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Learn More About Substance Abuse
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Suboxone
Suboxone was developed as an alternative to methadone to ease the severe symptoms of opioid withdrawal and help with ongoing cravings. If an individual has a strong desire to stop taking opioids but has intense cravings, they are likely a candidate for a Suboxone program.
Opioids are natural, semi-synthetic, or synthetic chemicals that interact with opioid receptors in the body and brain and reduce perception of pain. While the terms opioids and opiates are sometimes used interchangeably, opiate refers specifically to natural compounds derived from the poppy plant, such as heroin or morphine, while opioids may be natural or derived in a lab.
Synthetic and semi-synthetic opioids, such as fentanyl and heroin respectively, are synthesized in a lab to mimic the effects of natural opiates such as morphine. They are developed to be stronger and more potent than natural opiates.
Opioid Use Disorder
Medications Used: buprenorphine (including Suboxone, a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone), and naltrexone.
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Purpose: These medications work by normalizing brain chemistry, blocking the euphoric effects of opioids, relieving physiological cravings, and stabilizing body functions without the negative effects of the abused drug.
Alcohol Use Disorder
Medications Used: Disulfiram, acamprosate, and naltrexone.
Purpose: These medications help reduce drinking behavior by causing unpleasant effects when alcohol is consumed, modulating the brain’s response to alcohol, or reducing cravings.