Heroin Rehab Programs are Not All the Same
Heroin rehab treatment usually involves two approaches that may be independent of each other or can be combined to combat the different facets of heroin addiction. The first mode of treatment utilizes the substitution of heroin with another drug. This alternative opiate, usually methadone or buprenorphine, is introduced at neurotransmitter sites which do not bring the same euphoric effects as heroin. Gradually, the patient is weaned off the opiate until he or she becomes heroin-free.
Another option is through the rehabilitation treatment programs which uses interventions employed by trained addiction professionals. The patient goes through the initial detoxification process to get rid of toxins and cleanse the system of impurities. Rapid detox can be performed by putting the person under anesthesia or heavy sedation and an opiate called naltrexone is often used to speed up the detoxification process. The main advantage of rapid detoxification is the minimization of withdrawal symptoms caused by heroin addiction.
Heroin is highly-addictive and is known as the most potent of all opiates. It is described as a white or brown powder and is usually injected into the bloodstream through the use of needles. Due to this mode of ingestion, heroin users are also in grave danger of contracting HIV/AIDS, hepatitis and other contagious blood-transmitted diseases. Recent reports have likewise revealed that heroin users are now snorting or smoking the powder to increase its purity and because of the wrongful belief that these methods will not cause the person to become addicted.
Heroin is processed from morphine and is even taken in its pure form. Heroin users cut across age and socioeconomic status. Despite its being inexpensive, high-society users are increasing and are enticed by the rapid rush heroin produces. The high sensation is usually experienced together with warm flushing of the skin, thirst, and heavy feeling in different parts of the body. Nausea, vomiting and itching are also after effects of heroin intake. Long-term effects include: collapse of veins, infections caused by bacteria, abscesses, heart lining and valves infection, arthritis and rheumatologic illnesses.
Heroin rehab treatment is ideal if it is performed at an early stage to minimize the long-term detrimental effects of heroin use. Since it also primarily affects the brain, treatment should be done as early as possible. Rehabilitation facilities should have a specialized heroin rehab treatment program to properly address the multi-dimensional aspects of heroin addiction.
Aside from the pharmacological approach to heroin rehab treatment, cognitive and behavioral therapies are also proven to be successful. It is important for the patient and the caregivers to understand the root causes underlying the heroin addiction and be able to make the necessary processing to resolve these deep-seated issues.
Rehabilitation centers provide therapeutic environments and peer support groups to help the addict learn healthy coping strategies that would help prevent relapse from occurring, particularly once the patient is discharged from the facility and is integrated in mainstream society.
Treatment for heroin addiction is not instantaneous and should therefore be continuous, coupled with sincere effort to change. Although treatment need not be voluntary at first, it is crucial for the person to realize the personal advantages of seeking and following the prescribed treatment program. Intensive medical, psychological and spiritual care is definitely needed to combat heroin addiction.
If you would like to know more about heroin rehab please call Hawaii Island Recovery at 866-515-5032 or visit their website at www.hawaiiislandrecovery.com
Tagged with: Heroin • heroin addiction treatment • heroin rehab
Filed under: Heroin
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