Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) has had a profound effect on the lives of countless people suffering from an alcohol use disorder (AUD) or opioid use disorder (OUD). MAT refers to medication in combination with psychotherapy, a powerfully effective treatment supporting a safe and successful recovery journey. MAT has helped many people find sobriety and lead healthier, more productive lives. It is a safe and effective treatment option that should be considered for anyone struggling with an AUD or OUD.
CeDAR offers medication-assisted treatment in our residential and partial hospitalization programs and other evidence-based therapies and support groups. Learn more about MAT at CeDAR by reaching out today by calling 720.848.3000 or by completing our online form.
How Does Medication-Assisted Treatment Work?
Alcohol and opioids, like many other addictive substances, interfere with the brain’s functioning. Namely, they disrupt the brain’s production of neurotransmitters and flood the natural receptors, damaging the brain’s ability to feel pleasure.
The physical dependence on alcohol or opioids to experience pleasure leads to addiction. The medications used in a medication-assisted treatment program help your brain regain its balance. They also interrupt the psychological cravings that accompany the physical cravings brought on by dependence. Even after physical dependence has been broken and thus physical cravings banished, the psychological desire to drink or use again can be intensely powerful and last for years.
MAT medications nowadays are entirely safe, and many in recovery continue undergoing medication-assisted treatment throughout life. Others may ease off MAT after a few years.
Is MAT Right for You?
Consider the benefits of a medication-assisted treatment program as you look for the best rehab program for your alcohol or opioid addiction. Medication-assisted treatment will:
- Help you get through detox without the discomfort associated with withdrawal
- Allow you to focus entirely on your recovery work in individual and group therapy
- Focus on your needs as part of a whole-person approach to addiction recovery
- Balance your brain chemistry so it can return to its natural functioning
- Inhibit your brain’s ability to feel the euphoric effects of the drug or the alcohol
- Allow you to take your best shot at long-term recovery by reducing your risk of relapse
If you suffer from an AUD or OUD, consider medication-assisted treatment at CeDAR. Our treatment center offers a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to addiction treatment that can help you get your life back on track. Medication-assisted treatment can help make recovery possible.
What Are the Medications Used in MAT?
The medications used in MAT are currently only FDA-approved for use in alcohol and opioid addiction treatment. The commonly used medications are naltrexone(Vivitrol), naloxone and buprenorphine (Suboxone), and methadone. They will reduce your cravings and prevent you from feeling high if you relapse.
The medications used in MAT can be administered differently. The three most common ways are:
- Dissolving a pill or a film under the tongue
- Monthly injection
- Subdermal implant
Your treatment team, composed of therapists and medical professionals, will determine the best medication-assisted treatment for you based on your health and addiction profile. You may also experience side effects of MAT medications, but they are usually mild and go away over time as your body adjusts to the medication.
Consider CeDAR’s Medication-Assisted Treatment Program
At CeDAR, we are proud to offer MAT to our AUD and OUD patients. This evidence-based treatment is two-pronged, including management with medication and regular therapy with an experienced clinician. Our treatments are trauma-informed and available in outpatient and inpatient programs.
If you have questions about medication-assisted treatment—how it works, the medications used, the timeline, or anything else—reach out to CeDAR today by filling out our online form or calling us at 720.848.3000. We look forward to helping you understand this critical and highly effective treatment protocol.