Articles

Opiate abuse can lead to Opiate dependence over time. The body will begin to tolerate opiates. The user will have to increase their use of the drug in order to achieve the results they are looking for. When opiate tolerance occurs, opiate abuse is in the beginning phase.

The user does not stay in the opiate abuse phase for very long. Because of the highly addictive properties, this abuse evolves into a physical dependence, or addiction. Once an individual is dependent on opiates, withdrawal symptoms start as early as a few hours after the last administration, making it extremely difficult to stop using the drug.

Opiate dependence can strike anyone at any time, people at particular risk are those who deliberately abuse heroin or prescription drugs, generally young people between 17 and 34, and the elderly who are often prescribed painkillers for a variety of ailments. People with high-stress jobs also run the risk of addiction to opiates prescribed for anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia, and other stress-related conditions

The use of opiates is particularly risky for alcoholics and drug addicts in recovery due to the possibility of cross addiction. For example, alcoholics in recovery who are prescribed opiates for pain may be drawn to the euphoric properties. The reminder of what alcohol did for them may lead to a subconscious need for more, and before they know it they become addicted.

Opiate abuse can quickly progress into an addiction if left untreated. It can be overcome with the administration of proper treatment. In most cases, this requires admission into a medical detoxification center. The key to a successful recovery from opiate abuse and dependence is to find the treatment program that best fits your needs.

Tarzana Treatment Centers in Los Angeles provides opiate detox using methadone or buprenorphine as part of our commitment to integrated behavioral healthcare in alcohol and drug treatment. If you or a loved one needs help with drug addiction or alcohol dependence, please call us now at 888-777-8565 or contact us here.

Southern California Locations for Alcohol and Drug Treatment
Tarzana Treatment Centers has locations all over Southern California in Los Angeles County. Other than our central location in Tarzana, we have facilities in Lancaster in the Antelope Valley, Long Beach, and in Northridge and Reseda in the San Fernando Valley.