Addiction affects everyone differently. That’s why those seeking treatment have a variety of options from which to choose, depending on their individual circumstances. One of those options, medication assisted treatment (MAT) has proven to be an effective tool to fight addiction throughout the recovery process.
MAT has proven to be more effective in helping some patients adhere to their recovery process and reduce chemical abuse compared to other non-medicated approaches.
What is Medication Assisted Treatment?
Medication assisted treatment combines behavioral therapy and medications to treat chemical addiction.
MAT helps:
- Improve patient survival
- Increase treatment retention
- Decrease drug use and other criminal activity
- Decrease withdrawal symptoms
- Prevent relapses
- Increase patients’ ability to gain and maintain employment
Who Should Seek a MAT Program?
A good candidate for medication-assisted treatment is someone who has tried other treatment programs but has not been able to sustain their recovery. Some may have unusually intense cravings for their drug and may not have the family or community support necessary to remain sober.
“With some patients, the brain chemistry is such that an abstinence approach just isn’t successful because the physical addiction is so strong,” says Core Recovery Founder Jillian Vanselow. “When a patient has tried other recovery options a number of times and is chronically relapsing, it’s just not productive to try the same approach again and expect a different outcome. That’s when a MAT program may be a better option.”
How Our Program Works
Our MAT program uses FDA-approved medicines in combination with individual and group substance abuse counseling, as well as family counseling.
While the program focuses on the individual’s needs, it also creates a caring foundation and system of support from staff, peers, friends, and family to help patients achieve their lifelong goals of recovery.
Our treatment program uses the following FDA approved drugs:
- Vivitrol: Vivitrol blocks opioid receptors for one month at a time. Patients must be opioid-free before starting this medication.
- Suboxone: Suboxone contains the ingredients buprenorphine and naloxone. Buprenorphine blocks the opiate receptors and reduces a person’s urges. The second ingredient, naloxone, helps reverse the effects of opioids.
Our MAT program has been effective in reducing:
- Compulsive behaviors
- Excessive substance use
- Constant cravings
- Many other addiction symptoms
If you have questions about whether a MAT program is right for you or a loved one, please give us a call. This is not a battle you should fight alone. We’re here to help.
In CA By O360®