Medication-Assisted Treatment (short: "MAT") involves the use of "anti-craving medication" such as naltrexone (Vivitrol) and buprenorphine (Suboxone). As part of MAT, it is important to engage in comprehensive therapy and in an outpatient treatment program. If enrolled in MAT, the client will be referred to counseling and outpatient treatments with community partners & resources.
“Medication-assisted treatment saves lives" - Michael Botticelli, former Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy
MAT has been shown to be extremely effective in the battle against opioid use disorders (OUD) helping patients not only with withdrawal and cravings but it can significantly decrease the chance of relapse, according to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.
Furthermore, Medication-Assisted Treatment also helps in the prevention of infectious diseases such as HIV.
“With a strong motivated family, a treatment system that sees to medication and psychiatric care and social supports, there is tremendous hope — no child has to be lost.” - Dr. John Knight, Director of the Center for Adolescent Substance Abuse Research at Boston Children’s Hospital
Drugs such as OxyContin, Fentanyl, Heroin, Vicodin or Percocet are considered to be one of the most addictive drugs on the planet.
Such substances completely rewire a person's brain, shutting down its ability to make decisions based off of consequences. Their self-destructive actions are but symptoms of an uncontrolled disease.
That's where MAT comes in.
People dependent on opioids, begin to feel sick when they are without the drug (withdrawal). Extreme cravings kick in. Medication-Assisted Treatment helps decrease the constant fixation on the drug so that the person can focus on the next step of the treatment.
If you have questions and would like to learn more, book a consultation today to see if Medication-Assisted Treatment is right for you or your loved one.
