Opiate Replacement Therapy in Addiction Treatment

Opiate Replacement Therapy (ORT) is a medical approach used to treat opioid addiction by substituting a long-acting, less harmful opioid for the opioid that the individual is addicted to. Commonly, methadone and buprenorphine are used in this therapy. ORT helps in reducing withdrawal symptoms, cravings, and the risk of overdose. This treatment is typically combined with counseling and other supportive therapies to address the psychological aspects of addiction. ORT has shown significant success in improving patient retention in addiction treatment programs and enhancing long-term recovery outcomes. It's considered a crucial part of harm reduction strategies, aiming to stabilize patients and improve their quality of life while they work towards recovery.