid addiction and the pain it brings. There are many reputable addiction treatment centers offering a variety of programs. From co-occurring mental health disorders and alcohol issues to programs using evidence-based therapy and art therapy, there is a program that is right for everyone who wants to recover from addiction and live a happy, vibrant life.

If you’re ready to learn more or take the first step, we are here for you. Contact us online 24/7.

Headquartered in New Jersey, Pinnacle Treatment Centers is a recognized leader in comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment serving more than 28,000 patients daily in California, Indiana, Kentucky, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. With more than 110 community-based locations, Pinnacle provides a full continuum of quality care for adult men and women which includes medically-monitored detoxification/withdrawal management, inpatient/residential treatment, partial hospitalization/care, sober living, intensive and general outpatient programming, and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder. For more information, visit pinnacletreatment.com or call 800-782-1520.

Facility Spotlight:

Aegis Treatment Centers
1947 North California St., Suite B&C
Stockton, CA 95204
209-463-0870

The post Opioid Addiction Symptoms: The Face of an Epidemic appeared first on Pinnacle Treatment Centers.

Drug Rehab Near Me

Drug rehabs are centers that provide programs, therapies, and counseling that is aimed at treating a specific addiction. The issue could be drug abuse, alcohol use disorder, or Opioid Use Disorder (OUD), and the rehab treatment/programs will differ based on the condition treated. Drug rehabs provide individuals with drug addiction, the hope, assistance, and care they need to overcome their disease and make positive changes in their lives by adapting their behaviors. Individuals will gain the opportunity to learn about healthy coping skills, impulse control, emotional regulation skills, and drug refusal strategies that will benefit them in refraining from the addiction. However, for a drug rehab center or program to be useful, the individual should have the desire to change his/her way of living and should take efforts to follow the program to completion successfully.

As you take on the brave decision to address your drug addiction, you should find the best rehab center or program for your condition. Consider the following guidelines when looking for the best rehab center that is available in your area:

• There are various types of rehab centers; find a rehab center that treats your specific issue. For example, if you have OUD, you should look for a rehab center that offers medication-assisted treatment, counseling, and therapies for that particular disorder. Some rehab centers only offer programs for a specific addiction, while others provide treatments for a wide range of issues. You should do some research and choose the one in which you are most comfortable.
• Some rehab centers only treat a specific group of people – for example, executives, lawyers, females, or LGBTQs. Inquire with the rehabs about their environment and patient population and enroll in a center that is welcoming. You can also opt for a rehab center with a more diverse population.
• There are two main types of rehab centers – inpatient and outpatient. Inpatient rehabs are centers that allow individuals to reside in the facility to receive treatments, therapies, and counseling. In contrast, outpatient rehabs enable individuals to continue their routine lives while receiving treatments on a part-time basis. Some centers only provide inpatient or outpatient programs, and some offer both: hence, you should decide which is more convenient for you before enrolling in a center.
• Rehab centers differ between the facilities they provide for patients. Some offer basic facilities, whereas others are renowned for more luxury facilities. If you wish to enroll in an inpatient rehab program, you’ll want to weigh these two options with the budget you have allocated.

Finally, you should also seek the advice of a professional to guide you along this challenging journey and to help you find the most appropriate rehab center.

Drug Rehab Statistics Success Rates

A drug rehab program is one of the most effective ways to overcome a drug addiction. A typical rehab program provides you with the care, support, therapies, and counseling to treat your addiction and to help you maintain sobriety. According to statistics, 73% of inpatients complete their treatment, of which around 21% remain sober after five years. For residential treatment, this percentage is about 51 for patients who complete the treatment, of which approximately 21% remain sober after five years. For detox treatment, 33% of patients complete their treatment, of which around 17% remain sober after five years. For outpatient drug-free treatments, 43% of patients complete the program successfully, of which about 18% remain sober even after five years.

These statistics may cloud your thoughts and may make you wonder about the effectiveness of the rehab programs. However, you should realize that the effectiveness of a rehab program is not just determined by the number of people that remain sober after a few years.

According to the Office of National Drug Control Policy, the many factors that determine the success of a rehab program, apart from remaining sober, are:

• Complete sobriety from addiction, less frequent use of the substance, or smaller consumption of the substance or more extended periods between relapses
• Improvements to the individual’s work, education, and personal life
• Developments to the individual’s physical and mental health
• Lower crimes committed in relation to the addiction
• Less trauma and damage to the individual and those around them

It can be understood from the factors above that complete sobriety is only one of the factors that determine the success of a rehab program, and hence, you can not only take the sobriety of an individual to measure the success of a program. The overall purpose of a rehab program is to improve the quality of life, and this is usually not measured in statistics.

If you or your loved one have a determination to break free from drug addiction and would like to enroll in a rehab center, contact us now for guidance as you take this first step toward recovery.

Headquartered in New Jersey, Pinnacle Treatment Centers is a recognized leader in comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment serving more than 28,000 patients daily in California, Indiana, Kentucky, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. With more than 110 community-based locations, Pinnacle provides a full continuum of quality care for adult men and women which includes medically-monitored detoxification/withdrawal management, inpatient/residential treatment, partial hospitalization/care, sober living, intensive and general outpatient programming, and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder. For more information, visit pinnacletreatment.com or call 800-782-1520.

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(540) 900-7900

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Methadone Treatment

Included in the opiate analgesics class of medication, methadone is a medicine that is used to manage severe pain in individuals who cannot be treated with other milder medication. It usually comes in a tablet, liquid, or wafer foam and is mostly prescribed to be taken by mouth every 8 to 12 hours.

Methadone has the potential to form an addiction, and hence, you should seek the guidance of a professional in taking it to relieve severe pain. Make sure to never take larger doses in such cases: instead, take it more frequently or take it for a longer length of time. If you or your family member has had addiction issues with alcohol, street drugs, or prescription painkillers, make sure that you communicate this to your doctor before you receive methadone treatment. Individuals with these issues are more at risk of overdosing on methadone and, thus, should enlighten their practitioners on it.

Although methadone is also used to treat severe pain, it is mostly recognized for its role in managing the withdrawal symptoms in individuals with Opioid Use Disorders (OUD) by changing the way the brain and the nervous system respond to pain. The medicine works by producing a similar effect to opioids and by preventing the withdrawal symptoms in people who have stopped using opioids. Methadone usually cannot be taken without a prescription. If you wish to take methadone to break free from your OUD, you can do so only through a rehab center/treatment program that is approved by the state and federal governments. You will need to take the doses under the supervision and monitoring of the treatment center practitioner or staff.

When taken as part of an OUD treatment, methadone can only be taken once a day, after which it works its way to reduce the cravings for opioids and the withdrawal symptoms within 24 to 36 hours. Methadone works quite quickly in reaching the spinal cord and brain. It also blocks the sense of euphoria that is developed by consuming opioids or other drugs. Methadone is an essential medicine for the treatment of OUD and is listed on the World Health Organization’s list of essential medicines. Its importance was mainly highlighted through much research that was carried out to identify its significance in treating OUDs. Research found that:

• Methadone assisted treatment, also known as medication-assisted treatment (MAT) significantly reduced drug injecting, which in turn led to reduced HIV transmission.
• Methadone treatment has significantly reduced deaths due to opioid dependency.
• Methadone treatment has reduced criminal activity that is associated with opioid dependency.
• Methadone doses that are higher than 60 mg are the most effective in treating OUDs.

Is Methadone an Opioid?

Methadone is indeed an opioid that is widely used to treat OUDs and other substance use disorders. It acts on the same opioid receptors to minimize the withdrawal symptoms in individuals who wish to overcome their opioid addiction. Since it is an opiate, it also has certain qualities that make it addictive. However, once methadone is misused to get high, it can lead to even severe mental impairment and physical dependence on the medicine. Individuals to whom methadone has been prescribed for overcoming OUDs are also more at risk of abusing methadone, as they already have a history of opioid addiction.

When methadone is taken as prescribed, an individual can experience side effects such as sedation, dry mouth, muscle weakness, drowsiness, droopy eyelids, high blood pressure, and little reaction to light. But when had in large doses, it can produce a “high” feeling, and this euphoria can be increased based on the administration of the medicine – for example, through IV use. However, undergoing methadone treatment is usually safe and isn’t like being dependent on opioids or other drugs. Apart from this:

• It is also safer for a patient to take methadone under the monitoring of a practitioner than it is to take illegal drugs in a dangerous manner.
• HIV is not easily transmitted by taking methadone, as it is usually taken orally unlike heroin that is taken through needles.
• Unlike heroin, methadone treatment does not incite aggressive behavior in individuals that could lead to criminal activities.

Methadone treatment is one of the safest and most effective ways to treat OUDs. If you are in need of this treatment to overcome your opioid addiction, contact us today to get started.

Headquartered in New Jersey, Pinnacle Treatment Centers is a recognized leader in comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment serving more than 28,000 patients daily in California, Indiana, Kentucky, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. With more than 110 community-based locations, Pinnacle provides a full continuum of quality care for adult men and women which includes medically-monitored detoxification/withdrawal management, inpatient/residential treatment, partial hospitalization/care, sober living, intensive and general outpatient programming, and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder. For more information, visit pinnacletreatment.com or call 800-782-1520.

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804-533-1330

The post The Benefits of Methadone Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder appeared first on Pinnacle Treatment Centers.

Opioid Addiction Facts

Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) has turned into a national crisis that is impacting public health and the economic/social welfare of our country. With more than 130 people dying per day in the United States alone, OUD is one of the leading causes of preventable deaths in the country. This endemic started in the late 1990s when pharmaceutical companies began promoting opioids as pain relievers that do not have the potential to become addictive.  This led to high prescription rates of opioids by healthcare professionals to manage various pains, after which the medication was widely misused until it became evident that the medicine is indeed addictive. Since then, opioids were misused continuously by people around the world, and with it, the rates of opioid overdose also began to increase rapidly.  A few facts on this rising crisis:

• Opioids are usually present in pain relievers that are prescribed for various injuries, surgeries, and dental work due to their effectiveness in managing pain.
• Everyone is equally at risk of getting addicted to opioids, as opioids produce a great feeling of euphoria when taken, and it is possible for anyone to consume it beyond necessary to enjoy the effect.
• Children and adolescents are more at risk of getting addicted to opioids when exposed to them. Therefore, when treating children and adolescents, opioids should only be prescribed to alleviate severe pain, which cannot be managed through other milder medications.
• Although opioids are widely known as pain relievers that are misused to enjoy euphoria, other powerful opioids are sold solely to get high and are sold on the streets along with heroin and illicit fentanyl.
• When opioids are misused along with other drugs, such as alcohol or tranquilizers, or when they are taken without the advice or prescription of a doctor, it can end fatally by leading to dangerous overdoses.
• Continued use of opioids can lead to opioid dependency, which implies that you might experience the usual withdrawal symptoms, such as nausea, sweating, or trembling, if you stop taking them.

Opioid Prescriptions and Misuse

As mentioned earlier, drug overdose is one of the leading causes of preventable deaths in the United States. According to statistics, from 1999 to 2008, the overdose death rates, substance sales rates, and substance use disorder treatment admissions rates have all increased in parallel to each other. The overdose death rate in 2008 was four times the rate in 1999; the substance sales rate in 2010 was four times higher than in 1999, and the substance use disorder treatment admission rate in 2009 was six times higher than the rate in 1999.

It has been analyzed that in 2012 alone, around 259 million prescriptions were written for opioids, which implies that each American adult had their very own bottle of opioids. This number is alarming, as four in five heroin users started their addiction by first misusing prescription painkillers such as opioids.

Furthermore, it has been identified that around 21% to 29% of people who have been prescribed opioids to manage pain have misused them, of which approximately 8% to 12% developed an addiction to it. Of the people who misused opioids, around 4% to 6% of them have transitioned to heroin use; meanwhile, about 80% of people who have a heroin addiction started by first misusing prescription medicines such as opioids.

Reports of opioid overdoses have increased by 30% from July 2016 to September 2017 in 45 states in the U.S. While the Midwestern regions witnessed an increase in opioid overdose by 70% through July 2016 to September 2017, the larger cities witnessed a rise of 54%.

Who is Most Affected by Opioid Addiction?

Adolescents and children are more likely to develop OUD when exposed to opioid painkillers. In 2015 alone, around 276,000 adolescents were using non-medical painkillers, of which approximately 122,000 had an addiction to the painkillers. Women are also more likely to develop OUD quicker than men, as they are more prone to have chronic pains. This makes them more likely to be prescribed and to be indulged in higher doses of painkillers. Women are also more likely to develop a dependency on opioids as they usually use the painkillers for a longer time frame than men. This can, in turn, lead to an addiction to prescription painkillers, which could eventually turn fatal. Between 1999 to 2010, around 48,000 women have died due to opioid overdosage, and this rate is still increasing gradually.

In addition,  women tend to develop OUDs as they usually deal with more emotional, physical, and mental trauma than men. They may take relief from the euphoria they enjoy when taking opioids to fight negative emotions, to forget dark pasts, or to cope with a current challenging situation.

If you or someone you know is dealing with OUD, reach out to us for professional guidance on overcoming it.

Headquartered in New Jersey, Pinnacle Treatment Centers is a recognized leader in comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment serving more than 28,000 patients daily in California, Indiana, Kentucky, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. With more than 110 community-based locations, Pinnacle provides a full continuum of quality care for adult men and women which includes medically-monitored detoxification/withdrawal management, inpatient/residential treatment, partial hospitalization/care, sober living, intensive and general outpatient programming, and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder. For more information, visit pinnacletreatment.com or call 800-782-1520.

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905 Southlake Blvd, Suite C
Richmond, VA 23236

The post Opioid Addiction Statistics appeared first on Pinnacle Treatment Centers.

Am I an Alcoholic?

An “alcoholic,” or person suffering from alcoholism, is an individual who has a compelling need or desire to consume alcohol frequently even though it harms his/her health and routine life. These individuals simply do not know how and when to stop drinking, causing themselves and their loved ones severe problems and stress. However, you should know that enjoying a few glasses of wine or beer weekly will not be detrimental for you, nor will you become an “alcoholic” because of it. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, seven or fewer drinks per week for women and 14 or fewer drinks per week for men falls within moderate drinking. If you can stick to this amount, you can hopefully stay away from the grips of alcoholism.

This weekly consumption estimate alone is not sufficient to find out if you are an alcoholic or are on the verge of becoming one. Following are a few signs and symptoms of alcoholism to help you figure out where you stand.

The individual:

• Consumes alcohol in secret or alone.
• Consumes only a specific brand of alcohol regularly.
• Only goes to parties and gatherings that have alcohol.
• Is unable to control his/her alcohol consumption.
• Blacks out and is unable to account for a considerable amount of time.
• Loses interest in hobbies or pastimes that were of interest before.
• Gulps down the alcohol to feel good.
• Will need more alcohol as time passes to feel its effect.
• Has issues with finances, family, work, and the law.
• Feels nausea and excessive sweating /trembling when not drinking.
• Is easily irritable when he/she is unable to consume alcohol when the usual time approaches.

If you or your loved one is showing the above signs or symptoms, you may need to seek the help of a professional right away. However, you should also understand that some people might be experiencing the symptoms mentioned above but might not be addicted to alcohol. Nevertheless, you should consult a professional if you have concerns.

Alcohol Dependence Definition

Alcohol dependence, sometimes known as alcoholism, is a broad term that is used to describe the heavy consumption of alcohol that results in mental and health issues. For an individual with alcohol dependency, alcohol plays a significant role in his/her life, and they may face withdrawal symptoms and associated pain if they attempt to quit drinking. Alcohol dependence is not always linked to excessive levels of drinking, and you could be dependent on alcohol if you have the need or desire to share a few glasses of drinks with your spouse most nights of the weeks or if you need a glass of wine or beer to relax after a long day at work. This shows a distinct chain of alcohol dependence, which could be harmful for you in the long run.

When you become dependent on alcohol, you might find it very difficult to function, relax, or enjoy yourself without having a drink. This is a psychological dependency on alcohol, which could soon be followed by physical alcohol dependency. When you become physically dependent on alcohol, you can experience withdrawal symptoms such as sweating, trembling, and nausea when you do not consume alcohol.

Alcohol Abuse Symptoms

Although alcohol abuse and alcoholism are often used interchangeably, they are two entirely different concepts. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-IV describes alcohol abuse as the desire of an individual to drink frequently despite the legal, physical, emotional, and social problems that result due to their alcohol use. On the other hand, while alcoholism implies the same as alcohol abuse, it also includes the different characteristics and symptoms that are addressed above under “alcoholism.”

Those who misuse alcohol are capable enough to limit their alcohol intake, unlike individuals with alcohol use disorders: however, their alcohol consumption is still harmful and dangerous to themselves and their loved ones. In most instances, it is easy to help alcohol abusers by intervening and educating them on the implications of alcohol poisoning and binge drinking. To do this, one should be aware of the fine line between alcohol abuse and alcoholism to seek help as needed.

Most practitioners will help you identify your condition: however, it will also be helpful if you know where you stand so that you can limit your alcohol intake and seek help simultaneously. A few signs and symptoms of alcohol abuse include:

• The individual tends to continuously neglect his/her responsibilities at work, home, or other places due to heavy and continual drinking.
• The individual consumes alcohol in places where it is physically dangerous for both themselves and those around them.
• The individual is in constant clash with authorities.
• The individual tends to consume drinks as a way of unwinding or relaxing.

These are few of the signs of alcohol abuse.If you experience these symptoms or notice them in your loved one, you should consider getting help. Contact us for more information on how to overcome this struggle.

Headquartered in New Jersey, Pinnacle Treatment Centers is a recognized leader in comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment serving more than 28,000 patients daily in California, Indiana, Kentucky, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. With more than 110 community-based locations, Pinnacle provides a full continuum of quality care for adult men and women which includes medically-monitored detoxification/withdrawal management, inpatient/residential treatment, partial hospitalization/care, sober living, intensive and general outpatient programming, and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder. For more information, visit pinnacletreatment.com or call 800-782-1520.

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(219) 472-4255

The post Alcoholism and Related Signs and Symptoms appeared first on Pinnacle Treatment Centers.

One of the most effective methods to treat individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD) is methadone. It is a highly preferred medication-assisted treatment, which is FDA approved, that is used by practitioners to help individuals limit opioid use and withdraw from it without experiencing the usual agonizing withdrawal symptoms. Methadone, combined with professional counseling and behavioral therapies, is the most common treatment method offered by most opioid treatment programs across the country.

Methadone is a pain reliever. Its single dose can alleviate the pain of an individual for up to 4-8 hours. It is usually prescribed to be taken once a day in a pill, liquid or wafer form and has the potential to create pain relief without a strong euphoria. However, methadone can still have the potential to be addictive, which is why it is only given under a doctor’s supervision. It also can only be distributed through a certified licensed opioid treatment program.

Methadone treatment might not be ideal for everyone; your practitioner should help you in identifying the best medication-assisted treatment for your OUD. Methadone is usually prescribed for individuals who are dependent on long-acting opioid, whereas the individuals with a dependence on short-acting opioid are usually prescribed with Suboxone.

Suboxone is also a preferred treatment method for individuals who can take medication regularly and on time, commit to attend the related therapies and counseling sessions, follow-up with their provider as required, refrain from consuming alcohol with the medication, and be strong enough to not misuse the medication.

Apart from the above-mentioned reasons, certain individuals on methadone might want to switch to Suboxone due to the following:

• They might be facing side effects due to methadone and may prefer Suboxone for fewer side effects.
• They may have recovered to a certain extent, where methadone treatment is no longer needed or where Suboxone can be used instead.
• The methadone doses are metabolizing quicker.
• Suboxone medication is convenient, as they can be taken at home after a few sessions of taking it under a doctor’s supervision.

Whatever the reason may be, switching from methadone to Suboxone is quite complicated, as there is the possibility of the individual withdrawing from methadone medication due to its higher receptor affinity. Therefore, you should seek the advice and guidance of a professional before you attempt to switch from methadone to Suboxone. In most instances, practitioners will recommend you to reduce methadone doses or discontinue it completely for several days before transitioning to Suboxone medication.

Methadone to Subutex

Subutex is also a medicine that is used extensively to treat OUD and is somewhat similar to Suboxone. Both Suboxone and Subutex contain buprenorphine; however, Subutex contains only buprenorphine, whereas Suboxone contains both buprenorphine and naloxone. Buprenorphine/Subutex/Suboxone is a newly approved medicine for OUD and is used both during and after the process of detoxification in treating OUD. Subutex is a long-acting medication that is known to provide stable, low-level activation of opioid receptors in the brain and hence, prevents the agonizing withdrawal symptoms and cravings in a person.

As in the case of Suboxone, Subutex might be prescribed for individuals instead of methadone for various reasons. An individual who might be dependent on short-acting opioid and can take medications and attend the related therapies/consulting sessions on time is more suitable to take Subutex instead of methadone. Apart from this, practitioners may also prescribe you to switch from methadone to Subutex for the various reasons addressed above under Suboxone.

You should seek the guidance and supervision of a professional when switching from methadone to Subutex or when taking Subutex alone for your OUD, as consuming Subutex doses improperly may cause withdrawal or over-dosage.

Low-dose Subutex treatment has led towards a low retention of patients in comparison to methadone treatment and a higher dosage treatment of it has shown a higher retention of patients. High-dose Subutex treatment has also shown similar rates of relapse and heroin use during treatments as compared to methadone, making it one of the preferable options for some patients. One noteworthy aspect of taking Subutex is that it is comparatively safer than methadone, and certified physicians can prescribe it to individuals in a regular medical office/space.

If you or your loved ones are interested in learning more information about switching treatments for opioid use disorder, please contact us today

Headquartered in New Jersey, Pinnacle Treatment Centers is a recognized leader in comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment serving more than 28,000 patients daily in California, Indiana, Kentucky, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. With more than 110 community-based locations, Pinnacle provides a full continuum of quality care for adult men and women which includes medically-monitored detoxification/withdrawal management, inpatient/residential treatment, partial hospitalization/care, sober living, intensive and general outpatient programming, and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder. For more information, visit pinnacletreatment.com or call 800-782-1520.

Facility Spotlight

Middletown Medical
600 State Route 35
Middletown, NJ 07701
732-706-1300

The post Switching Opioid Use Disorders (OUD) Treatments appeared first on Pinnacle Treatment Centers.