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Opioid Addiction Treatment Center in New Jersey
Understanding Opioid Addiction
Types of Opioids
- Prescription Opioids: These are medications prescribed by doctors to manage moderate-to-severe pain. Common examples include oxycodone, hydrocodone, codeine, morphine, and fentanyl patches.
- Illicit Opioids: These are illegal substances manufactured and sold on the street. The most common is heroin. Illicitly manufactured fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid often mixed with other drugs, is now a leading cause of overdose deaths.
Signs and Symptoms of Opioid Use Disorder
The body often displays clear, observable indicators of opioid use and dependence. These physical signs can be the most immediate red flags for loved ones.
- Constricted “pinpoint” pupils are a hallmark sign, even in dim light.
- Drowsiness or “nodding off” at inappropriate times is common due to the sedative effect of opioids.
- Slurred speech and slowed movements reflect the drug’s impact on the central nervous system.
- Frequent flu-like symptoms, such as runny nose, nausea, or achiness, may actually be early signs of withdrawal between doses.
These physical symptoms are direct results of the drug’s effect on the brain and body, signaling a need for clinical assessment.
As addiction progresses, it alters a person’s actions and priorities, often leading to noticeable changes in how they conduct their daily life.
- Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home becomes frequent as obtaining and using the drug takes precedence.
- Withdrawing from family and friends and abandoning once-enjoyed hobbies or activities are common signs of social isolation.
- Engaging in secretive or deceptive behaviors, such as lying about whereabouts or stealing money, to obtain or use opioids.
These behavioral shifts are driven by the compulsive need for the drug and can cause significant damage to a person’s personal and professional life.
The psychological grip of opioid addiction is powerful, involving changes in thought patterns, motivation, and emotional regulation that sustain the cycle of use.
- Intense cravings for the drug dominate a person’s thoughts, making it difficult to focus on anything else.
- Using opioids to avoid withdrawal symptoms becomes a primary motivation, reinforcing the dependence.
- Continued use despite knowing it is causing harm to one’s physical health, mental state, or relationships demonstrates the loss of control characteristic of addiction.
These psychological factors are central to the diagnosis of OUD and highlight why professional addiction treatment that includes behavioral therapy is essential for recovery.
Dangers of Opioid Addiction and Overdose
As of August of 2025, The National Center for Health Statistics, which is overseen by the Center of Disease Control (CDC) estimated 1,668 overdose deaths within a 12-month period in New Jersey. With education and professional help, these deaths could be prevented.
Opioid overdose occurs when high doses overwhelm the body, causing breathing to slow or stop completely. This can lead to hypoxia, brain damage, coma, and death. If you suspect someone is overdosing—indicated by unresponsiveness, slow or no breathing, pale/clammy skin, and blue lips or fingernails—call 911 immediately, administer naloxone (Narcan®) if available, and stay with the person until help arrives.
Opioid Withdrawal: Symptoms and Risks
- Early Symptoms: These often begin within hours and include intense muscle aches, agitation, anxiety, insomnia, runny nose, and excessive sweating.
- Peak Symptoms: As withdrawal progresses, individuals may experience abdominal cramping, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, dilated pupils, and goosebumps.
- Psychological Distress: Severe drug cravings, depression, and dysphoria accompany the acute physical discomfort, making the period highly vulnerable for relapse.
While not typically life-threatening, the symptoms are intensely uncomfortable and often lead to relapse without medical support.
Why Professional Opioid Treatment Is Essential
Opioid Addiction Treatment at Pegasus Treatment Center
Our treatment begins with safety and stability. Our board-certified medical team provides 24/7 monitoring during the initial detoxification phase, using proven protocols to manage withdrawal symptoms, reduce discomfort, and ensure patient safety. This medically supervised foundation is critical for preparing individuals to fully engage in the therapeutic work of recovery.
We utilize FDA-approved medications as a cornerstone of our evidence-based approach to Opioid Use Disorder. Medications like buprenorphine or naltrexone, when combined with therapy, help normalize brain chemistry, block the euphoric effects of opioids, relieve physiological cravings, and stabilize the individual. This allows clients to focus on their therapy and rebuild their lives without the constant cycle of craving and withdrawal.
Medication addresses the physical aspects of addiction, while therapy heals the psychological and behavioral patterns. At Pegasus Treatment Center, we’re proud to offer effective evidence-based therapies to help our clients recover from substance abuse. We employ modalities like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to identify and change destructive thought and behavior patterns, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to build skills in emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. This dual approach ensures a comprehensive path to healing.
Levels of Care for Opioid Addiction Treatment
Our PHP offers a high level of structure and support while clients live in our comfortable, gender-specific housing. Clients participate in therapy, groups, and medical check-ins for several hours each day, providing a robust framework for early recovery without 24-hour inpatient confinement.
Our intensive outpatient program (IOP) is designed for individuals transitioning from PHP or those who need significant support but have stable living environments. Clients attend therapy sessions multiple days per week, allowing them to practice recovery skills at home, work, or school while maintaining a strong connection to clinical support.
Our standard outpatient treatment provides ongoing weekly therapy and support for individuals in sustained recovery. This level of care focuses on relapse prevention, navigating life’s challenges, and continuing personal growth, offering a long-term anchor for a sober lifestyle. It’s also a good care option for those who have a stable home environment in which to recover and experience milder addiction symptoms.
Why Choose Pegasus Treatment Center in New Jersey
We believe the environment is integral to healing. Pegasus Treatment Center offers a private, resort-like setting that provides dignity, comfort, and tranquility. From private accommodations and gourmet meals to serene spaces for reflection, we remove the stressors of a clinical environment, allowing clients to focus entirely on their recovery journey.
We are in-network with many major insurance providers and work diligently to verify benefits and maximize coverage for our clients. Our dedicated admissions team guides individuals and families through every step of the process with compassion and discretion, making the path to treatment as clear and straightforward as possible.
Begin Your Recovery from Opioid Addiction Today
in New Jersey Today
You do not have to face the cycle of opioid addiction alone. Pegasus Treatment Center provides the expert medical care, proven therapies, and unwavering support necessary to achieve and maintain recovery. If you or a loved one is struggling, contact us today. Let us help you start your journey toward a healthier, sober, and fulfilling life; contact us today.
