The effectiveness of both approaches depends on the individual.  Research shows that a combination of both behavioral and pharmacologic treatment is the most effective route for most heroin users. Combining multiple treatments for users is usually the treatment of choice and referred to as a comprehensive treatment program.  Research shows that comprehensive programs can help restore a sense of “normalcy” in the user’s brain function and behavior and can even increase employment capabilities.   If given the chance, it can completely turn a user’s life around.   

Most people find counseling to be an important part of drug abuse treatment.  Both family counseling and cognitive behavioral therapy can be integral to developing a strong support system in maintaining sobriety.
Each person is different and will follow the course of action that is determined to be bet for them.  Some of the pharmacologic options include:

Buprenorphine is an effective option for detoxification and relapse prevention.  Buprenorphine has unique pharmacological properties that help:
•    Increase safety in cases of overdose
•    Lower the potential for misuse
•    Diminish the effects of physical dependency to opioids, such as withdrawal symptoms and cravings
Naltrexone, an opioid receptor blocker, is highly effective at reversing overdoses but is not as successful at preventing patients from relapsing because of its strict dosing regimen. Vivitrol (a long-acting formulation of naltrexone) has become more accepted and may be a good choice for patients that lack a willingness to take their medications as prescribed. 
SUBOXONE® (buprenorphine and naloxone) Sublingual Film (CIII) is a prescription medicine used to treat adults who are addicted to (dependent on) opioid drugs (either prescription or illegal) as part of a complete treatment program that also includes counseling and behavioral therapy. SUBOXONE® has become the preferred treatment medication for opioid addiction.  SUBOXONE® can help you manage the symptoms of withdrawal that come from quitting opioids without the risk of overdose.  Because it blocks many of the same receptors as opioids, but does not give the feeling of euphoria, patients can work and maintain a normal life while taking SUBOXONE®.  It is now used more than methadone, because unlike methadone, SUBOXONE® is not habit-forming. 
 
Addiction is ugly, and the road to recovery is long, winding, and bumpy, but the one thing that it is NOT, is impossible. Recovery is very much possible for anyone struggling with addiction.  You just have to know what steps to take to begin the journey. If you or someone you know are currently addicted to opioids and want to receive treatment, help is available. Call Dayton Recovery today to start the beginning of the rest of your life!