Opioid Rehab and Addiction Treatment Programs in Missouri

Seeking help for opioid abuse can seem intimidating, but quality treatment can help reduce the drug’s negative effects. Learn more about opioid addiction treatment.

Opioids and opiates are similar and highly addictive. Treatment is often necessary for people who misuse opioids and opiates because it can be incredibly difficult to detox from these drugs and enter recovery without professional support. Learn about our opioid and opiate addiction treatment programs at The Recovery Village Kansas City.

What Is Opioid Addiction?

Opioid addiction is a chronic medical condition characterized by an inability to stop using opioids, even when they cause significant harm to a person’s health, relationships and overall well-being. Opioids include both prescription medications (like oxycodone and hydrocodone) and illicit substances (like heroin and fentanyl) that act on the brain’s opioid receptors to relieve pain and produce feelings of euphoria. Over time, opioids can change how the brain functions, creating powerful cravings and compulsive use.

Opioid misuse and addiction affect people from all walks of life, and the problem continues to grow in many communities across the United States. Factors such as chronic pain conditions, genetic predisposition and social or environmental influences can all contribute to the risk of developing an opioid use disorder. Early detection and treatment are crucial for preventing severe complications like overdose, organ damage and even death.

What Are Commonly Misused Opioids?

Opioids come in various forms, and all have the potential for misuse when taken in higher doses, more frequently than prescribed or used in any way that deviates from medical guidelines. Some of the most commonly misused opioids include:

• Prescription pain relievers: Medications such as oxycodone (OxyContin), hydrocodone (Vicodin) and morphine (MS Contin) are often prescribed for managing moderate to severe pain. Misuse occurs when individuals take larger or more frequent doses than recommended, use medication not prescribed to them or combine these drugs with alcohol or other substances.
• Heroin: An illicit opioid derived from morphine, heroin is highly addictive. It is commonly injected, snorted or smoked. Heroin use carries high risks of overdose, infectious diseases (such as HIV or hepatitis) and damage to vital organs.
• Fentanyl: A synthetic opioid that is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine, fentanyl is used medically for severe pain. However, illegal forms of fentanyl are often mixed with other drugs, leading to accidental overdoses. Because of its potency, even a small amount can be deadly.
• Codeine: Found in certain prescription cough syrups and pain relievers, codeine is another opioid that can be misused. While it is generally weaker than other opioids, it still carries the risk of dependence and addiction.

Opioids vs. Opiates

While opioids and opiates are often referred to interchangeably, there are differences. Opiates are naturally occurring drugs that act on the body’s opioid receptors to relieve pain. Opioids include synthetic substances used to treat pain. Prescription painkillers often fall under the opioid analgesics category.

Naturally-occurring opiates can include:

• Heroin
• Morphine
• Codeine

Synthetic and semi-synthetic opioids can include:

• Fentanyl
• Oxycodone
• Hydrocodone
• Hydromorphone
• Oxymorphone
• Methadone
• Tramadol

Why Are Opioids Addictive?

Opioids are incredibly addictive due to their physiological effects, even when taken as prescription drugs. Opioids block the body’s pain receptors and cause the brain to release large amounts of dopamine, which is extremely pleasurable and makes users want to repeat using opioids.

Repeated opioid use can lead to physical dependence, where the body will not function the same without the drug. A person physically dependent on opioids experiences uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms when trying to stop using them, leading to continued opioid misuse.

Signs of Opioid Addiction

A person who repeatedly abuses opioids may develop opioid use disorder (OUD), the clinical term for opioid addiction. While each person is different, some general signs and symptoms of OUD that suggest a person may be abusing opioids include:

• Strong cravings for opioids
• Being unable to cut down on opioid use, despite desiring to
• Being unable to fulfill work or family duties because of drug use
• Giving up hobbies or preferred activities in favor of opioid use
• Using opioids in risky situations, such as driving while under the influence
• Continuing to use opioids, even when they cause a health problem
• Developing a tolerance so that larger doses are needed to achieve the desired effects
• Showing withdrawal side effects when not using opioids

Long-term Effects of Opioid Use

Opioid use can cause several health problems over time, including:

• Severe constipation that does not improve with medications
• Ongoing gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea, cramping, vomiting, bloating and stomach bleeding
• Sleep-disordered breathing, including sleep apnea
• Increased risk of heart attack and heart failure
• Extreme dizziness and sedation, which can lead to a risk of injury and fractures from falling
• Hormonal problems, which can lead to metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, irregular menstrual cycles and osteoporosis
• Reduced immune system functioning, which can lead to an increased risk of pneumonia, especially in the elderly
• Risk of fatal overdose from respiratory depression

Knowing When It’s Time To Seek Help

Seeking help for an opioid use disorder can seem intimidating, but quality treatment can help reduce the negative effects of opioid abuse. If opioids are causing you significant problems, and you’re unable to cut back, it’s probably time to seek help. For example, you would benefit from treatment if you cannot stop using opioids, despite health problems, relationship conflict and the inability to care for your family.

Begin by discussing your opioid misuse with your doctor. If they diagnose an opioid use disorder, it’s time to contact an addiction treatment center for professional intervention. An opioid use disorder is a legitimate medical condition that requires treatment.

Opioid Addiction Treatment Programs

Treatment often occurs in stages, with patients first receiving higher levels of care (i.e., inpatient rehab) and stepping down to outpatient care as their recovery progresses.

Opioid Detox

Medical detox is often the first step of opioid addiction treatment. A professional medical detox program can provide prescription medications and medical oversight to keep patients safe and comfortable during opioid detox. While medical detox is important, it is often not enough to provide lasting recovery. Continuing rehab treatment after completing opioid withdrawal is essential.

Consulting with a doctor or professional rehab program is important before attempting to detox from opioids. Withdrawal symptoms can be extremely unpleasant, making it difficult to detox without professional support. Some common opioid withdrawal side effects include:

• Muscle and bone pain
• Sleep disturbances
• Gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea and vomiting
• Cold flashes and goosebumps
• Extreme cravings
• Involuntary leg movements

Inpatient Opioid Treatment

Patients live onsite during inpatient treatment and will be away from home for some time. They eat their meals at the facility and have a bedroom for their stay.

Inpatient treatment programs usually offer services, including medication management, medical care, individual and group therapy, support groups and recreation opportunities. Patients in opioid addiction treatment may continue taking medications like buprenorphine to reduce drug cravings. When patients use medications while also undergoing counseling for opioid addiction, they are in MAT (medication-assisted treatment).

Opioid Addiction and Mental Health

There is a strong overlap between opioid misuse and mental health conditions. People with OUD are likely to have a co-occurring mental health disorder, and it’s important to participate in a dual diagnosis treatment program that addresses both conditions. An untreated mental health condition can worsen opioid use disorder and vice versa.

A recent study of patients with an OUD found the following mental health problems were common in this population:

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Generalized anxiety disorder
• Panic disorder
• Depression
• Dysthymia
• Personality disorders

Is Opioid Addiction Treatable?

Opioid addiction is treatable. You can improve your chances of a successful recovery by entering a treatment program and staying connected to the recovery community through support groups, counseling and relapse prevention planning.

Research demonstrates that opioid addiction treatment programs are beneficial. One recent study followed patients for 3.5 years after they completed treatment and showed that 31.7% of patients were abstinent and not taking any medications for opioid addiction after 3.5 years, and 29.4% were taking medications and no longer showed symptoms of opioid dependence. These results suggest that people who engage in treatment can successfully recover from opioid addiction.

What Happens During Opioid Addiction Treatment?

Opioid addiction treatment is designed to help people safely withdraw from opioids, learn coping skills for long-term sobriety and address any underlying issues contributing to the addiction. While every person’s experience is unique, most treatment programs include the following components:

• Assessment and Evaluation: A clinical team evaluates a person’s medical history, substance use patterns, mental health status and social support systems. This evaluation guides the creation of a personalized treatment plan that addresses physical, psychological and emotional needs.
• Medical Detox: For many people, the first step is medical detoxification (detox). Under medical supervision, individuals stop using opioids while being monitored for withdrawal symptoms, which can include nausea, anxiety, muscle aches and insomnia. Medications may be provided to ease discomfort and manage cravings. Detox is an essential part of treatment because it allows the body to return to a substance-free state in a safe and controlled setting.
• Therapy and Counseling: Once withdrawal symptoms are managed, therapeutic interventions become a core focus of treatment. Behavioral therapies — such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and motivational interviewing — can help individuals identify triggers, build healthy coping strategies and reshape thinking patterns related to substance use. Counseling may also involve family therapy to address relational dynamics that can influence recovery.
• Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): In many cases, medication-assisted treatment is recommended to help reduce cravings, alleviate withdrawal symptoms and support long-term sobriety. Medications like methadone, buprenorphine or naltrexone may be prescribed in conjunction with counseling to optimize outcomes.
• Aftercare Planning: Treatment programs often emphasize aftercare or continuing care, which can include ongoing outpatient therapy, support groups (such as Narcotics Anonymous), relapse prevention education and, if necessary, sober living environments. A comprehensive aftercare plan helps reinforce the coping skills learned in treatment and provides ongoing support for maintaining sobriety in everyday life.

How Long Is Opioid Rehab?

There is no one-size-fits-all timeline for opioid rehab. The duration depends on factors like the severity of the addiction, the presence of co-occurring mental health disorders and an individual’s personal needs and progress. In general:

• Detox: This phase can last from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the substance used and the body’s adjustment to its absence.
• Residential or Inpatient Treatment: Inpatient programs can range from 28 days to several months. Individuals live at a treatment facility and receive round-the-clock support.
• Outpatient Treatment: Outpatient programs vary in intensity and duration. Standard outpatient care may last several weeks to a few months, while intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) may continue for up to a year, depending on each person’s progress.

Many experts suggest that the longer a person remains engaged in some form of treatment or support, the higher their chances of long-term success.

Opioid Addiction Medications

Medication-assisted treatment is a cornerstone of effective opioid addiction rehab. These medications help stabilize brain chemistry, reduce cravings and manage withdrawal symptoms. They are often combined with therapy and counseling to address the psychological aspects of addiction.

Methadone (Methadose)

Methadone is a long-acting opioid agonist that binds to the same receptors in the brain as opioids like heroin or oxycodone, but it does so without producing the same intense euphoria. By activating these receptors at a lower level, methadone helps alleviate withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings. It is usually administered once daily under close medical supervision, particularly in federally regulated methadone clinics. Methadone maintenance can be long term for people with severe opioid use disorders.

Buprenorphine

Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist that can be prescribed in various forms, including a sublingual tablet or film (Suboxone, which also contains naloxone) or a subcutaneous injection (Sublocade). Because it only partially activates the opioid receptors, buprenorphine carries a lower risk of misuse and overdose than full opioid agonists. It can be prescribed by certified physicians and offers more flexibility than methadone for those who may not have easy access to a specialized clinic.

Naltrexone (ReVia, Depade, Vivitrol)

Naltrexone works by blocking opioid receptors, thereby preventing opioids from producing their usual pleasurable effects. This medication is not addictive and does not produce dependence, but individuals must have already gone through detox before starting naltrexone to avoid precipitated withdrawal. It is available as a daily oral pill (ReVia, Depade) or a monthly extended-release injection (Vivitrol).

Opioid Rehab Cost and Insurance Coverage

The cost of opioid rehab can vary widely based on the level of care, the length of stay and the type of services provided. Inpatient or residential programs tend to be more expensive due to housing, meals and 24-hour medical care, while outpatient programs may be more affordable. Additionally, medication-assisted treatment costs can vary depending on the medication and the frequency of administration.

Thankfully, most insurance plans — including private insurers, Medicare and Medicaid — cover some or all of the expenses related to substance use treatment. Under the Affordable Care Act, mental health and addiction services are considered essential health benefits, which means insurance companies must provide coverage for these services. It’s important to verify the specifics of your plan and learn about any copays, deductibles or out-of-pocket maximums that may apply.

If you do not have insurance, many treatment centers, including The Recovery Village Kansas City, can help you explore alternative funding sources, sliding-scale fees or payment plans. Seeking help should never be postponed due to financial barriers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Opioids and Opioid Rehab

1. How do I know if I’m addicted to opioids?

Signs of opioid addiction include strong cravings for opioids, inability to control or cut down on use, experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using and continued use despite negative consequences. If you suspect you may have an opioid use disorder, a professional assessment can help confirm a diagnosis and guide you toward appropriate treatment.

2. Is medical detox necessary for opioid addiction?

For most people with moderate to severe opioid dependence, medical detox is recommended to manage withdrawal safely and comfortably. Symptoms can be intense, and medical supervision can help address complications and ensure a smoother transition into ongoing treatment.

3. Will I have to use medications forever?

Not everyone needs long-term medication-assisted treatment, and the duration of medication use can vary. Some people only need MAT for a few months, while others may benefit from it for a year or longer. Your treatment team can help you determine the best timeline based on your progress and individual needs.

4. Can I work or go to school while in treatment?

Many treatment programs, especially outpatient or intensive outpatient programs, offer flexible schedules that allow individuals to continue working or attending school. Inpatient or residential programs require a temporary leave from daily responsibilities, but they offer a structured environment for those who need around-the-clock care.

5. What if I relapse?

Relapse is sometimes part of the recovery process. Rather than seeing it as a failure, it’s important to view it as an opportunity to learn which strategies do or don’t work. If a relapse occurs, returning to treatment or revising your care plan can help you get back on track.