If you are struggling with opiate addiction and have come to terms with the fact that something is wrong and you're ready for treatment, then you will probably start exploring treatment options. It is really common for patients suffering from opiate addiction to use medications like methadone or buprenorphine in their recovery. However, there are also a lot of myths floating around about these medications. If you are going to make a wise decision about your treatment path, then you deserve to know the truth.
Myth: These drugs are just another addiction
Some people avoid methadone and buprenorphine because they believe that by taking these medications, they are basically trading one addiction for another. But this is not the case. These medications, although they are technically classified as opiates, do not make you feel high. They simply bind to opiate receptors strongly enough to prevent cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Your goal will be to work your way off of the medications.
Myth: Most addicts end up selling their methadone or buprenorphine on the street
If you are afraid you won't have a lot of self-control or will be tempted to relapse, you may worry that in a moment of desperation, you'll sell your medication for money you can use to purchase opiates to continue your addiction. But these medications don't really have a value on the black market since they don't make you feel high. It's actually uncommon for patients to sell them.
Myth: These medications cause a lot of serious side effects
These medications can have side effects, but they tend to be less serious than the side effects experienced in reaction to other opiates like heroin and oxycodone. Most patients don't experience anything worse than some constipation and excessive sweating as a reaction to these medications, and it's possible you won't have any side effects at all.
Myth: You can't take methadone while pregnant
While it would be best not to take any medications during pregnancy, if you are someone who is addicted to opiates, it is better for you to use methadone than to try to fight through withdrawal and risk relapse. Methadone does not seem to have any serious side effects in fetuses, but other opiates do.
Hopefully, you now understand a bit more about the use of methadone and buprenorphine in opiate treatment. Don't be afraid to talk to your doctor if you have any additional concerns.
If you need help with your addiction, reach out to a local opioid addiction treatment center.
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