man holding pills and water

In the past, options for people who wanted to stop using opioids or drinking alcohol were limited. Nowadays, many helpful treatment options and medications are available that can help people quit more comfortably. One of the dangers that someone in recovery from addiction faces is relapse. A medication management program can reduce the risk of relapse and keep clients in recovery connected to a supportive care system. At Grace Counseling, a Texas physical wellness center, our clients can access the care they need in a way that allows them to stay connected to family, work, or school.

What Is a Medication Management Program?

Sometimes also called a medication therapy management program, this program can help clients ready to work, attend school, or manage family obligations but still need to be on medication to help them not drink alcohol or use opiates. Medication management programs are outpatient programs that require regular check-ins. How frequent those check-ins are may depend on the particular client’s individual needs.

The medical and therapeutic care staff will help the client gradually reduce their medication usage to become medication-free eventually. This can help clients maintain their recovery during the early recovery period by keeping drug cravings down and ensuring that they have access to support and care during check-ins.

What Kinds of Medications Are Used In Medication Therapy Management Programs?

Several medications can help people in recovery from alcohol or opiate use, and research is being done every day to discover new medications. Some of the medications that are used are:

  • Methadone – Usually used to help clients stop using heroin or other short-acting opiates
  • Buprenorphine – Used to reduce cravings and ease withdrawal symptoms gradually
  • Naltrexone – Blocks the euphoric effects of opiates and alcohol, essentially preventing the client from experiencing the “high”
  • Disulfiram – Causes unpleasant side effects from alcohol consumption
  • Campral – Helps clients manage alcohol cravings by reducing them

Is a Medication Management Program Only About the Medications?

No. A medication management program is offered in conjunction with a more intensive detox and substance abuse treatment program after completion. Even in cases where the medication management program is offered on its own, therapy and supportive care are included in the program so that clients will have all the tools they need to maintain their recovery as they go out into the world.

Studies have shown that participation in a treatment program and access to a good support network is vital to recovery from addiction. This includes not only the client’s loved ones but also professional medical and therapeutic care staff. The process of participating in a medication management program is meant to help clients build and solidify that support network, as well as stay connected to the help they need. Recovery is a process, and clients benefit greatly from taking gradual steps toward that goal.

How Can Grace Counseling’s Medication Management Program Help Me or My Loved One?

If you or someone you love is ready to start a medication management program in the Fort Worth area of Texas, our medication management program could be a great fit. At Grace Counseling, we are committed to helping our clients and their families heal by achieving lasting recovery. Other related therapies and programs we offer are:

  • Intensive outpatient programs
  • Partial hospitalization programs
  • Individual and group therapy
  • Physical wellness programs

Reach out to our caring and knowledgeable staff today at 844.564.0712 and let us tell you how we can help. Recovery is possible, and we can show you the way.