Recovering from opioid addiction is a process that is mentally, physically, and emotionally taxing. It is rarely a good idea to try to quit using opioids without medical assistance. To this end, addiction medicine professionals use two popular medications to treat clients who suffer from an addiction to opiates detox gradually and safely. Although both can be effective in the treatment of this condition at a heroin addiction treatment center in Mclean VA, the choice of suboxone vs methadone may be more complicated than you think.
Suboxone vs Methadone
When determining the difference between suboxone vs methadone it is important to discern exactly what needs treatment by administering these drugs. While Suboxone may be a good option for otherwise healthy people addicted to opiates, clients who suffer from chronic pain that was the genesis of their addiction may be better served by methadone.
You can treat common opiate and opioid addictions with suboxone vs methadone include:
- Codeine
- Fentanyl
- Heroin
- Morphine
- OxyContin/Oxycodone
- Vicodin
A doctor’s decision to prescribe methadone may also depend upon the severity of the addiction. Methadone has a narcotic effect and carries a risk of addiction itself. It can only receive one dose at a time at an opioid treatment program (OTP) location.
Methadone
As a drug, methadone works by altering brain chemistry and changing a person’s nervous response to pain. It has the additional effect of reducing painful symptoms that are associated with opiate withdrawal. Even as it eliminates the euphoria that comes from drugs like heroin.
As methadone carries a risk of both addiction and overdose, it is only administered in strictly controlled doses that gradually increase to meet the body’s tolerance. It is prescribed in liquid form or as a tablet and will be used in a course of treatment so long as it contributes to the stability of the client. However, persistent use may require a period of methadone detox and further recovery.
Suboxone
Like methadone, suboxone binds itself to the receptors in the brain that interact with opioids. It interferes with the chemical process that induces opioid effects. However, it does not stimulate them as methadone does and does not treat pain or withdrawal symptoms. As it has limited ability to help manage cravings for drugs, it may not be the best choice for those in advanced late-stage addiction.
The advantage that suboxone vs methadone is that it carries a lower risk of abuse. It comes in the form of a film or small capsule that dissolves in the mouth. Clients who are in recovery or outpatient programs may administer and manage their own prescription like any other medication. There is also more flexibility in regards to the timetable that the medication must be taken based on the severity of the opioid addiction.
Find Help Today
Sagebrush heroin addiction treatment center in McLean VA provides residential and outpatient treatment programs that can help you recover from the ravages of opioid addiction. Call us at 866.488.1156 for more information about suboxone vs methadone.
