Opioid Addiction Specialist
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Jeffrey M Saylor, MD MPH
Family Medicine & Acute Care located in Guntersville, AL
About 10 million Americans experience opioid addiction. If you’re one of them and opioid use is affecting your health, relationships, and quality of life, it’s important to seek professional help. At his eponymous practice, family medicine physician Jeffrey Saylor, MD, MPH, has years of experience treating opioid addiction with Suboxone® therapy. To make an appointment, call the practice in Guntersville, Alabama today.
Opioid Addiction Q&A
What is opioid addiction?
Opioid addiction is a substance use disorder (SUD) characterized by dependence on opioids. Opioids are a group of drugs designed to treat pain. Some of the most common opioids include hydrocodone, oxycodone, and heroin. Though incredibly effective, these drugs are also highly addictive.
If you or a loved one were prescribed opioids, but it’s turned into an addiction, contact Dr. Saylor right away.
What are the signs of opioid addiction?
Telltale signs of opioid addiction include:
- The inability to control opioid use
- Uncontrollable cravings
- Drowsiness
- Weight loss
- Flu-like symptoms
- Decreased libido
- Lack of personal hygiene
- Isolation from family and friends
- Financial difficulties
As the addiction gets worse, you might also experience trouble sleeping.
What is opioid withdrawal?
Opioid withdrawal refers to the symptoms you experience when you stop using drugs for a period of time. The severity of opioid withdrawal varies depending on several factors, including the type of opioid you’re addicted to, the amount you regularly consume, and the length of time you’ve been addicted.
If you’ve tried to quit in the past and have been unsuccessful, it’s best to consult with a professional like Dr. Saylor. That’s especially true if you’re a long-time addict who’s physically dependent on the opioids you use.
How is opioid addiction diagnosed?
To diagnose opioid addiction, Dr. Saylor reviews your medical history and asks about your opioid use, including the type of drugs you take and the frequency at which you consume them. Make sure you’re completely honest during the consultation. Dr. Saylor isn’t there to judge you; he only wants to assist.
Next, Dr. Saylor conducts an exam and orders blood work to determine the amount of medication in your blood. After gathering the necessary information, he develops a custom care plan.
How is opioid addiction treated?
Dr. Saylor uses Suboxone® therapy to treat opioid addiction. Suboxone is a combination of two medicines: naloxone and buprenorphine. Working together, they reduce the symptoms of withdrawal and make it easier to wean off the opioid medication.
When combined with healthy lifestyle changes, counseling, and routine checkups, Suboxone therapy can help you break free from addiction once and for all.
To learn more about the treatment options for opioid addiction, make an appointment at the practice of Jeffrey Saylor, MD, MPH, by calling the office or using the online booking tool today.
