How Does Hydrocodone Addiction Treatment Work?
Understanding How Hydrocodone Addiction Treatment Works Can Increase Success and Reduce Relapse
The United States is in a crisis over Opioids, a class of drugs that include the illicit drug heroin and prescription pain relievers like codeine, hydrocodone, oxycodone, morphine and fentanyl. In 2015, there were over 20,000 deaths in the United States due to overdose related to prescription pain relievers. Doctors commonly prescribe strong prescription pain relievers such as hydrocodone for treatment of major injuries and to manage pain after surgical procedures or treat chronic conditions that cause severe pain. Hydrocodone acts on the nerve cells in the brain to produce pleasurable effects and relieve pain. This typically requires hydrocodone addiction treatment.
Unfortunately, hydrocodone is extremely addictive. If someone you love shows withdrawal symptoms, you need to seek treatment. The sooner an individual can be started on a treatment program, the more likely the patient can be successful and irreversible damage can be minimized. A variety of hydrocodone addiction treatment options exist. Because drug addiction is a complex illness, there are some important things you need to know about how addiction treatments work.
Addiction Treatment Medications
There are a variety of types of addiction treatment medications doctors use to help patients overcome hydrocodone addiction. Some medications have a long history of use, while others are relatively new to the market. Hydrocodone addiction treatment medications include:
- Buprenorphine
- Naloxone
- Suboxone
- Naltrexone
- Methadone
Commonly, the first course of action is to put the patient on medication to detox and manage withdrawal symptoms hydrocodone. Discontinuing hydrocodone is similar to withdrawing from heroin and results in flu-like symptoms and severe pain. Medications like buprenorphine and naltrexone are effective because they mimic the effect of the opiate without producing the euphoria associated with the hydrocodone. The period of required detoxification can vary from patient to patient but may last a week or longer, depending on the circumstances.
Buprenorphine is relatively new to the market, and it sometimes combined with naloxone in a medication called suboxone. Patients may be prescribed naltrexone, which can be administered by mouth as the drug Revia or by a monthly injection called Vivitrol. Some patients opt for more traditional treatments of methadone combined with 12-step programs. Regardless of the exact type of treatment plan, it's important to seek treatment early.
Inpatient Treatment
Rehab programs that focus on inpatient treatment of hydrocodone addiction can be helpful when the patient needs to be removed from their daily environment to reduce stress and eliminate pressure to use the drug. Spending time at one of these off site facilities allows individuals to continue medication needed to deal with the withdrawal symptoms hydrocodone while giving them the tools to handle their triggers. Another critical component of inpatient hydrocodone addiction treatment is learning social skills to combat relapse once the treatment is over. Many hydrocodone addicted individuals also have a range of complex mental issues and disorders. Behavioral therapy is an important part of successful inpatient rehabilitation, along with medication, to help get at the root of the addiction.
Outpatient Treatment
Outpatient programs allow the hydrocodone addict to remain at home during the duration of treatment, with regular visits to the clinic or rehab center. Individuals who would prefer the comfort and discreet nature of managing the withdrawal symptoms hydrocodone at home prefer outpatient treatment. Medical professionals can ensure the same hydrocodone addiction medications available for inpatient treatment centers are prescribed for at home use. With close monitoring and coordinated care, patients can be supervised to ensure they stay on track and make progress.
During any course of hydrocodone addiction treatment, it is important for medical professionals to monitor progress and adjust the patient's treatment plan if needed. Fortunately, there are a wide variety of hydrocodone addiction treatment options for individuals who are struggling with dependence. One of the most important aspects of any rehabilitation program is offering flexibility to patients with designing and implementing a customized treatment plan.