Medically Assisted Treatment

What Is Medical Assisted Treatment?

Medical or Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) involves an evidence-based approach to treating substance use disorders that combines FDA-approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies. The medications used in MAT, such as methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone, help stabilize brain chemistry, block the euphoric effects of opioids and alcohol, relieve physiological cravings, and normalize body functions. This approach recognizes addiction as a disease that requires a comprehensive treatment strategy, much like other medical conditions such as diabetes or hypertension. Medication assisted treatment California residents can access is available at Resurgence Behavioral Health.

Research has shown that MAT is more effective than abstinence-based treatment, significantly reducing the risk of overdose with substance use disorders. The medications allow patients to focus on their recovery without the constant physical and psychological stress of withdrawal symptoms. The medical community widely accepts it as a proven method for treating opioid use disorder, with success rates far higher than traditional treatment programs. Patients typically receive MAT treatment under close medical supervision, with regular monitoring and adjustments to their medication dosage as needed throughout their recovery journey.

What Is the Most Common Form of Medical Treatment for Opioid Addiction?

Buprenorphine, commonly known by the brand name Suboxone®, has emerged as one of the most frequently prescribed medications for opioid use disorder treatment. This partial opioid agonist works by binding to the same receptors in the brain as opioids but produces a much weaker effect, helping to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms without producing a significant high. When combined with naloxone, the medication also includes a safeguard against misuse, as the naloxone component will trigger withdrawal symptoms if the medication is injected.

Methadone, another widely used medication, remains the most established form of opioid addiction treatment. Administered daily under supervision, methadone is a full opioid agonist that helps stabilize patients by preventing withdrawal symptoms and reducing cravings without producing euphoria when properly dosed. Though methadone treatment requires more frequent clinic visits and stricter oversight than buprenorphine, it has proven especially effective for patients with severe, long-term opioid use disorders who may need a higher level of support and structure in their recovery process.

What Drugs Are in the MAT Program?

The three main FDA-approved medications used for treating substance use disorders during MAT involve these types:

For opioid addiction, the primary medications are:

• Methadone: A long-acting opioid agonist taken daily at specialized clinics
• Buprenorphine (Suboxone®): A partial opioid agonist combined with naloxone, available as sublingual tablets or films
• Naltrexone (Vivitrol): An opioid antagonist available as a daily pill or monthly injection

For alcohol use disorder, the approved medications are:

• Naltrexone (Vivitrol): Used to reduce alcohol cravings
• Acamprosate (Campral): Helps restore brain chemistry
• Disulfiram (Antabuse): Creates unpleasant effects if alcohol is consumed

Each of these medications serves different purposes in addiction treatment and may be used at different stages of recovery. The choice of medication depends on factors like:

• Type of substance use disorder
• Severity of addiction
• Patient preferences and lifestyle
• Medical history
• Treatment setting (inpatient vs outpatient)
• Previous treatment experiences

What to Expect In a MAT Program?

When entering a program for medication assisted treatment California residents can access, patients typically begin with a comprehensive medical and mental evaluation to determine the best medication and treatment plan. The initial phase involves careful monitoring as the medical team starts the prescribed medication at the right dose to manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings. During these first few days, patients usually have frequent appointments for dose adjustments and medical monitoring. This period also includes meeting with counselors to establish treatment goals, developing coping strategies, and learning about addiction and recovery.

The ongoing treatment phase involves regular medical check-ups, medication management, and required participation in counseling or behavioral therapy sessions. Patients must comply with program requirements, which typically include regular drug screening, keeping all scheduled appointments, and participating in support groups or therapy sessions. The frequency of visits may decrease over time as patients stabilize, but most programs require at least monthly check-ins to monitor progress and adjust treatment as needed. Many programs also provide additional support services such as case management, employment assistance, and family counseling. The length of treatment is based on the needs of each patient, with some patients remaining in MAT for months, while others may eventually taper off medications under medical supervision when they feel ready and stable in their recovery.

Find Medication Assisted Treatment California Residents Can Access

Medication assisted treatment California residents can access is available at Resurgence Behavorial Health. MAT is a vital component of Resurgence Behavioral Health’s evidence-based approach to addiction recovery in California. This treatment option combines medications with counseling and behavioral therapies to help individuals struggling with opioid or alcohol dependence. Our addiction treatment team conducts thorough evaluations to develop personalized medication plans that align with each patient’s addiction recovery goals. Please call us at 855-458-0050 to learn more about how our MAT program can enhance addiction recovery efforts.