Guide to the Medications Used to Treat Addiction

Medications play a crucial role in supporting recovery from substance use disorders. Incorporating medication-assisted treatment (MAT) into a comprehensive recovery plan can effectively ease withdrawal symptoms, curb cravings, and lower the risk of relapse.

While some may worry about using medication in addiction treatment, research shows that MAT can be highly effective, especially when combined with counseling and behavioral therapies. Understanding how these medications work can help individuals make informed decisions about their recovery journey.

How Do Medications Help in Addiction Treatment?

Addiction affects the brain’s chemistry, making it difficult to quit without support. Medications help by stabilizing brain function, reducing withdrawal symptoms, and curbing cravings, allowing individuals to focus on long-term recovery.

Different medications target different substance use disorders, including opioids, alcohol, and other drugs. They work in various ways:

• Some reduce cravings by mimicking the drug’s effects in a controlled way.
• Others block the euphoric effects of substances, discouraging use.
• Certain medications help rebalance brain chemistry, reducing the urge to use drugs or alcohol.

A common misconception is that using medication in addiction treatment simply replaces one addiction with another. However, when taken as prescribed and under medical supervision, MAT is a safe, evidence-based approach to long-term recovery.

Medications for Opioid Addiction

Opioid use disorder (OUD) is one of the most challenging addictions to overcome. Fortunately, medications for opioid detox and long-term treatment can significantly improve recovery outcomes.

Methadone

Methadone is a well-established medication used in the treatment of opioid addiction. It helps individuals manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings, making the recovery process more manageable.

• A full opioid agonist, methadone helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms without producing the same high as other opioids.
• It is administered in licensed treatment programs and requires regular medical supervision.
• Methadone has been used for decades and is considered highly effective for long-term maintenance therapy.

Buprenorphine (Suboxone, Subutex)

Buprenorphine is a widely used medication for opioid addiction that helps individuals manage withdrawal symptoms while minimizing the risk of misuse. It is commonly prescribed due to its effectiveness and accessibility.

• A partial opioid agonist, buprenorphine reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms while having a lower risk of misuse.
• Often combined with naloxone (as in Suboxone) to prevent misuse.
• Unlike methadone, buprenorphine can be prescribed by certified healthcare providers, making it more accessible.

Naltrexone (Vivitrol)

Naltrexone is a valuable medication for individuals in recovery from opioid addiction. It works differently than other medications used in MAT, as it does not alleviate cravings but rather helps prevent relapse.

• A non-addictive opioid antagonist, naltrexone blocks the effects of opioids.
• Unlike methadone or buprenorphine, it does not reduce cravings but instead prevents opioid use from producing a high.
• Naltrexone is most effective after detox, as taking it while opioids are still in the system can cause severe withdrawal symptoms.

Medications for Alcohol Addiction

For individuals struggling with alcohol use disorder, medications can help reduce alcohol consumption and support long-term sobriety. These medications work in different ways, from decreasing cravings to discouraging alcohol use by creating adverse effects when drinking.

Disulfiram (Antabuse)

Disulfiram is a medication that discourages alcohol consumption by creating an adverse reaction when alcohol is ingested. It is designed to support individuals in maintaining long-term sobriety.

• Disulfiram works by causing severe nausea, vomiting, and discomfort when alcohol is consumed.
• It serves as a deterrent to drinking, helping individuals maintain sobriety.
• Best used for individuals who have already detoxed and are committed to abstinence.

Naltrexone (Vivitrol, Revia)

Naltrexone is a medication that helps individuals with alcohol use disorder by reducing the rewarding effects of alcohol consumption. It can be an effective tool in preventing relapse and supporting long-term sobriety.

• Blocks the pleasurable effects of alcohol, reducing the urge to drink.
• Available as a daily pill or a monthly injection (Vivitrol).
• Unlike disulfiram, naltrexone does not make individuals sick if they drink, but it reduces the likelihood of relapse.

Acamprosate (Campral)

Acamprosate is a medication designed to support individuals in maintaining long-term sobriety by helping restore brain balance after prolonged alcohol use.

• Helps stabilize brain chemistry that has been altered by chronic alcohol use.
• Reduces cravings and emotional distress related to alcohol withdrawal.
• Works best for individuals who have already stopped drinking and are focused on maintaining sobriety.

Medications for Other Substance Use Disorders

While opioid and alcohol addiction have FDA-approved medication treatments, other substance use disorders have more limited medication options.

• Stimulant Addiction (Methamphetamine, Cocaine): Currently, no FDA-approved medications exist for stimulant addiction, though research is ongoing. Behavioral therapy remains the primary treatment approach.

Is Medication-Assisted Treatment Right for You?

Not everyone needs medication-assisted treatment, but for many, it can be a lifesaving tool in recovery. The best way to determine if MAT is right for you is to work with a medical professional who can assess your unique needs and treatment goals.

MAT is most effective when combined with counseling and behavioral therapy to address both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction. Some concerns about MAT include:

• Will I become dependent on these medications? MAT medications are carefully managed and do not produce the same high as addictive substances.
• Isn’t recovery about complete sobriety? MAT allows individuals to function normally while reducing relapse risks, making it a valuable tool in long-term sobriety.

Get the Support You Need for Recovery

Medications to treat drug addiction can be an effective part of a personalized recovery plan. Whether you need help with opioid detox, alcohol detox, or long-term addiction treatment, Axiom Care provides compassionate, evidence-based care.

If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, don’t wait to seek help. Contact Axiom Care today to learn more about our medication-assisted treatment options and start your journey toward recovery.