SUBSTANCE ABUSE Q & A
How do I know if I have an unhealthy addiction? Not all addicts are recreational abusers. You may question your use of the drugs if you’re unable to stop using the drug after the cause of the pain has resolved. If you have a past or a family history of substance abuse, your risk of addiction to opioids is great, even when a doctor prescribes pain medications for a valid condition. Do you use medications to help with withdrawal symptoms while detoxing from opioids? There is no single correct way to detox off of opioids. Sometimes sedatives, anti- nausea, anti-depressants, and blood pressure medications are helpful in different stages of the rehabilitation process. Some patients must taper off the opioids gradually before starting any detox medications. One of the most successful medications for detox is called Suboxone—containing the active ingredient buprenorphine. You start on Suboxone® once withdrawal has begun. Dr. Locke may also recommend naltrexone, sold under the brand name Vivitrol®, after all opioids are out of your system. Vivitrol discourages the resumption of opioid use.
What are the differences between tolerance, physical dependence, and addiction? Tolerance refers to a drug’s becoming less effective over time. Physical dependence describes a situation in which a person develops symptoms and signs of withdrawal, including sweating, nausea, diarrhea, anxiety, and rapid heart rate, when they cease taking the drug or lower the dosage. Addiction is a condition in which a person has lost control over the use of the drug. They continue to use it even when the drug harms themselves and their relationships with others. People who are addicted may obtain pain medications from non-medical sources, alter oral formulations of prescription medications, or snort or inject medications.
What are opioids? Opioids are drugs that affect the body in the same way that opium does. Examples of opioids include:
Oxycodone Hydrocodone
Fetanyl Heroin
They’re often prescribed for chronic pain or to help you recover from surgery. You may know them from their brand names, such as Vicodin®, Percocet®, and OxyContin®. For people with pain, opioids are very effective, and most patients don’t become addicted to them. However, in some people, opioid dependence becomes an unexpected side effect of well-intentioned pain treatment.
Made with FlippingBook - Online Brochure Maker