3 Benefits of Pharmacotherapy

An individual experiencing addiction faces many challenges along the way, and recovery is one of them. Managing withdrawal symptoms often requires medication to ease the extremely uncomfortable symptoms. People who choose to quit without help put themselves at greater risk of relapse and potential overdose if they misuse substances again. A pharmacotherapy program is essential for those with serious substance use disorder and can safely get them through their withdrawal symptoms. The benefits of pharmacotherapy include the combination of behavioral therapies with medication for a more effective recovery.

At Arkview Recovery, we help men and women living with substance use disorder find the freedom they deserve. Our behavioral therapists and medical staff work together to create an addiction treatment program that simultaneously addresses the physical and mental aspects of addiction. Patients gain valuable coping skills to maintain their sobriety long after treatment has ended. Call 717.744.0756 today if you or a loved one is experiencing addiction.

Understanding Pharmacotherapy for Drug Addiction

Pharmacotherapy for drug addiction provides medication management for patients participating in a residential or outpatient addiction treatment program. Patients work with medical staff who administer medications and then carefully monitor for any adverse side effects. Medications and dosage can vary depending on the severity of the addiction and the patient’s physical and mental health.

Patients also participate in behavioral therapy while receiving medication to reduce both the withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Withdrawal symptoms can vary in severity depending on the length of abuse and the amount of the substance taken. Common withdrawal symptoms include:

• Nausea and vomiting – These symptoms occur as the body attempts to purge itself of the toxins accumulated from substance abuse. The constant feeling of nausea can lead to dehydration, malnutrition, and severe discomfort, making it difficult for individuals to maintain their resolve to quit. Pharmacotherapy can provide significant relief by using medications that calm the stomach and reduce the urge to vomit.
• Constipation – Constipation is another frequent withdrawal symptom, especially in individuals withdrawing from opioids. Opioids slow down the gastrointestinal tract, leading to severe constipation that can persist even after stopping the drug. This can cause abdominal pain, bloating, and a general feeling of discomfort. Pharmacotherapy helps manage this symptom by providing medications that stimulate bowel movements and restore normal gastrointestinal function.
• Muscle aches – Muscle aches and pains are common during withdrawal as the body reacts to the absence of the addictive substance. These aches can be widespread and intense, making it difficult for individuals to move or rest comfortably. The pain can be so severe that it becomes a significant barrier to continuing the withdrawal process. Pharmacotherapy addresses this issue by prescribing medications that reduce pain and inflammation, helping to alleviate muscle aches.
• Depression – Depression is a serious withdrawal symptom that can significantly impact an individual’s mental health and overall well-being. Substance abuse often alters brain chemistry, leading to a dependency on the substance to feel normal or happy. When the substance is removed, individuals can experience severe depressive episodes, feelings of hopelessness, and a lack of motivation.
• Anxiety – Anxiety is another common symptom of withdrawal, characterized by intense worry, panic attacks, and a constant feeling of unease. The absence of the addictive substance can trigger heightened anxiety levels, making it difficult for individuals to relax or concentrate. This can lead to insomnia and further complicate the recovery process. Pharmacotherapy offers medications that help calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety symptoms.
• Delirium tremens – Delirium tremens (DTs) is a severe and potentially life-threatening withdrawal symptom that affects some individuals, particularly those withdrawing from alcohol. DTs can cause extreme confusion, hallucinations, seizures, and severe autonomic instability. This condition requires immediate medical attention and intensive care. Pharmacotherapy plays a critical role in treating DTs by providing medications that control seizures, stabilize autonomic functions, and reduce hallucinations. Through careful medical supervision and appropriate medication management, individuals experiencing DTs can be safely guided through this dangerous phase of withdrawal.
• Sexual dysfunction – Sexual dysfunction is a less commonly discussed but significant withdrawal symptom that can affect an individual’s quality of life and emotional well-being. Substance abuse can disrupt normal hormonal balances and sexual function, leading to issues such as decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, or difficulty achieving orgasm. These problems can persist during withdrawal, adding to the stress and frustration of recovery. Pharmacotherapy can help by offering medications that address these specific issues, helping to restore normal sexual function and improve overall well-being.

Withdrawal symptoms can be formidable. The support of pharmacotherapy for addiction is crucial for helping people maintain their commitment to recovery and begin rebuilding their lives.

The Benefits of Pharmacotherapy for Addiction

The benefits of enrolling in an addiction treatment program that includes pharmacotherapy for drug addiction alongside behavioral therapies are profound. Patients who participate in pharmacotherapy are more likely to remain in treatment, which greatly improves their survival rate and ability to lead productive and healthy lives. Here are a few of those benefits:

• Reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings – Medications work by activating the same opioid receptors that release a flood of dopamine and other feel-good endorphins. Depending on the medication, it either fully or partially blocks dopamine release and breaks your body’s dependence on the substance. Over several weeks, symptoms will diminish, as will the need for the medications.
• Increased understanding of how addiction affects the body – Patients learn what addiction does to the brain and central nervous system and why it is so difficult to quit. They learn the difference between dependence and addiction while developing coping skills to form healthy ways to process their feelings or any traumatic event that led to the addiction.
• Greater confidence and self-esteem – Addiction can kill a person’s confidence and self-esteem. As withdrawal symptoms diminish, patients begin to think clearly and realize the power they have to change their ways and build a new, sober life.

At Arkview Recovery, we understand that no two addiction cases are the same. We work with each patient to determine which therapies and treatments will benefit them the most. Providing treatment that combines the benefits of pharmacotherapy with behavioral therapy and other holistic therapies and programs is how we help patients make the most progress.

Arkview Recovery for Pharmacotherapy in Mechanicsburg, PA

At Arkview Recovery, people find a real chance at recovery through our addiction treatment programs. We offer a full range of addiction treatment programs, including:

• Drug and alcohol detox
• Pharmacotherapy treatment program
• Residential treatment program
• Partial hospitalization program
• Intensive outpatient program

When you first arrive, therapists and medical staff will complete a full evaluation of your health and the severity of the addiction. We’ll then develop a tailored treatment program that can include medication management and behavioral therapies.

Call Arkview Recovery Today

If you’re looking for pharmacotherapy in Mechanicsburg, PA, there is no need to struggle alone. Call 717.744.0756 today or fill out our online contact form, and one of our caring team members will reach out to you soon.