Research
The more you know, the better.
Addiction Aid Network does not offer medical or alternative medicine advice. Instead, we provide credible, evidence-based research on topics that some individuals in recovery may consider as part of their journey. We have curated a series of links to various alternative methods, allowing addicts and their families to make informed decisions about the best course of action. While there is no single path to recovery, it’s important to note that some unconventional methods can pose serious risks. We encourage you to explore the research, grounded in science and scholarly expertise, to better understand these alternative treatments.
**Always check with your doctor before starting any medication
**Taking a medication to minimize withdrawals while maintaining abstinence is not cheating, it is not fake sober, and it is not a sign of weakness. It is important to remember that one path does not fit all.
CBD
CBD is different from THC. THC is the compound in marijuana that gets you high, while CBD is the compound in marijuana that relaxes you without feeling high (however, DELTA-9 can produce the similar high feeling as THC) CBD has been studied extensively and is used in patients with cancer, seizure disorders, and in some minor autism individuals. Recently, some recovering addicts have said that CBD helped with anxiety and physical pain associated with opiate and cocaine withdrawal. Not all CBD is created equal and it is best to do quality research on a company before purchasing CBD from a retailer. Below are a few verified companies:
NOVA Hemp
CBD Livity
East Coast Collective
Vivitrol
Vivitrol is a relatively new drug that has seen great progress in its trials. Vivitrol can be used for alcohol dependence and opioid dependence. While the shot works to slowly release the medication into the users system, it blocks opiates and alcohol from working. However, some on the shot report that they tried other drugs due to how well the Vivitrol worked.
Methadone
Methadone is one of the oldest treatment drugs on the market. It has extensive research, both good and bad. The bad first. Taking methadone long term can lead to heart problems, dependence and travel restrictions. They call it liquid handcuff because you cannot take the medication home for more than one day, therefore you must return to the clinic to get your medication. The good, Methadone can be a good alternative to those seeking relief from pain due to ailments and can help IV users stop using. Some people do feel high while on this medication which may not be a good option for certain addicts.
Kratom
Kratom is a relatively new substance that is sold in vape shops and supplement shops. It has caused multiple overdoses in the past few years. The feeling a user gets from taking Kratom is the same as taking a strong painkiller, and when it is taken with other drugs the result can be deadly. Though it was originally deemed safe, statistics are starting to prove that statement false.
Suboxone
NIH SUBOXONE/ BUPRENORPHINE
Suboxone is more manageable and less of a constraint to take than its counter part, Methadone. Some people stay on it indefinitely due to pain management or for long term abstinence, however, most come off of soboxone after 1-2 years. We have some resources listed on the mental health page for coupons and online clinics for this medication.
Psychedelics
Psychedelics have been around since the mid 1900's. They are a recurring topic of research for doctors across various specialties. One field in particular is in addiction treatment. While
the current body of research is limited by factors such as small sample sizes, methodological inconsistencies, and potential risks. More extensive, well-designed clinical trials are necessary to fully understand the therapeutic potential and safety of psychedelics in addiction treatment. However, most of those who have participated or tried these methods under the guidance of a doctor, say they can feel and see a difference.
Additional Resources
ASAM: The American Society of Addiction Medicine offers resources including physician searches to help find physicians that can prescribe some of the medication methods listed above.
Methadone.org: Provides more information on methadone programs and how they should operate, as well as how it can work for you or your loved one.
This short Vice News video helps breakdown alternative opioid methods and what they do.
This short video by the Suboxone Doctor highlights the key differences between suboxone and methadone.
For this video, skip to the 2:32 minute mark to learn about the vivotrol shot, presented by Sandstone Care.
Click here to watch a short video featuring Dr. B about Kratom.
UCLA video of psychedelic treatment.
The Edge Treatment Center gives a breakdown of Kratom.
In this clip, Joe Rogan shares his experience taking Kratom. Disclaimer, explicit language.
Project Unbroken shares his experience getting off methadone.
Joshua Jay Myers shares how methadone saved his life.
YouTuber Rose shares her experience with Suboxone.
InSupport provides a Suboxone discount card to those who qualify.
Quick.md is an online MAT program that also offers online urgent care.