Heroin Addiction Treatment in Virginia

Heroin Use Disorder Treatment

Heroin is an opioid that can cause physical dependence, opioid use disorder, infections, and fatal overdose. Today, substances sold as heroin frequently contain fentanyl or other potent synthetic opioids, making potency unpredictable.

Heroin use disorder is treatable. Medications for opioid use disorder—buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone—are evidence-based options. Buprenorphine and methadone are associated with reduced mortality and improved treatment retention.

Comprehensive Care

Treatment may include medication, withdrawal support, counseling, case management, primary care, infectious-disease screening, recovery housing referrals, and mental health services. Plans should be individualized and should not require a person to “fail” counseling-only treatment before receiving medication.

Treatment duration varies, and long-term medication may be appropriate. Discontinuation should be planned carefully because tolerance falls and overdose risk rises if opioid use resumes.

Preventing Overdose

Carry naloxone, avoid using alone, and call 911 after administering naloxone. Mixing opioids with alcohol, benzodiazepines, or other sedatives sharply increases overdose risk. Counterfeit pills and powders may contain fentanyl.