Medication-assisted treatment
Medication-Assisted Treatment
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is a safe and effective treatment for substance use disorders that combines medication with counseling and other support services to help people recover. MAT can help people reduce or stop using drugs, improve their health and well-being, and increase their chances of long-term recovery.
How medication-assisted treatment (MAT) works
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is an evidence-based tool in the toolbox to give people a more comprehensive approach to achieving recovery from substance use disorders.
These medicines work by binding to receptors in the brain that block cravings or limit the pleasurable feeling of alcohol or opioid use. In addition, an option for alcohol treatment is available that prevents the liver from metabolizing the substance and sickens a person as a deterrent if they consume it.
MAT is available in pill or long-lasting injection form. These options give the brain time to heal—a process that may take several months or more than a year.
FDA-approved addiction medications used at Rosecrance include:
- Buprenorphine-based medications, both oral and injectable (such as Suboxone and Sublocade)
- Naltrexone, both oral and monthly injectable Vivitrol
- Campral
- Antabuse
Benefits of MAT include reduced cravings and withdrawal symptoms, improved mental and physical health, increased ability to function in daily life, and reduced risk of relapse.