Medically Reviewed By: Dr. Demeatraus Minter
Substance use disorders (SUD) are on the rise worldwide, and the pandemic has magnified the importance of providing treatment that works. MAT (Medication Assisted Treatment) is one of the evidence-based treatments with an elevated level of success in helping people to maintain their sobriety and recovery. We know there are many substances abused in our society, but the two most common substance people seek treatment for are alcohol and opioids. Alcohol and drug addiction are chronic illnesses that negatively impact your body and mind. You become physically dependent on drugs or alcohol, making it difficult to quit on your own. Fortunately, MAT is available to help people in their recovery journey.
It is important to note the first step to overcoming any substance use disorder (SUD) is admitting there is a problem. People shy away from getting the help they need due to fear of judgment from family, friends, and society. This is how substance use often ends with substance abuse and addiction.
Substance use affects all aspects of a person’s life, particularly when it leads to dependence, and then fear of judgment may keep them silent until their life becomes unmanageable. September is a month to highlight that there is help available.
What Does MAT Stand For?
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is the use of medications, in combination with counseling and behavioral therapies, to provide a “whole-patient” approach to the treatment of substance use disorders. It allows the use of medication and behavioral health to work hand in hand towards a common goal. Overall, this treatment helps these individuals sustain their recovery.
It is also beneficial to note the impact MAT has on improving other areas of a person’s life. MAT is a whole-person care treatment option because it impacts health outcomes, social and mental well-being, and other life factors. Individuals receiving MAT experience less criminal activity and an increased ability to gain and maintain employment and finances. Research also supports a decreased likelihood of contracting bloodborne infections such as HIV and hepatitis C.
Finding the
Perfect
Treatment
There are 3 FDA-approved medications. When it comes to finding the perfect treatment, it depends on which 2 areas of substance abuse the individual is coming from and the assessment of behavioral health professionals. Remember when we said that substance abuse does not only include drug use? This is where that comes in. Drugs/Opioids and alcohol are the areas MAT focuses on and helps to treat.
These medications deal with withdrawal symptoms and cravings that eventually cause a chemical imbalance in the individual’s body. Those going through alcohol withdrawal take a particular medication in addition to counseling sessions and behavioral therapies. This is the same for those going through opioid withdrawals except with different medications.
In the case of opioids, individuals can be divided into two categories: opioid dependency and opioid overdose. Finding the perfect treatment depends on the journey the individual is going through. Additionally, their doctor must prescribe them the ideal treatment, which includes the proper medication and therapy.
Which Medications Are Available?
The medications available are in three categories, opioid dependency, opioid overdose, and alcohol use disorder. There are up to 3 different medications for each category, and they must be prescribed by their physicians.
Opioid Dependency
Buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone are the three medications that can be used for short-acting and semi-synthetic opioids. Short-acting opioids include codeine, heroin, and morphine. Semi-synthetic opioids include oxycodone and hydrocodone. The treatment can be used for a couple of months, years, or a lifetime.
Opioid Overdose
Naloxone is a medication that is used to prevent overdose. This is considered an essential medication for the process of reversing an overdose. The treatment is taken under supervision and is fully administered by a physician.
Alcohol Use Disorder
Acamprosate, disulfiram, and naltrexone are the common medications used for treating alcohol use disorders. They have proven effective for those going through the MAT program but should not be looked at as a cure. It’s important that these medications are used within the MAT program for effectiveness.
Substance Abuse Help
Substance abuse disorders should not be dealt with alone. Getting help is the first step, and it’s important to know that it is a process. So, if you have or know anyone with a substance abuse disorder, visit your primary care physician or let them know about MAT treatment.
MAT treatment can be provided at MyCHN. We have amazing physicians, counselors, and therapists here at Community Health Network ready to work with you on this journey. Give us a call to schedule an appointment to see a provider or visit our website and schedule an appointment online.
Resources
National Center on Substance Abuse & Child Welfare: Medicated Assisted Treatment
FDA: Information about Medicated Assisted Treatment (MAT)
Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration: Medicated Assisted Treatment (MAT)
