Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) is a chronic medical condition characterized by the compulsive use of opioid medications or drugs despite harmful consequences. Whether the opioids involved are prescription painkillers, heroin, fentanyl, or other substances, OUD represents a serious but treatable brain disorder that affects millions of Americans.

At CommonHealth Recovery in Frankfort, Kentucky, we provide evidence-based outpatient treatment for individuals struggling with opioid use disorder. Our comprehensive approach combines medication-assisted treatment (MAT), counseling, and behavioral therapies to help you regain control of your life and achieve lasting recovery.

What Is Opioid Use Disorder?

Opioid Use Disorder is a medical diagnosis defined by a problematic pattern of opioid use that leads to significant impairment or distress. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), OUD is characterized by a powerful compulsion to use opioids, increased tolerance, withdrawal symptoms when not using, and continued use despite negative consequences.

Opioids are a class of drugs that include prescription pain medications such as oxycodone (OxyContin), hydrocodone (Vicodin), morphine, and codeine, as well as illegal drugs like heroin and illicitly manufactured fentanyl. These substances work by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, spinal cord, and other areas of the body, blocking pain signals and producing feelings of euphoria.

While opioids can be medically necessary for managing severe pain, they carry a high risk of dependence and addiction. The brain adapts to repeated opioid exposure by changing its chemistry, which can lead to tolerance (needing more of the drug to achieve the same effect) and physical dependence (experiencing withdrawal symptoms when the drug is discontinued).

Opioid use disorder exists on a spectrum from mild to severe and requires professional treatment. At CommonHealth Recovery, we understand that OUD is not a moral failing or lack of willpower—it’s a medical condition that responds to evidence-based treatment approaches.

The Opioid Crisis in Kentucky

Kentucky has been significantly impacted by the opioid epidemic. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), opioid-involved overdose deaths have increased dramatically over the past two decades, affecting communities across the Commonwealth.

In Kentucky specifically, factors such as high rates of prescription opioid use, economic challenges, and geographic barriers to treatment have contributed to elevated rates of opioid use disorder. Counties throughout Central Kentucky, including Franklin, Fayette, Scott, Woodford, Anderson, and Shelby, have been affected by this public health crisis.

However, there is hope. Effective treatments for opioid use disorder are available, and recovery is possible. CommonHealth Recovery serves residents throughout the Frankfort, Lexington, and Louisville areas, providing accessible, evidence-based care that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of OUD.

DSM-5 Diagnostic Criteria for Opioid Use Disorder

Healthcare professionals diagnose opioid use disorder using specific criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). A diagnosis of OUD is made when an individual exhibits at least two of the following eleven criteria within a 12-month period:

Impaired Control:

Taking opioids in larger amounts or over a longer period than intended
Persistent desire or unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control opioid use
Spending significant time obtaining opioids, using opioids, or recovering from their effects
Experiencing cravings or a strong desire to use opioids

Social Impairment:

Failing to fulfill major role obligations at work, school, or home due to opioid use
Continuing opioid use despite having persistent or recurrent social or interpersonal problems caused or exacerbated by the effects of opioids
Giving up or reducing important social, occupational, or recreational activities because of opioid use

Risky Use:

Recurrent opioid use in situations where it is physically hazardous (such as driving or operating machinery)
Continuing opioid use despite knowledge of having a persistent or recurrent physical or psychological problem that is likely to have been caused or exacerbated by the substance

Pharmacological Criteria:

Developing tolerance, defined by either a need for markedly increased amounts of opioids to achieve intoxication or desired effect, or a markedly diminished effect with continued use of the same amount
Experiencing withdrawal, manifested by either characteristic opioid withdrawal symptoms or taking opioids (or a closely related substance) to relieve or avoid withdrawal symptoms

The severity of opioid use disorder is determined by the number of criteria met:

Mild OUD: 2-3 criteria
Moderate OUD: 4-5 criteria
Severe OUD: 6 or more criteria

Understanding these diagnostic criteria can help you or a loved one recognize when opioid use has crossed the line from use to a disorder requiring professional treatment.

Opioid Use Disorder Symptoms and Warning Signs

The symptoms of opioid use disorder can manifest in behavioral, physical, and psychological ways. Recognizing these warning signs is an important step toward seeking help.

Behavioral Signs:

Taking opioids in ways other than prescribed (higher doses, more frequently, or via different routes of administration)
Seeking prescriptions from multiple doctors (known as “doctor shopping”)
Buying opioids from illicit sources or using someone else’s prescription
Isolation from family and friends
Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home
Engaging in risky behaviors such as driving under the influence
Legal or financial problems related to opioid use
Continuing to use opioids despite negative consequences

Physical Symptoms:

Constricted pupils (“pinpoint pupils”)
Drowsiness or nodding off at inappropriate times
Slurred speech or impaired coordination
Frequent nausea, vomiting, or constipation
Changes in sleep patterns
Weight loss and poor hygiene
Track marks or skin infections (if injecting opioids)
Developing tolerance and needing increasingly higher doses
Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when opioid use is reduced or stopped

Psychological Symptoms:

Intense cravings for opioids
Anxiety or depression
Mood swings and irritability
Lack of motivation or interest in previously enjoyed activities
Poor judgment and decision-making
Inability to feel pleasure without opioids (anhedonia)
Preoccupation with obtaining and using opioids

Withdrawal Symptoms:

When someone with opioid use disorder reduces or stops using opioids, they may experience withdrawal symptoms that can include:

Muscle aches and bone pain
Restlessness and insomnia
Diarrhea and vomiting
Cold flashes with goosebumps (“cold turkey”)
Involuntary leg movements
Severe cravings
Anxiety and agitation
Dilated pupils and watering eyes
Runny nose and excessive sweating

While opioid withdrawal is extremely uncomfortable, it is rarely life-threatening. However, the intense discomfort often leads individuals to resume opioid use to relieve symptoms. This is one reason why medically supervised treatment, including medication-assisted treatment, is so effective for opioid use disorder.

Is Opioid Use Disorder a Mental Health Condition?

Yes, opioid use disorder is classified as a mental health disorder in the DSM-5 under the category of substance-related and addictive disorders. This classification reflects our understanding that OUD involves changes in brain structure and function, particularly in areas responsible for reward, motivation, memory, and impulse control.

Recognizing OUD as a mental health condition is important for several reasons:

Reduces Stigma: Understanding that opioid use disorder is a medical condition—not a moral failing or character flaw—helps reduce shame and encourages individuals to seek treatment without fear of judgment.

Guides Treatment: Treating OUD as a brain disorder means using evidence-based medical and behavioral interventions, including FDA-approved medications that help normalize brain chemistry and reduce cravings.

Addresses Co-Occurring Disorders: Many individuals with opioid use disorder also experience co-occurring mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or other substance use disorders. Integrated treatment that addresses both OUD and co-occurring conditions leads to better outcomes.

Informs Policy and Access: Recognizing OUD as a medical condition supports policies that expand access to treatment, reduce barriers to medication-assisted treatment, and ensure that insurance covers evidence-based care.

At CommonHealth Recovery, we provide comprehensive care that treats opioid use disorder with the same medical and therapeutic rigor applied to any other mental health condition, addressing both the physical dependence and psychological factors that contribute to the disorder.

Health Effects and Risks of Opioid Use Disorder

Chronic opioid use affects multiple systems in the body and carries serious health risks. Understanding these consequences underscores the importance of seeking treatment as soon as possible.

Respiratory Depression:

Opioids slow breathing by acting on the brainstem, which controls respiration. High doses can cause breathing to slow to dangerous levels or stop altogether, leading to hypoxia (insufficient oxygen reaching the brain and organs). Hypoxia can result in coma, permanent brain damage, or death.

Overdose Risk:

Opioid overdose is a medical emergency that can be fatal. Risk factors for overdose include:

Using opioids after a period of abstinence (when tolerance has decreased)
Mixing opioids with alcohol, benzodiazepines, or other sedatives
Using illicitly manufactured fentanyl, which is extremely potent
Injecting opioids or using opioids via other high-risk routes
Having underlying health conditions

Signs of opioid overdose include unconsciousness, slow or stopped breathing, pinpoint pupils, limp body, pale or clammy skin, and blue lips or fingernails. Naloxone (Narcan) is a life-saving medication that can reverse an opioid overdose if administered promptly.

Infectious Diseases:

Individuals who inject opioids are at increased risk for contracting infectious diseases, including:

HIV/AIDS (from sharing needles or engaging in risky behaviors)
Hepatitis B and C (from sharing needles or drug preparation equipment)
Bacterial infections (endocarditis, cellulitis, abscesses)
Bloodborne infections

Gastrointestinal Effects:

Opioids slow down the digestive system, leading to chronic constipation, nausea, vomiting, and bowel obstruction. Severe constipation can lead to serious complications requiring medical intervention.

Cardiovascular Effects:

Long-term opioid use can affect the cardiovascular system, leading to:

Low blood pressure
Slow heart rate
Increased risk of heart infection (endocarditis, especially with injection use)
Collapsed veins (with injection use)

Hormonal and Reproductive Effects:

Chronic opioid use can disrupt hormonal systems, leading to:

Reduced testosterone levels in men (causing decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, fatigue)
Irregular menstrual cycles in women
Decreased fertility in both men and women
Pregnancy complications, including neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) in babies born to mothers using opioids

Neurological and Cognitive Effects:

Prolonged opioid use can affect brain function, resulting in:

Memory problems
Difficulty with attention and concentration
Impaired decision-making and judgment
Increased risk of developing dementia
Mental health issues such as depression and anxiety

Social and Legal Consequences:

Beyond physical health effects, opioid use disorder often leads to:

Relationship problems and family conflict
Job loss and financial instability
Legal issues, including arrests and incarceration
Homelessness or unstable housing
Social isolation

The good news is that many of these health effects can improve or stabilize with sustained treatment and recovery. Early intervention and evidence-based treatment significantly improve outcomes.

Types of Opioids and Opioid Use Disorder

Opioid use disorder can develop from the use of various opioid substances, including both prescription medications and illicit drugs.

Prescription Opioids:

Oxycodone (OxyContin, Percocet, Roxicodone)
Hydrocodone (Vicodin, Norco, Lortab)
Morphine (MS Contin, Kadian)
Codeine (often combined with acetaminophen)
Hydromorphone (Dilaudid)
Fentanyl (Duragesic, Actiq, Subsys)
Tramadol (Ultram, ConZip)
Methadone (Dolophine, Methadose)
Buprenorphine (Subutex, Suboxone, Sublocade)

Illicit Opioids:

Heroin – An illegal opioid synthesized from morphine
Illicitly manufactured fentanyl – Extremely potent synthetic opioid often mixed with heroin or pressed into counterfeit pills
Carfentanil – An elephant tranquilizer sometimes found in the illicit drug supply
Other synthetic opioids – Designer drugs created to mimic the effects of traditional opioids

Many individuals with opioid use disorder initially began using opioids as prescribed for pain management following surgery, injury, or chronic pain conditions. Over time, tolerance develops, and some individuals escalate their use or transition to using opioids in ways not prescribed.

Others may begin with illicit opioid use, such as heroin. Increasingly, individuals who use heroin or other street opioids are unknowingly exposed to illicitly manufactured fentanyl, which dramatically increases overdose risk due to its potency.

At CommonHealth Recovery, we provide treatment for opioid use disorder regardless of which opioid is involved, using evidence-based approaches tailored to each individual’s needs.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for Opioid Use Disorder

Medication-Assisted Treatment, also known as MOUD (Medications for Opioid Use Disorder), is the gold standard for treating opioid use disorder. Research consistently shows that MAT is the most effective treatment approach, significantly improving outcomes and saving lives.

MAT combines FDA-approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies to provide a “whole-patient” approach to treatment. The medications used in MAT help normalize brain chemistry, block the euphoric effects of opioids, relieve physiological cravings, and normalize body functions without the negative effects of the opioid being used.

FDA-Approved Medications for Opioid Use Disorder

Buprenorphine:

Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist, meaning it activates opioid receptors in the brain but produces a much weaker effect than full agonist opioids like heroin or oxycodone. This property makes buprenorphine effective at reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms while having a lower risk of misuse, dependence, and overdose compared to full agonist opioids.

Buprenorphine is available in several formulations:

Suboxone (buprenorphine combined with naloxone) – sublingual film or tablet
Subutex (buprenorphine alone) – sublingual tablet
Sublocade (buprenorphine extended-release injection) – once-monthly injection
Probuphine (buprenorphine implant) – 6-month implant

At CommonHealth Recovery, we commonly use buprenorphine as part of our medication-assisted treatment program. Buprenorphine can be prescribed in an office-based setting, making it accessible for outpatient treatment.

Methadone:

Methadone is a long-acting full opioid agonist that prevents withdrawal symptoms and reduces cravings without producing the euphoric high associated with other opioids when taken as prescribed. Methadone has been used to treat opioid use disorder for over 50 years and has extensive research supporting its effectiveness.

Methadone must be dispensed daily through a specialized opioid treatment program (OTP), also known as a methadone clinic. While CommonHealth Recovery does not directly dispense methadone, we work collaboratively with local methadone clinics and can coordinate care for patients who may benefit from methadone treatment.

Naltrexone:

Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist that blocks opioid receptors in the brain, preventing opioids from producing euphoric effects. Naltrexone is available in two forms:

Oral naltrexone (ReVia, Depade) – daily pill
Extended-release naltrexone injection (Vivitrol) – once-monthly injection

Unlike buprenorphine and methadone, naltrexone contains no opioid components, so there is no risk of misuse or diversion. However, individuals must be fully detoxified from opioids before starting naltrexone, as it can precipitate severe withdrawal symptoms if opioids are still in the system.

Naltrexone is most effective for individuals who are highly motivated to remain abstinent and have completed detoxification. It can be a good option for people in recovery who want to reduce the risk of relapse.

Benefits of Medication-Assisted Treatment

Research demonstrates that medication-assisted treatment for opioid use disorder:

Reduces opioid use and opioid-related overdose deaths
Improves retention in treatment programs
Decreases illicit drug use and criminal activity
Increases employment and social functioning
Improves outcomes for pregnant women and their babies
Reduces the risk of infectious disease transmission

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) strongly supports the use of medication-assisted treatment as a comprehensive approach to treating opioid use disorder. Studies show that MAT, when combined with counseling and behavioral therapies, produces better outcomes than either approach alone.

At CommonHealth Recovery, our medical team works with each client to determine which medication is most appropriate based on individual needs, medical history, treatment goals, and personal preferences.

Evidence-Based Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder at CommonHealth Recovery

At CommonHealth Recovery in Frankfort, Kentucky, we offer comprehensive outpatient treatment for opioid use disorder that combines medication-assisted treatment with counseling, behavioral therapies, and support services.

Our Treatment Approach

Comprehensive Assessment:

Every client begins with a thorough biopsychosocial assessment conducted by our clinical team. This assessment evaluates:

Current and past substance use patterns
Medical history and current health status
Mental health symptoms and co-occurring disorders
Social circumstances, including housing, employment, and family support
Treatment history and previous recovery attempts
Individual strengths, goals, and barriers to recovery

Based on this assessment, we develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and circumstances.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT):

Our MAT program includes:

Medical evaluation to determine appropriate medication
Prescription and monitoring of FDA-approved medications (primarily buprenorphine)
Regular follow-up appointments with our medical providers
Medication management and dosage adjustments as needed
Education about medications, side effects, and proper use
Ongoing monitoring for safety and effectiveness

Individual Counseling:

One-on-one therapy sessions provide a confidential space to:

Explore underlying factors contributing to opioid use
Develop coping strategies for managing cravings and triggers
Address co-occurring mental health concerns
Set and work toward personal recovery goals
Process trauma and difficult emotions
Build motivation and commitment to recovery

We utilize evidence-based therapeutic approaches including:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Identifying and changing thought patterns and behaviors related to substance use
Motivational Interviewing – Strengthening personal motivation and commitment to change
Trauma-Informed Care – Addressing the impact of trauma on substance use
Contingency Management – Reinforcing positive behaviors and treatment engagement

Group Counseling:

Group therapy offers opportunities to:

Connect with others facing similar challenges
Share experiences and learn from peers
Build accountability and social support
Practice interpersonal skills
Reduce feelings of isolation
Develop a recovery community

Our groups focus on topics such as relapse prevention, coping skills, communication, managing emotions, and building healthy relationships.

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP):

Our IOP provides structured treatment for individuals who need a higher level of support while maintaining their daily responsibilities. IOP includes:

Group therapy sessions multiple days per week (typically 3-4 days)
Individual counseling sessions
Medication management
Case management and care coordination
Flexible scheduling (day or evening options available)

IOP is ideal for individuals transitioning from a higher level of care, those with moderate to severe OUD, or anyone needing more intensive support than standard outpatient treatment provides.

Outpatient Program (OP):

Our standard outpatient program offers:

Weekly or bi-weekly individual counseling
Group therapy sessions
Medication-assisted treatment
Case management as needed
Flexible scheduling that accommodates work, school, and family obligations

Outpatient treatment is appropriate for individuals with mild to moderate OUD, those stepping down from IOP, or anyone who can benefit from ongoing support while living at home.

Case Management:

Our case management services help address practical barriers to recovery, including:

Transportation assistance
Housing support and referrals
Employment and vocational services
Connection to community resources
Insurance and benefits navigation
Legal advocacy when needed
Family support and education

Harm Reduction Approaches:

We embrace harm reduction as a compassionate, pragmatic approach that meets individuals where they are in their recovery journey. Harm reduction strategies we support include:

Naloxone distribution and training – We provide naloxone kits and teach clients, family members, and friends how to recognize and respond to opioid overdoses
Safe use education – For clients not yet ready for abstinence, we provide information on reducing risks associated with opioid use
Engagement without judgment – We build relationships and provide care regardless of where someone is in their recovery process
Incremental change – We celebrate and support any positive steps toward healthier behaviors, recognizing that recovery is not always linear

Telehealth Services:

We offer virtual treatment options for clients who:

Face transportation barriers
Live in rural areas
Prefer the convenience of remote sessions
Have scheduling conflicts that make in-person appointments difficult

Our telehealth platform maintains the same quality, confidentiality, and therapeutic effectiveness as in-person care.

Why Choose CommonHealth Recovery for Opioid Use Disorder Treatment

Evidence-Based Approach: We use treatment methods proven effective by research, including medication-assisted treatment, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and trauma-informed care.

Experienced Medical and Clinical Team: Our providers specialize in addiction medicine and have extensive experience treating opioid use disorder and co-occurring mental health conditions.

Medication-Assisted Treatment Expertise: We are experienced in prescribing and managing buprenorphine and naltrexone, and we work collaboratively with methadone clinics when appropriate.

Comprehensive, Whole-Person Care: We address not just the opioid use itself but also underlying mental health concerns, trauma, social circumstances, and barriers to recovery.

Flexible Outpatient Options: Our programs allow you to receive high-quality treatment while maintaining work, school, and family responsibilities.

Individualized Treatment Plans: We recognize that every person’s journey is unique, and we tailor treatment to your specific needs, goals, and circumstances.

Convenient Central Kentucky Location: Located in Frankfort, we serve residents throughout Franklin, Fayette, Scott, Woodford, Anderson, Shelby, and surrounding counties.

Insurance Accepted: We accept Medicaid, Medicare, and most commercial insurance plans, and our team can help verify your coverage and navigate benefits.

Same-Day and Next-Day Appointments: We strive to minimize wait times and connect you with care as quickly as possible.

Supportive, Non-Judgmental Environment: We treat every client with dignity, respect, and compassion, recognizing that seeking help takes courage.

Opioid Use Disorder Treatment Near Me in Central Kentucky

CommonHealth Recovery is located in Frankfort, Kentucky, and provides accessible opioid use disorder treatment to individuals throughout Central Kentucky. We serve residents of Frankfort, Lexington, Louisville, Georgetown, Versailles, Shelbyville, Lawrenceburg, and surrounding communities in Franklin, Woodford, Scott, Anderson, Shelby, Fayette, and neighboring counties.

If you’re searching for opioid use disorder treatment near you, CommonHealth Recovery offers the expertise, compassion, and evidence-based approaches you need to overcome OUD and build a healthier future.

Getting Help for Opioid Use Disorder

Taking the first step toward recovery from opioid use disorder requires courage, but you don’t have to face it alone. At CommonHealth Recovery, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

How to Get Started:

Call us at (502) 661-1444 to speak with our caring admissions team
Schedule a comprehensive assessment with one of our experienced clinicians
Begin treatment with a personalized plan tailored to your needs

We offer same-day or next-day appointments whenever possible to minimize wait times and connect you with care quickly.

What to Expect:

When you contact CommonHealth Recovery, our admissions team will:

Answer your questions about opioid use disorder treatment
Verify your insurance coverage and explain payment options
Schedule your initial assessment at a convenient time
Provide information about what to bring to your first appointment
Address any concerns or anxiety you may have about starting treatment

During your initial assessment, a clinician will conduct a thorough evaluation to understand your situation and develop a treatment plan that meets your needs. This is a collaborative process, and your input, preferences, and goals are central to creating your plan.

Frequently Asked Questions About Opioid Use Disorder

Opioid use disorder is a chronic medical condition characterized by a problematic pattern of opioid use that causes significant impairment or distress. It is diagnosed when an individual meets at least two of eleven specific criteria outlined in the DSM-5 within a 12-month period. These criteria assess impaired control over opioid use, social impairment, risky use, and pharmacological indicators such as tolerance and withdrawal. OUD can involve prescription opioids, heroin, fentanyl, or other opioid substances and requires professional treatment for the best outcomes.

Behaviors strongly suggestive of opioid use disorder include taking opioids in larger amounts or for longer periods than intended, being unable to cut down despite wanting to, spending significant time obtaining or using opioids, experiencing intense cravings, continuing use despite harmful consequences, neglecting responsibilities, withdrawing from activities and relationships, using opioids in dangerous situations, and developing tolerance or withdrawal symptoms. If you or someone you care about exhibits several of these behaviors, a professional assessment is recommended.

The most effective and widely recommended treatment for opioid use disorder is Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), also called MOUD (Medications for Opioid Use Disorder). MAT combines FDA-approved medications—such as buprenorphine, methadone, or naltrexone—with counseling and behavioral therapies. Research consistently shows that MAT produces significantly better outcomes than behavioral interventions alone, including reduced opioid use, lower overdose risk, improved retention in treatment, and better overall functioning. At CommonHealth Recovery, we specialize in providing comprehensive MAT combined with individual and group counseling.

With appropriate evidence-based treatment, the prognosis for opioid use disorder is generally positive. Medication-assisted treatment, combined with counseling and support services, significantly improves outcomes. Many individuals achieve sustained recovery and go on to lead healthy, productive lives. However, OUD is a chronic condition, and like other chronic diseases such as diabetes or hypertension, it requires ongoing management. Some individuals may experience relapses, but these should be viewed as opportunities to reassess and adjust treatment rather than as failures. Continued engagement in treatment and recovery support improves long-term outcomes.

Yes, recovery from opioid use disorder is absolutely possible. Thousands of people successfully recover from OUD every year with appropriate treatment and support. Evidence-based treatments, particularly medication-assisted treatment combined with counseling, have been proven effective in helping individuals reduce or stop opioid use, improve their health and functioning, and achieve lasting recovery. Recovery is a personal journey that looks different for everyone—some individuals aim for complete abstinence, while others benefit from long-term maintenance on medications like buprenorphine or methadone. What matters most is finding a treatment approach that works for you and staying engaged in care and support.

The length of treatment for opioid use disorder varies depending on individual needs and circumstances. Research shows that longer engagement in treatment leads to better outcomes. Intensive outpatient programs typically last 8-12 weeks, while standard outpatient treatment may continue for several months to over a year. For medication-assisted treatment, many individuals benefit from long-term maintenance on medications, sometimes for years or indefinitely. This is similar to how people with other chronic conditions like diabetes take medication long-term to manage their condition. At CommonHealth Recovery, treatment duration is individualized and adjusted based on your progress, goals, and changing needs.

Yes, most insurance plans cover treatment for opioid use disorder. The Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act requires insurance companies to cover substance use disorder treatment, including medication-assisted treatment, at levels comparable to other medical conditions. CommonHealth Recovery accepts Medicaid, Medicare, and most commercial insurance plans. Our admissions team can verify your coverage, explain your benefits, and help you understand any out-of-pocket costs before you begin treatment. We work with clients to make treatment as accessible and affordable as possible.

Three FDA-approved medications are used to treat opioid use disorder: buprenorphine (Suboxone, Subutex, Sublocade), methadone, and naltrexone (Vivitrol). Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist that reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms with a lower risk of misuse than full agonist opioids. Methadone is a long-acting full opioid agonist that prevents withdrawal and reduces cravings. Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist that blocks the effects of opioids. At CommonHealth Recovery, we primarily use buprenorphine and naltrexone as part of our medication-assisted treatment program, and we coordinate with methadone clinics when appropriate. Our medical team determines which medication is most suitable based on individual needs.

Opioid dependence refers to the physiological adaptation that occurs with regular opioid use, characterized by tolerance (needing more to achieve the same effect) and withdrawal symptoms when opioids are discontinued. Dependence can develop even when opioids are taken exactly as prescribed for pain management. Opioid use disorder, on the other hand, is a broader diagnosis that includes not only physical dependence but also behavioral, psychological, and social criteria such as loss of control over use, continued use despite harm, and cravings. Someone can be dependent on opioids without having OUD (for example, a pain patient taking medication as prescribed), but someone with OUD typically has dependence along with problematic behavioral patterns.

You should seek treatment when opioid use is causing negative consequences in your life, when you’re having difficulty controlling your use, when you’re experiencing cravings or withdrawal symptoms, or when you’re using opioids in ways not prescribed. Early intervention leads to better outcomes, so you don’t need to wait until the situation becomes dire. If you’re questioning whether you need help, that’s often a sign that talking to a professional would be beneficial. Contact CommonHealth Recovery at (502) 661-1444 for a confidential assessment. Our team can help you understand your situation and recommend appropriate next steps.

Start Your Recovery from Opioid Use Disorder Today

Recovery from opioid use disorder is possible, and it starts with one call. If you or someone you love is struggling with OUD, contact CommonHealth Recovery today. Our compassionate team is ready to help you take the first step toward lasting recovery.

Call us today at (502) 661-1444 or verify your insurance online to take the first step toward lasting recovery.

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References

National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). (2022). Opioid Overdose Crisis. Retrieved from https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/opioid-overdose-crisis
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). (2021). Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT). Retrieved from https://www.samhsa.gov/medication-assisted-treatment
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2023). Understanding the Opioid Overdose Epidemic.
Mattick, R. P., Breen, C., Kimber, J., & Davoli, M. (2014). Buprenorphine maintenance versus placebo or methadone maintenance for opioid dependence. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2014(2), CD002207.
National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). (2021). Medications to Treat Opioid Use Disorder. Retrieved from https://nida.nih.gov/publications/research-reports/medications-to-treat-opioid-addiction/overview
Sordo, L., Barrio, G., Bravo, M. J., Indave, B. I., Degenhardt, L., Wiessing, L., Ferri, M., & Pastor-Barriuso, R. (2017). Mortality risk during and after opioid substitution treatment: systematic review and meta-analysis of cohort studies. BMJ, 357, j1550.
Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services. (2024). Kentucky Opioid Response Effort. Retrieved from https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dph/dehp/hab/kore
Volkow, N. D., & McLellan, A. T. (2016). Opioid Abuse in Chronic Pain – Misconceptions and Mitigation Strategies. New England Journal of Medicine, 374(13), 1253-1263.
World Health Organization (WHO). (2018). Information Sheet on Opioid Overdose. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/substance_abuse/information-sheet/en/

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