Medications

Medication can be an important part of recovery for some people. At Wirral Ways, prescribed medication is used to support health, stability, and wellbeing, alongside psychosocial and recovery support. It is never about replacing one problem with another. It is about giving your body and mind the support they need to make positive change possible.

All medication is prescribed safely, reviewed regularly, and tailored to you as an individual.

How medication can help

Medication can help by:

• Reducing cravings or urges

• Managing withdrawal symptoms

• Supporting physical stability

• Helping people stay engaged with treatment

• Creating space to focus on wider recovery goals

Medication works best when combined with one to one support, psychosocial interventions, and practical help around housing, mental health, and wellbeing.

Medication is your choice

Starting, changing, or stopping medication is always a shared decision. We will talk things through clearly, answer questions honestly, and make sure you understand your options.

You are not locked into anything, and your views matter at every stage.

How prescribing works at Wirral Ways

• Prescriptions are provided following a full assessment

• Medication is chosen based on your needs, goals, and medical history

• You will have regular reviews with clinical staff

• We work closely with pharmacies, GPs, and other health services

• Safety is always the priority

If you have concerns about medication, side effects, or how it fits into your life, those conversations are welcomed.

Core medications we prescribe

We provide access to a range of evidence based medications. Each medication has its own dedicated page, downloadable leaflet, and fact sheet so you can explore more detail in your own time.

Alcohol related medications

• Acamprosate

• Disulfiram

• Nalmefene

• Naltrexone

Opioid substitution and dependence treatments

• Buprenorphine

• Buvidal (long acting injectable buprenorphine)

• Espranor

• Methadone

• Suboxone

Each medication works in a different way. Some help reduce cravings, some support abstinence, and others help stabilise opioid dependence. What is right for one person may not be right for another.

Safety and side effects

Like all medications, these treatments can have side effects. We will always explain:

• How the medication works

• How and when to take it

• Possible side effects

• What to do if something does not feel right

If you ever feel unwell or worried, support is available and adjustments can be made.

Medication is not a failure

Using medication as part of recovery is not a sign of weakness or failure. For many people, it is a practical, evidence based tool that supports longer term change and improves quality of life.

Recovery looks different for everyone.

Working alongside other support

Medication is just one part of the picture. We work closely across the service to make sure you also have access to:

• Psychosocial interventions

• Alcohol and drug support

• Mental health services

• Peer support and group sessions

• Physical health and wellbeing support

Everything is joined up around you.

Getting started

You can talk to us about medication through self referral or via a professional referral. Asking questions does not commit you to starting treatment.

If you want to explore whether medication could support your recovery, get in touch with Wirral Ways and we can talk it through together.