Frequently Asked Questions

If you are experiencing a medical emergency requiring immediate attention, please call 911. For after-hours emergencies related to your treatment, contact your treatment center's on-call number. Facility closure notifications are posted on our website.

Starting medications for opioid use disorders can feel overwhelming, and it's normal to feel nervous. Our team is committed to delivering personalized care while minimizing stress throughout the intake process. During your first visit, you'll complete a comprehensive intake that generally includes a medical evaluation, a review of your substance use history, and a mental health screening. You'll meet with our medical staff to discuss your treatment options and, together with a counselor, develop an individualized care plan tailored to your needs. The exact process may vary slightly by location, but our goal is always to get you started on the path to recovery as smoothly and comfortably as possible.

Medications for opioid use disorders may be appropriate if you are an adult (18+) with opioid dependence lasting over a year, have experienced social or professional consequences, have had previous failed quit attempts, use multiple substances, have engaged in criminal activity related to use, or use opioids intravenously. Our team can help determine the best approach for your situation.

No. Methadone and Buprenorphine are FDA-approved, highly regulated medications. Research demonstrates they do not harm cognitive function, mental capability, physical health, or employment prospects. Unlike compulsive drug-seeking behavior, treatment with medications for opioid use disorders maintains stability similarly to insulin for diabetics — it's a medical treatment for a medical condition.

Extensive research shows methadone poses no lasting harm to fetuses and reduces health risks for both mother and child compared to continued opioid use. Each year, our treatment team helps mothers in recovery navigate pregnancy while in treatment and successfully deliver healthy babies. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, please inform your treatment team so they can adjust your care plan accordingly.

Clients generally experience improved physical health during treatment. As your body stabilizes, you may become more aware of pre-existing conditions that were previously masked, allowing for proper medical attention and overall wellness improvements. Methadone and buprenorphine have been known to cause constipation, nausea, headache, dizziness, drowsiness, and dry mouth while your body adjusts to the medication. However, our medically monitored approach whereby our care team individually adjusts your dose mitigates these effects for the majority of our clients. Your treatment team monitors your health throughout the process.

These medications create physical dependence, not addiction. Addiction involves compulsive drug-seeking behavior despite harmful consequences, while physical dependence means your body has adapted to the medication. Treatment with medications for opioid use disorders maintains stability similarly to how insulin manages diabetes — a managed, medical approach to a chronic condition.

To ensure timely authorization and healthcare provider approval, guest dosing requests should be submitted at least 48 hours in advance.

Guest Dosing Requirements

• Accepted Medications: Liquid Methadone and Suboxone/Subutex (dispensed in 2 mg increments)
• Dispensing Hours:
  Monday–Friday: 5:30 AM – 9:30 AM
  Saturday: 6:30 AM – 8:30 AM
• Closed: Sundays and federal holidays (eligible clients will receive approved take-home doses)
• Required Documentation: Valid government-issued photo identification
• Security Requirement: Clients receiving take-home medication must have a lockable medication storage box or container
• Verification Process: Pre-dosing nurse-to-nurse confirmation between the sending and receiving treatment facilities is required prior to dosing

For questions regarding guest dosing eligibility or required documentation, please contact our clinic in advance of your planned visit.

Hours may vary by location. Please check your specific treatment center's page or call for details.

Medication Services:
Monday–Friday: 5:30 AM – 11:00 AM
Saturday: 6:30 AM – 8:30 AM
Sunday: Closed

Treatment Center Hours:
Monday–Friday: 5:30 AM – 1:00 PM