MAT: Medication-Assisted Treatment

Medication-Assisted Treatment, or MAT, refers to combining counseling and behavioral therapy with the use of FDA-approved medicines to treat substance use disorders. This approach is extremely tailored to the individual and can be an effective way to achieve sustained recovery and prevent opioid overdose. MAT is often used for recovery from opioids, like heroin or prescription pain pills, as the medicine works specifically to balance brain chemistry and block cravings for opiates. There are also MAT approaches meant for alcohol use disorders.

Research shows that successful substance use treatment cannot be approached with a “one size fits all” mentality. When MAT is prescribed, a patient is receiving a customized plan for recovery designed to maximize chances of success, and minimize the potential for relapse. Successful MAT can improve survival rates for individuals with Substance Use Disorder (SUD), increase treatment retention, increase employment opportunities for people with SUD, and lead to better birth outcomes for pregnant people with SUD.

Alcohol Use Disorder Medications:

  • Acamprosate
  • Disulfiram
  • Naltrexone

Opioid Dependency Medications:

  • Buprenorphine
  • Methadone
  • Naltrexone

MAT is not a cure for SUD, but it can be an effective tool in recovery. It’s important to take an active role in your own recovery, and receive the care you think will suit you best in your journey to recovery. If you or someone you love is struggling in recovering from SUD and are interested in learning more about MAT, contact a professional provider and start the conversation today. Listen to stories of hope and successful usage of Medication-Assisted Treatment here.