Methods of Treatment in Heroin Rehab
Many different methods of treatment exist to help those who are addicted to heroin to overcome the withdrawal symptoms and physical challenges of the addiction in preparation for psychological healing. Some of the most common methods of treatment involve medications that are used to help alleviate the symptoms of withdrawal while offering some solace to the user. Pharmaceutical approaches work best when combined with behavioral therapies.
Heroin Detox
The first course of action in heroin rehab is to undergo a safe and humane withdrawal. This will involve heroin detox, a period of time during which the rehab center will provide medications and treatments to help stabilize the patient and reduce the symptoms of heroin withdrawal. There are both inpatient and outpatient heroin detox programs so depending on the severity of the addiction either may be chosen to help the user recover.
Various medications such as Buprenorphine, Naloxone, Naltrexone or Suboxone may be used in heroin detox to help reduce cravings, eliminate withdrawal symptoms and keep the user comfortable. The process of heroin detox will last about 7 days during which withdrawal symptoms will peak and then gradually begin to dissipate as time goes.
Pharmaceutical Approaches
Heroin rehab is a challenging endeavor for those who decide that it’s time to get sober and overcome the burden of heroin addiction. While the challenges may be difficult to overcome, the benefits of heroin rehab and sobriety far outweigh the struggles that come with trying to get sober. Many pharmaceutical approaches have developed to help those who are in heroin rehab to remain calm and focused in recovery. Some of the most common pharmaceutical approaches include:
- Buprenorphine
- Methadone
- Suboxone
- Clonidine
- Naloxone
- Naltrexone
Behavioral Therapy
Heroin rehab is most effective when the treatment that is provided pairs a combination of pharmaceutical treatment approaches with behavioral therapy. Many different types of behavioral therapy have evolved to provide those suffering from drug addiction with a foundation for recovery. Some of the most common include:
- CBT
- Motivational Rewards
- Incentive Rewards
- Behavioral Intervention
- Contingency Management
Each of these types of treatment in heroin rehab places a distinct focus on helping the user to overcome their addiction through counseling, therapy, incentives and a focused approach to supportive care. Each case of addiction is different, and therefore, it will take a range of treatments in order to effectively provide the unique and supportive care that a user will need.
Inpatient or Outpatient
Regardless of the methods of treatment that are used, you will have to choose whether inpatient or outpatient heroin rehab is right for you. The choice will depend on the level of your addiction, the severity of the addiction and the presence of any underlying health or mental conditions that may be affecting the individual. Each type of treatment is different and provides a distinct level of care suitable for the patient. Outpatient treatment offers minimally invasive treatment and care in a supportive environment. Inpatient heroin rehab provides around-the-clock support and medical intervention for the most difficult to control addictions.
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