Medication Assisted Treatment: An Overview 

For those struggling with addiction, there is hope. Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) is an evidence-based approach to treating addiction that combines behavioral therapy and medications to treat substance use disorder. In this blog post, we’ll discuss what medication assisted treatment is and how it works for those suffering from addictions. 

What Is MAT? 

Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) is a comprehensive, long-term approach to treating substance use disorder. MAT combines behavioral therapy and medications in order to help individuals better manage their cravings and withdrawal symptoms while they work on becoming sober. MAT has been proven to be effective in managing the symptoms of addictions such as alcohol, opioids, tobacco, cocaine and methamphetamine. 

How Does It Work? 

The first step in any MAT program is for the patient to meet with a doctor or healthcare provider who will assess their individual needs and create a treatment plan tailored specifically for them. This plan may include medications such as buprenorphine or naltrexone, which are used to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms; counseling or other forms of psychotherapy; lifestyle changes; support groups; and more. The goal of MAT is to provide the patient with all the tools they need in order to successfully recover from their addiction and maintain sobriety over time. 

Common Medications Used in MAT 

The most commonly used medications in medication assisted treatment are methadone, buprenorphine (Suboxone), naltrexone (Vivitrol), and acamprosate (Campral). Methadone functions as an opioid agonist which means it attaches itself to opioid receptors in the brain thus reducing cravings while blocking the effects of other opioids like heroin or prescription painkillers. 

Buprenorphine is similar in its action but has a lower potential for abuse than methadone because its effects diminish over time meaning users cannot take larger doses without experiencing adverse side effects such as nausea or vomiting. 

Naltrexone works by blocking opioid receptors thus preventing users from feeling any pleasurable effects if they were to use drugs while taking the medication. 

Acamprosate works by restoring normal neurotransmitter balance which may reduce cravings for alcohol. 

All four medications have been proven safe and effective when used as part of a comprehensive substance abuse treatment program but should only be taken under the supervision of a qualified medical provider who can monitor their effectiveness and adjust dosages accordingly if needed.   

Benefits Of MAT 

There are many benefits of using medication assisted treatment for those suffering from addictions. One of the main benefits is that it can help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms while also helping patients stay committed to a life of sobriety by providing them with support throughout their recovery journey. 

Additionally, the combination of medications and counseling can help patients better understand the causes behind their addiction so that they can avoid triggers in the future. Finally, MAT programs are designed with each patient’s individual needs in mind so that they get the most out of their treatment program.  

Find Support Near You

Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) is an evidence-based approach to treating substance use disorder that combines both medications and counseling/therapy in order to provide individuals with the tools necessary for successful recovery from addiction over time. 

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, then consider speaking to your doctor about medication assisted treatment as a way forward towards long-term sobriety success! With help from your medical provider, you can start on your journey towards recovery today!