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  • Mental Health Issues
    • Anxiety
    • ADHD
    • Bipolar Disorder
    • Depression
    • Grief
    • OCD
    • Personality Disorders
    • PTSD
  • Relationships
    • Dating
    • Marriage
    • Sex & Intimacy
    • Infidelity
    • Relationships 101
  • Wellness
    • Anger
    • Burnout
    • Stress
    • Sleep
    • Meditation
    • Mindfulness
    • Yoga
  • Therapy
    • Starting Therapy
    • Types of Therapy
    • Best Online Therapy Services
    • Online Couples Therapy
    • Online Therapy for Teens
  • Medication
    • Anxiety Medication
    • Depression Medication
    • ADHD Medication
    • Best Online Psychiatrist Options
  • My Mental Health
    • Men
    • Women
    • BIPOC
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  • OpioidsOpioids
  • Opioid Use DisorderOpioid Use Disorder
  • Treatment OptionsTreatment Options
  • MATMAT
  • ResidentialResidential
  • IOPIOP
  • TherapyTherapy
  • ConclusionConclusion
  • ResourcesResources
  • InfographicsInfographics

Opioid Use Disorder Treatment

Headshot of Hailey Shafir, LCMHCS, LPCS, LCAS, CCS

Written by: Hailey Shafir, LCMHCS, LPCS, LCAS, CCS

Headshot of Naveed Saleh MD, MS

Reviewed by: Naveed Saleh, MD, MS

Published: August 23, 2023
Headshot of Hailey Shafir, LPCS, LCAS, CCS
Written by:

Hailey Shafir

LPCS, LCAS, CCS
Headshot of Naveed Saleh, MD, MS
Reviewed by:

Naveed Saleh

MD, MS

Opioid use disorder treatments are available to help people overcome dependence and achieve sobriety. Therapy can help those struggling with opioid addiction identify the reasons for their addictive behavior, while medications like buprenorphine and methadone can reduce withdrawals and cravings.

What Are Opioids?

Opioids are medications prescribed to treat pain. While these painkillers can help alleviate chronic pain, opioids are highly addictive and dangerous when misused.1 Opioids are highly addictive, quickly resulting in physical dependence and tolerance.2

What Is Opioid Use Disorder?

Opioid use disorder (OUD), informally known as opioid addiction, is a treatable disorder characterized by problematic use of opioids.2 People with OUD experience intense cravings for the drug and struggle to stop using. Abusing prescribed or illicit opioids, such as heroin, can result in dependence, withdrawal, overdose, and death.1,2

Workit Health – Online Treatment for Opioids or Alcohol, Including Medication.

Modern, personalized recovery that combines medication, a supportive community, and helpful content. Covered by many insurance plans. Currently available in FL, TX, OH, MI, and NJ. Learn more.

Choosing Therapy is compensated for marketing by Workit Health.

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Opioid Addiction Treatment Options

Opioid addiction treatment exists in both inpatient and outpatient forms. Rehab facilities focusing on treatment for opioid use disorder often include a combination of medication and therapy. The type of treatment a person receives depends on several factors, including the severity of their dependency, risk of relapse, and ability to afford treatment.3

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for Opioid Addiction

When treating opioid use disorder, many clinicians consider medication-assisted treatment (MAT) a frontline option for opioid use disorder. Inpatient or outpatient rehab centers may provide MAT with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and other therapeutic elements.3

Opioid addiction medications used in treatment can include:

Methadone

Methadone is a prescription opioid only administered by SAMHSA opioid treatment programs (OTP). Methadone attaches to opioid receptors in the brain to block withdrawal and cravings. Adverse effects may include weight gain, drowsiness, or constipation. Addiction and dependence are possible when taking methadone.

Complications of methadone in opioid use disorder treatment are relatively low when individuals take the medication as prescribed. However, those who combine methadone with other substances or medications are at risk of severe drug interactions. To help prevent misuse, people must receive their prescriptions from certified SAMHSA OTP clinics.

Buprenorphine

Buprenorphine works by binding with opioid receptors to reduce cravings and withdrawal. Individuals may take the medication as a tablet, dissolvable film, or monthly injection. Common side effects include drowsiness, brain fog, constipation, and headaches.

Buprenorphine may be self-administered at home. However, like methadone, buprenorphine can be addictive, and individuals may experience withdrawal when they cease buprenorphine treatment or taper doses.

Naltrexone

Naltrexone blocks opioid receptors in the brain, preventing the pleasurable effects of opioids. In treatment for opioid addiction, naltrexone helps prevent relapse after someone has already experienced opioid withdrawal. Naltrexone is a non-addictive monthly injection, and patients can stop naltrexone treatment without experiencing withdrawal symptoms. Always consult with a doctor before stopping medication during opioid addiction treatment.

Lofexidine

Lofexidine is an as-needed opiate addiction medication that attaches to adrenergic receptors in the brain to help alleviate withdrawal symptoms. Lofexidine was formally an off-label medication for opioid use withdrawal before being FDA-approved for OUD in 2018. Lofexidine is not habit forming and has relatively mild adverse effects, which can include hypotension, dizziness, sleepiness, and dry mouth.

Naloxone

Naloxone (Narcan) is an emergency medication used to reverse symptoms of an overdose. Alternatively, naloxone can be added to buprenorphine to lessen the euphoric effects of an opioid. Naloxone is a life-saving drug when administered quickly.

Residential Opioid Use Disorder Treatment

Residential rehab centers for opioid use disorder offer 24-hour live-in facilities where clients engage in individual and group therapy, medication management and other interventions. Many residential facilities aim to provide a home-like, substance free environment that is safe, healthy and welcoming. Peer support is a key factor in the residential treatment model, as clients support one another along their journey toward sobriety.

Residential treatment for opioid addiction has been shown to have positive outcomes, particularly in enhancing recovery-related functioning in the short-term.4 However, there is limited evidence that residential opioid use disorder treatment is any more effective than less intensive approaches.5 Of all opioid addiction treatment options available, residential treatment is by far the most expensive, and some studies have raised concerns about the quality of care provided by residential treatment programs.6

Workit Health – Online Treatment for Opioids or Alcohol, Including Medication.

Modern, personalized recovery that combines medication, a supportive community, and helpful content. Covered by many insurance plans. Currently available in FL, TX, OH, MI, and NJ. Learn more.

Choosing Therapy is compensated for marketing by Workit Health.

Visit Workit Health

Intensive-Outpatient Treatment for Opioid Addiction

Intensive-outpatient treatment offers similar addiction help to what is available in a residential treatment facility, however the client remains in their own home and participates in individual and group therapy several times a week, along with medication management. This intervention, also sometimes referred to as partial hospitalization, offers more intensive therapeutic intervention, with sessions often meeting several times a week for several hours at a time.

In terms of opioid treatment programs, the intensive-outpatient approach is the most commonly used and widely available. While pharmacological interventions have been shown to be the most promising in helping people facing opioid addiction, residential and intensive-outpatient treatment options are valuable supplements to medication.7

Opioid Use Disorder Therapies

Therapy for opioid addiction is an essential aspect of recovery and long-term success. The goals of opioid use disorder treatment depend on the individual but generally focus on improving coping skills, establishing sobriety, and treating co-occurring mental health conditions. Therapists can also help clients develop a relapse prevention plan and support network to improve the chances of long-term recovery.

An online therapist directory can help you choose a therapist with credentials to back up their experience.

Therapies in opioid use disorder treatment may include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT for addiction helps clients to restructure their thought patterns in order to live a healthier life. It has been shown to be more effective than standard methadone drug counseling in reducing opioid use in patients enrolled in methadone maintenance treatment programs.8
  • Family therapy: Family therapy can often be an important part of opioid use disorder treatment, and may include behavioral contracting to create a written plan for creating a substance-free home environment. Support from family and friends is an important part of recovering from opioid addiction.
  • Motivational interviewing: This collaborative, nonjudgmental approach motivates the client toward positive change in alignment with the client’s own values and goals. One study found that a motivational interviewing treatment approach reduced opioid overdose rates in clients receiving the intervention.9
  • Contingency management: This behavioral intervention rewards positive behaviors, and has been shown to be effective in reducing opioid use.10
  • Group therapy: Regularly meeting with peers facing similar challenges in a group therapy setting can provide a meaningful and effective supplement to other interventions. One particular group intervention known as mindfulness-oriented recovery enhancement (MORE) has been shown to be a useful complementary treatment for people facing opioid use disorder.11

Final Thoughts

Opioid addiction treatment can help you overcome OUD. While a ‘one-size-fits-all’ solution for opioid addiction does not exist, various programs and therapists can work with you on creating a unique treatment plan. Addressing the root issues behind your opioid use and building healthy routines aid recovery.

Additional Resources

Education is just the first step on our path to improved mental health and emotional wellness. To help our readers take the next step in their journey, Choosing Therapy has partnered with leaders in mental health and wellness. Choosing Therapy may be compensated for marketing by the companies mentioned below.

Online Treatment for Opioids or Alcohol, Including Medication.

Workit Health – Modern, personalized recovery that combines medication, a supportive community, and helpful content. Covered by many insurance plans. Currently available in FL, TX, OH, MI, and NJ. Visit Workit Health

Alcohol Treatment – Cut Back or Quit Entirely

Ria Health – Quickly change your relationship to alcohol with our at-home program. On average, members reduce their BAC levels by 50% in 3 months in the program. Services are covered by many major health plans. Visit Ria Health

Telehealth Treatment For Opioid Use Disorder

Bicycle Health – offers therapy, support, and medication for addiction treatment (MAT).  MAT offers the lowest relapse rates for opioid use disorder, helping people to stop using opioids with minimal physical discomfort. Covered by most major insurance. Visit Bicycle Health

Drinking Moderation

Sunnyside – Want to drink less? Sunnyside helps you ease into mindful drinking at your own pace. Think lifestyle change, not a fad diet. Develop new daily routines, so you maintain your new habits for life. Take a 3 Minute Quiz

Treatment for Mental Health Conditions That Coexist With SUD

Talkiatry – Get help from a doctor who can treat the mental health conditions that commonly lead to or coexist with substance use disorders. Take our online assessment and have your first appointment in days. Take Assessment

Addiction Newsletter

A free newsletter for those impacted by addiction. Get helpful tips and the latest information. Sign Up

Choosing Therapy partners with leading mental health companies and is compensated for marketing by Ria Health, Sunnyside, Talkiatry, Workit Health and Bicycle Health.

For Further Reading

  • Everything You Think You Know About Addiction Is Wrong: Johann Hari
  • Best Addiction Podcasts
  • WeConnect Recovery App Review
  • Bicycle Health Review

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This content is sponsored By NOCD.

Opioid Use Disorder Treatment Infographics

What Is Opioid Addiction and Can It Be Treated? Opioid Addiction Treatment Options How Therapy Can Help

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Sources Update History

Choosing Therapy strives to provide our readers with mental health content that is accurate and actionable. We have high standards for what can be cited within our articles. Acceptable sources include government agencies, universities and colleges, scholarly journals, industry and professional associations, and other high-integrity sources of mental health journalism. Learn more by reviewing our full editorial policy.

  • (August 4, 2021). Opioid Overdose. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/opioid-overdose

  • (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). American Psychiatric Association. https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.books.9780890425596

  • (2021). Key substance use and mental health indicators in the United States: Results from the 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (HHS Publication No. PEP21-07-01-003, NSDUH Series H-56). Rockville, MD: Center for Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Retrieved from https://www.samhsa.gov/data/

  • Kelly, J. F., Bergman, B., Hoeppner, B. B., Vilsaint, C., & White, W. L. (2017). Prevalence and pathways of recovery from drug and alcohol problems in the United States population: Implications for practice, research, and policy. Drug and alcohol dependence, 181, 162–169. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2017.09.028

  • Reif, S., George, P., Braude, L., Dougherty, R. H., Daniels, A. S., Ghose, S. S., & Delphin-Rittmon, M. E. (2014). Residential treatment for individuals with substance use disorders: assessing the evidence. Psychiatric services (Washington, D.C.), 65(3), 301–312. https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.ps.201300242

  • Beetham T, Saloner B, Gaye M, Wakeman SE, Frank RG, Barnett ML. Therapies Offered at Residential Addiction Treatment Programs in the United States. JAMA. 2020;324(8):804–806. doi:10.1001/jama.2020.8969

  • Wakeman SE, Larochelle MR, Ameli O, et al. Comparative Effectiveness of Different Treatment Pathways for Opioid Use Disorder. JAMA Network Open. 2020;3(2):e1920622. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2019.20622

  • An evaluation of the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of cognitive-behavioral therapy for opioid use disorder and chronic pain, Drug and Alcohol Dependence, Volume 194, 2019, Pages 460-467, ISSN 0376-8716, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2018.10.015.

  • Coffin PO, Santos GM, Matheson T, et al. Behavioral intervention to reduce opioid overdose among high-risk persons with opioid use disorder: A pilot randomized controlled trial. PLoS One. 2017;12(10):e0183354.

  • Bolívar HA, Klemperer EM, Coleman SRM, DeSarno M, Skelly JM, Higgins ST. Contingency Management for Patients Receiving Medication for Opioid Use Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. JAMA Psychiatry. 2021;78(10):1092–1102. doi:10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2021.1969

  • Garland EL, Hanley AW, Kline A, et al. Mindfulness-oriented recovery enhancement reduces opioid craving among individuals with opioid use disorder and chronic pain in medication assisted treatment: ecological momentary assessments from a stage 1 randomized controlled trial. Drug and Alcohol Dependence. 2019;203:61-65.

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We regularly update the articles on ChoosingTherapy.com to ensure we continue to reflect scientific consensus on the topics we cover, to incorporate new research into our articles, and to better answer our audience’s questions. When our content undergoes a significant revision, we summarize the changes that were made and the date on which they occurred. We also record the authors and medical reviewers who contributed to previous versions of the article. Read more about our editorial policies here.

August 23, 2023
Author: No Change
Reviewer: No Change
Primary Changes: Updated for readability and clarity. Reviewed and added relevant resources. Added “Residential Opioid Use Disorder Treatment”, “Opioid Use Disorder Therapies”. New material written by Heather Artushin, LISW-CP and reviewed by Kristen Fuller, MD.
July 5, 2022
Author: Hailey Shafir, LCMHCS, LPCS, LCAS, CCS
Reviewer: Naveed Saleh, MD, MS
Show more

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