Addiction Medicine Specialist

What is addiction medicine?

Addiction medicine diagnoses and treats people with substance use disorders (SUDs). It uses a combination of patient education, behavioral therapy, and prescription medication to reduce cravings and minimize the uncomfortable symptoms of withdrawal. 

In addition to helping people achieve sobriety, addiction medicine reduces the risk of certain health problems. By abstaining from nicotine and illicit drugs, you can reduce your risk for heart disease and other potentially life-threatening conditions.

Who can benefit from addiction medicine?

If you use substances like cocaine or opioids compulsively, it may be time to schedule an appointment with Colorado Family Clinic for help with addiction. 

An addiction can affect more than your health, it can result in further negative consequences, including relationship problems, job loss and struggles with mental health. 

Addiction medicine treatment can help you understand the various factors that contribute to the source of the problem, including your genetics and environment. By combining this knowledge with healthy lifestyle changes and counseling, it’s possible to break the chains of addiction and take the steps necessary to a happy, healthy life. 

What addictions can be treated with addiction medicine?

At Colorado Family Clinic, the team uses addiction medicine to treat addictions to various substances, including:

• Tobacco
• Marijuana
• Cocaine
• Opioids
• Heroin
• Synthetic drugs (such as Spice / K2)
• Barbiturates
• Meth
• Ecstasy
• Benzodiazepines (such as Xanax®)
• Hallucinogens
  
  

What happens during an addiction medicine appointment?

At your addiction medicine appointment with Colorado Family Clinic, your provider begins with a review of your medical records and a discussion of your drug use. It’s important that you answer your provider’s questions as honestly as possible. They aren’t there to judge you, and they keep all of the information confidential during your conversation.

After asking a series of questions, your provider conducts a physical exam. They also order blood work and urinalysis to determine the amount of drugs in your body. Once they receive the results of your tests, your provider develops a custom treatment plan to help you overcome addiction.

What does addiction medicine involve?

No two addiction medicine treatment plans are exactly alike. Your provider at Colorado Family Clinic makes recommendations based on several factors, including your age, medical records, and the types of substances you use. Typically, treatment includes:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy
• Prescription medication to reduce cravings
• Exercising regularly
• Joining a support group (such as Narcotics Anonymous)
• Eating a balanced diet
• Avoiding places that might be tempting (such as bars or casinos)

You may also benefit from treatment in a long-term or inpatient rehab facility. 

To schedule an appointment for addiction medicine treatment with the Colorado Family Clinic team in Wheat Ridge, Colorado, call the office or book online today.