Addiction recovery specialists sometimes use terms that can be confusing to someone entering drug or alcohol treatment. If you or a loved one need help for alcohol or opioid problems, those terms probably include medication-assisted treatment (MAT). That’s true because MAT is often used to help people affected by these problems. But what is medication-assisted treatment? The answer to this question will help you better understand MAT’s methods and goals.
Have you received a recommendation to undergo MAT for addiction rehab? You’ll find the specialized services you need at Sophros Recovery Jacksonville. We feature Vivitrol-based MAT, which you can begin after establishing initial sobriety. With our help, you can increase your chances of remaining sober and making further progress in your recovery program. Contact us at 866.374.0541 today to find out more.
What Is MAT?
As its name suggests, MAT is a form of support or assistance for addiction recovery. As a rule, this assistance comes in two forms – medication and psychotherapy. Why are these two types of treatment used together? They support your recovery in different but complementary ways.
Medication plays its role by changing your body’s responses to addictive substances. Therapy plays its role by helping you change your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors regarding these substances. On their own, each of them has benefits. But the benefits are greater when they’re combined.
When Is MAT for Addiction Used?
MAT isn’t used to treat every form of addiction. Instead, it’s intended to support recovery from opioid addiction and alcoholism. Why is the treatment’s use so limited? Only a few medications are known to provide consistent support for addiction recovery. And it so happens that these medications only work in people with alcohol or opioid problems.
MAT for Opioid Recovery
What types of medication are available for use in opioid recovery? There are three potential options:
- Methadone
- Buprenorphine
- Naltrexone
What is MAT used for in this context? That depends on the medication you receive. Methadone and buprenorphine are temporary opioid substitutes. A doctor or addiction specialist can use them to wean you off other, stronger opioids. Naltrexone, on the other hand, stops opioids from reaching your brain. If you’re already sober, this is a great way to deter you from returning to opioid use.
MAT for Alcohol Recovery
There are also three medication options for alcoholism rehab – naltrexone, disulfiram, and acamprosate. Respectively, these options are used to:
- Stop alcohol from reaching your brain
- Deter drinking by making you feel ill if you use alcohol
- Lower your relapse risks by rebalancing your brain chemistry
Your treatment team will help you decide which is the best option for your current stage of recovery.
What Is the Efficacy of Medication-Assisted Treatment?
Research shows that MAT is beneficial during substance recovery for several reasons. For starters, it can help decrease your use of opioids or alcohol. It can also help you avoid some of the most severe consequences of addiction, including overdoses.
In addition, people enrolled in MAT tend to stay in treatment longer. Moreover, participation in MAT can help you improve your ability to function in social situations. To reinforce these kinds of benefits, you must also actively participate in the therapy portion of your MAT program.
Call Today to Enroll in MAT for Addiction at Sophros Recovery
What is medication-assisted treatment’s potential role in your recovery? Find out today at Sophros Recovery Jacksonville. We can answer any questions you may have. We’re also your source for Vivitrol-based MAT that supports your attempts to stay sober. Call us today at 866.374.0541 for more details on our customized outpatient options. You can also message us through our online form.
