Opioids Treatment Resources in Virginia
1153 facilities mention this focus
Overview
Opioid use disorder involves problematic patterns of opioid use that cause significant impairment or distress. This includes use of prescription opioids (such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, or morphine), heroin, and synthetic opioids (such as fentanyl).
The opioid crisis has significantly impacted Virginia and communities across the nation. Treatment and recovery resources have expanded in response, with increased access to medication-assisted treatment and other evidence-based approaches.
Opioid use disorder is a medical condition that requires treatment. Effective treatments are available, and recovery is possible. Seeking help is an important step, and various resources exist throughout Virginia.
Treatment Approaches
Treatment for opioid use disorder typically includes medication-assisted treatment (MAT) as a core component. FDA-approved medications include:
Buprenorphine (often combined with naloxone, sold as Suboxone) can be prescribed by qualified providers in various settings and helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
Methadone is dispensed through licensed opioid treatment programs and is effective for many people with opioid use disorder.
Naltrexone (oral or injectable as Vivitrol) blocks opioid effects and is used after a period of abstinence.
MAT is most effective when combined with counseling and behavioral therapies. Treatment may occur across levels of care, from specialized outpatient MAT programs to residential treatment.
Naloxone (Narcan) is a medication that can reverse opioid overdose and is an important harm reduction tool.
Where to Start in Virginia
Regions ranked by number of facilities mentioning opioids:
Counties with Opioids Resources
Fairfax
115 facilities
Richmond
58 facilities
Virginia Beach
53 facilities
Roanoke
48 facilities
Henrico
46 facilities
Chesterfield
35 facilities
Prince William
26 facilities
Norfolk
25 facilities
Arlington
24 facilities
Chesapeake
24 facilities
Hampton
20 facilities
Lynchburg
20 facilities
Montgomery
20 facilities
Loudoun
18 facilities
Washington
18 facilities
Cities with Opioids Resources
Richmond
109 facilities
Virginia Beach
72 facilities
Roanoke
57 facilities
Winchester
34 facilities
Charlottesville
33 facilities
Chesapeake
32 facilities
Norfolk
30 facilities
Lynchburg
30 facilities
Fairfax
28 facilities
Newport News
26 facilities
Arlington
24 facilities
Fredericksburg
24 facilities
Alexandria
23 facilities
Hampton
23 facilities
Salem
20 facilities
Frequently Asked Questions
What is medication-assisted treatment (MAT)?
MAT combines FDA-approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies. For opioid use disorder, medications like buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone help reduce cravings and withdrawal while supporting recovery. MAT is considered the standard of care.
Is MAT just substituting one addiction for another?
No. MAT medications are evidence-based treatments that normalize brain chemistry, reduce cravings, and allow people to function normally. When taken as prescribed, they don't cause the impairment associated with misused opioids.
How long do I need to be on MAT?
Duration varies by individual. Some people benefit from short-term medication, while others do better with long-term or indefinite treatment. Research suggests longer treatment duration is often associated with better outcomes.
Can I get treatment without medication?
Yes, though research shows MAT produces better outcomes for most people with opioid use disorder. Non-medication approaches may include residential treatment, counseling, and support groups. Discuss options with a treatment provider.
What is fentanyl and why is it dangerous?
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid significantly more potent than heroin or prescription opioids. It has increasingly been found in the drug supply, sometimes without users' knowledge, contributing to overdose deaths. Naloxone can reverse fentanyl overdose.
What should I do if someone is overdosing?
Call 911 immediately. If available, administer naloxone (Narcan). Try to keep the person awake and breathing. Put them in the recovery position if unconscious but breathing. Virginia has a Good Samaritan law that provides protection when calling for help during an overdose.