Millions of people each year are affected by opioid and opiate addiction, creating challenges not just for individuals but also for their families and communities. Medically Assisted Treatment (MAT) is an effective, evidence-based approach that helps people overcome opioid addiction. By combining medications with therapy, MAT can offer a balanced approach to recovery.
What is Medically Assisted Opioid Treatment (MAT)?
MAT uses specific FDA-approved medications, such as methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone, to help manage opioid cravings and withdrawal symptoms. These medications are on the same receptors in the brain as opioids, which in turn helps to reduce cravings and withdrawal without the "high". MAT addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of addiction when effectively combined with various types of therapy: both behavioral and targeted counseling.
How MAT Works
Methadone: A long-acting opioid that aids in cutting cravings and reducing withdrawal symptoms by targeting the same receptors and opioids.
Buprenorphine: An opioid agonist that also reduces cravings but with a lower risk of misuse than methadone.
Naltrexone: This is more widely used these days as it aids in blocking the opioid effect and prevents the euphoric sensation if someone relapses and uses it again.
These medications are part of a broader treatment plan that includes therapy, support groups, and education. Together, these elements help individuals build coping skills, address mental health issues, and create a healthier, more stable life in recovery.
Benefits of MAT
MAT is often misunderstood, with some assuming it’s just replacing one drug with another. However, research shows that when used correctly, MAT significantly increases the chances of long-term recovery by:
Reducing cravings: MAT helps curb the cravings that can lead to relapse.
Preventing overdose: By stabilizing brain chemistry, these medications reduce the risk of fatal overdose.
Supporting recovery: When combined with counseling, MAT provides a comprehensive approach to treating addiction.
Who Can Benefit from MAT?
MAT can be a life-changing option for individuals struggling with moderate to severe opioid addiction. It is beneficial for people who have tried other methods but have struggled with repeated relapses. Additionally, MAT can provide stability for those seeking to maintain a job, repair relationships, or begin to achieve normalcy in their everyday lives.
Is MAT Right for You or a Loved One?
MAT is a personal decision and should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional. It’s essential to recognize that recovery differs for everyone, and what works for one person may not. The key is finding a treatment plan that suits your needs, and MAT is one of the many tools available to help people reclaim their lives from opioid addiction.
Final Thoughts
Medically Assisted Treatment has given many people the chance to rebuild their lives after opioid addiction. By combining medication with therapy, it offers a holistic approach to recovery. If you or a loved one is struggling with opioid addiction, MAT could be the solution to finding lasting freedom from opioids.