Studies are showing GLP-1 medications are highly effective at treating obesity and controlling type 2 diabetes. Some researchers want to determine if they can help with addiction. Addiction treatment is a long and complicated process, but there may be some ways these medications could offer support.
At The Ranch at Dove Tree, we consistently stay at the top of the industry in treatment solutions. If you need alcohol addiction treatment in Lubbock, Texas, contact us for a quick conversation.
Why GLP-1s Are Offering Some People Hope
Injectable medications often prescribed for type 2 diabetes and obesity, called GLP-1s, are being studied to determine just how effective they can be at helping those with addiction. Why would these medications be helpful?
GLP-1 is a hormone your body naturally produces. It’s not just present in the gut, though. It’s also active in the brain. In your brain, it triggers the receptors that are specific to reward, motivation, and stress. These are the areas of the brain that are also triggered by the substances you may be using, like alcohol.
GLP-1 drugs may cross the blood-brain barrier and, as a result, they could reduce the impact of dopamine signaling at the heart of your brain’s reward center. In doing so, those addictive substances are not so pleasing. The brain then re-learns that alcohol and other substances cannot create the heightened effects it’s treating.
To be clear, the science is positive in theory, but the application is not yet established. There’s a long way before this treatment will be recommended for alcohol addiction treatment. In a randomized controlled trial, researchers found that, in those who already had an addiction when starting a GLP-1, there was a remarkable 50% fewer deaths from substance use than those who were not. The study also found 39% fewer overdoses, 26% fewer drug-related hospitalizations, and 25% fewer suicide attempts.
Again, that’s an impressive number, but it doesn’t provide a solution just yet. The mental health aspect of controlling diabetes and weight loss could play a role in the benefits. But it could be an opportunity to provide support down the road.
What You Can Do About Alcohol Addiction Treatment Now
While these medications can offer some outstanding potential benefits, consider that alcohol addiction is a treatable condition today. At The Ranch at Dove Tree, we offer a comprehensive alcohol addiction treatment program that addresses the physical, mental health, and emotional well-being of a person, creating a holistic plan for addressing addiction and creating opportunities for recovery. The program incorporates:
- Alcohol detox when necessary to rid your body of the substance safely without pain and intense withdrawal symptoms
- Adult residential treatment at our addiction treatment center in Lubbock, a home-like environment where you’ll receive exceptional care and support
- Long-term residential treatment to allow you to rebuild and strengthen your ability to live life the way you desire
- Partial care programs which offer intensive treatment while allowing you to live at home
- Outpatient treatment programs available to those who are in a stable, safe environment but need continued support
There’s no single program that’s best for every person. However, what is clear is that every person can seek treatment for alcohol addiction. We’re here to help make that possible.
What Does It Take to Heal from Alcohol Addiction?
Treatment for alcohol addiction requires incorporating numerous types of therapy to create a holistic approach. Our alcohol treatment programs include:
- Medical evaluations so that we can understand your medical conditions contributing to your addiction and any care needs you have
- Individual therapy where you’ll work with a therapist to learn about your addiction, triggers, and coping mechanisms.
- Group therapy sessions offering a safe space for you to connect with people facing similar experiences
- Educational sessions designed to give you real-world tools to use for relapse prevention and brain and body health
- Relapse prevention planning, a 30-day program that helps you identify triggers and create strategies for avoiding them
Throughout our treatment program, you’ll learn about holistic care, new treatments, and mental health resources available to give you the foundation of success you deserve. Everyone’s needs are unique, and we take pride in offering an individualized treatment plan for each person.
Why Wait? Get Alcohol Addiction Treatment in Lubbock Now
We’re your drug and alcohol rehab center in Texas. We can help you as soon as today.
The Ranch at Dove Tree is ready to answer your questions and build a strong treatment plan designed for your needs. Set up some time to speak to us. We’re available 24/7 to answer your call and provide clear insight. Learn about our admissions process now and what steps you can take to reclaim your life. Contact us now to learn more.
