One of the major contributors to relapse is the triggers that remind people of situations associated with use. While there are strategies for coping with these triggers, researchers may have found a way to help rewire the brain and reduce risk. According to Medical News Today, a common blood pressure medication may hold the key. Orange County drug rehab center Chapters Capistrano has released a statement to the press regarding these findings.
“It is not uncommon for people to associate certain sights, smells, people, and places with their addiction,” says Susie Shea, Co-owner of Chapters Capistrano. “One of the focuses of treatment is getting them to recognize these triggers and create a plan for mitigating them. They are equipped with different strategies for coping and overcoming tempting situations. Studies into erasing the unconscious cues clients experience could be a step toward further supporting recovery.”
According to the article, the treatment involves using isradipine, a drug that is traditionally used to treat high blood pressure. The compound “may prevent relapse by erasing unconscious memories of the triggers underlying addiction.” Current research has tested the drug on rats and seen positive results. The rats were taught to associate a certain color room with addictive substances, but after being given isradipine, the association was broken in some rats.
The drug blocks calcium channels and “researchers suggest blocking them with isradipine may have had the effect of rewiring the circuits that underlie memories of addiction-associated cues – like the colors of the cocaine and alcohol rooms in the rat experiments,” notes the article. Because it is an FDA-approved drug for the treatment of high blood pressure, it may be easier to move forward with clinical trials. However, safety precautions will have to be taken to ensure blood pressure does not become too low while trying to treat addiction.
“This could become yet another option for supporting clients in recovery,” says Shea. “It could become complementary to other strategies such as distraction, meditation, exercise, journaling, and changes in routine. No two people are the same, so it is important that clients find what works best for their situation and lifestyle.” Chapters Capistrano focuses on providing customized treatment options to help clients do just that, adds Shea. Recovery is a comprehensive process that involves multiple approaches and aspects of care.
“It will be interesting to see the results of the studies and how it may impact addiction treatment in the future,” says Shea. In the meantime, facilities such as Chapters Capistrano provide a variety of therapies and treatment modalities to assist clients in overcoming addiction and reducing risk of relapse. When substance use becomes problematic and turns into dependence or addiction, there is help available.
ABOUT:
Chapters Capistrano is a luxury drug and alcohol treatment center located in the city of San Clemente in Orange County, California, with two beautiful ocean-view homes. Specializing in all types of substance abuse, Chapters offers flexible treatment programs that are designed to offer greater confidence in addiction recovery. With a thorough approach to detox, counseling and mental health, this center has delivered many success stories. In addition to offering alternative approaches to conventional recovery, Chapters is also recognized for providing guest comfort with exceptional accommodations, private rooms and cell and laptop allowance. Those searching to begin a new “Chapter” in addiction recovery are encouraged to contact the facility today.
Media ContactCompany Name: Chapters Capistrano
Contact Person: Marvin Kimble
Email:Send Email
Phone: 949-287-8248
Address:1525 Buena Vista
City: San Clemente
State: CA
Country: United States
Website: http://www.chapterscapistrano.com/
