Combining MAT with psychotherapy, education and medication, MAT is a proven treatment for people who struggle with substance abuse.

Specifically, MAT is used to treat opioid use disorder. However, it can also help individuals suffering from alcoholism. When someone participates in MAT, certain medications are administered to them so that their brains function normally again. These medications prevent the release of dopamine into the brain, meaning that if someone were to consume substances while under the influence of these drugs, they wouldn’t experience the same feelings of pleasure that they do when consuming substances.

Withdrawal symptoms include anxiety, restlessness, insomnia, irritability, muscle aches, tremors, sweating, diarrhea, vomiting, headaches, seizures, hallucinations, and suicidal thoughts. These symptoms may last anywhere from hours to days after detoxification. Treatment for addiction includes medication management, counseling, group therapy, family support, and 12 step groups. Medications used during treatment include suboxone, buprenorphine, naltrexone, and extended release injectable naltrexone.

Substance abuse is an epidemic that affects millions of people worldwide. With the help of medication assisted therapy (MAT), patients can overcome addiction without having to go through the painful withdrawal process. When used alongside counseling and behavioral therapies, MAT can reduce the chances of relapse drastically.