Opiate addiction is a serious condition affecting millions of individuals, leading to devastating consequences for physical and mental health. The cycle of addiction is difficult to break due to intense cravings and withdrawal symptoms, which often lead to relapse. However, Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) has been proven to be one of the most effective, evidence-based methods for treating opioid use disorder (OUD).
At Archangel Centers, we provide comprehensive addiction treatment programs, including MAT as part of our medical detoxification program, partial hospitalization program (PHP), intensive outpatient program (IOP), outpatient program (OP), and virtual treatment program. This article explores how MAT works, its benefits, and how it fits into a holistic recovery plan.
What Is Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)?
MAT is a combination of FDA-approved medications and behavioral therapy designed to treat opioid addiction. The primary goal of MAT is to:
- Ease withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings.
- Improve long-term recovery outcomes by stabilizing brain chemistry.
- Lower the risk of relapse and overdose by blocking opioid effects.
- Allow individuals to focus on counseling, therapy, and lifestyle changes for lasting sobriety.
Unlike quitting opioids “cold turkey,” which can lead to severe withdrawal and a high relapse rate, MAT provides a safer, more controlled transition into recovery.
How Does MAT Work for Opiate Addiction?
MAT targets the same brain receptors that opioids affect but in a way that prevents the euphoric high and helps individuals function normally. The medications used in MAT fall into three categories:
1. Opioid Agonists: Methadone (Dolophine, Methadose)
How It Works:
- Methadone is a full opioid agonist, meaning it activates opioid receptors in the brain but at a controlled rate, preventing withdrawal symptoms without producing a euphoric high.
- It helps individuals stabilize their lives while focusing on therapy and recovery.
Best For:
- Those with severe opioid dependence who need long-term maintenance therapy.
- Individuals who require structured treatment at an addiction treatment center.
How It’s Administered:
- Taken daily at a licensed methadone clinic under medical supervision.
2. Partial Opioid Agonists: Buprenorphine (Suboxone, Subutex, Sublocade)
How It Works:
- Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist, meaning it binds to opioid receptors but activates them less strongly than full opioids.
- It reduces withdrawal symptoms and cravings without causing a strong high.
- Has a ceiling effect, meaning higher doses do not increase opioid effects, making it safer than full opioids.
Common Forms:
- Suboxone (buprenorphine + naloxone) – Helps prevent misuse by triggering withdrawal if injected.
- Subutex (buprenorphine only) – Used during detox.
- Sublocade – A monthly injectable form of buprenorphine for long-term treatment.
Best For:
- Individuals who want a flexible outpatient treatment program.
- Those transitioning from detox to an intensive outpatient program (IOP) or outpatient program (OP).
How It’s Administered:
- Can be taken as a film or tablet under the tongue.
- The injectable version (Sublocade) is administered monthly by a healthcare provider.
3. Opioid Antagonists: Naltrexone (Vivitrol, Revia)
How It Works:
- Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist, meaning it blocks opioid receptors entirely.
- It prevents opioids from producing a high but does not relieve withdrawal symptoms.
- Can be taken as a pill (Revia) or a once-a-month injection (Vivitrol).
Best For:
- Individuals who have already detoxed from opioids and want long-term relapse prevention.
- Those who prefer a non-addictive, opioid-free option.
How It’s Administered:
- Daily pill (Revia) or monthly injection (Vivitrol).
The Role of Behavioral Therapy in MAT
MAT is most effective when combined with behavioral therapy to address the psychological and emotional aspects of addiction. At Addiction Treatment Centers, we integrate MAT with evidence-based therapies, including:
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Helps identify and change negative thought patterns that lead to substance use.
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) – Teaches emotional regulation and coping skills.
- Group Therapy & Peer Support – Provides encouragement from others on the same recovery path.
- Family Counseling – Helps rebuild relationships affected by addiction.
Benefits of Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
1. Reduces Withdrawal Symptoms & Cravings
- Medications like buprenorphine and methadone allow individuals to function normally without experiencing the pain of withdrawal.
2. Prevents Relapse & Overdose
- MAT reduces opioid cravings and makes relapse less likely.
- Studies show that MAT can reduce opioid overdose deaths by up to 50%.
3. Improves Retention in Treatment
- Individuals using MAT are more likely to stay in treatment longer and achieve lasting recovery.
4. Supports Mental Health Stability
- Many people with opioid addiction also suffer from anxiety, depression, or PTSD.
- MAT helps stabilize mood and brain chemistry, making it easier to engage in therapy.
How to Get Started with MAT at Archangel Centers
At Archangel Centers, we offer a structured approach to Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) as part of our comprehensive addiction treatment programs.
Step 1: Initial Assessment
- A licensed medical professional evaluates opioid use history, withdrawal symptoms, and overall health.
- A personalized treatment plan is created, including MAT and therapy options.
Step 2: Medically Supervised Detox
- If needed, individuals undergo medical detoxification to manage withdrawal safely.
- Medications like buprenorphine or methadone are introduced.
Step 3: Enrollment in a Treatment Program
After detox, individuals transition into one of our treatment programs:
- Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) – Full-time, structured treatment.
- Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) – A flexible program that includes MAT and therapy.
- Outpatient Program (OP) – Provides ongoing support after intensive care.
- Virtual Treatment Program – Remote therapy and MAT management for those unable to attend in-person.
Step 4: Long-Term Recovery & Support
- Patients receive continued medical supervision, therapy, and relapse prevention strategies.
- Ongoing medication management ensures safe and effective treatment.
Conclusion
Opiate addiction is a chronic but treatable condition. Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) provides a safe, proven method to ease withdrawal symptoms, prevent relapse, and support long-term recovery.
At Archangel Centers, we offer comprehensive MAT programs, including medical detox, PHP, IOP, outpatient, and virtual treatment program. Call Archangel Centers at 888.464.2144 today to start your recovery journey with MAT and professional addiction treatment!
Frequently Asked Questions About MAT for Opiate Addiction
What is Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)?
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is an evidence-based approach that combines FDA-approved medications with behavioral therapy to treat opioid addiction. It helps reduce withdrawal symptoms, cravings, and relapse risks, making long-term recovery more achievable.
What medications are used in MAT for opiate addiction?
MAT primarily uses three medications:
- Methadone – A full opioid agonist that reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
- Buprenorphine (Suboxone, Subutex, Sublocade) – A partial opioid agonist that relieves withdrawal symptoms without causing a strong high.
- Naltrexone (Vivitrol, Revia) – An opioid antagonist that blocks opioid effects and prevents relapse.
How does MAT help with withdrawal symptoms?
MAT medications stabilize brain chemistry by targeting opioid receptors in a controlled way. This reduces nausea, muscle pain, anxiety, and cravings while preventing the dangerous effects of quitting opioids suddenly.
Can I become addicted to MAT medications like methadone or Suboxone?
No. When taken as prescribed under medical supervision, MAT medications do not cause the euphoric high associated with opioid misuse. Instead, they help restore normal brain function and support recovery.
How long does MAT treatment last?
The length of MAT varies based on individual needs. Some people use MAT for several months, while others require long-term maintenance. The decision to stop or continue is made between the patient and their doctor.
Is MAT the same as substituting one drug for another?
No. Unlike opioid misuse, MAT is a structured medical treatment that helps people regain control over their lives without experiencing addiction’s harmful effects.
