For people out there struggling with opioid use disorder (OUD), finding help is critical. One of the most effective treatments to help people who want to stop using dangerous opioids is medication-assisted treatment (MAT). But what is MAT? With so many different types of substance abuse treatment out there, how can you know what will really work? If you have questions about MAT, it can be helpful to learn more about it.
What Is MAT? How Does It Work?
Medication-assisted treatment is a type of treatment strategy that can help people who have been using dangerous opioids transition onto safer medications while receiving therapy and counseling to treat addiction. The medications used for this kind of treatment have been proven safe and effective and can be managed as part of a long-term strategy in treating people with OUD.
Some of the drugs that might be used in MAT are:
- Buprenorphine
- Naloxone
- Methadone
Why Choose MAT?
There are many reasons that MAT has become a common approach to treating opioid use disorders. Some of these reasons are:
- Medications used for MAT can be safely managed for long periods of time, allowing clients to take as much time as they need to solidify their recovery.
- MAT can be conducted as part of a residential substance abuse treatment program and can also be made available for clients who are participating in outpatient programs.
- MAT has been shown to reduce the risk of opioid overdose in clients, making it a potentially life-saving treatment.
- Clients who participate in MAT tend to stay in treatment longer, giving them the best chance of maintaining their recovery.
- Participants in MAT also improve their chances of returning to work or school.
- Clients who are pregnant or nursing can be safely managed on MAT, reducing risks to both mother and baby.
Who is a Good Candidate for MAT?
MAT has become a very common approach to the treatment of opioid use disorder, which is, unfortunately, a major issue in our society. The main goal in MAT, as well as other forms of substance abuse treatment, is to help people get sober while also keeping them safe. Is MAT the right choice for you or your loved one? Here are some qualities of a good candidate for MAT:
- Diagnosis of opioid use disorder
- History of opioid abuse and addiction
- Previous unsuccessful attempts to quit opioids
- Pregnant or nursing while attempting to stop using opioids
- At risk of overdose or relapse
What to Expect in a MAT-based Treatment Program
In addition to receiving medications that will help you or your loved one stop using opioids, programs also have a therapy component. Medication alone is not enough. Clients also need counseling, life skills development, and strong support in order to heal and recover. During treatment, clients will attend individual therapy as well as group therapy along with other activities that support recovery. Healing takes time and the medications give clients the ability to let treatment sink in while remaining safe and free from relapse.
Lotus Recovery Centers Offers Medication-Assisted Treatment in West Virginia
Lotus Recovery Centers is dedicated to serving our clients in West Virginia and Delaware. Our programs can help, no matter what the situation. We accept many forms of insurance, including public options, so that cost doesn’t have to get in the way of your recovery.
If you or a loved one has been battling opioid use disorder, you no longer have to fight alone. Contact our caring and knowledgeable staff today at 833.922.1615 and let us walk with you on your recovery journey. The best time to seek treatment is now, so do not wait.
