Suboxone Specialist

What are opioids?

Opioids are a class of drug that provides pain relief and relaxation. Opioids are either made from the opium poppy plant or manufactured in a lab. Morphine is one of the most well-known opioid prescription drugs, although doctors may also prescribe hydrocodone, oxycodone, oxymorphone, codeine, or fentanyl.

Opioids work by reacting with your nerve cells to block or disrupt pain messages. They are safe when used as directed for a short period of time.

However, opioids are highly addictive. When the drug attaches to the receptors in your brain, they stimulate the release of a flood of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that creates a feeling of euphoria and reinforces repeated use of the drug.

What are the signs of opioid addiction?

Addiction is a brain condition that causes intense cravings for a drug or alcohol and repeated use, despite harmful consequences. Some of the signs of opioid dependence include:

• Uncontrollable urges to use the drug
• Withdrawal symptoms
• Engaging in risky behavior to get the drug
• Having to use more of the drug to get the same effects
• Trying to stop using the drug, but failing

Addiction is an illness that usually needs professional treatment as well as a personal commitment to change. If you’re concerned about opioid dependence, contact Innovative Pain Solutions Centers today.

How is opioid addiction treated?

At Innovative Pain Solutions Centers, Dr. Oppong understands the risks and benefits of prescription opioids. If your opioid prescription for pain has led to addiction, the doctors provide customized opioid abuse management services not only to help you recover from addiction but to provide drug-free pain treatment alternatives.

When treating addiction, doctors usually combine medicine to control your cravings and withdrawal symptoms with counseling services. Medications like Suboxone can reduce your cravings and withdrawal symptoms without providing a euphoric or high feeling. When you’re not distracted by your urges to use the drug, you can focus your energy on learning strategies to modify your behaviors and choices, reducing your mental and emotional dependence on the drug.

Also, Dr. Oppong provides a comprehensive range of drug-free pain relief alternatives such as steroid injections, nerve blocks, and radiofrequency ablation to reduce your pain.

Call Innovative Pain Solutions Centers or schedule an appointment online today for customized addiction management services.