Approaching Your Doctor

 

 

Many people find it difficult to approach their doctor and ask for help. One reason is that they are now voluntarily asking to be deprived of the very thing that now runs their life, Opioids, and have condemned themself to a terrible period of withdrawal and depression. At least that's how it was until Buprenorphine became available. Now it is a virtually painless transition from opioid addiction to Buprenorphine treatment. Once you decide that you no longer want to live a life of addiction, this must be the first step.

Some people have had the same doctor for years and he/she might also treat their whole family. It's hard to confront your doctor with the news that you have been lying to him for years now about the intensity of the pain and how much pain medication you are actually taking. Once that trust is broken it is hard to repair. Many doctors don't understand that this is part of the disease. They might feel offended and betrayed. Other doctors will not admit to themselves that they've missed the signs of addiction. If you made it past that step, does your doctor know how to treat opioid dependence? This is a relatively new field. Your life is on the line here, if your doctor isn't willing to treat your addiction as a disease, your chances of a permanent recovery are slim.

 

Other people find it easier and more effective to find a new doctor that is experienced at treating opioid dependence. This way you can avoid an uncomfortable confrontation that may or may not result in help for you.

 

SAMHSA keeps a list of doctors qualified to prescribe Buprenorphine: (click link or cut and paste into web browser)

 

http://buprenorphine.samhsa.gov/bwns_locator/index.html

 

 

Doctors still fearing the stereotypical drug user choose not to be on the list.  Ask around if you cannot find a nearby doctor on the list.

Be prepared when you see the doctor. Keep a log of what drugs you take, how long you have been taking them, how you feel and have felt, track your weight and diet. Educate yourself about all available types of treatment, the more you know the more you will be able to help yourself.

 

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