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Medications We Use to Support Recovery

Medication can be a powerful tool in recovery. It doesn’t replace your effort, but it can make the process easier by reducing cravings, calming withdrawal, and helping your brain and body heal. Here’s how the main options work:

Alcohol Use Disorder

  • Naltrexone – Blocks the “buzz” from alcohol, making drinking less rewarding and reducing cravings.
  • Acamprosate – Helps restore balance in the brain after you stop drinking, easing cravings and uncomfortable feelings that can trigger relapse.

Opioid Use Disorder

  • Buprenorphine – Reduces withdrawal symptoms and cravings while keeping the brain stable.

Stimulant Use Disorder (Cocaine, Methamphetamine)

There’s no single “standard” medicine yet, but some can help reduce cravings, improve mood, and support recovery. Options may include:

  • Bupropion – Can reduce cravings and improve mood and focus.
  • Topiramate or others – May help with urges and stabilizing brain activity.

Behavioral Addictions (Gambling, Gaming, Internet Use)

Behavioral addictions affect the same brain reward pathways as drugs and alcohol. While there’s no one-size-fits-all medicine, some options can help reduce urges, ease compulsive behavior, and improve mood.

Our approach

We tailor medication to each person’s needs. The goal is simple—make recovery easier, safer, and more sustainable by reducing cravings and giving you more control.