Types of Medication for Addiction: A Guide to Substance Use Disorder Treatment

Battling addiction can feel like being trapped in a hole too deep to escape, with recovery seeming like a distant light that’s far out of reach. Thankfully, medication can serve as a lifeline, helping you build the foundation for sobriety and improved mental well-being. 

By understanding which medication is best for you and your addiction, you’ll be better equipped to explore your options. You’ll also gain insight into how these medications work, their role in comprehensive addiction treatment, and how to begin recovery with a safe and effective approach. 

How Addiction Medication Can Support SUD Treatment

Substance use disorders (SUD) can take many forms, including alcoholism, opioid use disorder (OUD), stimulant use disorder, and nicotine dependence. Detoxing from these substances can result in a wide range of withdrawal symptoms, varying in severity.

For instance, detoxing from stimulants and nicotine may cause irritability and insomnia, while detoxing after frequent alcohol, benzodiazepine, or opioid use can be life-threatening. ¹ That’s why it’s crucial to consult a medical professional trained in addiction medicine before attempting to quit alcohol or opioids cold turkey. Seeking addiction therapy is also critical in addressing the issue holistically once withdrawal management is complete.

Medications for drug abuse can support the SUD treatment process by easing withdrawal symptoms during detox, reducing or blocking cravings, and helping to restore the chemical imbalances caused by long-term substance use. Medication adherence plays a crucial role in sustained recovery, especially when integrated with counseling and behavioral therapy².

Medications for Alcohol Addiction 

If you struggle with alcohol use disorder (AUD) and want to detox, certain prescription medications can be life-saving. Other medications for alcohol abuse can support long-term recovery by easing withdrawal symptoms, curbing alcohol cravings, and helping your brain recover after substance dependence.

Here’s a look at the different types of medications that can help you on your journey toward sustained sobriety.  

Disulfiram (Antabuse)

When taken daily, disulfiram works by blocking an enzyme that helps metabolize alcohol, causing unpleasant effects like nausea, headaches, and rapid heartbeat within 10 to 30 minutes of consuming even small amounts of alcohol. Anticipating these severe reactions can create a strong psychological deterrent against drinking, though the medication should be combined with counseling and other support systems for best results³.

• When it’s Used: Prescribed during detox, and/or during recovery in order to curb the desire to consume alcohol. 
• Potential Side Effects Include: Nausea, headache, and flushing. Medical supervision is also required when starting this medication, as it can have serious side effects and interactions with other substances.
• Dosage Form: One oral tablet per day.

While disulfiram prevents drinking by making alcohol consumption unpleasant, success ultimately relies on addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction.

Naltrexone (Vivitrol)

Like disulfiram, Vivitrol this medication can make drinking unpleasant. It works by blocking receptors in the brain that are responsible for the rewarding and reinforcing effects of alcohol, which can make it easier to resist drinking. 

• When it’s Used: Only after complete detox, and it cannot manage withdrawal symptoms.
• Potential Side Effects Include: Nausea, fatigue, and dizziness.
• Dosage Form: One oral tablet or capsule per day, or one injection a month. 

The brand name for the injectable form of naltrexone is Vivitrol. Unlike other medications for alcoholism, you can take naltrexone while continuing to consume alcohol. 

Acamprosate (Campral) 

Known by the US brand name Campral, this medication helps balance brain chemistry and reduce post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) symptoms, such as restlessness, anxiety, mood swings, and irritability. These symptoms can last a few months to two years, depending on the severity of AUD⁴ .

• When it’s Used: Post-detox to help you remain abstinent.
• Potential Side Effects Include: Diarrhea, nausea, and depression.
• Dosage Form: Six oral tablets per day taken with or without food.

Imagine struggling with alcohol addiction for years, feeling trapped in a cycle of drinking and regret. With the help of medications like acamprosate, combined with other types of therapy and support, you can break free from the constant pull of cravings and begin to rebuild your life in recovery.

Medications for Opioid Addiction

Abusing opioids, such as morphine, oxycodone, and heroin, carries a high risk of overdose, as increasing tolerance requires higher doses, which in turn raises the risk of fatal overdose. With doctor approval, prescription medication to help manage opioid abuse and the detox process. 

In addition to long-term medication treatments, it’s important to know that Narcan (naloxone) is a life-saving medication that can reverse opioid overdoses. In 2023, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved it for over-the-counter purchase ⁵.

Here are some effective medications that can help treat addiction to opioids.

Methadone

Methadone is a long-acting opioid that doesn’t produce a euphoric high, prevents withdrawal symptoms, and reduces cravings. This makes it an effective option if you’re undergoing opioid detox or need a drug treatment plan to support long-term recovery ⁶.

• When it’s Used: During detox and as part of MAT for long-term recovery.
• Potential Side Effects Include: Lightheadedness, nausea, and sweating.
• Dosage Form: Oral tablets or liquid, typically taken once per day, but periodically adjusted by your healthcare provider.

Methadone should be taken under medical supervision, as it can be addictive if misused. Regular check-ins with a healthcare provider are essential to monitor its effectiveness and minimize risks.

Buprenorphine (Suboxone)

Known by the US brand name Suboxone, this OUD medication acts as a partial opioid agonist, binding to opioid receptors in the brain without producing the same high pharmaceutical or illicit opioids. It can help you manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms, reducing the risk of relapse and supporting long-term recovery⁷.

• When it’s Used: During detox and ongoing treatment to support sobriety.
• Potential Side Effects Include: Constipation, headache, and insomnia.
• Dosage Form: Oral tablets or film taken once per day and placed under the tongue to dissolve.

Similar to other medications for opioid addiction, buprenorphine should be used under medical supervision to ensure proper dosage and avoid misuse.

Naltrexone (Vivitrol)

Similar to its role in alcohol addiction treatment, naltrexone blocks opioids from attaching to receptors, effectively preventing them from producing their desired effects. 

• When it’s Used: Only after complete detox, and it cannot manage withdrawal symptoms.
• Potential Side Effects Include: Cramping, nausea, and increased anxiety.
• Dosage Form: One oral tablet or capsule per day, or one injection a month.

It’s important to note that Vivitrol, the injectable form, offers more consistent medication levels. If you’re struggling with OUD, consult an addiction counselor to determine if naltrexone, or other medications for opioid abuse, is the right choice for you. 

Medications for Benzodiazepine Addiction

Benzodiazepines like Valium, Xanax, and Ativan are prescribed medications for anxiety and insomnia, but misuse can turn into an addiction. Starting benzodiazepine addiction treatment typically involves gradual tapering to reduce withdrawal risks. It is important to detox under medical supervision as withdrawal symptoms include seizures that can be life-threatening.

Once you’re medically-approved to begin detoxing, a healthcare provider may prescribe you anticonvulsants, such as carbamazepine, to reduce risk of seizures and other severe withdrawal symptoms. Additionally, nonaddictive antianxiety medications may be recommended to help manage anxiety without the risks associated with benzodiazepines.

If you are struggling with benzodiazepine use, here are some medications that can help you during the detox process.

Anticonvulsants (carbamazepine)

Anticonvulsants like carbamazepine are commonly used during benzodiazepine detox to help manage withdrawal symptoms, particularly the risk of seizures. These medications work by stabilizing the brain’s electrical activity, which can be disrupted during withdrawal, reducing the likelihood of seizures and easing anxiety⁸.

• When it’s Used: During the detox phase to prevent seizures and manage anxiety.
• Potential Side Effects Include: Drowsiness and dizziness.
• Dosage Form: Oral tablets or oral liquid.

By using anticonvulsants, healthcare providers can help you safely navigate the detox process while minimizing life-threatening risk.

Diazepam

Diazepam, a long-acting benzodiazepine, is sometimes used in benzodiazepine addiction treatment programs to help manage withdrawal symptoms during detox. Because it has a longer half-life, it can provide a steady, controlled reduction in withdrawal symptoms⁹.

• When it’s Used: Only during medically-supervised detox.
• Potential Side Effects Include: Drowsiness, dizziness, memory problems, and constipation.
• Dosage Form: Oral tablets, oral liquid, or rectal gel.

It’s important to know that diazepam should only be used under close medical supervision as part of a structured detox program. It’s not a treatment for ongoing anxiety management in recovery. If you’re put on diazepam and still struggle with anxiety, consult an anxiety therapist for help.

Medications for Nicotine Addiction

Nicotine is one of the most common drug addictions, and your body can quickly become dependent on the substance. Medications can help by promoting successful smoking cessation, easing withdrawal symptoms, and reducing nicotine cravings.

When combined with behavioral therapy and support, these treatments address both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction, improving long-term success in overcoming nicotine dependence.

Here are some medication options for nicotine dependence. 

Bupropion (Wellbutrin, Aplenzin, Zyban)

Bupropion is type of antidepressant that can help people quit nicotine by reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms. It works by affecting the brain’s neurotransmitters, which helps to ease the discomfort of quitting and reduce the urge to smoke¹⁰.

• When it’s Used: During the nicotine quitting process, typically starting before the quit date. 
• Potential Side Effects Include: Drowsiness, dry mouth, and weight loss.
• Dosage Form: Oral tablets. 

Several brand names of bupropion that treat depression and anxiety exist, each with their own dosing and considerations. For example, Zyban comes in an extended-release oral tablet.

Please consult with a mental health professional to determine what medication to quit nicotine is right for you.

Varenicline (Chantix)

Varenicline works by blocking the pleasurable effects of nicotine in the brain, which reduces cravings, makes smoking less rewarding, and helps manage withdrawal symptoms during the quitting process. ¹¹

• When it’s Used: During the quitting process. 
• Potential Side Effects Include: Sleep disturbances and nausea.
• Dosage Form: Oral tablets. 

There are also generic alternatives to Chantix that still contain varenicline as the active ingredient. 

Medications for Other Stimulant Addictions

If you’re struggling with stimulant use disorder, whether that’s an addiction to methamphetamine, cocaine, or Adderall you should know that there is no FDA-approved medication for treatment. However, some emerging options show promise and may be used with approval from a healthcare professional^12.

Modafinil

Recent research has revealed promising results for modafinil, a medication originally approved for narcolepsy, in supporting cocaine recovery. You should only take modafinil if you don’t have bipolar disorder, psychosis, or certain heart conditions, and if you are solely dependent on cocaine. It cannot be taken if you also have an alcohol dependence¹³.

• When it’s Used: During early recovery from cocaine dependence, particularly in the initiation of abstinence. 
• Potential Side Effects Include: Insomnia, worsening of certain mental health conditions, and cardiovascular effects–such as high blood pressure.
• Dosage Form: Oral tablets and oral sprinkle capsules.

Modafinil works by gently stimulating the brain’s neurotransmitter systems, potentially helping to restore balance to brain chemistry affected by cocaine use while reducing withdrawal symptoms.

Topiramate 

Like carbamazepine, topiramate is an anticonvulsant that has shown promise in helping manage stimulant use disorder, particularly methamphetamine addiction. It’s thought to work by altering brain chemistry, which can make it easier for you to cope with cravings and emotional instability during recovery¹⁴.

• When it’s Used: During recovery, after the detox and withdrawal phase.
• Potential Side Effects Include: Dizziness and memory problems.
• Dosage Form: Oral tablets and oral sprinkle capsules.

Topiramate can be an effective component of a comprehensive treatment plan, helping you maintain recovery and preventing relapse.

Disulfiram

Although disulfiram is primarily used to treat alcohol addiction, some research has suggested it may help with cocaine addiction as well. It works by blocking the breakdown of acetaldehyde, a byproduct of alcohol metabolism, leading to unpleasant effects like nausea and headaches when alcohol is consumed. This “aversive” response may also extend to stimulant use, helping reduce cravings and avoid relapse by associating negative effects with stimulant use. ¹⁵

• When it’s Used: During recovery, not detox.
• Potential Side Effects Include: Nausea, headache, and flushing.
• Dosage Form: Oral tablets.

Disulfiram is usually taken once a day, under the supervision of a healthcare provider, to help manage addiction and reduce the risk of relapse.

Supporting Medications and Supplements in Addiction Recovery

Recovery from addiction often involves more than just addressing substance use–it’s about healing the whole person. If you’re struggling with both drug addiction and mental health conditions simultaneously, it’s known as dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorders.

These medications and supplements aren’t FDA-approved specifically to treat substance abuse, so talk to a healthcare provider to see if they’re right for you. However, they can play an important supporting role in your recovery journey when combined with other therapeutic approaches, such as motivational enhancement therapy (MET).

Here’s a breakdown of some common medications that, while used “off-label,” can help address the mental health challenges that often accompany recovery and support your path to healing.

Antidepressants: supporting emotional balance

Depression and addiction often create a challenging cycle that can feel impossible to break. Antidepressants can help lift this heavy burden by balancing crucial brain chemicals and making it easier to fully engage in your recovery. Just remember, it’s important to consult a mental health professional who can prescribe antidepressants to know if they’re right for you. Only they will be able to tell you about the side effects of antidepressants, and how to move forward if antidepressants aren’t working.

These daily oral medications are typically prescribed when depression symptoms are present, with temporary side effects like sleep changes and digestive adjustments usually improving within weeks. Taking them consistently can provide you with the stability needed to focus on healing, but it’s important to remember that there are many benefits to getting off antidepressants, so it may not be a long-term solution for you¹⁶.

Antipsychotics: stabilizing mental health 

If you’re struggling with both addiction and mental health conditions like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, antipsychotic medications provide essential support for mental stability and recovery. These medications work comprehensively to support thought organization, emotional regulation, and overall mental well-being, creating the clear mental space needed for healing¹⁷.

While antipsychotics require careful monitoring for changes in energy, weight, and movement, regular check-ins with your healthcare provider ensure optimal results. Available as both oral tablets and long-acting injections, your treatment team will help determine the best option for your needs.  

Nonaddictive sleep aids: restoring healthy rest 

Quality sleep forms the foundation of both physical and mental healing during recovery, yet many people find their sleep patterns disrupted during treatment. This can be particularly dangerous for you if you’re recovering from addiction, as poor sleep and sleep disorders can worsen mental health. Additionally, insomnia is a listed side effect for several addiction medications. Several safe, nonaddictive options can help establish healthy sleep routines without creating new dependencies. 

Common sleep-aid medications include:

• Melatonin: A natural hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles¹⁸.
• Trazodone: A low-dose depression medication that’s prescribed to help establish regular sleep patterns.
• Gabapentin: A prescription medication that address both sleep difficulties and anxiety¹⁹.

While you might experience temporary effects like morning drowsiness or vivid dreams as your body adjusts, your healthcare provider will work with you to find the right option and dosage.

Alternatives to Medication for Addiction Treatment: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation

Your options for treatment aren’t just limited to medication, as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for addiction can offer a noninvasive path to healing. If you’re wondering how TMS works or have heard that TMS is a hoax, you should know that it’s an FDA-approved therapy that uses gentle magnetic pulses to target brain areas affected by addiction, helping to reduce cravings and restore healthy neural function.

TMS can be particularly effective when combined with counseling and other support systems, providing a comprehensive approach to healing that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction. With minimal side effects and no downtime, TMS can help you to maintain your daily routine and find success in recovery. ²⁰

Neuro Wellness Spa’s expert team offers state-of-the-art TMS therapy in a warm, supportive environment. We specialize in customizing TMS treatment plans that work in harmony with your existing recovery journey, providing you with another powerful tool for lasting healing and wellness.

Taking the First Step: Addiction Recovery

Addiction medications provide crucial support in reducing cravings, easing withdrawal symptoms, and promoting brain health. It’s important to remember that your recovery is supported by two key elements: consistent medication adherence and the guidance of your healthcare provider in managing your treatment plan. When combined with a strong support system, these tools create a powerful foundation in recoveryfrom drug use and preventing relapse.

How Neuro Wellness Spa Can Help With Addiction Treatment

Healing from addiction typically requires a holistic, personalized approach. Neuro Wellness Spa offers specialized in-network addiction treatment with psychiatric medication management, TMS therapy, and evidence-based psychotherapy.

At Neuro Wellness Spa, we’re here to help you find a mental health professional that offers holistic approaches while you begin your recovery journey. Working alongside your primary addiction treatment providers, we can help address the mental health challenges that often accompany addiction. If you’re ready to take the first step towards a better life, contact us today for more information on how we can support you on your path to healing. 

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