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Posted by: cowpievt on 2007-11-25, 08:25:01
Opiate addiction is a tough addiction to beat. Your body becomes dependent on an opioid, or you go in to withdrawals. Addicts often spend all their time seeking drugs, finding out ways to pay for them, and using. The problem with heroin and oxycontin, is that 4 hours after you use, you typically start going in to withdrawals. So it is a constant cycle. oxycontin and other opiates also get an individual "high ". Methadone is an opioid- like oxycontin, heroin, etc. However, it is slow acting - meaning that it holds someone over 24 hours without going in to withdrawals. It also does not get an individual "high ". Methadone clinics provide an individual with a daily dose - this keeps them from going into withdrawals, decreases cravings and eliminates the cycle of drug seeking, using, and not being able to function because you are always preoccupied wtih finding your next drug. Your body becomes dependent on methadone, much like it did on other opiates, BUT, the medication allows you to lead a normal life without getting high. Clinics monitor individuals closely and include substance abuse counseling in treatment. Individuals can wean themselves off methadone if they choose - but this should be done incredibly gradually and only if the right supports are in place. A taper done too quickly, or without supports, often leads to a relapse. |
