Because of the current opioid epidemic in the U.S., many health centers offer an opiate addiction treatment program. Is an opiate also an opioid? Opiates include controlled prescription drugs derived from opium, a chemical that occurs naturally in poppy plants. Opioids are any compound resembling opium in physiological effects or addictive properties. They’re not the same but similar enough for the terms to be used interchangeably.
Opiates and opioids are used clinically for treating moderate to severe or chronic pain. Due to their calming effects, these drugs have tremendously high rates of addiction, which is why they’re often not the primary medications recommended by doctors. However, many medical professionals still prescribe them for special circumstances, such as when other medicines haven’t worked to reduce pain. Contact Baltimore Detox Center today by calling [Direct] or reaching out to our team online.
What Are the Signs of Opiate Addiction?
If you think that you or someone you love may be struggling with problematic opiate use, watch out for some common symptoms of opiate addiction. Many behavioral, physical, and psychological signs of opiate addiction are easily observable by others, such as the following:
- Confusion and disorientation
- Impaired coordination
- Loss of concentration or motivation
- Loss of interest or passion in once-enjoyed activities and hobbies
- Slowed or slurred speech
- Stealing or other illegal activities
- Social withdrawal
These symptoms may indicate an addiction, so if you see them in yourself or someone you love, you may require treatment.
What Are the Dangers of Prescription Drug Abuse?
Prescription drug abuse, particularly if it involves opiates, can severely affect a person’s health in the long term. Some negative consequences of prescription opiate addiction include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Cardiovascular problems: Opiate addiction can eventually lead to high blood pressure and other heart-related health problems.
- Cognitive problems: Quitting opiates abruptly can cause severe withdrawal symptoms, including nervous system hyperactivity and seizures, apart from long-term mental problems.
- Overdose: Taking too many opiates can cause low blood pressure and a slowed breathing rate. Sometimes, that’s enough for breathing to stop or for someone to slip into a coma. Some overdose cases can be fatal, too.
When Should You Consider an Opiate Addiction Treatment Program?
Addiction treatment professionals offer various treatment options. However, studies show that the most effective for clients struggling with opiate abuse is a comprehensive treatment program that includes medical detox and inpatient rehab. First, though, they will need to be properly assessed and diagnosed.
Medical detox makes it easier for clients to go through discomforting and sometimes painful withdrawal symptoms. It also allows them to focus on addiction recovery instead of drug cravings and other addiction triggers. Inpatient addiction treatment programs can help clients dig deep within themselves to uncover the root cause of their substance use disorders. It also keeps them away from their usual environment and triggers that may lurk there.
Detoxing at home or somewhere that does not provide medical support is not ideal, as some withdrawal symptoms can be life-threatening. To ensure the safety of yourself or someone you love, you should consider starting your recovery path at an opiate detox center. An excellent detox facility may also recommend ideal further treatment options. For opiate addiction, outpatient programs aren’t typically advisable but can work if the client can’t handle the 24-hour nature of inpatient programs. Effective forms of therapeutic care typically used during addiction treatment often include group and individual counseling techniques.
Find out More About Baltimore Detox’s Opiate Addiction Treatment Program
If you’re looking for an opiate addiction treatment program in Baltimore, MD, contact Baltimore Detox Center today. Call [Direct] or reach out to our team online.
