MAT (medication-assisted treatment) is a science-backed approach to treating addiction that blends medications with counseling and behavioral therapies. MAT is proven effective for the treatment of alcohol and opioid addictions. By integrating FDA-approved medications with therapeutic interventions, MAT tackles addiction holistically, addressing both the physiological and psychological aspects of the condition.
This guide examines the following issues:
- What is MAT in recovery?
- What does MAT stand for in addiction?
- How does MAT work?
- What is the MAT program?
- Does MAT cure addiction?
- How to find an MAT program for substance abuse in Ohio.
What is a MAT Program?
An MAT program is a scientific approach to treating substance use disorder that combines pharmacological and behavioral interventions. Extensive research has demonstrated the effectiveness of MAT therapy which integrates medications, counseling, and behavioral therapies in treating addictions.
The FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) has approved three medications for the treatment of opioid use disorder and three medications for the treatment of alcohol use disorder. There are currently no medications with FDA approval for the treatment of marijuana use disorder, hallucinogen use disorder, or stimulant use disorder.
The two primary forms of MAT program are:
- MAT addiction program for opioid use disorder
- MAT addiction program for alcohol use disorder
MAT addiction program for opioid use disorder
Medically assisted treatment is highly effective for treating all kinds of opioid use disorders, including addictions to fentanyl, heroin, and prescription painkillers.
These are the medications used in MAT treatment for opioid addiction:
- Methadone: Acting as a long-acting agonist, methadone binds to the same mu-opioid receptors naturally occurring in the brain as opioids, mitigating cravings and withdrawal symptoms without inducing the intense euphoria associated with opioid misuse. Methadone is typically dispensed under strict supervision at a specialized clinic or MAT facility.
- Buprenorphine: As a partial agonist, buprenorphine activates opioid receptors in the brain, producing a milder effect than full opioid agonists. The medication alleviates withdrawal symptoms and cravings while minimizing the risk of misuse and overdose. Specially trained healthcare providers can prescribe buprenorphine in office-based settings, enhancing accessibility for individuals seeking treatment.
- Naltrexone: Serving as an opioid antagonist, naltrexone blocks the effects of opioids in the brain. It is available in both oral and injectable forms. By preventing the euphoric effects of opioids and reducing cravings, naltrexone aids individuals in maintaining sobriety. Typically, naltrexone is utilized after the detoxification phase to support long-term recovery.
MAT Addiction Program for Alcohol Use Disorder
Alcohol use disorder can have devastating consequences on health, relationships, and overall well-being. MAT plays a pivotal role in supporting individuals with alcohol use disorder. These are the medications used in MAT treatment for alcohol addiction:
- Naltrexone: This medication, also used for opioid use disorder, proves effective in addressing alcohol use disorder. By diminishing the pleasurable effects of alcohol and reducing cravings, naltrexone can help to prevent relapse. It can be administered orally or via extended-release injection.
- Acamprosate: Acamprosate assists individuals in maintaining abstinence from alcohol by mitigating withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, and restlessness. It is believed to work by normalizing imbalances in brain chemistry resulting from chronic alcohol abuse. Acamprosate is taken orally and is often prescribed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
- Disulfiram: Acting as a deterrent to drinking, disulfiram induces unpleasant physical reactions when alcohol is consumed. By inhibiting the enzyme responsible for alcohol metabolism, disulfiram triggers symptoms such as nausea, flushing, and rapid heartbeat. It is typically prescribed to individuals who display high motivation to abstain from alcohol.
In combination with counseling and behavioral therapies, these medications offer a multifaceted approach that addresses the complex nature of addiction and promotes sustained recovery.
What is MAT Sobriety?
MAT sobriety refers to a concept that recognizes the use of medications as a part of MAT (medication-assisted treatment) while maintaining a focus on achieving and maintaining sobriety. MAT sobriety acknowledges that the use of FDA-approved medications can be a valuable tool in supporting individuals on their recovery journey.
MAT sobriety recognizes that medications alone are not a substitute for comprehensive treatment but rather an integral component of a holistic approach. Alongside medications, MAT sobriety emphasizes the importance of counseling, therapy, behavioral interventions, and other supportive measures to address the psychological, emotional, and social aspects of addiction.
The goal of MAT sobriety is to help individuals reduce cravings, manage withdrawal symptoms, and stabilize their lives, enabling them to engage fully in their recovery process. It recognizes that sobriety is not solely defined by abstinence from substances but also by the improvement in overall well-being and the ability to lead a fulfilling, productive life.
MAT sobriety aims to provide individuals with the necessary support to make positive changes, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and achieve long-term recovery. It promotes a balanced and personalized approach to treatment that takes into account the individual’s unique needs, preferences, and circumstances.
Although MAT sobriety is a term used to highlight the integration of medications within the broader context of recovery, it should not be viewed as a contradiction to the goal of sobriety but rather as a comprehensive approach that recognizes the benefits of combining medications with other evidence-based interventions to support individuals in their journey towards lasting sobriety and improved quality of life.
Is MAT Effective?
All MAT drugs have obtained FDA approval, ensuring that MAT programs are driven by clinical expertise and firmly rooted in evidence-based practices.
Research confirms that the simultaneous delivery of MAT and complementary therapies significantly reduces the likelihood of relapse, enhances treatment retention, and effectively addresses both alcohol use disorder and opioid use disorder.
MAT has proven to be a highly effective approach in reducing the necessity for inpatient detoxification among individuals struggling with addiction to heroin and prescription opioid painkillers.
Beyond this, numerous studies highlight the advantages of medication-assisted treatment in combating alcohol addiction.
At the core of any MAT program lies a singular objective: achieving sustained recovery and preventing relapse.
The research-backed benefits of MAT addiction recovery include:
- Reducing the utilization of illicit opiates.
- Diminishing criminal activity among those diagnosed with opioid use disorder.
- Increasing retention in addiction treatment programs.
- Improving rates of patient survival.
- Enhancing birth outcomes for pregnant women grappling with substance use disorder.
- Assisting patients in securing and maintaining employment.
- Lowering the risk of hepatitis and HIV/AIDS transmission.
Get MAT Treatment at Ohio Recovery Centers
At Ohio Recovery Centers in Cincinnati, OH, our focus lies in providing specialized addiction treatment programs that incorporate medication-assisted treatment for those struggling with alcohol, prescription medication, or illicit drug dependencies.
Extensive research reveals that most mild and moderate addictions can be effectively addressed through intensive outpatient treatment, rivaling the outcomes achieved through residential rehab. By opting for outpatient treatment, you gain the advantage of enhanced flexibility and affordability, all while receiving the same level of exceptional care. At our Cincinnati rehab facility, we offer a range of programs tailored to meet your unique needs:
- PHPs (partial hospitalization programs)
- IOPs (intensive outpatient programs)
- Dual diagnosis treatment programs (targeting co-occurring disorders)
At Ohio Recovery Centers, our treatment programs integrate pharmacological, behavioral, and holistic therapies, ensuring a comprehensive and evidence-based approach to recovery. Upon completing your treatment, you will not only possess vital relapse prevention strategies and coping techniques but will also have access to ongoing therapy if needed.For immediate assistance and to embark on your journey to recovery, reach out to our admissions team today at (877) 679-2132. Your well-being is our utmost priority.
