There are a number of treatment options that exist for narcotic addiction, more than for most drug classes. Below are some of the most common that are likely to be beneficial to you. For more information on narcotic addiction treatment or to find a rehab call 800-934-1582(Who Answers?) .

1. Methadone Maintenance

Methadone maintenance is one of the most commonly used treatment programs for narcotic addiction. According to Harvard Medical School, “More than 100,000 American addicts” are currently being maintained on methadone. This program has been utilized since the 1960s to treat heroin and prescription opioid addicts safely and effectively.

The medication minimizes withdrawal symptoms, reduces cravings, and reestablishes normal brain functions. In the program, patients not only receive daily doses of methadone to minimize their withdrawal symptoms and cravings, they also receive access to other treatment options within the program as well as referrals to facilities that provide additional care. Many individuals thrive on methadone maintenance and stay in the program for months and even years.

2. Buprenorphine (and Naloxone)

Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist medication that works similarly to methadone but can be prescribed in a doctor’s office instead of a clinic. It is a newer option, but it has been found to be extremely effective for individuals with more mild physical dependencies. In the most often prescribed brand medication called Suboxone, naloxone is also present in order to minimize the chance of abuse, as it precipitates withdrawal in anyone who attempts to crush and snort the tablet.

3. Cognitive-behavioral Therapy

Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a therapeutic program that helps patients work through their addiction and learn better life skills. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, “Cognitive-behavioral strategies are based on the theory that in the development of maladaptive behavioral patterns like substance abuse, learning processes play a critical role.”

Patients learn how to better cope with stress and other issues that can lead to relapse, compare the positives and negatives of continued drug use, recognize triggers, and cope with cravings. This program is extremely beneficial for all types of substance abusers, including those who use narcotics.

4. Group Therapy

Group therapy provides the reinforcement one requires from their peers to create a better, safer life and to recover from addiction. It also helps individuals see their substance abuse more accurately through the trials of others like them. Group and individualized therapy are often utilized together to create a well-rounded treatment program.

5. NA and Other Support Groups

Narcotics Anonymous, SMART Recovery, and other support groups are commonly sought out by narcotic abusers who are still in treatment or transitioning out of rehab. These programs help individuals in recovery stay on the right path through social reinforcement of positive life choices, peer support, and discussion of recovery-based topics.

Often, a treatment program that uses several of these options is more beneficial to a narcotic addict than one that does not. Therapy and medication together have been found to create a full, effective program for addiction treatment and recovery. Addiction requires long-term treatment that addresses all aspects of the individual’s substance abuse and requires multiple stages throughout the person’s life. Call 800-934-1582(Who Answers?) today to find a rehab center and to begin your journey of recovery.