We offer all FDA-approved medications for opioid and alcohol use disorders—something few centers in the Tristate area can say. This means you don’t have to transfer care if one medication isn’t the right fit.
We offer the following medications for the treatment of opioid and alcohol use disorder:
Opioid Use Disorder: Methadone, Buprenorphine (Suboxone®), Long-acting Buprenorphine (Brixadi®, Sublocade®), Long-acting Naltrexone (Vivitrol®)
Alcohol Use Disorder: Naltrexone, Long-acting Naltrexone (Vivitrol®), Disulfiram (Antabuse®), Acamprosate (Campral®)
Methadone is a daily medication that helps prevent withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings for opioids. It works by activating the same receptors as opioids, but in a slow and steady way, so you don’t get “high.” This helps stabilize your body and supports recovery.
Buprenorphine helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms while lowering the risk of overdose. It partially activates opioid receptors, which is enough to help you feel well without causing a full opioid effect. Suboxone® also contains naloxone to discourage misuse.
These are long-acting forms of buprenorphine given as weekly or monthly injections. They work the same way as daily buprenorphine but provide steady medication levels over time, so you don’t need to take a daily dose. This can make treatment simpler and more consistent.
Vivitrol® is a monthly injection that blocks the effects of opioids. It does not reduce cravings the same way as methadone or buprenorphine, but it prevents opioids from producing a high. You must be fully off opioids before starting this medication.
Naltrexone helps reduce alcohol cravings and can make drinking feel less rewarding. It works by blocking receptors in the brain involved in pleasure from alcohol. Some people find they drink less or stop drinking altogether while taking it.
This is a monthly injection of naltrexone. It works the same way as the pill but lasts all month, which can help if taking daily medication is difficult. It helps reduce cravings and the urge to drink.
Disulfiram helps support abstinence by causing unpleasant physical reactions (like nausea, flushing, or headache) if you drink alcohol. It works as a deterrent rather than reducing cravings. This medication works best when someone is committed to not drinking.
Acamprosate helps restore balance in the brain after stopping alcohol. It can reduce cravings and discomfort that sometimes happen during early recovery. It works best for people who have already stopped drinking and want help staying alcohol-free.
