Finding Heroin Addiction Treatments
Heroin Addiction Treatments
A number of treatments are available to deal with heroin addiction. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, the sooner the problem is acknowledged the better the chance of recovery. Behavioral therapy combined with a range of available medications to prevent withdrawal symptoms seems to be the best options at this time for users. Methadone has been used for over thirty years with a good success rate. It works by blocking the effects of heroin, while eliminating withdrawal symptoms at the same time. It allows the individual to carry on with normal duties, and it only has to be taken once per day. It has been proven to be safe when used medically for periods of more than ten years.
Newer forms of medication are available as well, such as Buprenorphine are good for Heroin Addiction Treatments. It is different than methadone because the addiction rate is much less and it can be prescribed by a physician. Naloxone and Naltrexone block effects that come with heroin, morphine and other types of opiates. These types of drugs are useful in preventing addicts from relapsing.
Heroin Detoxification
Detoxification is always an option as well. For the best and safest results it should be done in a clinical or rehab setting that lasts for a period of around three to six months. The idea behind detoxification is to lead to a long-term goal of remaining drug-free. It is not actually the treatment for the addiction, but simply a more comfortable way to withdraw and deal with the symptoms associated with withdrawal. Symptoms of withdrawal are said to peak between forty-eight and seventy-two hours of the last use and should end after a period of seven to ten days. Unfortunately continued therapy is necessary because cravings will continue for much longer. Contrary to what some might think, withdrawal is not often fatal.
Countries with Heroin Assisted Treatment
In the following countries heroin assisted treatment or diamorphine assisted treatment is part of their national health system, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Germany, United Kingdom and Denmark. Belgium and Canada are performing trials to consider the program. This synthetic form is given to addicts that are unable to tolerate methadone or buprenorphine treatment. Even though this form is more expensive, it is said to save costs that would be associated with court costs, incarcerations, and health issues. Getting proper Heroin Addiction Treatment can mean the difference between kicking the addiction altogether or being stuck an addict.
