Medication-Assisted Treatment
for Opioid Dependency

What Are Opioids? 

Opioids are a class of drugs that include the illegal drug heroin, synthetic opioids such as fentanyl, and pain relievers legally available by prescription^[1] which may include: 

• Oxycodone (OxyContin®)
• Codeine
• Morphine
• Hydrocodone (Vicodin®)
• Opium
• Buprenorphine

These drugs change the way your brain responds to pain by reducing the number of pain signals sent from the body. Opioids are commonly used to relieve pain associated with surgical procedures, injuries, and chronic conditions. However, they can also cause feelings of euphoria, tranquility, and sedation which often leads to substance abuse^[2], as well as opioid and heroin addiction.

Defining Opioid Use Disorder 

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5®) defines the diagnostic criteria for opioid use disorder as the problematic pattern of opioid use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress, as manifested by at least two of the following, occurring within a 12-month period^[3]:

• Use of opioids in larger amounts and for a longer period than intended
• Persistent desire or inability to control opioid use 
• Obtaining, using, and recovering from the use of the opioid occupies a significant amount of time
• Strong urge or desire to use opioids
• Opioid use prevents fulfillment of primary responsibilities
• Continued use of the drug despite knowing that it is negatively impacting relationships 
• Decreased or halted participation in social, occupational, or recreational activities
• Continued opioid use despite the risk of physical hazard
• Failure to quit using the substance despite its role in physical or psychological issues
• Changes in tolerance 
• Exhibition of withdrawal symptoms or use of opioids to negate these symptoms

These criteria are applied to determine the existence and severity of the substance use disorder.

Understanding the Opioid & Heroin Epidemic 

The abuse of opioid drugs has led some to turn to heroin as a more affordable and accessible alternative^[4]. This has, in part, contributed to the growth of heroin use amongst social groups and communities that were not previously prevalent users. According to the most recent statistics provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 91 Americans die every day from an opioid overdose^[5]. 

Identifying Opioid Abuse Disorder 

Identifying opioid abuse disorder can allow you to guide a loved one towards getting help. Opioids may be taken orally, injected, smoked, or snorted. "Track marks" are an obvious sign that a user may be injecting opioids. However, you may have to rely on more subtle cues, such as signs of withdrawal or intoxication including mood swings, changes in pupil size, and hallucinations. 

Withdrawal Symptoms

Symptoms which indicate withdrawal include:

• Restlessness
• Anxiety
• Muscle aches
• Depressed mood
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea 
• Sweating or fever
• Irritability 
• Difficulting sleeping

Depending on the type and amount of drugs that were consumed, these symptoms may last for as little as five days or as long as several weeks. If you believe a loved one is struggling with an opioid addiction, seeking professional care as soon as possible is of the utmost importance. 

Treating Opioid Dependency

Dr. Bober provides medication-assisted treatment (MAT), or opioid substitution therapy, to help patients with an opioid dependency. He believes this treatment is the best course of action for many patients as it has been shown to reduce the risk of relapse. MAT is the administration of pharmacological medications in combination with counseling and behavioral therapies^[6]. 

Dr. Bober believes in treating opioid use disorder as a chronic illness and works with his patients to find the most effective solution.

Medications which have been found to be effective include methadone, buprenorphine, or extended-release injectable naltrexone. These are typically administered to help the patient regain a normal state of mind, reduce cravings, and curb withdrawal symptoms^[7]. When used properly and overseen by an experienced psychiatrist, this treatment plan can be highly effective in managing addiction, helping patients maintain a healthy lifestyle and achieve a successful recovery.

Providing Compassionate, Effective Care

Opioid use disorder can not only hinder your ability to lead a productive life and maintain relationships. Consequences can be fatal. Dr. Bober is dedicated to helping you lead a happy, healthy life by providing opioid substitution therapy for long-term treatment. Contact us today at (954) 994-1115 to schedule your consultation.