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At Tooele Methadone Treatment, we believe that medication assisted treatment (MAT) shouldn’t be the only element of your recovery plan. A complete MAT plan combines a carefully monitored medication regimen with substance abuse counseling. Research shows a higher success rate for those with an opioid use disorder when medication assisted treatment is combined with additional therapy services.

Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT)

Physician care for substance abuse typically involves a comprehensive approach that combines medical evaluation, medication management, and psychosocial interventions. Here are some key aspects of physician care for substance abuse:

Medical Evaluation: A physician will assess the individual’s overall health, including physical and mental well-being, and evaluate the extent and nature of the substance abuse problem. This evaluation may involve taking a detailed medical history, conducting physical examinations, and ordering laboratory tests if necessary.

Medication Management: Depending on the specific substance of abuse, certain medications may be prescribed to assist in the treatment and management of withdrawal symptoms or cravings. The physician will prescribe and monitor the appropriate medications to aid in the recovery process.

Psychosocial Interventions: Physicians often work in collaboration with other healthcare professionals, such as psychologists, social workers, or substance use disorder counselors, to provide psychosocial interventions. These interventions may include individual counseling, group therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, or support group participation.

Co-occurring Conditions: Many individuals with substance abuse disorders also have co-occurring mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Physicians will evaluate and address these conditions as part of the overall treatment plan, often through a combination of medication and therapy.

Follow-up Care and Monitoring: Physicians play a vital role in ongoing monitoring and follow-up care for individuals in recovery from substance abuse. They may conduct regular check-ups to assess progress, adjust medications if needed, and provide ongoing support and guidance.

Physician Care

Methadone

Methadone is a medication commonly used in Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) programs for opioid addiction. Methadone is a long-acting opioid agonist, which means it activates the same opioid receptors in the brain that are affected by drugs like heroin or prescription opioids. However, when used as prescribed in MAT programs, methadone helps stabilize the brain and body, reduce withdrawal symptoms, and block the euphoric effects of other opioids.

Here are some key points about methadone in Medication-Assisted Treatment:

Effectiveness: Methadone has been used for several decades and is considered one of the most effective medications for treating opioid addiction. It helps individuals reduce or stop their illicit opioid use, decrease cravings, and improve overall functioning.

Dosing: Methadone is typically administered orally in liquid form on a daily basis. The initial dose is determined by a healthcare professional and is based on the individual’s opioid use history, tolerance, and other factors. The dose may be adjusted over time to achieve the desired therapeutic effect.

Supervision: Methadone is dispensed through specialized clinics or approved healthcare settings. In the early stages of treatment, patients often need to visit the clinic daily to receive their dose. As they progress and demonstrate stability, they may be given take-home doses for weekends or holidays.

Safety: Methadone carries some risks, including the potential for misuse, interaction with other medications, or overdose if taken inappropriately. Therefore, it is crucial that methadone is taken as prescribed and under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

Side Effects: Methadone can cause side effects such as drowsiness, constipation, sweating, dry mouth, and sexual dysfunction. These effects are generally mild and tend to diminish over time as the body adjusts to the medication.

Duration of Use: Some individuals may need to stay on methadone maintenance for an extended period or even indefinitely, depending on their individual circumstances and treatment goals. Others may choose to taper off methadone gradually under medical supervision.

Buprenorphine, Suboxone & Sublocade

Buprenorphine is a medication commonly used in Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder (OUD). MAT combines the use of buprenorphine with counseling and behavioral therapies to provide a comprehensive approach to the treatment of opioid addiction. Here are some key points about buprenorphine in MAT: Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist, meaning it activates opioid receptors in the brain but produces less intense effects compared to full opioid agonists like heroin or oxycodone. It helps to relieve opioid withdrawal symptoms and cravings without producing the same level of euphoria or respiratory depression.

Suboxone® is a brand name medication that combines buprenorphine and naloxone. Buprenorphine, the primary active ingredient in Suboxone®, is a partial opioid agonist. It helps to relieve withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings associated with opioid addiction. It has a long duration of action, allowing for once-daily or every other day dosing. Buprenorphine has a ceiling effect, which means that higher doses do not produce a stronger effect. This reduces the risk of overdose and makes it a safer option compared to full opioid agonists like heroin or oxycodone. Naloxone, the second ingredient in Suboxone®, is an opioid antagonist. It is added to deter misuse of the medication. It is typically initiated during the induction phase of treatment when a person is experiencing withdrawal symptoms. Suboxone® comes as a sublingual film. The dosage is gradually adjusted to find the optimal level that relieves cravings and withdrawal symptoms without producing sedation or euphoria.

Sublocade is an extended-release formulation of buprenorphine, a partial opioid agonist, which means it binds to the same receptors in the brain as other opioids but produces a weaker effect. Sublocade is administered as a monthly injection, providing a steady and continuous release of buprenorphine over an extended period.

The use of Sublocade in MAT offers several advantages. Firstly, it eliminates the need for daily dosing, as the medication remains active in the body for an extended period. This helps reduce the risk of medication diversion or misuse. Secondly, Sublocade provides consistent and stable levels of buprenorphine, which can help minimize withdrawal symptoms and cravings associated with opioid dependence. By providing sustained buprenorphine levels, Sublocade can support individuals in their recovery journey by reducing the fluctuations that may occur with other dosing forms.

As with any medication, there are potential side effects and considerations to be aware of when using Sublocade. Some common side effects may include constipation, headache, nausea, injection site reactions, and potential allergic reactions. It is important to discuss any concerns or questions with the prescribing healthcare professional.

Effectiveness: Highly effective in reducing illicit opioid use, promoting abstinence, and improving overall treatment outcomes. It helps stabilize individuals with opioid addiction, allowing them to function more normally and engage in therapy and other aspects of their recovery.

Dosing: Induction and Maintenance Phases: treatment typically involves an induction phase, where the medication is started after a certain period of opioid abstinence, and a maintenance phase, where the patient continues on a stable dose. The dosage is individualized based on the patient’s needs and is often adjusted during the course of treatment.

Supervision: Can be dosed daily in a clinical setting or sent home as a prescription.

Safety: Acts as a partial agonist at the mu-opioid receptor and, overall, is safer than methadone. However, it should not be combined with other CNS depressants like alcohol or benzodiazepines; otherwise, this can lead to respiratory depression.

Side Effects: Can cause side effects such as headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, sweating, insomnia, constipation and sexual dysfunction. These effects are generally mild and tend to diminish over time as the body adjusts to the medication.

Duration of Use: There is no one-size-fits-all treatment duration for patients taking buprenorphine.. The initial treatment dose should be at the lowest dose and gradually titrated every week until noting a response. The minimum duration of treatment is eight weeks. And some patients may maintain treatment long term while others are able to taper off in a shorter period of time.

Vivitrol/ Naltrexone

Vivitrol is a brand name for a medication called naltrexone, which is used in medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid and alcohol use disorders. MAT combines medication with behavioral therapy and counseling to provide a comprehensive approach to addiction treatment.

Naltrexone is an opioid receptor antagonist, which means it blocks the effects of opioids in the brain. It binds to opioid receptors and prevents opioids from activating them, effectively blocking the euphoric and sedative effects of opioids. This helps reduce cravings for opioids and decreases the likelihood of relapse.

Vivitrol is a long-acting form of naltrexone that is administered via injection once a month. This formulation ensures consistent medication levels in the body, eliminating the need for daily medication adherence.

As with any medication, Vivitrol has potential side effects, including injection site reactions, nausea, headache, fatigue, and liver problems. It is important to discuss the potential benefits and risks with a healthcare professional before starting Vivitrol or any other medication for addiction treatment

Effectiveness: People who use Vivitrol in combination with counseling to treat their opioid addiction have 90 percent opioid-free weeks compared to 35 percent who took a placebo. Those who used Vivitrol alongside rehabilitation and continuing therapy were 17 times less likely to relapse compared to those who did not use Vivitrol.

Dosing: The recommended dose of VIVITROL is 380 mg delivered intramuscularly (deep) as a gluteal injection every 4 weeks or once a month

Supervision: VIVITROL must be prepared and administered by a healthcare provider. The entire dose pack should be stored in the refrigerator (2 °C to 8 °C, 36 °F to 46 °F). Unrefrigerated, VIVITROL can be stored at temperatures not exceeding 25 °C (77 °F) for no more than 7 days prior to administration.

Safety: VIVITROL blocks the effects of opioids, such as heroin or opioid pain medicines. Do not try to overcome this blocking effect by taking large amounts of opioids—this can lead to serious injury, coma, or death.

Side Effects: Sometimes this leads to suicide, or suicidal thoughts, and suicidal behavior. Some people receiving VIVITROL treatment have had a type of pneumonia that is caused by an allergic reaction. If this happens to you, you may need to be treated in the hospital. Serious allergic reactions can happen during or soon after an injection of VIVITROL. Tell your healthcare provider or get medical help right away if you have any of these symptoms:skin rash, swelling of your face, eyes, mouth, or tongue, trouble breathing or wheezing, chest pain, feeling dizzy or faint

Duration of Use: Generally speaking, Vivitrol stays in the body between 25 and 50 days. When administered every four weeks as part of an opioid use disorder treatment program, the medication releases slowly over time, remaining effective for the entire month.

Behavioral Therapy

Assessment & Treatment Planning:

Individuals who are enrolled in Tooele Methadone Treatment will meet with a trained therapist to conduct an initial assessment. The purpose of the assessment is to gather information about the individual’s biological, psychological, and social functioning to better understand how substance abuse is impacting the individual’s life. This assessment helps in developing a tailored treatment plan.

After the assessment is completed, the individual will meet with a therapist to develop an individualized treatment plan. The treatment plan is a collaborative document that incorporates the individual’s goals related to recovery and how they will be achieved. The therapist will integrate the individual’s strengths, needs, abilities, and preferences and assist the individual in setting realistic goals to work towards during the course of treatment. Over the course of treatment, the therapist and individual will meet periodically to review treatment progress.

Individual Substance Abuse Therapy

Also known as individual counseling or therapy, involves one-on-one sessions between a trained therapist and the individual who is seeking treatment. The overall aim of individual substance abuse therapy is to help the individual develop strategies to build a life worth living, free of substance use. Here are some common components and approaches used in individual substance abuse therapy:

Motivational Interviewing: This approach helps individuals explore their ambivalence and motivations regarding their drug use. The therapist supports them in finding their intrinsic motivation for change and setting goals for recovery.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a widely used therapeutic approach for addiction treatment. It helps individuals identify and modify negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with drug use. CBT aims to teach healthier coping skills, problem-solving techniques, and strategies to manage cravings and triggers.

Psychoeducation: The therapist educates the individual about their condition, symptoms, and treatment methods. Providing individuals with psychoeducation allows the individual to ask questions, better understand, and follow through with treatment recommendations.

Supportive Therapy: The therapist provides a supportive and non-judgmental environment where individuals can openly discuss their struggles, concerns, and successes. The therapist acts as a guide, offering guidance, encouragement, and empathy throughout the recovery process.

Relapse Prevention: Therapists work with individuals to develop relapse prevention strategies, identify triggers and high-risk situations, and create a plan to cope with cravings and prevent a re-occurrence.

Remember, seeking help from a qualified and experienced professional is crucial for effective individual substance abuse therapy. They can provide personalized guidance and support to help individuals build a healthier, more fulfilling life in recovery.

Group Substance Abuse Therapy

Group substance abuse therapy is an effective and widely utilized approach in the treatment of substance use disorders. The primary goal of group substance abuse therapy is to provide a supportive and structured environment where individuals can share their experiences, struggles, and successes related to substance use. It offers a sense of community and promotes recovery by allowing participants to connect with others who are going through similar challenges, fostering empathy, understanding, and mutual support.

Key elements of group therapy for substance abuse therapy often include:

Supportive Environment: Group therapy provides a safe and non-judgmental space where individuals can openly discuss their substance use without fear of stigma or rejection. It allows participants to feel understood, validated, and supported by their peers.

Peer Learning and Feedback: Group therapy encourages members to share their insights, coping strategies, and recovery experiences. Participants can learn from each other’s successes and setbacks, gaining valuable knowledge and perspectives that can aid their own recovery journey.

Accountability and Responsibility: Group therapy fosters a sense of accountability among participants. Sharing their progress, setbacks, and goals within the group can motivate individuals to stay committed to their recovery process and take responsibility for their actions.

Social Support: The group dynamic in therapy offers a unique form of social support that can combat feelings of isolation and loneliness often experienced by those struggling with substance use. It provides an opportunity to build new healthy relationships and establish sober networks.

Family Therapy: The impact of addiction extends beyond the individual struggling with substance abuse and can greatly affect their loved ones as well. Counseling provides a supportive and therapeutic environment where friends and family members can address their own emotions, develop coping strategies, and learn how to support their loved one effectively.

Overall, group substance abuse therapy offers a valuable opportunity for individuals to heal, grow, and recover from substance use disorders. By fostering a sense of community, support, and shared learning, it can significantly contribute to an individual’s journey toward lasting recovery and a healthier, drug-free life.

Case Management or Care Coordination

Education and information: Counseling should include education about addiction, its effects on individuals and families, and strategies for managing challenging situations. Understanding the nature of addiction can empower friends and family members to approach the situation with empathy and knowledge, making informed decisions about their own well-being and the support they provide.

Setting boundaries: Counseling can help friends and family members establish healthy boundaries with the addicted individual. It is important to learn how to support without enabling or perpetuating harmful behaviors. Counselors can guide individuals in setting appropriate limits and promote self-care.

Communication skills: Effective communication is vital in relationships affected by addiction. Counseling can teach friends and family members how to communicate their needs, concerns, and expectations in a constructive and compassionate manner. Improved communication can enhance relationships and promote understanding.

Emotional support: Friends and family members of addicts often experience a range of emotions, including anger, guilt, shame, and anxiety. Counseling can provide a supportive space for processing these emotions, offering strategies to manage stress and improve overall emotional well-being.

Remember, addiction affects each person differently, and counseling can be tailored to address individual needs. It is important to prioritize self-care and seek professional help to navigate the complex challenges that arise when supporting a loved one with addiction.