Our blog
Here, you’ll find resources, tips, and stories that will help support patients and their loved ones.
Using Highmark BCBS PA for MAT through Ophelia
Ophelia provides valuable opioid addiction resources to Pennsylvanians. Our telehealth care options are covered by the Highmark BCBS PA Medicaid plans.
Oxycodone vs. hydrocodone: The differences and risks you need to know about
Oxycodone and hydrocodone, two different prescription opioids, have been the gateway into opioid use disorder. Understand the differences & risks of each drug.
How to administer naloxone
Naloxone quickly reverses the effects of opioids. Knowing how it works & how to administer it safely can be lifesaving for someone experiencing an overdose.
Why it’s so hard to identify fentanyl
Fentanyl's high risk of dependence & overdose make it extremely dangerous. It's important to know what to look for & what forms it comes in to minimize your risk.
What you should know about oxycodone
Understand the basics of oxycodone, where this narcotic drug comes from, how it’s used, and what role it plays in the ongoing opioid epidemic.
X-Waivered clinicians: getting to the bottom of a nationwide shortage and finding solutions
Understand what an X-Waivered clinician is, the qualifications it takes to be certified, and why there are not enough to meet the needs of those dealing with OUD.
What is heroin?
Understand the origins of heroin, including the different forms this drug takes, how it affects the human body, and how medication-assisted treatment can help.
Does Medicaid cover drug treatment services?
If you’re on Medicaid or eligible to enroll, you might be wondering: Does Medicaid cover drug treatment services? Learn more about Medicaid coverage!
Managing opioid addiction treatment around the holidays
Prepare for the holiday season by recognizing common triggers and working on a specific relapse prevention plan. Learn more here!
What you need to know about xylazine misuse
The spread of xylazine, also known as tranq, found in street drugs has caused increases in overdose-related deaths. Learn about its overdose risks & effects.
The challenges of opioid addiction treatment in rural communities
Why are rural communities particularly vulnerable to the opioid epidemic? Learn more about the opioid epidemic in rural communities in this post.
The do’s + don’ts of managing other substances while on Suboxone®
Suboxone® can interact with other substances which might make it less effective. Use this quick guide to help you stay safe during your treatment.
Kensington’s opioid problem: how one Philadelphia neighborhood is grappling with substance use
The opioid epidemic has impacted many communities, including Philadelphia's Kensington. Read about this neighborhood's ongoing struggle with substance abuse.
Care team story: Emily W.
Meet Emily, one of the care coordinators at Ophelia. Read to learn about who Emily is and what motivates her to continue this work.
A guide to dating during treatment for opioid use disorder
If you’re interested in or currently entering a romantic relationship, you should understand the obstacles you and your partner will face. Learn more here.
Rainbow fentanyl fact + fiction
Rainbow fentanyl—and fentanyl in general—is a major public health issue. Knowing the facts about fentanyl can help keep your family and community safe.
The truth about college drug use
As substance abuse on college campuses rises, parents and students alike have questions about the influences at play and treatment options available.
What you need to know about working out on Suboxone®
If you’re already taking Suboxone®, you might also be looking for other ways to focus on your health. Here’s what you should know before hitting the gym.
The impact of drugs on digestion + how you can stay healthy on Suboxone®
It’s important to note how Suboxone may affect your stomach so you can address and manage symptoms with your care team. Learn more about Suboxone here.
Patient stories: meet Sean
Read about how Sean from NY went from dental surgery to addiction to treatment
How to talk to kids about a family member’s addiction
A loved one's addiction can have a huge impact on kids. While the discussion may be uncomfortable, it's important to help them understand what's happening.
Supporting kids during a sibling’s addiction
A sibling's struggles with addiction can have a lasting impact on a child. Ensure your child is getting the support they need during this difficult time.
Who, what, and where: a complete treatment guide
Opioid addiction can be unpredictable. Your treatment shouldn’t be. Here is our guide on what to expect, so you can feel confident getting started.
What are Subutex® side effects?
Subutex helps treat opioid dependence by activating the same receptors in the brain triggered by drugs. Find out how Subutex works—and who it's for—in this
Suboxone® vs. methadone
When designing a medication-assisted treatment plan for patients, most doctors prescribe methadone or Suboxone®. Here are the differences.
Patient stories: meet Sherena
Hear from Sherena, a patient in Maine since October 2021, on her experience with opioid addiction, Kratom and Ophelia.