Opioid Addiction Treatment

Understanding opioid use disorder

Opioids include prescription painkillers such as oxycodone (OxyContin, Percocet), hydrocodone (Vicodin), morphine, and codeine, as well as heroin and illicitly manufactured fentanyl. They work on the same receptors in the brain, which is why a dependence that starts with a legitimate prescription can end with street drugs. Repeated use changes how the brain handles pain, reward, and stress, and physical dependence sets in quickly: stopping produces withdrawal symptoms that are rarely dangerous but are miserable enough to keep people using. Opioid use disorder is a medical condition with well-established treatments, and recovery is common when people get adequate support.

Why Massachusetts is different right now

Illicit fentanyl now dominates the opioid supply in Massachusetts and is present in most counterfeit pills and much of the heroin sold in the state. Because fentanyl is far more potent than heroin, the overdose risk is higher than it has ever been, particularly after a period of abstinence when tolerance has dropped. That’s why we talk about overdose prevention with every client and family, including how to get and use naloxone (Narcan), which is available without a prescription at Massachusetts pharmacies.

Signs of a problem

• Taking more than prescribed, running out early, or seeking prescriptions from multiple providers
• Withdrawal symptoms between doses: sweating, anxiety, nausea, muscle aches, restlessness, diarrhea, insomnia
• Nodding off, constricted pupils, slurred speech, or unusual drowsiness
• Money problems, missing valuables, secrecy, or withdrawal from family and friends
• Continuing to use despite consequences at work, at home, or with health

How we treat opioid use disorder

Forrest provides Day Treatment (PHP), Intensive Outpatient (IOP), Evening IOP, and Outpatient levels of care. Treatment combines group therapy, individual therapy, CBT-based relapse prevention, motivational interviewing, and family therapy. Because most people with opioid use disorder are also dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, or chronic pain, our dual diagnosis approach treats those conditions at the same time, with psychiatric evaluation and medication management when appropriate.

Medications for opioid use disorder

Buprenorphine (Suboxone), methadone, and extended-release naltrexone (Vivitrol) are the most effective known treatments for opioid use disorder and substantially reduce overdose deaths. They work best alongside therapy, not instead of it. Ask our admissions team about current medication options; if a medication is right for you and we cannot provide it directly, we coordinate with a prescriber who can while you attend our program.

Related substances

Frequently asked questions