Levacetylmethadol (LAAM) Detox and Withdrawal
Detoxification is a process by which the body rids itself of a drug that can last from days to weeks. Levacetylmethadol (LAAM) detox centers can a help a person detox safely and under medical supervision during the uncomfortable stage of withdrawal. It is important for a person to be in a supervised medical setting during LAAM detox, as the process can be dangerous. Patients should be warned not to stop taking LAAM abruptly but instead should taper off the drug gradually.
At a levacetylmethadol (LAAM) detox center, unpleasant side effects of withdrawal may be managed by medications and other treatments. Detoxification is generally considered the first step in the treatment process, as it manages the acute phase of withdrawal. Because detox only addresses the withdrawal process and not the underlying issues surrounding the addiction, continuing care after detoxification is crucial. After the detoxification process, a person is usually referred to a levacetylmethadol (LAAM) withdrawal treatment facility for further treatment.
What Is LAAM?
Levacetylmethadol (LAAM) is an opioid agonist medication used to treat opiate addiction. LAAM works by blocking the euphoric effects of other opiates while controlling opiate cravings. LAAM could only be dispensed only through specially approved opioid addiction treatment programs and was used in conjunction with other treatment modalities in the treatment of opioid dependence. It was used in detoxification programs and in maintenance programs. LAAM was administered three times a week and was beneficial for patients who do not require daily visits to a clinic.
In 2002, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration found that of 13,428 facilities surveyed in 2000, 1,215 reported that they dispensed methadone or LAAM, with only 3 percent of patients being treated with LAAM. In 2003, LAAM manufacturers ceased making the drug as there were numerous reports of highly dangerous heartbeat irregularities. If you have questions about levacetylmethadol (LAAM) detox centers, call today.
LAAM side effects are similar to other opiates and include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Euphoria
- Shallow breathing
- Dizziness
- Constipation
- Drowsiness or sedation
“When the body becomes accustomed to a drug, more of it is required to achieve the same effect in a process known as tolerance.”After using the drug for a period of time, tolerance, dependence and addiction to the drug can occur. When the body becomes accustomed to a drug, more of it is required to achieve the same effect in a process known as tolerance. Tolerance and dependence can produce withdrawal symptoms if LAAM is stopped abruptly or tapering occurs too rapidly. Because LAAM is a long-acting opioid, withdrawal may be prolonged with a slower onset.
Commonly reported symptoms include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Upset stomach
- Cold sweats
- Cravings
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Tremors
- Agitation
- Depression
- Irritability
- Muscle and joint pain
- Seizures
Withdrawal from LAAM is a complex process that considers the patient’s wishes and concerns, the level of personal stability, past indicators and future addiction treatment options. Usually, the LAAM dose is reduced gradually based on the response of the patient until complete abstinence is achieved.
Detoxification
Levacetylmethadol (LAAM) detox centers can help a person to rid the body of the drug toxins, and it can be unpleasant both physically and psychologically in nature. Levacetylmethadol (LAAM) detox programs can be inpatient or outpatient programs, but both provide close monitoring of substance abusers during the withdrawal period. Medically supervised detox allows the person to withdraw from the drug in a safe and dignified manner. Abusers should be advised that stopping LAAM abruptly can trigger symptoms as dangerous as the addiction itself and can be life-threatening, making detox best done under medical supervision.
Levacetylmethadol (LAAM) detox centers are usually the first phase in the treatment process as detox is not a long-term cure for addiction. Each year, thousands of opiate addicts seek help in the form of detox. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reported that in 2001, primary abuse of opiates accounted for 33 percent of detox admissions.
If you or someone you love is seeking help for LAAM addiction, remember there is help available. To find the LAAM detox center that best fits the needs for you or your loved one, call .
Complete Treatment for LAAM Addiction
Levacetylmethadol (LAAM) withdrawal treatment facilities may address only physical detoxification from the drug or may include more comprehensive care such as counseling and behavior therapies. If the levacetylmethadol (LAAM) withdrawal treatment facility does not provide counseling or aftercare, a person should seek a facility that provides those services after detox. Trained professionals at the levacetylmethadol (LAAM) detox center, after observing the individual for the period of time during detox, can make recommendations for treatment services after detox. Further treatment after detox is usually recommended to address the underlying psychosocial issues surrounding the addiction and promote a life free from drugs. Treatment modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy, individual and group therapy and family counseling help the person to understand the drug addiction and learn new coping mechanisms to prevent relapse. Studies have shown that the longer an individual is in treatment, the greater the chances of recovery and the less likely they are to relapse.
Many factors should be taken into consideration when choosing which type of levacetylmethadol (LAAM) withdrawal treatment facility is best. Factors to consider include time, cost, location and accessibility, health insurance coverage, services offered and treatment duration. Other factors to consider include the philosophy of the program and special services offered. Once a person decides which type of levacetylmethadol (LAAM) detox center he or she is interested in, recovery should not be rushed.
Get Real Help Today
Statistics demonstrate that numerous people live with addiction every day. In 2009, SAMHSA found that an estimated 23.5 million Americans ages 12 and older needed treatment for substance use. You and your loved ones do not have to live with the shame and guilt that accompany addiction any longer. If you or someone you love is seeking help for LAAM addiction, remember there is help available. To find the LAAM detox center that best fits your needs or the needs of your loved ones, call .
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