Dealing with substance abuse, alcoholism, or drug addiction is never easy, and it's even more difficult when you're also struggling with mental health problems. Dr. Kurter says one of the main components to really helping those with addiction is addressing those mental health issues.
Imagine being held captive by a relentless enemy that gradually takes control of your life, body, and mind. This enemy is not a person or a situation but a substance — opioids. For many individuals battling opioid addiction, the road to recovery can seem insurmountable. However, breakthroughs in medical science have offered a lifeline in the form of Suboxone, a revolutionary medication aimed at aiding those in their fight against opioid addiction.
The substance abuse experts at West Grove Clinic, a leading treatment center in the Milwaukee area, have shared some crucial insights about Suboxone and how it assists in Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT).
If you or a loved one is battling addiction, don't hesitate to reach out. Contact us today.
Suboxone is an innovative product that’s a combination of two potent drugs: buprenorphine and naloxone. Together, they synergistically mitigate withdrawal symptoms and reduce the patient's reliance on opioids over time.
Suboxone belongs to a group of drugs known as "opioid agonists- antagonists." These are unique compared to "opioid agonists" such as heroin, morphine, and oxycodone. Opioid agonists work by triggering specific pain receptors in the brain, altering pain perception, and releasing endorphins that simulate pleasure — a phenomenon termed the "opioid effect."
Conversely, an opioid agonist-antagonist like Suboxone obstructs the impact of any opioid by inhibiting euphoria and helping manage cravings and alleviate withdrawal symptoms.
Suboxone has been the preferred choice for addiction treatment specialists since the early 2000s, replacing its predecessor, methadone. The reason? Suboxone was specifically engineered to combat opioid addiction and is prescribed in an outpatient office environment. Furthermore, the side effects of Suboxone are generally less severe. However, for certain patients, Methadone might be the better option – this needs to be determined by your healthcare provider.
While a powerful tool in combating addiction, medication-assisted treatment should not be the sole focus of a recovery plan. An effective MAT program integrates a closely monitored medication schedule with substance abuse counseling and regular primary care to ensure both mental and physical health. For some patients, Suboxone may not be the appropriate choice, while others may not require medication assistance at all. Every recovery journey is unique, and your addiction treatment specialist is there to guide you in making informed decisions throughout the process.
At West Grove Clinic, we not only provide Suboxone treatment but offer a comprehensive team approach to recovery. We offer psychiatric care, counseling, and addiction services. We also offer the Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) which is group based and offers structure to patients in early recovery. We are sought after by many colleges and universities to teach their students the latest addiction treatments through our staff due to their expertise.
A recent news report from Kenosha News via Wisconsin Watch dramatically showcases how Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, is killing more than 1,000 people in Wisconsin each year. It's a highly potent drug, roughly 50 times stronger than heroin, and has been a significant contributor to a dramatic increase in overdoses and poisonings.
The article states that in 2021, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services found synthetic opioids, particularly fentanyl, caused 91% of opioid deaths. In May, the department announced $18 million in new funding for drug abuse treatment and prevention, including fentanyl.
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid, approved for treating severe pain, typically advanced cancer pain, 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine, and prescribed in the form of transdermal patches or lozenges. Most recent cases of fentanyl-related harm, overdose, and death in the U.S. are linked to illegally made fentanyl being sold through illegal drug markets for its heroin-like effect and often mixed with heroin and/or cocaine as a combination product — with or without the user’s knowledge to increase its euphoric effects.
One such legislative measure is the Stopping Overdoses of Fentanyl Analogues (SOFA) Act. Introduced by Rep. Scott Fitzgerald and Sen. Ron Johnson of Wisconsin, the bill aims to classify drugs similar to fentanyl as Schedule I substances, making their manufacture and trafficking prosecutable offenses.
Dedicated, proactive efforts in Wisconsin are seeing positive results regarding getting sound legislation passed to combat this crisis on a local and national level. Part of this comprehensive approach involves both prevention measures and treatment options. One such legislative measure is the Stopping Overdoses of Fentanyl Analogues (SOFA) Act introduced by Rep. Scott Fitzgerald and Sen. Ron Johnson of Wisconsin, the bill aims to classify drugs similar to fentanyl as Schedule I substances, making their manufacture and trafficking prosecutable offenses.
Another prevention measure is Wisconsin now having access to free fentanyl test strips and anyone residing in the state can search for available strips within their county.
West Grove Clinic is a trusted resource in the community, with its providers also serving as fierce patient advocates who are working to combat this crippling crisis. It's a reality that is gripping not just Milwaukee, but also Kenosha, Marinette, and Appleton, and where you will find our clinics that provide essential resources and support to those suffering from substance abuse.
We believe in a comprehensive approach to treatment that provides long-term benefits to our patients – allowing us to be trusted providers and leaders of Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) services and use Suboxone and Vivitrol in our ongoing fight against this silent epidemic. We stand with you and your loved ones – ready to be the beacon of hope and support that’s desperately needed.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, West Grove Clinic is here to help every step of the way.
WEST GROVE CLINIC – MILWAUKEE
10012 West Capitol Drive
Milwaukee, WI 53222
Phone: 414.810.4844
Email: westgroveclinic110@gmail.com
WEST GROVE CLINIC – KENOSHA
1400 75th Street
Kenosha, WI 53143
Phone: 262.909.6008
Email: westgrovekenosha@gmail.com
WEST GROVE CLINIC – APPLETON
47 Park Place, Suite 100
Appleton, WI 54914
Phone: 920.574.3096
Email: westgroveappleton@gmail.com
WEST GROVE CLINIC – MARINETTE
2545 Roosevelt Rd #105
Marinette, WI 54143
Phone: 920.574.3096
For access to additional resources, Wisconsin residents may Dial 211
IMPACT 211 provides a central access point for people who need help to take the first step toward regaining stability. During times of personal crisis or community disaster, the free, confidential helpline and online resource directory make it easy for residents of Southeastern Wisconsin to get connected to information and assistance. In Milwaukee, Waukesha, Kenosha, Racine, Ozaukee, Washington, Dodge, Jefferson, and Walworth counties, help is available by simply dialing 211.
