Heroin Addiction Drug Treatment

Heroin is an illegal, highly addictive opioid drug derived from morphine, a substance found naturally in many varieties of the poppy plant. It works by binding to the opioid receptors on cells in the brain, acting as a pain reliever and stimulating the release of dopamine—the “pleasure” chemical. Because of its euphoric effects, it is often recreationally abused. A tolerance is developed with regular use, requiring the user to take higher and/or more frequent doses to achieve the same effects. This addiction leads to escalating costs and time spent seeking the drug, which can quickly supersede responsibilities and deteriorate relationships. Even after making the decision to stop, many continue to use in efforts to avoid withdrawal. Withdrawal symptoms may include: nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, sweating, hot/cold flashes, racing heart, fatigue/yawning, trouble sleeping, mood swings, and general discomfort. Upon realizing that they are unable to stop on their own, many individuals begin to look for treatment for their heroin addiction. Medical treatment is an important step at this point, as Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) utilizes medications to stabilize brain chemistry, block the euphoric effects of opioids, relieve physiological cravings, and normalize body functions, relieving the symptoms of withdrawal. In combination with counseling and behavioral therapies, MAT provides a whole-patient approach to the treatment of opiate use disorders. At Recovery Concepts, we are an outpatient heroin addiction treatment center. We provide a nationally accredited, heroin drug treatment program that is individually tailored to fit the background, needs, and experiences of each patient. We are the only outpatient source of medication-assisted treatment for heroin addiction in the Hilton Head area, being only a 25-minute drive from the island. We also see patients from Beaufort, Ridgeland, Bluffton, and other surrounding areas at our centrally located office. While there are also several options for heroin addiction treatment in Savannah, many patients travel to our office for the passion and knowledge that we possess.