Today there are many successful approaches to addiction recovery. It may sound counter-intuitive to use medication during detox and recovery. However, medication-assisted treatment for opioid addiction is one of the most effective treatments. Also known as MAT, medication-assisted treatment for opioid abuse helps clients recover more quickly, avoid relapse, and stay sober.
If you or someone you love is ready to learn more about MAT for opioid addiction, call A Better State today. Our holistic, trauma-informed clinic provides New Hampshire with a range of outpatient treatment programs, including MAT for opioid abuse and addiction. Call us now at 781.412.1488 to learn if MAT suits you.
What Is Medication-Assisted Treatment?
MAT is a treatment approach that uses highly effective medications to lessen withdrawal effects and ease detox symptoms for short- and long-term treatment plans. Various types of medication-assisted treatment have existed in addiction recovery since the 1930s. Popularized in the 1970s, medication-assisted therapy has become a standard in individualized addiction treatment, especially for opioids and alcohol withdrawal. Medication-assisted treatment for opioid addiction usually varies in duration depending on a client’s needs, health, and drug history.
How Does Medication-Assisted Treatment for Opioid Abuse Help?
When someone develops an addiction, their brain becomes dependent on a substance for chemical processes. Because opioids change a person’s brain chemistry, it can be especially hard to stop taking them without MAT. Unfortunately, opioid relapse, overdose, and death are common. Medications can slowly ween the brain and body off opioids, preventing relapse and other health complications.
During treatment, a clinic nurse administers and monitors these medications alongside therapy like CBT, DBT, and alternative therapies. During therapy, clients have the opportunity to heal trauma, treat mental health conditions, and uncover the root cause of opioid abuse. Some common MAT medications for opioid withdrawal include:
- Suboxone
- Methadone
- Vivitrol
Medications can ease symptoms, reduce cravings, and help clients progress in therapy more quickly. Opioid medications work by blocking receptors in the brain to relieve intense cravings. MAT is especially effective for those in outpatient programs, reducing the chance of reuse at home.
What to Expect During MAT for Opioid Addiction Recovery
Often MAT demands a strict medication schedule. Drugs like Methadone and Suboxone are daily prescriptions taken on-site at a recovery center. Vivitrol and others are taken monthly. MAT medications require clients to commit to specific life changes and sobriety. These medications are designed to cut cravings. However, they can be harmful or deadly if someone relapses during MAT. Medication-assisted treatment is unique for every client.
The longer someone abuses opioids, the harder they are to stop using. This may leave some people on long-term MAT alongside addiction therapy and mental health treatment. Most MAT programs use a step-down approach to reduce dosage while helping clients navigate sobriety gradually.
Start Medication-Assisted Treatment for Opioid Addiction Today at A Better State in New Hampshire
MAT isn’t right for everyone. However, for those living with opioid abuse or addiction, MAT may be the best course of recovery. If you or someone you love is ready to commit to medication-assisted treatment, we can help. Our holistic, trauma-informed treatment plans can help you and your loved ones thrive during recovery. With a range of flexible outpatient programs for addiction, substance abuse, and mental health, A Better State has the program for you.
Whether you’re struggling with addiction, mental health, or a substance use disorder, our range of holistic therapy programs can help. With cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), meditation, yoga, family, individual, and group therapy, our team can help uncover and treat the root cause of addiction. If you’re ready to find out how medication-assisted treatment for opioid addiction can help you thrive, contact us now at 781.412.1488 to learn more and get started today.
