Addiction Treatment Medications

When people begin searching for help with substance use, they may come across addiction treatment medications. These medications are often used to manage opioid, alcohol, or nicotine addiction and are part of a treatment model known as medication-assisted treatment (MAT). For some, medications can be helpful in easing withdrawal symptoms or reducing cravings. But they have their risks and are not the only path to recovery.

Q Space Detox is an LGBTQ-affirming addiction treatment center in Homestead, Florida that understands how complex and layered recovery can be. Our focus is on therapy and community-first, trauma-informed care that supports the whole person. We help LGBTQ people overcome addiction alongside mental health conditions like anxiety, trauma, or depression.

What Medications Are Used for Addiction Treatment?

Addiction treatment medications are sometimes used in detox and recovery programs to help ease symptoms of withdrawal, decrease cravings, and reduce the risk of relapse. These medications may be used during the early stages of medical detoxification, particularly if symptoms are physically intense or potentially life-threatening. Medical providers sometimes use short-term medications to stabilize the individual while they begin their recovery journey.

Some medications, like anticonvulsants (e.g., gabapentin, carbamazepine) or clonidine, are used to reduce anxiety, discomfort, and seizures during alcohol or drug withdrawal. Others, such as benzodiazepines, like Ativan, may be prescribed short-term to prevent severe withdrawal reactions, but due to their addictive potential, they are used cautiously and only under close supervision.

There are also long-term options like methadone, buprenorphine (Subutex, Suboxone), and naltrexone (Vivitrol), which are used in medication-assisted treatment (MAT) programs for opioid and alcohol use disorders. These medications are intended to reduce cravings and prevent relapse. However, not all treatment centers support substituting one habit-forming medication for another.

How Do Addiction Treatment Medications Work?

Addiction treatment medications work by targeting the brain systems affected by substance use. Some reduce cravings, while others help manage withdrawal symptoms or block the euphoric effects of drugs and alcohol. 

For example, certain medications bind to the same brain receptors as opioids or alcohol but without producing a high. This effect helps reduce the urge to use and makes relapse less appealing. Others stabilize mood, reduce anxiety, or support sleep, especially during the early stages of recovery. 

While medications for treating addiction can offer short-term relief or support in some programs, they do not address the emotional, social, or psychological roots of addiction. This limitation is why many people also rely on therapy and community support to build long-term recovery.

Alternatives to Medication-Assisted Treatment for Substance Abuse Recovery

Addiction treatment medications are not the only way that you can recover from substance dependence. For many people, especially those who have had negative experiences with medication, therapy-centered approaches feel more aligned, empowering, and sustainable. 

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is one of the most widespread alternatives to medication-assisted treatment. This form of therapy helps people recognize unhelpful thought patterns that may fuel substance use. By learning to reframe their thoughts more positively, they can reduce emotional distress and develop sustainable coping strategies. Cognitive Behavioral therapy also teaches relapse prevention skills, such as managing cravings and identifying high-risk situations.

Contingency Management (CM) 

CM takes a motivational approach by offering rewards for achieving specific recovery goals, such as negative drug tests or consistent attendance in therapy. It reinforces positive behavior with tangible incentives and helps build confidence and momentum during early recovery.

Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET) and Motivational Interviewing (MI) 

These therapies help people tap into their own reasons for change. Instead of pushing someone toward recovery, MI respects their autonomy and builds up their belief in themselves. That internal motivation is key to lasting transformation.

For those who find it hard to express feelings with words, Art Therapy provides a creative outlet for healing. Whether through painting, drawing, or working with clay, the act of creating art can be calming, and the resulting work often opens doors to deep emotional insights in therapy.

Many also find strength in 12-step Facilitation Therapy, which introduces people to mutual support groups like AA or NA. These programs emphasize acceptance, surrender, and connection with others who understand what it is like to struggle and recover.

These therapy-first approaches are the heart of treatment at Q Space Detox. Rooted in respect, self-discovery, and community, we help clients heal without relying on addiction treatment medications.

Get Effective Addiction Treatment

If you or a loved one is LGBTQ and needs treatment for drug or alcohol addiction, you can get Q Space Detox’s support. Our programs use compassionate, evidence-based therapies that focus on healing the whole person. We accept insurance payments and can help you confirm if you are covered. Call us now at (305) 501-1007 to learn more about how you can safely and fully overcome addiction.