Painkiller or opiate dependencies are considered chronic medical conditions that are the direct result of a chemical change within the brain. When an addiction to painkillers develops, it is almost impossible for individuals to detox using traditional drug rehab methods. Though it will take some willpower, rehab for painkiller addictions require medications, counseling and support for family and friends during the recovery period.

Dependence and Detoxification

A painkiller addiction alters the chemical composition in the brain. These alterations typically occur within the reward and mood centers, which is why the longer the abuse occurs, the more difficult the drug rehab process will be. Drug rehab for painkillers cannot be done by cutting off the addiction all together, unless the patient can withstand the extreme withdrawal symptoms that can include cravings, diarrhea, yawning, abdominal pain, insomnia, body aches, nausea or vomiting, chills and severe mood swings.

Drug Rehab Medications

Since painkiller withdrawal is so difficult to deal with, rehab centers offer specific medications to make the recovery process easier.

Methadone – This long-acting medication works similar to painkillers by providing the same chemical reaction and eliminating withdrawal symptoms. The issue with methadone, however, is most centers have reported addiction to the methadone treatment, which counteracts the rehab program to begin with.

Subutex or Suboxone – One of the latest treatments used is Subutex. This medication works similar to the opioid and methadone, but without the harsh side effects or risk of addiction. Though individuals can still become addicted to Suboxone, the risks are much lower than methadone. Subutex is safer than methadone in long-term treatments and is given to a patient the first few days of drug rehab to help them overcome the symptoms of withdrawal.

Clonidine – This was originally developed as a blood pressure medication, but since it reduces the “fight or flight” mechanism in the brain, it has proven itself effective in also treating drug addictions. Clonidine is never used alone and often is used in combination with other treatments.

After rehab is complete follow up care is often recommended. Since it only helps break the initial addiction, counseling and even follow up drug rehab services are recommended for individuals with chronic addiction or history of previous addiction prior to drug rehab. Most rehab centers offer a form of counseling and follow up that is done as an outpatient, which allows the individual a chance to reenter society, but still under the direct supervision of a drug rehab counselor. Anyone in rehab is encouraged to seek support from family and friends to ensure a quick and healthy recovery as well as receive the emotional support needed to get over the hold of painkillers.

 

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Filed under: painkiller addiction

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