What is Medication Assisted Treatment?
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT), also referred to as pharmacotherapy or medication-assisted recovery, is the use of FDA-approved medications as part of treating substance use disorders with the understanding that medications are most effective when used in combination with psychosocial therapies. MAT is commonly used to treat opioid use disorders where substantial evidence supports the efficacy of medications in treatment. However, medications are also used in the treatment of alcohol use disorder and other types of addictions.
The comprehensive approach of the program is designed to:
- Ease withdrawal symptoms
- Reduce psychological cravings
- Normalize body functions and brain chemistry
- Increase treatment retention rates
- Improve psychosocial functioning
- Block euphoric effects
- Increase patient safety
- Improve quality of life
Medications Commonly Prescribed During MAT Programs
Several different medications can be used in a medication-assisted treatment program depending on the type of substance use disorder being treated, the individual’s medical needs, and other factors. Medications most commonly prescribed during MAT programs are buprenorphine (Suboxone®), methadone, naltrexone, acamprosate, and disulfiram. Each medication has its unique characteristics and purpose in substance use disorder treatment and should be tailored to meet each patient’s individual needs.
- Buprenorphine: A partial opioid agonist that can be prescribed in different formulations (sublingual tablets, films, or injections), also used for opioid addiction.
- Methadone: A long-acting opioid agonist that helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, primarily used for opioid addiction.
- Naltrexone: An opioid antagonist that blocks the effects of opioids, reducing cravings and preventing relapse, used for both opioid and alcohol addiction.
- Acamprosate: Another treatment option for alcohol addiction that helps reduce cravings and support abstinence.
- Disulfiram: A medication used specifically for alcohol addiction, which creates an unpleasant reaction when alcohol is consumed.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use disorder and would like to learn more about our programs, contact our addiction treatment center in Massachusetts by calling (781) 622-9190.
Does Medication-Assisted Treatment Replace One Drug With Another?
Characterizing medication-assisted treatment (MAT) as merely replacing one drug with another is stigmatizing and misleading. There are crucial distinctions between substances used for recreational purposes and medications prescribed and monitored by healthcare professionals to support recovery. Medications like buprenorphine/naloxone or naltrexone, when administered under medical supervision, can assist with detoxification, facilitate treatment engagement, promote long-term recovery, and save lives.
At Woburn Addiction Treatment, we enhance the effectiveness of medications by complementing them with comprehensive, evidence-based psychosocial therapies and peer support. We aim to support patients in their journey from clinical management of their addiction to community-supported self-management of their recovery. If patients adhere to their prescribed medication regimen and abstain from other substances, they are considered to be in recovery. However, we also respect the individual’s autonomy and support their decision if, at any point, they choose to discontinue medication use safely. We acknowledge that medications are beneficial for many individuals, but we also recognize that long-term recovery is achievable without them in certain cases. The decision-making process regarding medication use is collaborative and involves active participation from the patient and their care team.
Current research does not provide definitive guidelines on which individuals require medication for opioid use disorder and which do not. Therefore, due to the higher risk of overdose deaths associated with the disorder, we typically recommend medications to the majority of our patients with opioid use disorder. Furthermore, we generally advise long-term use of these medications, especially until the patient achieves a stable and robust recovery. Nevertheless, we acknowledge that the choice to use medications ultimately lies with the individual, and we are committed to providing addiction treatment services with or without the use of these life-saving medications.
Find Your Path to Lasting Recovery
Woburn Addiction Treatment is a Massachusetts state-licensed rehab center and leader in addiction treatment with proven success in facilitating long-term recovery. Our team of top medical experts provides individualized, integrated substance use and mental health care that maximizes clinical care and education. Call us – we’re available 24/day, 7 days/week.
How Effective Is Your Medication-Assisted Treatment Approach?
Our treatment center in Massachusetts has developed a comprehensive approach to medication-assisted treatment (MAT) that combines the use of medications, evidence-based psychosocial therapies, and peer support. Patients are engaged in care for extended periods, with decreasing levels of intensity, while receiving substance-specific education and participating in group therapy.
At Woburn Addiction Treatment, the treatment approach for substance use disorder encompasses a holistic view of recovery, addressing mental, emotional, and spiritual health. The program integrates science-based assessments, medication-assisted treatment, evidence-based practices, and ongoing recovery support. Our multidisciplinary team, including mental health professionals, addiction counselors, and medical professionals, collaborates to address co-occurring mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and other related conditions. The goal is to provide integrated care that promotes healing of the body, mind, and spirit.
The Psychosocial Aspects of MAT Program Massachusetts
The psychosocial aspects of a medication-assisted treatment program vary depending on the individual’s needs, clinical severity, and the type of provider administering the services, whether it’s an addiction treatment provider or a primary care doctor. It is crucial for these approaches to be evidence-based to maximize their benefits. The term “evidence-based” can be misunderstood. It refers to practices that have undergone rigorous scientific studies conducted by researchers. These studies compare the effects of the practice of interest, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, by measuring outcomes in a group of patients who receive the intervention compared to a group who do not. When an intervention consistently shows positive impacts across various studies involving different patient groups, it qualifies as evidence-based.
Therapies commonly used for treating substance use disorders focus on enhancing patient motivation to change their substance use behaviors, helping them identify and correct inaccuracies in how they process information about their environment, deepening their understanding of spirituality, and emphasizing the importance of twelve-step meeting attendance as a means of supporting recovery.
Below is a brief overview of some commonly used evidence-based approaches that can be incorporated into a medication-assisted treatment program for treating substance use disorders:
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Teaching clients to proactively identify potential challenges and risks that may lead to relapse and how to effectively address them; recognizing and correcting distorted thinking patterns; enhancing self-control through the utilization of coping strategies
Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET)
Addressing any obstacles that may hinder the client’s motivation to change maladaptive behaviors; prompting rapid and internally motivated change; emphasizing empathic communication
Twelve-Step Facilitation (TSF)
Facilitating participation in twelve-step groups such as AA and NA to promote abstinence; introducing the idea of acceptance, letting go to a higher power, and acknowledging the importance of helping others
Community Reinforcement Approach (CRA)
Promoting abstinence by increasing positive reinforcement; introducing new coping mechanisms for risky situations; concentrating on involving loved ones in the recovery process
Contingency Management
Based on the principles of learning theory, this approach entails utilizing non-drug-related rewards to promote and enhance abstinence
Overcome Substance Abuse With Medication Assisted Treatment Programs (MAT) Massachusetts
According to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics, opioids are responsible for nearly 7/10 overdose deaths each year in the United States. If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction to heroin, fentanyl, oxycodone, or other opioids, prescription pain relievers, or substances, don’t wait — seek help now. Our addiction treatment center is ready to provide you with the care and support you need to begin the recovery journey.
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) Massachusetts for Opioid Use Disorder
Experiencing opioid withdrawal can be compared to having a severe case of the flu. Withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, body aches, fever, and fatigue are common during withdrawal. Additionally, anxiety, depression, restlessness, and irritability often accompany these physical symptoms. Unfortunately, treatment drop-out rates are high, and if individuals struggling with an opioid use disorder relapse, overdosing is likely—and can be fatal.
At Woburn Addiction Treatment, we understand the urgency of ensuring individuals dependent on opioids remain in opioid treatment programs. The utilization of medication-assisted treatment (MAT) has been proven effective in prolonging treatment duration and facilitating patient engagement in the program.
The decision to employ MAT program in Massachusetts is made on a case-by-case basis by our multidisciplinary team of clinicians who thoroughly assess each patient’s needs. For some patients, it may be determined as clinically appropriate to administer medication to alleviate withdrawal symptoms from opioids. Other patients may require extended-release medications to suppress cravings, enhance their involvement in treatment and recovery, and reduce the risk of relapse. In certain cases, the interdisciplinary care team may recommend long-term MAT to assist patients in establishing a robust post-treatment recovery program.
It is important to note that at Woburn Addiction Treatment, medications are used solely as supplementary measures and never as substitutes for twelve-step programs and evidence-based addiction treatment. Ongoing recovery management, which includes continuing care, education, and accountability, is particularly crucial for individuals in recovery from opioid addiction due to the heightened risk of accidental overdose during relapse.
Clinicians at our treatment facilities have observed promising trends in the use of MAT program in Massachusetts for opioid use disorder treatment and other substance abuse issues. More patients remain in opioid addiction treatment for extended periods, enabling greater participation in other evidence-based therapies and techniques. National studies consistently demonstrate that the longer patients stay engaged in treatment, the more favorable their outcomes and recovery rates become.
Who Can Provide Medication-Assisted Treatment for Opioid Addiction?
When it comes to providing medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid addiction, buprenorphine/naloxone and naltrexone treatment offer more convenience compared to methadone, as they can be prescribed by qualified physicians and nurse practitioners in various forms of healthcare settings such as doctor’s offices, community hospitals, primary care settings or health departments. This accessibility makes them convenient options for patients seeking treatment.
It’s important to note that these medications should always be prescribed as part of a comprehensive substance use disorder treatment plan for substance use disorder. By integrating them into a comprehensive approach, healthcare professionals can maximize the effectiveness of MAT and support individuals on their path to recovery.
Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) Program Massachusetts: Start Drug and Alcohol Treatment Now
We are committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate medication-assisted treatment programs coupled with evidence-based psychosocial therapy and counseling to successfully treat substance use disorders. Our clinicians understand the complex dynamics of being dependent on alcohol, opioids, and other substances and are dedicated to providing our clients with the personalized services they need to overcome it.
Our addiction treatment center and MAT program in Massachusetts accepts most insurance plans and is ready to collaborate directly with your insurance provider, aiding you in understanding and maximizing your coverage to minimize out-of-pocket expenses. Simply fill out our insurance verification form for a free benefits check. If you do not have insurance, we are here to assist you in exploring the available options for you or your loved one. Our ultimate objective is to expand access to care, ensuring that anyone needing addiction treatment can receive the necessary therapy and support.
With the appropriate care, you or your loved one can navigate the challenges of dependence and pave the way for lifelong recovery. Simply call Woburn Addiction Treatment at (781) 622-9190 to learn more about our MAT program in Massachusetts.
