Did you know that 81,806 people in the U.S. died from opioid overdoses in the US? According to the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS), the opioid crisis is still on the rise and our society faces a critical challenge in addressing it. As a result of this alarming trend, getting help for addiction is more crucial now than ever. 

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is a treatment strategy for substance use disorders that integrates FDA-approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies. But MAT isn't just a treatment — it’s a lifeline for many individuals who require support in dealing with withdrawal symptoms and cravings during recovery.

Simply put, MAT is an effective tool to regain control over your life and make your recovery sustainable. 

What is Medically Assisted Treatment?

Medically Assisted Treatment (MAT) is a treatment modality that combines the use of FDA-approved medications (such as methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone) with behavioral therapies (such as CBT) to treat substance use disorders, particularly, opioid use disorder (OUD). The purpose of MAT is to treat a “whole-patient”, which means dealing with both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction. 

This holistic approach is effective for recovery as the combination of medications and therapy can normalize brain chemistry, relieve physical cravings, and block the euphoric effects of opioids. As studies show, MAT helps individuals develop coping strategies to manage their addiction long-term.

Benefits Of MAT

Here are some empirically proven benefits of Medically Assisted Treatment (MAT) for substance use disorders:

• Reduces risks of fatal and nonfatal overdoses.
• Patients on MAT have higher survival rates.
• Increases retention in treatment by managing withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
• Addresses both behavioral and psychological aspects of addiction.
• Patients engaged in MAT often show lower rates of criminal activity related to substance use.

The FDA has approved 3 main medications to use as a part of MAT for treating Opioid Use Disorder: 

Methadone

Buprenorphine

Naltrexone

This is one of the most common medications for addiction treatment that effectively reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms without causing euphoria associated with opioids. 

AKA “bupe”. It also reduces cravings and withdrawal, but it can be prescribed or dispensed in multiple settings, such as a doctor's office.

Blocks opioid receptors in the brain which is essential for dealing with the euphoric and sedative effects of opioids. Thus, it effectively prevents a relapse. 

Common Myths and Misconceptions about MAT

Even though numerous studies prove the effectiveness of MAT, this treatment approach is often misunderstood. Today, we’re going to debunk some common myths and misconceptions around MAT that prevent individuals from seeking help

Myth

MAT is just replacing one addiction with another

Truth

MAT uses controlled, FDA-approved medications to reduce dependence in a medically supervised setting. This is far from uncontrolled drug abuse.

Myth

Taking medication means you're not truly in recovery

Truth

While recovery is truly a personal experience, MAT is a legitimate medical treatment that supports long-term recovery by addressing biological aspects of addiction.

Myth

MAT is only a short-term solution

Truth

The duration of MAT varies but this treatment can be a part of a long-term strategy to manage addiction and improve overall quality of life.

Myth

You don’t need therapy if you are on MAT

Truth

MAT is most effective when combined with counseling and behavioral therapies. Only that way it’s possible to address both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction.

If you're considering MAT or know someone who might need help in OUD recovery, Siyan Clinical Research is here to help. 

Reach out to us today and learn how we can overcome your addiction together. Your path to wellness starts here!

Announcements

SIYAN CLINICAL RESEARCH | [CCBHC]