Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
When caught in the cycle of substance abuse, it can feel utterly hopeless, with no way out in sight. Many individuals seeking to recover from addiction often contemplate medication-assisted treatment. However, due to misinformation and the stigma surrounding medication for disorders, many people tend to dismiss it outright.
It is important to recognize that medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is an incredibly powerful tool that can aid individuals in breaking free from substance abuse and guiding them toward a path of lasting sobriety.
What Is MAT Treatment?
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is an evidence-based treatment that incorporates the use of FDA-approved medication with traditional addiction rehabilitation programs. MAT services combine medications specifically designed to treat alcohol and opioid dependency with counseling and behavioral therapies. These medications can be highly effective in combination with therapy as part of substance use disorder (SUD) treatment because they help lessen withdrawal symptoms and improve sobriety rates.
For these medications to yield truly effective results, they must be accompanied by a comprehensive treatment plan. It is important to acknowledge that while some individuals experience significant improvements through MAT programs, others may not benefit from the inclusion of these medications. As a result, reputable drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs offer medication-assisted treatment services on a case-by-case basis.
During the initial stages of treatment, guests collaborate with their therapists to develop a personalized service plan. Taking into account their substance use history, genetic makeup, social influences, support system, and other relevant factors, MAT may be recommended. At Royal Life Centers, medication-assisted treatment is skillfully administered and managed to ensure guests receive optimal care with the aid of medicine. Throughout treatment, guests also meet regularly with their case managers to ensure they receive the highest standard of care possible.
Three Components of MAT
United States federal law requires that treatment for opioid abuse consists of more than merely medication, and is joined with other treatment services like therapy and resource provision. These requirements ensure each person undergoing medication-assisted treatment receives the three main pillars that make up a comprehensive approach to addiction treatment and recovery.
The 3 components of MAT include:
- Medication
- Counseling
- Behavioral therapy
All three aspects work together by teaching people how to overcome their addiction. Through MAT, guests in recovery learn how to fight cravings, learn healthy coping skills, rebuild their self-worth, and prevent relapse. The result is that they leave at the end of treatment with skills they can utilize during the hard times.
MAT Medications
Currently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved specific medications for the treatment of opioid and alcohol use disorders. These medications can assist in reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making detoxification more comfortable and successful.
Medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) include:
- Methadone
- Buprenorphine
- Naltrexone
- Naloxone
Medications for alcohol use disorder (MAUD) include:
- Acamprosate
- Disulfiram
- Naltrexone
MAT medications work by reducing cravings and other withdrawal symptoms and by blocking receptors. Several MAT medications are habit-forming, which is why they are only available as a prescription and administered by trained medical professionals. Likewise, these medications are prescribed on a case-by-case basis to guests who meet the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) criteria.
Medications for Alcohol Use Disorder
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) services employ evidence-based treatment approaches to support you throughout your detoxification and recovery journey. Medications for alcohol use disorder, also known as MAUD, have been proven to significantly diminish alcohol cravings. These medications can effectively assist you in managing urges and triggers associated with drinking, enabling you to prioritize the mental and emotional aspects of recovery.
Acamprosate, brand name Campral, assists in restoring the natural balance of chemicals in the brain (neurotransmitters) to prevent cravings that may lead to relapse. This medication does not, however, prevent withdrawal symptoms after people drink alcohol.
Disulfiram, brand name Antabuse, treats chronic alcohol abuse through negative reinforcement, triggering uncomfortable sensations throughout the body following a relapse. This medication is intended for individuals who have already stopped drinking or are in the initial stage of abstinence.
Naltrexone, brand names Vivitrol and Revia, blocks the effects of alcohol on the brain and prevents feelings of intoxication. This medication allows people with alcohol use disorders to reduce alcohol use or cease drinking altogether.
Royal Life Centers at Spokane Heights provides evidence-based medications for alcohol use disorders (AUD). Individuals undergoing MAT for alcohol detox collaborate with addiction treatment providers to identify the most suitable medication based on their specific circumstances and medical background. It is crucial to acknowledge that MAUD does not substitute therapy or counseling. Instead, MAT medications reinforce therapeutic services, offering additional support through symptom management.
Medications for Opioid Use Disorder
Medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) have proven to be highly effective in significantly reducing cravings for opioids. By incorporating these medications into your treatment plan, you can better manage any urges or triggers that may lead to relapse. This, in turn, allows you to shift your focus toward healing in recovery.
Naltrexone, brand names Vivitrol and Revia, blocks the effects of alcohol on the brain and prevents feelings of intoxication. This medication allows people with alcohol use disorders to reduce alcohol use or cease drinking altogether.
Buprenorphine, brand names Subutex and Sublocade, is an opioid partial agonist used to treat opioid dependency and addiction. It works by producing low-grade euphoric effects that reduce cravings and alleviate withdrawal symptoms. As a weaker narcotic, buprenorphine allows people with opioid use disorders to reduce their use, take safer doses, and taper off of opioids entirely. However, this medication is a controlled substance due to its potential for abuse, so it is important it take it exactly as directed by the doctor.
Methadone, brand names Diskets, Methadone Intensol, and Methadose, is a long-acting opioid agonist used to treat opioid dependency and addiction. It works by reducing or blocking the effects of opioids to minimize the impact of withdrawal symptoms and cravings. As a controlled narcotic, methadone clinics offer people with opioid use disorders the ability to take safer doses, lessen their use, or stop taking opioids altogether. Due to its potential for abuse, it is vital to take Methadone as directed.
Royal Life Centers at Spokane Heights provides Suboxone (buprenorphine and naloxone), an FDA-approved medication for opioid use disorders (OUD). Our MAT services aid guests in transitioning from detox to the residential inpatient portion of treatment by offering Suboxone for opioid addiction treatment. This medication effectively reduces cravings and alleviates withdrawal symptoms which allows for a smoother path to recovery.
Counseling in Medication-Assisted Treatment
Addiction counseling services are a vital part of MAT and treatment in general. Drug addiction counseling plays a vital role in helping individuals confront their triggers and delve into their substance abuse history. At Royal Life Centers, we provide a range of counseling services, including individual, group, and family therapy sessions. As a part of our holistic approach to addiction treatment, our counseling sessions address the mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects of recovery, while also equipping our guests for life beyond treatment.
Behavioral Therapy Sessions
Behavioral therapy is a widely used treatment for substance use disorders, recognizing the intricate link between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. During behavioral therapy, guests learn more about their triggers and how to address deep wounds that contribute to addiction. By unpacking their pain, they can begin to dismantle negative thought and behavior patterns while simultaneously cultivating new, healthier coping strategies.
In MAT programs, behavioral therapy plays a crucial role as it addresses the profound impact of addiction and the underlying causes of drug and alcohol abuse. This therapeutic approach is an invaluable asset to comprehensive treatment for substance abuse, extending its benefits far beyond medication alone. Not only can behavioral therapy help those in recovery from addiction, but it is also a highly recommended treatment for a wide range of mental disorders and behavioral issues.
Frequently Asked Questions About MAT
To foster a deeper comprehension of medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and its role in addiction recovery, we have curated a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions. Learning about MAT can provide you with a better understanding of how it can be a beneficial tool in the treatment of addiction.
What is MAT?
MAT, short for medication-assisted treatment, encompasses the utilization of FDA-approved medications as a crucial component of a comprehensive treatment approach, alongside counseling and behavioral therapy.
Throughout MAT, competent and licensed medical professionals offer round-the-clock supervision, ensuring the administration of safe and effective medications. The decision to recommend MAT treatment is undertaken on a personalized basis, taking into account each individual’s distinct circumstances.
What are the phases of MAT?
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) consists of three phases: Induction, Stabilization, and Maintenance.
- Induction marks the initial 1-3 days of treatment, encompassing the administration of the first addiction medication dosage and addressing early withdrawal symptoms.
- Stabilization encompasses the continuation of medication, dosage adjustments when necessary, and completion of the withdrawal phase.
- Maintenance may span from a month up to several years and involves ongoing engagement in behavioral therapy and rehabilitation programs to sustain recovery.
Throughout the three phases of MAT, medical professionals gradually taper the medication dosage in collaboration with the person’s wishes. Depending on the severity of an individual’s addiction, MAT services can continue indefinitely.
What is the success rate of MAT?
MAT has proven to be immensely effective, as evidenced by a multitude of success indicators. Research shows that access to MAT services has resulted in a remarkable 50% reduction in substance abuse-related fatalities. Additionally, MAT produces higher rates of sustained abstinence among individuals who have completed treatment. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) endorses MAT, emphasizing its pivotal role in reducing the risk of relapse and combating the prevailing opioid crisis.
Is medication-assisted treatment safe?
When receiving medication-assisted treatment (MAT) from licensed and trained medical professionals, it is crucial to ensure both safety and effectiveness in addressing alcohol and opioid dependence.
During MAT, it is vital that you follow your doctor’s instructions. Many prescription medications require you to take them at the same time each day and not to skip doses, so it is essential to pay close attention to the details of your treatment plan.
Certain drugs can negatively interact with MAT medications, so it is equally important that you communicate openly with your healthcare provider about any other medications you may be taking. Additionally, being aware of potential interactions between medications and specific foods, beverages, or supplements is equally important to avoid undesirable side effects.
Similarly, before initiating any medication, it is essential to inform your healthcare provider of any existing medical conditions, pregnancy, or breastfeeding. By providing an accurate medical history, you can help to ensure that appropriate measures are taken to prevent harm in these circumstances.
While undergoing medication-assisted treatment, your treatment team stands ready to provide valuable advice and guidance on effectively managing any potential risks associated with your medication.
Buprenorphine FAQ
What is buprenorphine used for?
Buprenorphine, a prescription medication, is an effective treatment for opioid use disorder. It can be administered orally or via injections. At Royal Life Centers, we utilize buprenorphine as an early medical taper during medical detoxification to alleviate withdrawal symptoms. It serves as both a taper in the initial detox stage and a maintenance medication for the long term.
Is buprenorphine an opioid or opiate?
Buprenorphine is a synthetic man-made opioid. Conversely, opiates are all-natural opioids made from the opium poppy plant, like heroin or morphine.
What kind of narcotic is buprenorphine?
Buprenorphine is a schedule III narcotic analgesic under the Controlled Substance Act. Due to the drugs potential risk of abuse, use of the drug is highly monitored and managed. With that said, buprenorphine is safe for prescription usage with an MAT program for opioid dependency.
Is buprenorphine the same as Suboxone?
No, Suboxone is a brand-name injectable medication made of buprenorphine and naloxone.
Sublocade FAQ
What is Sublocade used for?
Sublocade is an injectable formulation of buprenorphine that is administered as part of medication-assisted treatment (MAT) programs. Individuals undergoing opioid addiction treatment have the option to transition to Sublocade after at least seven days of oral buprenorphine use. This treatment proves highly effective for opioid use disorder (OUD), effectively alleviating cravings associated with withdrawal symptoms.
How long do Sublocade shots last?
Sublocade is a long-lasting injection that is placed under the skin, gradually releasing into the body over approximately 28 days. Consequently, people must wait a minimum of 26 days between Sublocade doses to avoid the risk of overdose.
Is Sublocade a narcotic?
Yes, Sublocade (buprenorphine) is a Schedule III narcotic under the Controlled Substance Act.
Is Sublocade addicting?
Sublocade contains the active ingredient buprenorphine, making it susceptible to misuse and potential addiction. Consequently, it is classified as a controlled substance that can only be prescribed by certified medical professionals for treatment purposes.
Naltrexone FAQ
What is a naltrexone used for?
Naltrexone is an FDA-approved treatment for both alcohol and opioid dependency. It can be injected for AUD and OUD treatment or ingested in pill form for AUD treatment. Naltrexone reduces cravings and blocks opioid receptors in the brain so that substance abuse doesn’t produce a sense of euphoria. For this reason, naltrexone is an effective treatment for OUD.
What does taking naltrexone feel like?
Naltrexone generates mood-stabilizing effects by eliminating the euphoria commonly associated with drugs and alcohol. Additionally, it diminishes cravings and withdrawal symptoms. It’s important to note that while adjusting to the medication, certain individuals may encounter side effects such as headaches, reduced appetite, or insomnia. Nonetheless, the benefits of naltrexone in promoting sobriety outweigh these temporary discomforts.
What are the side effects of naltrexone?
Naltrexone, like any medication, may have side effects. Mild effects could include drowsiness, headaches, nausea, dizziness, dry mouth, decreased appetite, and sleep issues. On the other hand, moderate to severe symptoms may involve pain, swelling, rashes, or liver damage. During medication-assisted treatment (MAT), it’s crucial for individuals to closely monitor their body’s response to naltrexone. By promptly reporting any changes in symptoms or side effects to their doctor or healthcare provider, they can collaborate on adjusting the dosage if needed. Moreover, it’s vital to strictly follow the doctor’s instructions when using naltrexone for MAT, as misuse or unsupervised intake can pose serious risks.
Is naltrexone an antidepressant?
While not classified as an antidepressant, naltrexone can potentially enhance brain function when used in conjunction with other medications. Notably, preliminary research suggests that even in low doses, naltrexone may offer therapeutic benefits in alleviating symptoms of depression.
Vivitrol FAQ
What is Vivitrol?
Vivitrol is a name-brand prescription containing injectable naltrexone. Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist, meaning that the medication blocks the euphoric effects of opioids.
What is Vivitrol used for?
Vivitrol is an FDA-approved injectable medication commonly used in medication-assisted treatment programs for alcohol and opioid use disorders. Vivitrol contains naltrexone, an opioid antagonist, which assists in reducing cravings and managing withdrawal symptoms.
By blocking opioid receptors in the brain, Vivitrol injections can also reduce the risk of relapse and overdose. In general, Vivitrol is a safe and effective way to manage opioid and alcohol addiction without risking an increase in tolerance levels or physical dependence.
Who qualifies for Vivitrol?
Vivitrol has to be prescribed by a medical practitioner. Trained clinicians can prescribe and administer Vivitrol injections as an effective treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD) and opioid use disorder (OUD).
To qualify for medication-assisted treatment with Vivitrol, people should be in recovery and are no longer actively abusing substances. This means they have detoxed from alcohol and drugs for at least seven to ten days before the first injection. People may not qualify if they are pregnant, have any other health conditions, or cannot commit to weekly follow-up visits with a doctor.
Is Vivitrol the same as Suboxone?
No, Suboxone and Vivitrol are separate addiction medications with different active ingredients. Vivitrol contains extended-release naloxone, whereas Suboxone contains both naloxone and buprenorphine. Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist that can curb the severity of opioid withdrawal symptoms.
Is Vivitrol the same as Narcan?
No, Vivitrol and Narcan don’t contain the same active ingredient and are separate medications. Vivitrol is the extended-release brand-name version of naltrexone, a medication that blocks the euphoric effects of opioids. Alternatively, Narcan nasal spray is the brand-name version of naloxone, a life-saving treatment that reverses the effects of an opioid overdose.
What happens if you drink on Vivitrol?
Drinking alcohol while on Vivitrol carries a high risk of developing severe reactions, including nausea, vomiting, sweating, breathing difficulties, and low blood pressure. This is because Vivitrol can trigger the onset of sudden withdrawal if a person is still actively drinking alcohol or has yet to fully detox from alcohol.
What happens if you take opioids while on Vivitrol?
In general, naltrexone in Vivitrol blocks the effects of opioids, which means taking an opioid while on Vivitrol will not produce the desired effect. However, taking opioids while on Vivitrol can also trigger the onset of sudden opioid withdrawal. Likewise, this dangerous combination can have serious consequences, including extreme drowsiness and slowed breathing.
Combining these two drugs can lead to a dangerous and potentially deadly overdose. This is because people often take a higher dose of opioids in a misguided attempt to get high while Vivitrol is still in their system. In addition, taking opioids while on Vivitrol may also increase the risk of seizure, overdose, and death due to respiratory depression.
Suboxone FAQ
What does Suboxone do?
Suboxone is a name-brand prescription containing buprenorphine and naloxone. It’s used for the treatment of OUD by reducing withdrawal symptoms.
Suboxone is a prescription medication that combines buprenorphine and naloxone. It is specifically designed to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and aid in the treatment of opioid use disorder (OUD). It is important to note that Suboxone can be introduced as part of on MAT program after detoxification but not during because it contains naloxone.
Is Suboxone a controlled narcotic?
Yes, Suboxone is a controlled narcotic that can only be specially prescribed due to the potentional risk of abuse.
Is Suboxone the same as methadone?
No, Suboxone is not the same thing as methadone. Methadone, a long-acting full opioid agonist, is a separate medication used in the treatment of opioid dependence. On the other hand, Suboxone is a partial agonist opioid, containing both buprenorphine and naloxone.
Methadone FAQ
What is the main use of methadone?
Methadone, or methadone levo-alpha-acetylmethadol (LAAM), is an FDA-approved medical treatment for OUD. It blocks the euphoric effect of opioids and helps reduce withdrawal symptoms. Since the 1940s, this medication had been proven effective in the treatment of opioid addiction.
Does methadone harm you?
Methadone should be medically prescribed and monitored to prevent harmful withdrawal symptoms. Some side effects of withdrawing from methadone are confusion, high blood pressure, poor appetite, hot and cold temperature flashes, and muscle aches. With that in mind, methadone is still an effective treatment for OUD.
Why do people stay on methadone?
Methadone works well as a long-term medical treatment. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) recommends that people use it for at least 6 months and possibly longer. People who stay on methadone do so at the recommendation of their doctor because of its successful effect on their treatment and recovery.
If you have any questions about medications offered during MAT with Royal Life Centers at Spokane Heights or would like to know more about our inpatient treatment services, call us at 888-907-0898.
Who Can Benefit From Medication-Assisted Treatment?
MAT is an evidence-based treatment program that has changed the lives of countless individuals battling substance use disorders. By combining medication assistance with counseling and behavioral therapies, people seeking treatment for OUD and AUD often benefit from MAT. Proven benefits of MAT include:
- Improving the addiction survival rate
- Increasing employment success after treatment
- Increasing participation in treatment
- Decreasing illicit opioid use
- Reducing criminal behavior in people with substance use disorders
- Improve birth outcomes for pregnant women with substance use disorders
There is an immense amount of evidence that shows medication-assisted treatment can create better recovery outcomes, including greater treatment success and long-term recovery. Participating in MAT programs significantly increases the likelihood of attaining enduring sobriety. This comes as no surprise, as individuals engage in holistic healing practices that enhance their self-esteem, impart valuable life skills, and equip them with effective relapse prevention strategies. For this reason, MAT is a highly beneficial addiction treatment for those struggling with opioid or alcohol addiction.
MAT Services at Royal Life Centers
Royal Life Centers at Spokane Heights takes a person-centered approach and individualizes each guest’s experience, so MAT is just one of many aspects of care that can be included in the comprehensive treatment program. Our dedicated team of licensed physicians, nurses, counselors, and support staff are here to help you find lasting sobriety through evidence-based practices and holistic care including:
- Nutritional guidance
- 12-step and 12-step alternative meetings
- Addiction and mental health education
The team at Spokane Heights prioritizes the responsible use of medication, paired with behavioral and holistic therapies due to the numerous advantages. By integrating these three components of MAT treatments, we empower our guests to develop healthy coping techniques, create relapse prevention plans, acquire life skills, and access other valuable resources.
Everything we do is driven by our commitment to supporting guests in their journey towards sustained recovery. This comprehensive approach is an effective way to help you maintain your sobriety and enhance your overall well-being following treatment for drug and alcohol addiction at Royal Life Centers.
What To Expect During MAT at Royal Life Centers
At Royal Life Centers at Spokane Heights, we believe in providing comprehensive and holistic treatment to our guests. As part of this approach, we carefully consider the inclusion of Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) on a case-by-case basis, recognizing it as just one facet of our whole-body healing philosophy.
We understand that true healing involves addressing the mind, body, and spirit, and our multimodal treatment plans reflect this understanding. By combining medication and behavioral therapies, we strive to offer the most promising path to total recovery for our guests.
Before embarking on detox treatment, our knowledgeable staff will work closely with you to identify the underlying factors contributing to substance abuse. Together, we will develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. During this collaborative process, guests who are eligible for MAT will have the opportunity to discuss its potential inclusion in their treatment plan.
Rest assured, guests who choose medication-assisted treatment at our facility will receive round-the-clock medical care and unwavering support from our dedicated MAT providers. Your well-being is our top priority, and we are committed to guiding you towards a successful and lasting recovery.
Our Medication-Assisted Treatment Services for
Opioid Use Disorder (OUD)
Our medical professionals are certified to prescribe medications as part of MAT for opioid addiction. We provide FDA-approved buprenorphine/naltrexone prescriptions because the medication aids in reducing cravings and diminishing opioids’ effects with the lowest potential risk for abuse. Our MAT staff works with guests every step of their journey to make adjustments to their OUD treatment plan, including weaning them off their medication dosage when the time comes.
Our Medication-Assisted Treatment Services for Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)
Our doctors are licensed to prescribe medication for the treatment of alcohol addiction. We use the FDA-approved medications naltrexone, acamprosate, disulfiram, and naltrexone. Our medications assist guests undergoing alcohol detox and residential treatment by lessening withdrawal symptoms, blocking receptors that receive pleasure from alcohol, reducing cravings, and, overall, lowering relapse rates. Our MAT programs for AUD are in place for guests’ long-term success.
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MAT Programs Near Me
We offer a comprehensive range of substance abuse treatment options, with centers conveniently located in Washington and Arizona.
Our Washington centers provide a full continuum of care, catering to guests’ diverse needs. From medical detoxification to inpatient treatment, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and outpatient treatment, we ensure individuals receive the necessary support.
In Washington State, we provide medication-assisted treatment and continuing care services at the following locations:
- Royal Life Centers at Spokane Heights is our detox and inpatient treatment center in Spokane, Washington.
- Royal Life Centers at Cascade Heights is our aftercare and outpatient treatment center in Mead, Washington.
- Royal Life Centers at The Haven is our detoxification and inpatient treatment center in Lacey, Washington.
- Royal Life Centers at Sound Recovery is our aftercare and outpatient treatment center in Lacey, Washington.
- Royal Life Centers at Puget Sound is our detox and residential inpatient treatment center in Sumner, Washington.
Our Arizona facilities also provide a wide range of addiction treatment services to empower our guests on their journey to recovery. Beginning with medically-assisted detoxification, guests can seamlessly progress through residential inpatient treatment, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient programs.
At our Arizona rehabs, we offer medication-assisted treatment and ongoing care services, ensuring comprehensive support for our guests at the following locations:
At Royal Life Centers, our dedicated treatment centers are here to provide compassionate care and guidance for individuals fighting substance abuse. Our utmost desire is for you to experience our facilities as a haven of recovery, learning, and healing, empowering you to conquer your substance use disorder and embrace a healthy, fulfilling life of sobriety.
Our team of admission specialists is available 24/7, ready to assist you. Simply call us at 888-907-0898 to begin your journey toward healing. Alternatively, you can also utilize our secure contact form to provide information about yourself or a loved one, and we will promptly reach out to you. If you’re ready to embark on your path to recovery, don’t hesitate to reach out to us today.
Adjunctive Pharmacotherapy in the Treatment of Alcohol and Drug Dependence – ScienceDirect
Buprenorphine – Drug Enforcement Administration
Medication Assisted Treatment Program – University of Colorado School of Medicine
Medications, Counseling, and Related Conditions – SAMHSA
Medications for Substance Use Disorders – SAMHSA
Acamprosate: A prototypic neuromodulator in the treatment of alcohol dependence – PMC
Disulfiram – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
Looking for MAT Services?
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, please reach out to us to find out more about how our MAT services can help. We work with most private insurance policies and we have affordable self-pay rates if you do not have insurance. Give us a call and we will figure out the best treatment plan for you or your loved one. Because We Care.
Would you like more information?
If you or someone you know has a substance use disorder,
we hope you’ll begin your journey with us at Royal Life Centers.
