By: Wanda I. Orengo
How can we escape the suffering caused by opioid addiction?
It's not easy. Most people cannot overcome it on their own. Opioid use disorder is a chronic disease that can be treated clinically and socially. A person suffering from this disorder can lead a healthy and productive life with medical treatment assisted by buprenorphine.
Buprenorphine
Buprenorphine is a safe, effective, long-acting medication used exclusively to treat addiction to heroin and other opioids, not drugs such as marijuana and cocaine. This includes narcotics such as Percocet, Vicodin, and codeine, which are prescribed for pain relief and can be addictive.
It is easy to use as it consists of a thin strip that dissolves quickly under the tongue. With continued use, the patient experiences fewer withdrawal symptoms and cravings for drugs. It also reduces the likelihood of overdose, has a prolonged effect, and can be prescribed for home use.
Treatment and requirements
You only need to meet certain requirements to receive treatment at the Centro Ararat. These include being 18 years of age or older, currently using opioids, not being pregnant, being willing to undergo regular drug testing, agreeing to outpatient treatment, attending a comprehensive orientation, and stopping heroin or other opioid use 12 to 24 hours before starting treatment. Following the evaluation, it will be determined whether treatment is appropriate and in what format it will be administered.
People who take buprenorphine can lead productive lives, as the drug does not cause the psychoactive effects associated with opioids.
The content on this page is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not replace or substitute for a consultation with a doctor or other healthcare professional.
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