Are you or someone you know struggling with a substance use disorder? The journey to recovery can be challenging, but there is hope. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is an evidence-based approach that combines medications with counseling to help individuals overcome addiction and achieve lasting recovery. Ascend will explain what MAT is, how it works, its benefits, and the medications commonly used in MAT for opioid and alcohol use disorders.

Understanding Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

MAT: A Lifeline for Substance Use Disorders

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is a specialized approach that integrates the use of medications with counseling and behavioral therapies to address substance use disorders. It is a comprehensive treatment model that recognizes the complex nature of addiction and provides individuals with the tools they need to overcome their dependency on opioids or alcohol. MAT is highly effective in improving treatment outcomes and reducing the risk of relapse and overdose.

The Components of MAT

MAT comprises three main components: medications, counseling, and behavioral therapies. The medications used in MAT are FDA-approved and work by reducing cravings, alleviating withdrawal symptoms, and blocking the euphoric effects of opioids or alcohol. Counseling and behavioral therapies help individuals develop coping strategies, address underlying issues contributing to addiction, and learn new skills for managing cravings and triggers.

The Benefits of MAT

MAT offers a range of benefits for individuals struggling with substance use disorders. It helps individuals regain control of their lives, improve their overall well-being, and increase their chances of long-term recovery. Some of the key benefits of MAT include:

• Reduced Relapse Rates: MAT has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of relapse, increasing the likelihood of maintaining sobriety.
• Improved Treatment Retention: Individuals receiving MAT are more likely to stay engaged in treatment and complete the full course of therapy.
• Decreased Cravings and Withdrawal Symptoms: MAT medications help alleviate cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making it easier for individuals to abstain from substance use.
• Enhanced Overall Functioning: MAT allows individuals to resume their daily activities, such as work, school, and parenting, improving their overall quality of life.

Medications Used in MAT

Medication Options for Opioid Use Disorder (OUD)

Opioid use disorder (OUD) is a serious condition that requires specialized treatment. MAT offers several medication options to address OUD effectively. 

• Methadone: Methadone is an opioid medication that works by reducing cravings and preventing withdrawal symptoms. Methadone has been used for decades and is a proven treatment option for OUD.
• Buprenorphine: Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist that helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Buprenorphine is available in different forms, such as sublingual tablets and long-acting injections.
• Naltrexone: Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist that blocks the effects of opioids in the body. It helps reduce cravings and prevents the euphoric effects of opioids. It does not have the potential for misuse or dependence.

Medication Options for Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a substance use disorder that can be treated with MAT.

• Acamprosate: Acamprosate helps reduce cravings for alcohol after detoxification. It does not prevent withdrawal symptoms if alcohol consumption continues. Acamprosate is typically taken orally, and its use is associated with increased abstinence rates.
• Disulfiram: Disulfiram is a medication that creates unpleasant side effects, such as nausea and headache, when alcohol is consumed. It acts as a deterrent to alcohol use by conditioning the individual to associate it with negative consequences. Disulfiram is taken orally and more effective when combined with counseling and behavioral therapies.
• Naltrexone: Naltrexone, used for opioid use disorder, can also be prescribed for alcohol use disorder. It works by blocking the euphoric effects of alcohol, reducing the desire to drink. Naltrexone is taken orally or as a monthly injection.

How Medication-Assisted Treatment Works

The Synergy of Medications and Therapies

The effectiveness of MAT lies in the synergy between medications and therapies. Medications help manage withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, and block the rewarding effects of substances. Counseling and behavioral therapies, on the other hand, address the psychological and emotional aspects of addiction, helping individuals develop healthier coping mechanisms and address underlying issues contributing to substance use.

Addressing Opioid Use Disorder

For individuals with opioid use disorder, MAT medications like methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone play a crucial role in reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Methadone and buprenorphine are opioid agonists that provide a safer alternative to illicit opioids. They stabilize brain chemistry and reduce the risk of overdose. Naltrexone, an opioid antagonist, blocks the effects of opioids, preventing relapse and reducing the rewarding effects of opioids.

Treating Alcohol Use Disorder

In the case of alcohol use disorder, medications like acamprosate, disulfiram, and naltrexone work differently to support recovery. Acamprosate helps rebalance brain chemistry and reduce the desire to drink. Disulfiram creates aversive effects when alcohol is consumed.m Naltrexone blocks the pleasurable effects of alcohol, making it less appealing and reducing the risk of relapse.

Benefits of Medication-Assisted Treatment

MAT has proven to be highly beneficial in treating substance use disorders. Here are some of the key advantages of MAT:

• Reduced Relapse Rates: MAT significantly reduces the risk of relapse, increasing the likelihood of sustained recovery.
• Improved Treatment Engagement: Individuals receiving MAT are more likely to remain engaged in treatment and complete the full course of therapy.
• Enhanced Safety: MAT medications provide a safer alternative to illicit substances, reducing the risk of overdose and associated health complications.
• Better Quality of Life: By reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms, MAT allows individuals to focus on rebuilding their lives and improving their overall well-being.
• Increased Treatment Retention: MAT improves treatment retention, ensuring individuals receive the necessary support to achieve long-term recovery.

Is Medication-Assisted Treatment Right for You?

While MAT can be highly effective, it may not suit everyone. It is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider who can evaluate your specific needs and determine the best treatment approach for you. Ascend Recovery Centers, for example, offers comprehensive medication-assisted treatment for opioids and alcohol alongside therapeutic models tailored to individual needs.

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is a proven and effective approach to address substance use disorders. By combining medications with counseling and behavioral therapies, MAT provides individuals with the tools they need to overcome addiction and achieve lasting recovery. Whether it’s opioid use disorder or alcohol use disorder, MAT offers hope, reduces relapse rates, and improves overall treatment outcomes. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Recovery is possible, and MAT at Ascend Recovery Centers can be a vital step toward a healthier and happier life.