Medications

Medications

Medication for addiction and dual diagnosis treatment helps addicts transition smoothly into a recovery. Sometimes, medications overlap because the symptoms of the addiction and mental health conditions are similar. This section will explain medications that are given to individuals with chemical dependency as well as medications that are given to individuals with a dual diagnosis.

It is helpful to have additional knowledge about medication protocol in addiction and dual diagnosis treatment when making the decision to enter treatment. The type of treatment an individual undergoes should not be chosen by self-diagnosis alone. Addicts should be assessed by an admissions coordinator to decide whether addiction treatment or dual diagnosis treatment is best.

Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT)

Medication assisted treatment (MAT), including opioid treatment programs (OTPs), combines behavioral therapy and medications to treat substance use disorders.

The American Society of Addiction Medicine now defines addiction as a multifaceted disease. Addiction is characterized by an inability to consistently abstain from drinking or using drugs, impairment in behavioral control, the presence of cravings, diminished ability to recognize significant problems with one's behaviors and interpersonal relationships and a dysfunctional emotional response.

Like other chronic diseases, addiction often involves cycles of relapse and remission. Without treatment or engagement in recovery activities, addiction is progressive and can result in a prolonged disability or premature death.

This reference section will explore medication for addiction to various substances:

Medication Treatment for Dual Diagnosis

When an individual suffers from addiction and a mental health disorder, he or she has a dual diagnosis. Dual diagnosis medication treatment should be tailored to fit the needs of the addict, decreasing symptoms of addiction and mental health disorders.

Each disorder has a medication that best helps decrease symptoms related to the specific features of the disorder.

This section will go over medical treatment for:

Medication Classes

Medication is divided into classes to help readers better understand the medications for addiction that treat and dual diagnosis. Each medication targets specific chemicals within the brain to stabilize mood, decrease cravings and increase function.

Medication classes are:

Medication List A-Z
This list is a reference for those individuals who want a brief overview of the most commonly prescribed drugs, including what they are, how they are used, side effects if any, and the names of the drugs under each class. Further information about these drugs should be obtained from your treating physician.

Do you have questions about medication and addiction treatment?

Call Recovery Connection to speak with one of our addiction specialists. Our representatives can answer questions about what to expect while in treatment, what services are available, and how we can help you begin your journey toward long-term recovery.