At Coastal Comprehensive Care, we care about you and are here to help you regain your life through Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) of Opioid Use Disorder (OUD).
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for Opioid Addiction
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is the use of medications in the treatment of substance use disorders. Medications used in MAT are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and MAT programs are clinically driven and tailored to meet each patient’s needs.
Research shows that medication can successfully treat these disorders, and for some people struggling with addiction, MAT can help sustain recovery. MAT is also used to prevent or reduce opioid overdose.
Learn about many of the substance use disorders that MAT is designed to address.
MAT is primarily used for the treatment of addiction to opioids, such as heroin and prescription pain relievers that contain opiates. At Coastal Comprehensive Care, we utilize Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) to address Opioid Use Disorder (OUD), focusing on opioid addiction.
Suboxone for Reducing Cravings and Withdrawal
A key medication in this process is Suboxone, which helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. It is prescribed to adults and children over 15, along with medical, social, and psychological support.
Suboxone, like other MAT medications, works by normalizing brain function, blocking the euphoric effects of opioids, and relieving physiological cravings without the harmful side effects.
MAT Supports Opioid Recovery and Improves Outcomes
In 2018, an estimated 2 million people had an opioid use disorder which includes prescription pain medication containing opiates and heroin.
MAT has proved to be clinically effective and to significantly reduce the need for inpatient detoxification services for these individuals. MAT provides a more comprehensive, individually tailored program of medication and behavioral therapy that address the needs of most patients.
The ultimate goal of MAT is full recovery, including the ability to live a self-directed life. This treatment approach has been shown to:
- Improve patient survival
- Increase retention in treatment
- Decrease illicit opiate use and other criminal activity among people with substance use disorders
- Increase patients’ ability to gain and maintain employment
- Improve birth outcomes among women who have substance use disorders and are pregnant
Research also shows that these medications and therapies can contribute to lowering a person’s risk of contracting HIV or hepatitis C by reducing the potential for relapse.
Common Questions and Answers (FAQs)
MAT is a treatment approach combining FDA-approved medications and behavioral therapy to address substance use disorders, particularly opioid addiction.
MAT has been clinically proven to improve patient survival, reduce illicit opioid use, and increase retention in treatment, supporting long-term recovery.
Suboxone is a key medication used in MAT, helping reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms in patients with opioid dependence.
Suboxone is prescribed to individuals aged 15 and older, alongside comprehensive medical, social, and psychological support.