There are several treatments for heroin addiction - AQA - A-Level Psychology - Question 17 - 2017 - Paper 2

One effective treatment for heroin addiction is the use of Medically Assisted Treatment (MAT), specifically with medications such as Methadone or Buprenorphine.

Overview of MAT

MAT combines medications with counseling and behavioral therapies to provide a holistic approach to treating substance use disorders.

Mechanism of Action

Methadone is a long-acting opioid agonist that helps to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and cravings. This allows individuals to stabilize their lives and reduce the risk of relapse. Buprenorphine is a partial agonist which means it activates the opioid receptors but to a much lesser extent than full agonists like heroin. This reduces the potential for misuse.

Benefits of MAT

• Reduces Cravings: By maintaining a level of opioids in the body, it suppresses cravings.
• Improves Functionality: Individuals can engage more fully in daily life and manage responsibilities while on MAT.
• Lower Risk of Overdose: With controlled doses, the risk of overdose is significantly reduced compared to using illicit heroin.

Conclusion

In conclusion, MAT with Methadone or Buprenorphine has proven to be an effective solution for those struggling with heroin addiction, facilitating recovery while minimizing withdrawal symptoms and reducing the likelihood of relapse.