Drug and alcohol addiction oftenleads to dependence, a condition that makes it nearly impossible for a person to stop using substances on their own. Breaking free from physical dependence can be challenging, even with the support of an addiction treatment center. Withdrawal symptoms and cravings can be major factors for those who return to use after a period of sobriety, but medication-assisted treatment can help.
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) involves the use of FDA-approved medications to treat withdrawal symptoms for those working to overcome opioid use disorder or alcohol use disorder. These medications can make it easier for clients to focus on therapy and other addiction treatment services. MAT is not a cure for addiction, but it’s an incredibly helpful tool for many of those on the road to recovery.
Looking for effective addiction treatment services or searching for “medication-assisted treatment near me”? Call 216.435.1110 today to learn more about how our MAT program can help.
Understanding Medication-Assisted Treatment
When a person uses drugs or alcohol for a long period of time or in large amounts, these substances change the brain’s chemistry. When present, they activate the opioid receptors in the brain, creating the euphoric high that many people seek out. As that happens, the brain, which is wired to seek out pleasurable experiences, wants to keep feeling that high. As a result, the brain learns to continuously turn to these substances, encouraging a person to keep using them. MAT is a way to stop that process.
At Superior Behavioral Health, we use two different medications as part of our MAT program: Suboxone and Vivitrol.
Suboxone is an opioid agonist-antagonist medication, meaning it binds to the same receptors that other opioids would but with a much weaker effect. This can help people in early recovery manage their physical cravings while they focus on their treatment and work toward long-term sobriety.
Vivitrol is an extended-release form of naltrexone, an opioid antagonist. This medication blocks the effects of both opioids and alcohol, reducing cravings for these substances and making it easier to stay on track with recovery. Vivitrol is administered as a single monthly injection, making it much easier to keep up with than orally-administered medications.
The Myths and Facts of MAT
There can be stigma and misinformation associated with medication-assisted treatment. People may view it as substituting one drug for another and not addressing the underlying issues of addiction. However, that’s simply not true. MAT is an important part of a comprehensive addiction treatment program, and when combined with therapy and other services can be an incredibly effective tool for many people.
The truth is that MAT can help people in recovery by:
- Reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms
- Making it easier to focus on other treatments, like therapy
- Decreasing the risk of relapse
- Helping to balance brain chemistry
- Supporting a person’s journey toward long-term recovery
By addressing physical dependence, MAT can help people gain the clarity and focus they need to work on their recovery journey.
Invest in Your Future by Calling Superior Behavioral Health Today
No matter what your goals are in addiction recovery, we are here to help. Our team is committed to providing compassionate and evidence-based care to enable you to meet your goals. MAT is just one component of our full range of therapy and counseling services, which can help clients build a foundation for lasting recovery.
Call 216.435.1110 today or reach out online to learn more about our medication-assisted treatment services and discover how we can help you take the first step on your path to recovery. We’re here to help you get started and support you every step of the way.
