A New Opioid Treatment Program for Residents in Washington, D.C.

The biggest drug epidemic in the world today comes from opioids. This narcotic ingredient can be found in pain medications containing oxycodone or hydrocodone, such as OxyContin. Heroin is also a form of an opioid that's much stronger and more dangerous. Throughout people's addictions to prescription pain medications, their using may progress to a point where they start to use heroin in order to save money on their addiction or because they've built up a tolerance. The most common opioid treatment program for the last couple decades has been the use of buprenorphine, and it's sparking an innovative initiative in Washington DC.

The Benefits of Buprenorphine in Opioid Treatment Programs

One of the biggest fears addicts have is that they'll have to go through a painful and agonizing detox, and this prevents many from getting clean. Buprenorphine is a medication that's been designed to specifically help addicts who suffer from an opiate addiction by reducing the symptoms of withdrawal. Suboxone is used as a replacement drug in an opioid treatment program and it contains buprenorphine. The medication combines an opiate as well as an opiate blocker, but it's a non-narcotic medication. It works by tricking the brain into thinking the person is still taking pain medications or using heroin, and it can gradually be tapered off.

The New Opioid Treatment Program in Washington D.C.

Doctor Edwin Chapman saw that buprenorphine has shown some excellent results for those who suffer from a dependence on opiates. Not only does it help people begin a life of sobriety, but the community sees the benefits as well. Washington DC is also well-known for its high crime rates as well as poverty, but this new treatment program may be able to start turning some of that around. The program is being funded with grant money that should last for four years, and it's all coming from the District's Department of Health. Those who aren't struggling to get and use more opiates are less likely to commit crimes, and they're also less likely to need to go to the emergency room or hospital in general. Many of the people who go to the hospital for opiate-related issues don't have insurance or money to pay for the services, which leads to more economic problems. When these addicts are getting treated with buprenorphine, they're more likely to begin a full-fledged opioid treatment program and become a productive member of society. If you or someone you love is suffering from an addiction to opiates, alcohol, or any other drug there is help available. An addict doesn't have to live the way they're living any longer, but the first step is admitting that there is a problem. Freedom From Addiction is available so that you can find the help you need.