"It's real, it's me, it can be treated." 

There's always hope, there's always help.

What are opioids?

• "Opioids" are pain medications.  Also known as pain killers or pain pills. 
• Opioids include prescription pain medicine and heroin.
• Examples include Vicodin, Oxycontin, Percocet, MS Contin, and Zydone.  

What is Opioid Dependence and Use Disorder?

• “Dependence” and “Use Disorder” are other ways of saying that someone is at risk of becoming addicted or has an opioid addiction.
• Addiction hijacks the brain. Some people cannot fully reason when addicted.
• Once addicted, a person begins to use opioids not to get high but to feel normal. Over time, a person has withdrawal symptoms if they do not use the drug (fever, sweats). People become tolerant – they need more of the drug to feel the same effect. People become dependent – without the drug they feel lousy.

How can treatment with buprenorphine help?

• Treatment with medication (buprenorphine) can be received as an outpatient at primary care offices. This treatment is not a 30-day residential treatment.
• Buprenorphine decreases craving and withdrawal. People hold a job, care for kids, and have healthy relationships.
• Treatment also includes support and monitoring.

Where can you get help for opioid dependence or misuse?

Historically, only certified Addiction Treatment Centers could treat opioid addiction. But that has changed!  Treatment with buprenorphine can now be available local primary care practices near you.  

There is hope to make change.  Treatment options are available now. 

Contact your primary care provider today for more information about treatment for opioid dependence and misuse.