Cravings are intense urges or desires that make it difficult to stop drinking or using drugs. Medicine can help some people feel less urge. In simple steps, we explain how medicine can help and what to expect. At Ancient of Days Psychiatry, we support your mind, body, and spirit.
How Medicine Can Help
Medicine can change how the brain feels. It can lower the strong want for a drink or drug. Medicine can also make withdrawal easier. That helps people focus on therapy and life skills. Medicine is not a quick fix. It helps as part of a plan that includes care and talk therapy.
Medicines That Can Help Alcohol Cravings
There are medicines that doctors use to help with alcohol use. They can lower the urge to drink or make drinking less rewarding. Three medicines are commonly used: naltrexone, acamprosate, and disulfiram. These medicines are not addictive. A doctor will decide which one may help a person best.
Medicines That Help Opioid Cravings
For opioids like heroin or some pain pills, there are safe medicines that help a lot. Methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone are used to treat opioid use disorder. These medicines can reduce craving and cut the risk of overdose. They are part of long-term care for many people.
What about Stimulant Cravings (Cocaine, Meth)?
Right now, there are no medicines that the FDA has approved for cocaine or methamphetamine cravings. Research is still going on. For stimulant problems, talk therapy and support groups are very important. We keep watch on new treatments as science grows.
Medicine Is Only One Part of Care
Medicine works best when combined with counseling and support. Talking with a therapist helps people learn new skills. Groups and family support help too. Medicine makes it easier to use these tools. We always match medicine with therapy and social help for the best results.
Safety and Care
A trained provider must check you before giving medicine. We look at your health, other medicines you take, and your needs. Some medicines can cause side effects. We watch closely and change the plan if needed. Our team focuses on safe medicine use and clear follow-up.
What to Expect When You Start Medicine
- We meet to learn your story.
- We do tests if needed.
- We pick a medicine and dose that fits you.
- We add therapy and support.
- We check progress and change the plan if needed.
This plan is gentle. It helps you stay safe and make steady steps.
How We Help at Ancient of Days Psychiatry
We care for people of all ages. Our lead, Susan Gilbert, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. We offer full checks, diagnosis, and medicine care. We treat mood disorders, ADHD, addictions, and more. We use a warm and safe space to talk. We join medicine with therapy and spiritual care when you want it. Our goal is to help people live fuller lives.
Simple Tips If You or a Loved One Has Cravings
- Tell a doctor or nurse you trust.
- Ask about medicine and therapy together.
- Keep a list of medicines you take.
- Bring a friend or family member to visits if you want.
- Use support groups or counseling for extra help.
Conclusion
Yes, medicine can help many people with alcohol or opioid cravings. For stimulants, medicine options are limited today. The best care uses medicine plus talk therapy, checkups, and community support. We use careful testing and kind care to help each person find the right plan.
If you want help, we are here. We can do a full check and talk about options that fit your life.
FAQs
Can medicine make cravings stop right away?
Not always. Medicine helps over time and with therapy.
Is medicine addictive?
Most medicines used for alcohol and opioid care are not addictive when used as directed.
Do I still need therapy if I take medicine?
Yes. Therapy helps you build skills and stay safe.
Who decides on the medicine?
A trained provider like us will decide with you.
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