Meperidine addiction can occur, just like with any other type of opioid drug, when an individual abuses it. If you have been consistently misusing your meperidine prescription––or have been taking it without a prescription at all––please call 877-743-0081 (Who Answers?) now to find treatment options that will help you recover.
Initial Meperidine Addiction Treatment
Also known by the brand name Demerol and the street name demmies, this drug is dangerous and can cause a number of serious side effects when abused (National Institute on Drug Abuse).
When a person first comes in for meperidine addiction treatment, they will require a series of tests in order to determine which options will be best for their needs. These tests may include a CT scan, toxicology, blood chemistries, or a CBC.
If a person admitted to treatment is currently in an overdose situation, they will be given naloxone to treat the symptoms of their overdose and to reverse the effects of the drug. If they are already going through withdrawal, they may be given one of several medications in order to treat this issue as well. The individual must be stabilized in order to begin their long-term treatment regimen.
Medication for Meperidine Addiction Treatment
In an overdose situation, the patient will be given naloxone.
Several medications may be used to treat meperidine addiction once the individual is stabilized and able to begin their recovery program. According to the NIDA, “Naltrexone is an antagonist medication that prevents opioids from activating their receptors,” but this drug is not as well tolerated by patients as some of the other options.
Methadone and buprenorphine can both treat meperidine addiction as maintenance drugs that reduce cravings and minimize withdrawal symptoms, but the former may be more beneficial for those who have very intense physical dependencies on the drug.
Any of these medications can be used in certain situations as safe, reliable treatment options, but it is important to note that they are not substitutes for meperidine (or any type of opioid) abuse. Instead, they stabilize the individual, minimize the severity of the side effects associated with recovery, and allow the person to live their life free of drug abuse by staying managed on the medication.
Behavioral Therapy for Meperidine Addiction Treatment
Counseling and behavioral therapies are the most widely used treatment options for every type of addiction, including substance abuse and behavioral addictions. These models help individuals change the way they see their drug abuse as well as
- Teach them how to recognize and avoid triggers for drug abuse
- Teach them how to cope with cravings, stress, and other issues that may lead to relapse
- Treat the underlying issues associated with substance abuse, including mental disorders
- Help them recognize the severity and drawbacks of continued drug abuse
Seek Meperidine Addiction Rehab Now
We will help you find a rehab center where you can begin your journey of recovery and make a positive change in your life. We can also answer any questions about payment plans, insurance, and the treatment options that may be available to you. Call 877-743-0081 (Who Answers?) to find the rehab center that will best benefit your recovery from opioid abuse today.
Opiate Withdrawal Timeline of Symptoms -
The DEA states, “Physical dependence is a consequence of chronic opioid use, and withdrawal takes place when drug use is discontinued.” When people suddenly stop abusing prescription opiates, heroin, and other types of narcotics, they will encounter a number of symptoms that usually fall into a specific pattern and timeline. Overall, most opiate withdrawal syndromes ... 
3 Signs That You May Need Methadone Treatment Help -
Once opiate addiction sets in, it can be nearly impossible to stop using on your own. Methadone treatment provides the support necessary to become and remain sober. 
Opiate Drugs – A Comprehensive List of Opiates -
By now, most everyone’s aware of how addictive opiate drugs can be. Unfortunately, many may not realize how many varieties of drugs fall under the opiate drug classification. Best known for their ability to relieve pain symptoms, most opiate drugs work by depressing or slowing down brain and central nervous system functions, according to the ... 
Long Term Effects of Opium -
Most people who use opium fail to think about the drug’s long term effects. Opium abuse can lead to tolerance which results in physical dependence on the drug that could prove to be difficult to treat and equally difficult to overcome. The long term effects of opium include many health related problems and may also ... 
Drugs You Didn’t Know Were Opium and Morphine Derivatives -
Opioids are drugs that are either derived from the poppy plant, from opium and morphine themselves, or are synthetically created to act like opioid analgesics. Certain drugs that are derived straight from opium are called opiates and can be highly addictive while causing physical and psychological dependence and withdrawal symptoms. Opium & Morphine According to ...