Orlaam is a drug used in the treatment of individuals suffering from an opiate addiction. Orlaam has been used under other common names, including LAAM, LAM, levacetylmethadol, levo-alpha-acetylmethadol, levomethadyl acetate and MK790. It is generally recommended that this drug only be used to treat opiate-addicted patients who do not respond to other treatments.
Orlaam must be diluted before safe administration and should be mixed with diluents before it is dispensed to the patient. Orlaam has been shown to have serious and even life-threatening proarrhythmic effects, strengthening the argument for use of the drug only when other methods have failed.
Abuses of Orlaam
Orlaam is a Schedule II controlled substance under the Federal Controlled Substances Act. The drug can produce dependence much like that of morphine and does have a potential for abuse, even though it is used to treat those with an addiction problem. With repeated administration, tolerance and physical dependence will develop.
Orlaam is at high risk for diversion and illicit use, much like methadone and any other narcotic drug. The drug is typically not prescribed or used outside of treatment centers due to its high potency, but those seeking to secure the drug by illicit means still find ways to do so.
Effects of Orlaam
One of the biggest draws for those seeking to eliminate an addiction is the fact that Orlaam produces opioid effects and a high degree of opioid tolerance which inhibits drug-seeking behavior. The drug also blocks the euphoria produced by the usual doses of heroin.
Adverse reactions can also occur, including cold, clammy skin; confusion; convulsions (seizures); dizziness; drowsiness; low blood pressure; nervousness or restlessness; pinpoint pupils of eyes; slow heartbeat; slow or troubled breathing; and severe weakness.
Withdrawal of Orlaam
Individuals who are being treated with Orlaam are likely suffering from withdrawal symptoms associated with their addiction. If the dose of the medication is too low, they can experience nasal congestion, abdominal symptoms, diarrhea, muscle aches and anxiety.
Other withdrawal symptoms patients could be dealing with in association of the withdrawal from opiates include, but are not limited to:
Treatment of Orlaam Addiction
An Orlaam addiction should be rare as individuals should only be receiving the medication under the care of a board-certified physician and board-certified addiction psychiatrist. As the drug can be obtained through illicit means, it is important for those users to remove the drug from their system slowly and within a treatment environment.
Entering a detox center for 24/7 treatment is highly recommended. A quality center will offer a comfortable detox using withdrawal medications as highly effective for those suffering an Orlaam addiction. A quality treatment center will do a full physical on a patient and have a board-certified addiction psychiatrist determine the right medications for comfortable detox.