Humana Heroin Detox Coverage
Heroin is an opioid drug with psychoactive properties that is highly addictive and can be very difficult to discontinue use. Since heroin is injected, it quickly affects the brain causing an intense euphoric rush. Even after just one or two uses, it can be difficult to stop using again. Injecting heroin is also dangerous since dirty needles can spread HIV and other diseases. Since heroin is sometimes laced with other drugs, overdose deaths have more than doubled between 1999 and 2009. And even though heroin is illegal, it can sometimes be easier to obtain than opioid painkillers like OxyContin; consequently, more individuals are abusing heroin since they are unable to get these painkillers. If you or a loved one is abusing heroin, medical detox treatment can help manage withdrawal symptoms and make it easier to take the first steps to sobriety. Humana heroin detox coverage may help make these treatment options more affordable and accessible.
How Humana Heroin Detox Coverage Helps Withdrawal Symptoms
After taking heroin, users experience an intense rush of euphoria and happiness. For the next several hours, it can feel like the world has slowed down, almost as if you are walking in a dream. After heroin wears off, however, the withdrawal symptoms can be especially punishing. Heroin withdrawal symptoms include nausea and vomiting, anxiety, depression, depressed heart rate and lower breathing rate. Additional withdrawal symptoms include chills, feeling jittery, and experiencing intense bone and muscle pain. Long-term use includes the risk for collapsed veins and infections in the heart lining and valves. With a “painless detox” is not possible, medically supervised detox can help make this withdrawal process safer through the use of medications to manage these symptoms.
A variety of treatments are available for addressing heroin addiction, including behavior modification and medication management. The goal with treatment is to modify risky behaviors (such as sharing needles, which increases the risk for HIV) while also helping individuals in treatment embrace a new, sober life. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, both methadone and Buprenorphine (Subutex) have been shown to be effective when treating opiate and heroin withdrawal. These drugs may also help to shorten the length of the withdrawal period.
Depending on your insurance policy, Humana heroin detox coverage may include a co-pay, deductible or co-insurance. A medical referral may also be necessary. Contact a benefits counselor today to learn more about your Humana heroin detox coverage treatment options.