Name: Opioid Addiction Treatment Baldwin NY
Creator: Integrity Team

Question 1

What is opioid use disorder (OUD), and how does it develop?

Accepted Answer

Opioid use disorder is a chronic, treatable medical condition involving compulsive opioid use despite harmful consequences. It often starts with prescription painkillers (like oxycodone/Percocet or hydrocodone/Vicodin) for legitimate pain, or from street opioids like heroin or fentanyl. Over time, the brain adapts, leading to tolerance, dependence, cravings, and withdrawal symptoms. At Integrity Treatment Partners, we treat OUD from heroin, fentanyl (often laced in street drugs), prescription opioids, and more—without judgment.

Question 2

Why is Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) considered the gold standard for opioid addiction?

Accepted Answer

MAT combines FDA-approved medications with counseling and therapy to address both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction. It reduces cravings, blocks euphoric effects, prevents overdose, and supports long-term recovery. Research shows MAT significantly improves outcomes compared to therapy alone. Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - https://www.cdc.gov/overdose-prevention/treatment/opioid-use-disorder.html

Question 3

What medications do you offer for opioid addiction treatment at Integrity Treatment Partners?

Accepted Answer

At Integrity, we tailor MAT to your needs with: Suboxone/Buprenorphine—daily sublingual film/tablet that blocks cravings, prevents withdrawal, and reduces euphoric effects. Ideal as a first-line treatment with take-home dosing. Sublocade/Brixadi—monthly injectable buprenorphine for steady, 30-day release with no daily pills and lower risk of diversion. Vivitrol (Naltrexone)—monthly injection that fully blocks opioid receptors, 100% non-addictive, and helps prevent relapse after detox.

Question 4

Is Suboxone or Sublocade addictive, or just replacing one drug with another?

Accepted Answer

No—when used as prescribed, buprenorphine (in Suboxone/Sublocade) stabilizes brain chemistry without producing a 'high.' It reduces cravings and withdrawal while allowing normal functioning. It's not 'trading one addiction for another' but evidence-based treatment for a chronic condition, similar to insulin for diabetes. Source: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) - https://www.samhsa.gov/substance-use/treatment/options

Question 5

What is Suboxone, and how does it help with opioid addiction?

Accepted Answer

Suboxone is a prescription medication combining buprenorphine (a partial opioid agonist) and naloxone (an opioid antagonist). It reduces intense cravings, eases withdrawal symptoms, and blocks the effects of other opioids without producing a strong 'high.' Taken daily as a sublingual film, allowing flexible dosing while you engage in therapy and counseling.

Question 6

How is Suboxone administered, and what should I expect when starting it?

Accepted Answer

Suboxone is placed under the tongue or inside the cheek as a dissolvable film, typically once daily. Treatment begins after mild withdrawal symptoms appear (usually 12–24 hours after your last opioid use) to avoid precipitated withdrawal.

Question 7

What are the common side effects of Suboxone?

Accepted Answer

Common side effects include headache, nausea, constipation, insomnia, sweating, mouth numbness or redness, and mild drowsiness. These often improve over time. Serious but rare effects can include breathing problems (especially if mixed with sedatives) or allergic reactions. We monitor liver function with blood tests and address any concerns promptly.

Question 8

Is Suboxone addictive, or just 'replacing one addiction with another'?

Accepted Answer

No—Suboxone is not simply trading one addiction for another. Buprenorphine has a 'ceiling effect,' limiting euphoria and overdose risk compared to full opioids. When used as prescribed with counseling, it stabilizes brain chemistry, reduces cravings, and supports long-term recovery without the cycle of highs and crashes.

Question 9

How long do patients typically stay on Suboxone?

Accepted Answer

Duration is individualized—some use it for months during early recovery, while others benefit from years of maintenance for stability. There's no fixed timeline; our team regularly reassesses your progress, needs, and goals to decide if/when tapering is appropriate.

Question 10

What is Sublocade, and how does it differ from Suboxone?

Accepted Answer

Sublocade is a once-monthly extended-release buprenorphine injection (no naloxone) administered under the skin in the abdomen by our medical team. Unlike daily Suboxone films, it provides steady buprenorphine levels over 30 days, eliminating daily dosing and reducing misuse risk—ideal for stable patients ready to transition.

Question 11

What are the benefits of switching to Sublocade from Suboxone?

Accepted Answer

Sublocade offers consistent medication levels (no peaks/troughs), removes daily reminders of addiction, improves compliance, and lowers diversion risk. Many clients report greater focus on therapy, work, and life in our Nassau County program.

Question 12

What are the common side effects of Sublocade?

Accepted Answer

Common effects include constipation, headache, nausea, injection site pain/itching, vomiting, fatigue, and elevated liver enzymes. A small lump at the injection site is normal—do not rub it. Serious risks include respiratory depression (rare when used alone) or withdrawal if not properly transitioned.

Question 13

How long does Sublocade stay in your system, and how long might treatment last?

Accepted Answer

Buprenorphine from Sublocade releases slowly and can be detectable for months after the last injection. Treatment duration varies—monthly injections continue as long as benefits outweigh risks, with periodic reevaluation. Tapering involves planning due to its long-acting nature.

Question 14

What is Brixadi, and how does it help with opioid addiction treatment at Integrity Treatment Partners?

Accepted Answer

Brixadi is an extended-release buprenorphine injection available in weekly or monthly formulations. It provides steady medication delivery to reduce cravings, ease withdrawal, and block opioid effects, similar to Sublocade but with flexible weekly options for early treatment phases. It's part of our MAT program at Integrity, combined with counseling for comprehensive recovery.

Question 15

How does Brixadi differ from Sublocade or Suboxone?

Accepted Answer

Unlike daily Suboxone films or monthly-only Sublocade, Brixadi offers both weekly (8–32 mg) and monthly (64–128 mg) injections, allowing for more precise titration and easier adjustments. Weekly is ideal for new patients or those needing closer monitoring, while monthly suits stable clients—administered subcutaneously in various sites (buttock, thigh, abdomen, upper arm).

Question 16

How is Brixadi administered at our facility?

Accepted Answer

Per FDA guidelines, if not already on buprenorphine, start with a 4 mg transmucosal test dose (like Suboxone) to confirm tolerance without precipitated withdrawal—direct start after detox without this has not been studied. Injections are subcutaneous using a prefilled syringe, given by our medical team. Rotate sites; upper arm only after steady-state for weekly. No depot bump is typically felt.

Question 17

What are the dosing options for Brixadi?

Accepted Answer

Weekly: 8 mg, 16 mg, 24 mg, or 32 mg every 7 days (±2 days), with possible supplemental 8 mg doses early on (max 32 mg/week). Monthly: 64 mg, 96 mg, or 128 mg every 28 days (±7 days). Dosing is matched to your prior transmucosal buprenorphine equivalent (e.g., 8–10 mg daily transmucosal → 16 mg weekly or 64 mg monthly).

Question 18

What should I expect when starting Brixadi?

Accepted Answer

For new patients: A 4 mg oral test dose first. If tolerated, begin weekly injections (e.g., 16 mg initial, adjustable up to 32 mg). Transition from oral buprenorphine is based on your daily dose. Our providers monitor for efficacy and side effects, with flexibility to switch between weekly and monthly as you stabilize.

Question 19

What are the common side effects of Brixadi?

Accepted Answer

Common effects include injection site pain/erythema/pruritus, constipation, nausea, headache, insomnia, and fatigue. Serious risks include respiratory depression (especially with other sedatives), allergic reactions, or withdrawal if not transitioned properly. We monitor liver function and injection sites.

Question 20

How long do patients typically stay on Brixadi?

Accepted Answer

Duration is personalized—weekly for initial stabilization (e.g., first 12 weeks), then possibly monthly for maintenance. Some stay on it for months to years; our team reassesses regularly to determine if tapering or continuation is best based on your recovery progress.

Question 21

What are the benefits of Brixadi over other MAT options?

Accepted Answer

Brixadi's dual weekly/monthly options provide more flexibility for titration and travel, reduces daily dosing burdens like Suboxone, and has a lower volume injection than Sublocade. It supports compliance and focuses on therapy, with no visible depot.

Question 22

What is Vivitrol, and how does it work for opioid addiction?

Accepted Answer

Vivitrol is an extended-release injectable form of naltrexone, administered once monthly by our medical team. Unlike Suboxone or Sublocade, Vivitrol contains zero opioid ingredients—it's a pure opioid blocker (antagonist). It attaches to opioid receptors in the brain and blocks them completely for 28 days, preventing any opioid from producing euphoria or a 'high.' This eliminates cravings and provides powerful relapse protection without any addiction risk.

Question 23

When is Vivitrol the best option compared to Suboxone or Sublocade?

Accepted Answer

Vivitrol is ideal if you've completed detox and prefer a 100% non-addictive medication—it blocks opioid receptors entirely without any opioid ingredients, providing strong relapse and overdose protection with zero dependence risk. Suboxone/Sublocade contain buprenorphine (a partial opioid) and are often better for managing withdrawal early in recovery. Your Integrity provider will help choose based on your history and goals.

Question 24

Is Vivitrol a good option if I'm worried about becoming dependent on treatment medications?

Accepted Answer

Yes—Vivitrol (naltrexone) is specifically designed for patients who want effective MAT without any risk of medication addiction. Unlike buprenorphine-based treatments, Vivitrol contains no opioid ingredients and cannot cause physical dependence. It simply blocks opioid receptors, preventing relapse and overdose while you focus on therapy and rebuilding your life.

Question 25

How does Vivitrol protect against opioid overdose?

Accepted Answer

Vivitrol blocks opioid receptors in the brain for 28 days per injection. If you relapse and use opioids while on Vivitrol, the medication significantly reduces or eliminates the euphoric effects and lowers the risk of respiratory depression (the cause of overdose deaths). This provides a critical safety net, especially in the era of potent fentanyl. Note: Vivitrol reduces but doesn't eliminate all overdose risk—using very high doses of opioids can still be dangerous.

Question 26

How long do I need to be opioid-free before starting Vivitrol?

Accepted Answer

You must be completely opioid-free for 7–14 days before receiving your first Vivitrol injection. For short-acting opioids like heroin, 7–10 days is typically sufficient. For long-acting opioids like methadone or extended-release formulations, 10–14 days may be required. Starting Vivitrol too soon while opioids remain in your system triggers severe precipitated withdrawal. Our medical team at Integrity will confirm you're ready before administering the injection.

Question 27

What are the common side effects of Vivitrol for opioid addiction treatment?

Accepted Answer

Common side effects include nausea (especially in the first few days), headache, dizziness, fatigue, injection site reactions (pain, hardness, itching), and decreased appetite. These typically subside within the first week. Serious but rare effects include liver problems (we monitor with blood tests), allergic reactions, or depression. Unlike buprenorphine medications, Vivitrol does not cause physical dependence or withdrawal symptoms if stopped.

Question 28

Can I stop Vivitrol whenever I want without withdrawal symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Yes—one of the key advantages of Vivitrol is that it causes no physical dependence. You can discontinue treatment at any time without experiencing withdrawal symptoms. However, stopping Vivitrol removes the protective opioid blockade, which increases relapse risk. We recommend tapering off only when you and your treatment team agree you've built strong recovery skills and support systems.

Question 29

How effective is Vivitrol compared to Suboxone for preventing opioid relapse?

Accepted Answer

Clinical studies show both Vivitrol and Suboxone are effective at reducing opioid use and preventing relapse when combined with counseling. The X:BOT trial found comparable outcomes between the two medications for patients who successfully initiated treatment. Vivitrol's advantage is zero addiction potential and once-monthly dosing; Suboxone's advantage is easier initiation (no extended abstinence required) and better management of acute withdrawal. Your provider will recommend the best fit for your situation.

Question 30

What happens if I try to use opioids while on Vivitrol?

Accepted Answer

If you use heroin, fentanyl, or prescription opioids while Vivitrol is active, you will not feel the euphoric effects—the medication blocks opioid receptors completely. This removes the reinforcing 'reward' of drug use and helps break the addiction cycle. However, attempting to 'override' the blockade with very high doses of opioids is extremely dangerous and can still cause overdose. Vivitrol reduces risk but doesn't make opioid use safe.

Question 31

Is Vivitrol covered by insurance for opioid addiction treatment?

Accepted Answer

Yes—Vivitrol is covered by most insurance plans including Medicaid, Medicare Part B (as a provider-administered injection), and commercial insurance. New York State mandates MAT coverage for regulated plans, and Vivitrol is explicitly included. At Integrity, we verify your insurance benefits and handle prior authorization if needed. Many patients have $0 out-of-pocket costs for their monthly Vivitrol injections.

Question 32

How long should I stay on Vivitrol for opioid addiction?

Accepted Answer

There's no fixed duration—treatment length is individualized based on your recovery progress, life stability, and relapse risk. Many patients stay on Vivitrol for 12–24 months to solidify recovery skills. Some continue longer for added protection. Since Vivitrol has no dependence potential, duration decisions focus purely on clinical benefit. Our team reassesses regularly and supports you when you're ready to transition off medication.

Question 33

Can I keep working or maintain daily responsibilities during opioid treatment at Integrity?

Accepted Answer

Yes—our outpatient program at Integrity Treatment Partners is designed for real-life recovery. Flexible scheduling includes evening groups starting at 5:30 PM, allowing you to continue work, school, or family obligations while receiving MAT and therapy.

Question 34

How long does treatment for opioid addiction typically last at Integrity?

Accepted Answer

Duration is individualized—some benefit from months of MAT, others from longer-term maintenance (years). Decisions are collaborative with our Integrity team, focusing on stability and relapse prevention. Lifelong management may be needed, like other chronic conditions.

Question 35

What should family members know about supporting someone with opioid addiction?

Accepted Answer

Addiction affects the whole family—education, boundaries, and support are key. Encourage treatment without enabling use. Integrity offers family involvement options to help loved ones understand and contribute to recovery. Recovery is possible with evidence-based care like MAT. Source: SAMHSA Guide for Families - https://www.samhsa.gov/resource/ebp/opioid-addiction-treatment-guide-patients-families-friends

Question 36

Is your opioid treatment program at Integrity accredited and insurance-friendly?

Accepted Answer

Yes—Integrity Treatment Partners is licensed by New York State OASAS and accredited by The Joint Commission. We accept most insurances and verify benefits to make treatment accessible.

Question 37

What happens if someone relapses during treatment at Integrity?

Accepted Answer

Relapse is common in chronic conditions like OUD and not a failure—it's a signal to adjust the plan. Our non-judgmental approach at Integrity focuses on getting back on track with medication adjustments, more therapy, or added support.

Opioid Addiction Treatment
That Actually Works.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

Suboxone / Buprenorphine

Sublocade / Brixadi

Vivitrol (Naltrexone)

Opioids We Treat

Heroin

Fentanyl

Oxycodone / Percocet

Hydrocodone / Vicodin

Understanding Opioid Use Disorder & MAT

Medication & Treatment Options

Family Support & Recovery

Proudly Serving Nassau County Communities

Opioid Addiction Treatment That Actually Works.