Frequently Asked Questions for Patients

• What is an opioid use disorder?

  The difference between being dependent on opioids and an opioid use disorder is the problematic pattern of opioid use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress. Typically this means a harmful relationship to the drug that includes drug-seeking behavior, giving up important relationships and activities in favor of the drug, and generally focusing your life more and more on the drug at the expense of everything else. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 5.7 million people aged 12 or older in the U.S. were addicted to opioids in 2023, including 587,000 people addicted to heroin. An opioid use disorder is considered to be a chronic, relapsing medical condition, much like diabetes and hypertension, that can be very effectively managed with medication and supportive services.

• What does it mean that an opioid use disorder is a chronic, relapsing medical condition?

  It means that people with use disorders typically experience long-lasting physical and psychological symptoms of these condition, even with effective medical treatment. Like diabetes or hypertension, many people require ongoing or lifelong medical treatment to remain stable during their recovery.

• What are the physiological effects of an opioid use disorder?

  Opioid use disorders alter a person’s brain chemistry. The brain is impacted by a disruption to the naturally occurring reward system and the way it experiences pleasure/pain. It also impacts the decision making processes. These impacts have been shown repeatedly in brain research. This explains why more and more of the drug is needed in order to produce the same effects, a condition known as tolerance, as well as the negative behaviors associated with substance use disorders like dishonesty, and continued use despite negative consequences.

• How long does it take for a person to be cured of an opioid use disorder?

  Because this is a chronic, relapsing medical condition, the brain changes are often very long-lasting. Despite working hard at recovery, many patients realize that staying on the medication is the best way to abstain from opioid use. The medications have few side effects and are considered to be safe for long term use. At ETS, we work with patients to manage their condition so they can have safe and productive lives for as long as our patients benefit from working with us.

• What is medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD)?

  Medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) refers to the use of FDA-approved medications like methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone to treat opioid use disorder. These medications help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, allowing individuals to stabilize their lives and focus on recovery. MOUD is often combined with counseling and behavioral therapies to provide a comprehensive approach to treatment. Extensive research has shown MOUD to be a safe, effective, and evidence-informed method for addressing opioid use disorder.

• Why does ETS use medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD)?

  ETS uses medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) because it is one of the most effective ways to help people recover from opioid use disorder. MOUD reduces the risk of overdose, improves physical and mental health, and helps individuals build stability in their lives. MOUD also lowers the spread of infectious diseases like HIV and hepatitis C, primarily because it significantly reduces injection drug use and needle sharing among people who inject drugs, which are major transmission routes for these viruses. At ETS, we combine MOUD with holistic support services, including counseling, case management, and behavioral health care, to address the diverse needs of our clients and support their long-term recovery. This approach reflects our commitment to compassionate, evidence-informed care that meets people where they are.

• How long will I have to wait before I can start treatment?

  The waiting period at ETS varies greatly from site to site. Please contact a location near you for the current timeline.

• How much does MOUD cost?

  The current cost of our opioid treatment program is approximately $18 per day. ETS accepts Medicaid and most types of insurance.

• I am pregnant. Can I still receive treatment?

  Medications for opioid use disorder is considered the standard of care for for pregnant women with this condition. In contrast to the highs and lows associated with untreated opioid use disorders, babies of women on MOUD throughout their pregnancy are healthy and develop normally. Please let our intake staff know if you are pregnant and your ETS medical provider will fully answer any and all questions you may have. We want to get you into treatment as soon as possible in order to protect your growing fetus.