It’s tough to get over an addiction, which is why many individuals have to undergo medication-assisted treatment. When standard methods of overcoming substance abuse aren’t working, medication can often help with the process. However, there are pros and cons to treating addiction through medication.

With that said, continue reading below to learn more about addiction treatment options.

What Is Medication-Assisted Treatment?

Medication-assisted treatment, also known as MAT, is a term used to define medication to treat opioid and alcohol abuse disorders. In some cases, MAT is used to help individuals detox from drugs. However, it can also be used in helping to wean them off of them as well. 

Medication-assisted treatment works in two different ways:

1. It binds the opioid receptors within the brain and activates them. This process works similarly to the way opioids work within the brain. However, MAT meds don’t do it to the full extent.

2. It completely blocks the receptors that create pleasant feelings from drugs. This process prevents individuals from experiencing a feeling of euphoria when they take drugs, which could ultimately cause them not to do them.

It’s important to keep in mind that medication-assisted treatment isn’t a cure for addiction. However, it’s an effective tool in helping addicts recover from their substance abuse.

MAT Drugs That Help Addiction

There are a variety of different substances that a person can get addicted to. Here are the meds that assist with treating each category of substance abuse:

Alcohol Abuse

Individuals who abuse alcohol generally can benefit from now Naltrexone. Acamprosate and Disulfiramre are also good for treating alcohol disorders.

Opioids

  • Oxycodone
  • Fentanyl
  • Morphine
  • Codeine
  • Hydrocodone
  • Hydromorophone (Dilaudid)
  • Opium
  • Heroin

Methadone, naltrexone, and buprenorphine could also assist in treating opioid use disorders.

Tobacco

Nicotine-replacement treatment can help with tobacco abuse.

The Effectiveness of MAT

Medication-assisted treatment is known for its effectiveness,  and it drastically reduces the need for detoxification services. It also provides a more individual, tailored treatment plan for patients. 

The main goal of MAT is for individuals to fully recover and lead a normal life. The treatment has been known to do the following:

  • Increase patient survival
  • Improve birth results within women with substance abuse issues
  • Increase retention and treatment
  • Improve a patient’s ability to get and maintain employment
  • Minimize criminal activity in individuals with substance abuse disorders

If you’ve tried everything on your own to overcome your substance abuse, it might be time for you to enter a drug rehab center. Your counselors will advise which option is best to help you overcome your addiction,

Undergoing Medication-Assisted Treatment

Medication-assisted treatment isn’t for everyone, but it is an effective tool in helping individuals overcome substance abuse. Although there could be other drawbacks to using meds, it’s generally a good option for individuals who are struggling with their addiction.

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