What are opioids and how do they work?

Opioids work by binding to receptors in the brain and inhibiting their ability to perceive pain and create a feeling of euphoria . Prescription opioids can be prescribed for pain and include oxycodone, hydrocodone, morphine, dilaudid, codeine, demerol, opana and fentanyl among others. Heroin is an illicit opioid that is commonly used by intravenous injection (IV), ingestion (swallowing) and insufflation (snorting.)

What is opioid dependence?

Whether taken as prescribed, self medicating or taken for the purpose of achieving euphoria, the risk of abuse and dependence is very high. As a tolerance is built to the opioid, the user will often need increased doses to avoid withdrawal and achieve the euphoric effects of the opioid. When the user begins to feel ill or unable to function normally without the drug in their system, the person is opioid dependent.

What is opioid withdrawal?

Depending on the persons level of dependency, withdrawal can range from mild to severe and be life threatening. Symptoms of withdrawal include rapid pulse, excessive sweating, headache, chills, itchy/watery eyes, runny nose, muscle/bone aches, restlessness, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, diarrhea, anxiety, irritability, lethargy and tremors.

How does treatment work at New Life Recovery?

New Life Recovery is an outpatient medication assisted treatment center for opioid dependence that offers a variety of FDA approved buprenorphine and buprenorphine/naloxone options such as Suboxone, Zubsolv and Bunavail. Upon entry into treatment, you will be assessed by your physician and together will create a customized treatment plan specific to your individual needs.

How does buprenorphine/naloxone work?

Buprenorphine occupies the receptors of the missing opioid. Naloxone is a deterrent to avoid the misuse of buprenorphine. When taken as prescribed, buprenorphine/naloxone reduces opioid cravings, can prevent relapse, produces no euphoric high, reduces withdrawal symptoms and allows the person to feel normal again.

Can I stop taking buprenorphine/naloxone?

If you have achieved and maintained desired stability and wish to stop taking buprenorphine/naloxone medications, you must do so by slowly tapering off of your dose AS INSTRUCTED BY YOUR DOCTOR. Abruptly discontinuing your regimen may result in detox and relapse.

What is alcohol use disorder?

Alcohol use disorder, also known as alcoholism, is a chronic disease characterized by the preoccupation with alcohol and the inability to control drinking due to physical and emotional dependence on alcohol.

What is an alcohol overdose?

Alcohol is a drug that affects the central nervous system. It is considered a depressant because it slows down speech, movement, and reaction time. Alcohol overdose, or alcohol poisoning, is a serious condition, sometimes deadly,  that occurs when your body consumes more alcohol than it can safely process.