Opioid  addiction is now known to be a chronic brain disease who's risk is influenced both by genetic and environmental factors. Use of opiates disrupts normal brain functioning, and prolonged use may result in changes to the extent that the brain does not return to "normal" upon stopping opiate use. Whether, or to what extent, the brain recovers is highly individual, depending on both length of use and biological factors. Due to variability in brain recovery, many addicts may require prolonged treatment or supportive medications in order to discontinue their addictive lifestyles. Because opiate use activates the area of the brain associated with pleasurable experiences and survival, such as eating, opiate use begins to mean survival to the addicts brain. Additionally, the brain's natural pain killers, known as endorphins, are no longer produced due opiate use. Disruption of endorphin production is thought to be associated with a need to increase opiate use in order to avoid the onset of painful withdrawal symptoms.

Signs and Symptoms of Addiction

Opiate addiction is characterized by lack of control over drug use, compulsive craving and use of a drug, and continued use regardless of the physical, emotional and social consequences. Some of the signs and symptoms of opiate addiction may include but are not limited to:

• Restlessness
• Hyperactive behavior
• Poor physical coordination
• Inability to concentrate
• Poor judgment
• Slurred speech
• Bouts of euphoria followed by bouts of extreme depression
• Accelerated heartbeat which can ultimately result in coma or death

An addict may display marked changes in attitude and behavior. Relationships with family members and friends deteriorate rapidly. Performance at work and/or school decreases.

MEDICATED ASSISTED  TREATMENT  /MAT/ OPIOID USE DISORDER TREATMENT /

The road to opiate addiction treatment begins by understanding that this is a brain disorder and not a will power or moral issue, and that treatment options are available to those that suffer with this disease.

PREGNANCY AND OPIOID USES DISORDER OFTEN CALLED OPIATE ADDICTION 

If you are pregnancy get help right away. Talk opennly with your obgyn, counselor and medical team. Be honest. .

THINGS TO KNOW WHILE ON METHADONE,  

ALABAMA Methadone treatment  centers that accept state funding  have priority Admissions

Pregnant Woman with IV  Substance Abuse Disorders

Pregnant Woman with Substance Abuse Disorders

All Other IV Substance Abuse Disorders

All other Substance Abuse Disorders