Painkiller or opiate dependencies are considered chronic medical conditions that are the direct result of a chemical change within the brain.
When an addiction to painkillers develops, it is almost impossible for individuals to detox using traditional drug rehab methods. Though it will take some willpower, rehab for painkiller addictions require medications, counseling and support for family and friends during the recovery period.
The main purpose of detox center in New Jersey is not only to keep patients safe but to monitor their withdrawal symptoms as well.
Dependence and Detoxification
A painkiller addiction alters the chemical composition in the brain. These alterations typically occur within the reward and mood centers, which is why the longer the abuse occurs, the more difficult the drug rehab process will be.
Drug rehab for painkillers cannot be done by cutting off the addiction all together, unless the patient can withstand the extreme withdrawal symptoms that can include cravings, diarrhea, yawning, abdominal pain, insomnia, body aches, nausea or vomiting, chills and severe mood swings.
Drug Rehab Medications
Since painkiller withdrawal is so difficult to deal with, rehab centers offer specific medications to make the recovery process easier.
Methadone – This long-acting medication works similar to painkillers by providing the same chemical reaction and eliminating withdrawal symptoms. The issue with methadone, however, is most centers have reported addiction to the methadone treatment, which counteracts the rehab program to begin with.