What could be done to overcome addiction to opioids?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am a 27-year-old male, and I am really worried about my 19-year-old male cousin. He has been struggling with addiction to opioids like Fentanyl and Morphine. Recently, we have had a scare with a potential drug overdose, and I am trying to learn more about how Naloxone can help in these situations. Could you please provide some advice on how to handle an opioid overdose, the use of Naloxone, and what we should do about his drug withdrawal symptoms? We really want to support him in getting the help he needs. Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Thank you for taking help from a psychiatrist. I can understand your problem and concern about your cousin.

Your cousin is suffering from an opioid use disorder. You cannot treat him at home. Naloxone (opioid antagonist) will help him reduce his cravings. It is an anti-craving medication. But it would be best if you admitted him to any rehabilitation center for it. If you stop his opioid, then he may have withdrawal symptoms (physical and mental symptoms that occur after stopping or reducing his intake of a drug). You can not manage all this at home. It would help if you had proper facilities, which you can get at the rehabilitation center. You can not do anything with an opioid overdose at home. Just take him to the hospital or call for an emergency.

I hope that you get your answer.

Please let me know if you need some help.

Thank you.