Drug addiction is a chronic disease which is characterized by uncontrolled compulsion, drug seeking and use despite the harmful consequences to the brain and body that can be long lasting.
When treating a drug addition, the goals include:
1, Helping to stop the use of drugs.
2, To remain drug free.
3, To be productive in the family, at work and to the society. Principles of effective treatment:
For about 40yrs, there have been some key principles which form the bases an effective program, which include:
1, Addition is complex disease that effect the brain but can be treated.
2, There is no single treatment for every addict.
3, All patient’s needs should be addressed and not just his or her drug use.
4, Patient needs to understand that treatment is long process and staying is important.
5, Behavioral and medications are important part of treatment especially when combined.
6, Treatment plans must be reviewed and modified to meet patient’s changing needs.
7, Other possible mental disorders should be addressed in the patient.
8, There has to be proper monitor of drug use during treatment. Treatment: Detoxification
Behavioral counseling
Medications
Evaluation and treatment of co-occurring mental health issues such as anxiety and depression Continuous follow up long term to prevent relapse
Medications are used to manage withdrawal symptoms, prevent relapse and treat other conditions co-existing.
Withdrawal symptoms are managed with methadone and buprenorphine used for opioids like heroin and morphine and naltrexone[vivitrol] used in patients already detoxified.
Nicotine in form of patches, spray gum and to treat nicotine addiction.
Disulfiram[Antabuse] and naltrexone help with withdrawal symptoms treatment in alcohol abuse.
Also antidepressant and anti-anxiolytic help to treat anxiety and depression

For behavioral therapy, patents