I Work at a Facility That Does Not Use Medication-Assisted Treatment. What Treatment Should I Provide to Individuals Addicted to or Dependent on OxyContin?
The majority of U.S. treatment facilities do not offer medication-assisted treatment. However, because of the strength of OxyContin and its powerful addiction potential, medical complications may be increased by quickly withdrawing individuals from the drug. Premature withdrawal may cause individuals to seek heroin, and the quality of that heroin will not be known. In addition, these individuals, if injecting heroin, may also expose themselves to HIV and hepatitis. Most people addicted to OxyContin need medication-assisted treatment. Even if individuals have been taking OxyContin legitimately to manage pain, they should not stop taking the drug all at once. Instead, their dosages should be tapered down until medication is no longer needed. If you work in a drug-free or abstinence-based treatment facility, it is important to refer patients to facilities where they can receive appropriate treatment. (See SAMHSA Resources.
Related Questions
- I Work at a Facility That Does Not Use Medication-Assisted Treatment. What Treatment Should I Provide to Individuals Addicted to or Dependent on OxyContin?
- I work at a facility that does not use medication-assisted treatment. What should I provide to individuals addicted to or dependent on OxyContin?
- Can Teens Become Addicted To Marijuana?
