Can medications help treat my opioid prescription painkiller or heroin addiction?
Whether or not to get a specific medical treatment for an addiction problem is a decision each person needs to make with his or her doctor. For many people, though, medication can be an important part of managing both the short-term and long-term effects of dependence on painkillers or addiction. Using medication-assisted treatment for opioid dependence or substance abuse addiction is much like using medication for other chronic illnesses, such as asthma and heart disease. Taking medication can help you stay healthy and successfully engaged in your addiction treatment plan, including counseling and other services that address your medical and psychological needs as you work toward recovery. Find a doctor near you. Use the Physician Locator to find a doctor certified to treat opioid dependence and addiction in the privacy of his or her office.