Opioid addiction is not easy to overcome. Finding the right treatment can make all the difference. 

One thing you will want to consider is whether you want inpatient or outpatient care. Many people can’t take the time out of their lives for inpatient care, but fortunately, outpatient opioid treatment is available. This article will let you know what it entails. 

What Drugs are Opioids?

Opioids are drugs that are made from extractions from the opioid poppy plant. They are often prescribed to relieve pain, but they are also available in illegal forms. 

Doctors often prescribe prescription opioids such as OxyContin and Vicodin for pain relief. In more severe cases, fentanyl may be recommended, a synthetic opioid up to 100 times stronger than morphine. 

Heroin is a dangerous illegal drug that also belongs to the opioid family. People often start using it when they are unable to get opioids through other means. 

How do Opioids Impact the Body? 

Opioids block pain signals from the brain to the nervous system. It produces a euphoric effect and activates the rewards system of the brain. Once its effects wear off, people crave the euphoric feeling making them want to do more of the drug. 

The immediate effects of opioids are as follows: 

• Drowsiness 
• Pain relief
• Flushed skin 
• Pinned eyes

They can also cause negative side effects, including nausea and constipation. If taken in excessive doses, they can cause shallow breathing, a slowed heart rate, and loss of consciousness. 

If you begin taking opioids excessively, your body will get used to having them in its system. You will begin to need more of the drug to get the same effects. 

 In time, your body will be unable to function when the drugs are not present. It will present unpleasant physical and mental withdrawal symptoms. 

The short-term solution to the withdrawal symptoms will be to take more of the drug, which is the main reason why it’s so addictive. 

Symptoms of opioid addiction include: 

• Going to different doctors to try and get more of the drug
• Lack of self-care
• Withdrawal from society
• Lack of interest in doing the things you once loved
• Lower tolerance to pain
• Troubled relationships
• Financial issues
• Legal issues
• Engaging in dangerous and dishonest behavior

Is There Opioid Addiction Treatment? 

Overcoming opioids is not easy, but fortunately, outpatient treatment for opioid addiction is available. Here are some reasons why it may be beneficial:

• As compared to inpatient treatment, it does not require you to spend as much time away from work or home. 
• It is more affordable than inpatient treatment. 
• It does not require as much of an adjustment after treatment.

There are various types of outpatient opioid addiction treatment as follows:

• Partial Hospitalization: Partial hospitalization requires you to be in treatment 6-8 hours a day. You can spend the rest of the time working or at home with family. 
• Intensive Outpatient: Often a follow-up to partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient treatment involves a few therapy sessions a week. 
• Outpatient: This final stage of treatment may require 1-2 sessions a week or as needed. 

Outpatient treatment may be a primary form of treatment, or it may be used as a follow-up to inpatient care. 

How to Find Outpatient Opioid Treatment Near Me

If you search for outpatient opioid treatment near me, you will find there are plenty of centers that offer this service. But how do you find the one that’s best suited to your needs? You must consider the atmosphere, the type of care given, success rates, and more. 

You can spend hours researching to find the one that’s right for you, or you can save yourself time by contacting Principles Recovery Center first. 

Principles is a South Florida rehab center that prides itself on treating its clients like family. Our ownership has over 30 years of experience in dealing with substance abuse issues. We will help you reach your recovery goals and plan a sober future that ensures you leave addiction behind. 

Don’t let addiction rob you of your ability to enjoy life. Contact Principles Recovery Center today. We will get you on a path to finding the health and happiness you deserve. 

Dr. Carlos Satulovsky( Medical Director )

Dr. Carlos Satulovsky is a board-certified psychiatrist and has over 30 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from Facultad De Ciencias Medicas/Universidad Nacional. He is affiliated with medical facilities North Shore Medical Center.