Addiction is a brain disease that is characterized by compulsive engagement in rewarding stimuli despite adverse consequences. Individuals may be addicted to drugs (such as nicotine and heroin), or to behaviors (such as gambling).
Addictions have been an increasing problem in today’s society, with the number of drug dependent people increasing. Given the new types of drugs available, there has also been an increase in drug related overdoses which in several cases has resulted in death.
At Minhas Psychiatry we specialize in utilizing buprenorphine (Suboxone) to treat opiate addictions. Opiates refer to a class of drugs that includes prescribed pills like Vicodin and Percocet, and other drugs such as heroin and Fentanyl. Buprenorphine provides a mechanism to reduce cravings, and in conjunction with other psychological and social interventions, has been shown to be effective in reducing the harmful impact of opiate addiction.