Medication-assisted treatment combines counseling and behavioral therapies with the administration of controlled substances to treat addiction. The FDA-approved medications are administered at a clinic or rehab center by medical professionals.

MAT is an outpatient service. Participants must keep appointments to receive their medication and other therapies, but they do not have to live in a rehab facility while undergoing treatment. It is ideal for those who have work or family obligations that prevent them from entering a residential program.

What is the goal of medication-assisted treatment? The ultimate goal is long-term addiction recovery without suffering the painful and life-threatening symptoms of withdrawal.

By using medication, counseling, and other evidence-based therapies, MAT programs offer multiple levels of support to individuals with severe addiction issues.

The exact medications that are used depend on the person being treated and the substance they are addicted to. You may not qualify for medically-assisted treatment if you are any of the following:

• A hemophiliac or have another bleeding disorder
• Taking any opioid-containing medications, such as cough or pain medicine
• Currently experiencing liver problems
• Using illegal drugs
• Allergic to any of the ingredients used in MAT medication

A full medical evaluation is required before starting a MAT program at Supreme Wellness Recovery, and patients are consistently monitored throughout the program.

Medications for Opioid Use Disorder

Methadone, buprenorphine, naloxone, and naltrexone are used to treat addiction to opioids such as oxycodone, codeine, morphine, and heroin. The medications are safe for long-term use, even for a lifetime if necessary.

Buprenorphine and methadone are both classified as opioid antagonists. They help to eliminate cravings and other withdrawal symptoms. Naltrexone and naloxone are opioid blockers. They block the sedative and euphoric effects of opioids, helping to prevent relapse and overdose.

Medication for Alcohol Use Disorder

Naltrexone is the main medication used to help treat alcohol use disorder. It is administered after the detox process is complete. It binds to endorphin receptors, essentially blocking the pleasurable feelings associated with drinking alcohol.

MAT with naltrexone reduces cravings and helps patients reduce the amount of alcohol they drink without experiencing withdrawal. Naltrexone treatments for alcohol use disorder typically last no more than four months.

What Are the Benefits of Medication-Assisted Treatment?

The most compelling benefit of medication-assisted treatment is the success rate of MAT patients. The treatment not only reduces the rate of relapse but also reduces the need for residential treatment.

Other benefits of MAT may include:

• Increased chance of finding employment after rehab
• Reduced risk of infections such as HIV or hepatitis
• Less criminal activity
• Reduced number of overdose deaths
• Decrease in relapse rate
• Better rates for completing treatment

MAT prevents the cravings that lead people into relapse. It takes more than personal strength to resist cravings for drugs or alcohol once the brain has become dependent on them. MAT helps correct brain chemistry by blocking both the euphoric effects of the substance and the sick feeling addicted people get when they stop using.

Withdrawal side effects aren’t just uncomfortable; they can be life-threatening. Severe side effects may include:

• Seizures
• Rapid heart rate
• High blood pressure
• Stroke
• Delirium tremens

The medications used for MAT regulate symptoms and keep patients safe as they transition off of dangerous drugs.

MAT keeps pregnant women safe as they recover from addiction. No woman wants to find herself in addiction treatment when she is pregnant, but entering treatment is better than continuing to use drugs or alcohol. Medication-assisted treatment decreases pregnancy complications and helps women have a successful delivery.

Why Should You Use Medication-Assisted Treatment?

MAT is not a cure for addiction, but it is an effective treatment that addresses the whole person. In addition to medication, MAT programs may include:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy
• Dialectical behavioral therapy
• Individual therapy
• Group therapy
• Family therapy

Getting treatment for an opioid or alcohol addiction shouldn’t include more suffering. With MAT, your physical, emotional, and mental health are considered equally important as you navigate through the recovery process.

Learn More about MAT from Supreme Wellness Recovery

Supreme Wellness Recovery wants to make recovery accessible to everyone who needs it. That’s one reason why we offer a MAT program.

Is medication-assisted treatment covered by insurance? In most cases, the answer is yes. We are committed to simplifying access to care and are proud to be in-network with most major insurance companies.

Contact Supreme Wellness Recovery in Bucks County, PA to learn more about MAT and all of the services we offer.