Medications for Substance Use Disorders

 

The use of medications, in combination with counseling and behavioral therapies, to provide a “whole-patient” approach to the treatment of substance use disorders. Medications used are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and are clinically driven and tailored to meet each patient’s needs.

Research shows that a combination of medication and therapy can successfully treat substance use disorders, and for some medications can help sustain recovery. Medications are also used to prevent or reduce opioid overdose.

Locations

Bel Air

2014 S.Tollgate Rd Suite 208 Bel Air MD
21015

Silver Spring

11886 Healing Way Suite 504 Silver Spring MD 20904

White Marsh

5009 Honeygo Center Dr Suite 200 Perry Hall MD 21128

Services:

Comprehensive Mental Health Services

Child, Adult & Geriatric Psychiatric Clinic:

Tailored evaluations
and treatments
for all age groups.

TMS Brain Stimulation
Center:

FDA approved treatments for conditions like Depression, OCD, fibromyalgia, and chronic insomnia.

Spravato REMS Certified Center:

Specialized care for
Treatment resistant
depression in adults.

Team:

Meet Our Professionals

Ravikumar Bhalavat

MD D.F.A.P.A Board Certified Psychiatrist Board Certified in Addiction Medicine

Grace Onegbu

CRNP PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse
Practitioner

Jennifer Turpen

CRNP, Family
Psychiatric Nurse
Practitioner

Heather Martin

CRNP, Family
Psychiatric Nurse
Practitioner
Testimony

What Our Patient Say About Us

5/5
"I recently requested a change (I heard back from the office same day) from my previous provider to Kristy. She talked to me for over 20 minutes and took her time with me. She updated my information that had not been changed in their system for years. I have hope that I haven’t felt in a long time. A breath of fresh air and optimism after struggling for months."
Megan
5/5
"I had the pleasure of getting an appointment with Kristy, and she was absolutely wonderful! She really asked a lot of questions in detail to get to the root of the problem. I think if you are seeking any type medication or help in anyway, they are the place to go! Thank you for your help kristy!"
Malarie
5/5
"I am on a maintenance schedule to "top up" my anti-depression tanks. This second experience is as good as the first! The actual treatment is relaxing and not at in the least uncomfortable. After each session, I always feel a little perked up. Over the long term, my mood has significantly improved. I don't feel like a zombie any more."
Alana

The ultimate goal is full recovery, including the ability to live a self-directed life. This treatment approach has been shown to:

  • Improve patient survival
  • Increase retention in treatment
  • Decrease illicit opiate use and other criminal activity among people with substance use disorders
  • Increase patients’ ability to gain and maintain employment
  • Improve birth outcomes among women who have substance use disorders and are pregnant

Research also shows that these medications and therapies can contribute to lowering a person’s risk of contracting HIV or hepatitis C by reducing the potential for relapse. Learn more about substance misuse and how it relates to HIV, AIDS, and Viral Hepatitis.

Opioid use disorder

Buprenorphinemethadone, and naltrexone are the most common medications used to treat OUD. These medications operate to normalize brain chemistry, block the euphoric effects of alcohol and opioids, relieve physiological cravings, and normalize body functions without the negative and euphoric effects of the substance used.

Buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone are used to treat OUD to short-acting opioids such as heroin, morphine, and codeine, as well as semi-synthetic opioids like oxycodone and hydrocodone. These medications are safe to use for months, years, or even a lifetime. As with any medication, consult your doctor before discontinuing use.

Alcohol use disorder

Acamprosate, disulfiram, and naltrexone are the most common medications used to treat alcohol use disorder. They do not provide a cure for the disorder but are most effective for people who participate in a treatment program. Learn more about the impact of alcohol misuse and AUD.

Your mental well-being is our priority. Please share your concerns or experiences for a tailored consultation. Rest assured, your information is confidential and won’t be shared without permission.