A person might take medication on a continuous basis when recovering from a substance-related disorder and its related complications.

However, people most commonly use medications during detoxification to manage withdrawal symptoms. The medication will vary depending on the substance that the person is addicted to.

Longer-term use of medications helps to reduce cravings and prevent relapse, or a return to using the substance after having recovered from addiction.

Medication is not a standalone treatment for addiction and should accompany other management methods such as psychotherapy.

Certain medications can also serve to manage prolonged withdrawal symptoms and support sobriety in some people.