Medication-Assisted Treatment
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), is the use of medications combined with therapy and counseling for the treatment of substance-use disorders.
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Medication-Assisted Treatment
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), is the use of medications combined with therapy and counseling for the treatment of substance-use disorders. While there are many that believe using medication to treat the symptoms of substance abuse disorders can allude to trading one addiction for another, MAT is a widely misunderstood form of therapy for substance abuse disorder that can be the most effective treatment seen in recent years. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) backs the use of FDA-approved medications for the treatment of substance abuse to promote sobriety. In fact, studies have shown these modalities can help reduce cravings, alleviate post-acute withdrawal symptoms, and create a sustainable recovery.
While not appropriate for all substance use disorders, there are currently three FDA-approved medications to treat opioid and alcohol addiction.
Naltrexone
The most common form of medication-assisted treatment is Naltrexone, which is an opioid antagonist. Taken orally, the use of Naltrexone blocks the effects of heroin, morphine, or other opiates in the brain. Naltrexone treatment can additionally be used for alcohol addiction which blocks the euphoric feelings of being intoxicated. As an extended-release form of Naltrexone, Vivitrol is a prescription injectable that can be used on a monthly basis. Southeast Addiction Center offers the administration of Naltrexone and Vivitrol as a Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) modality.
Buprenorphine
As a partial opioid antagonist, Buprenorphine (Suboxone) can be taken orally in pill or film form and is the medication for opioid dependence that can be prescribed or dispensed in a physicians office and taken from a home setting. First approved by the FDA in 2002, when taken appropriately in conjunction with counseling, Buprenorphine is safe effective to treat opioid dependency.
Methadone
Methadone is an opioid antagonist, and used to treat serious withdrawal symptoms for those suffering from heroin or opiate addiction. Methadone must be prescribed in a highly-structured treatment setting on a set schedule such as a clinic due to the fact that it produces similar effects to other opioids.
Benefits of Vivitrol Treatment:
Reduces Cravings
Oftentimes withdrawal symptoms create a perpetuating cycle of cravings, making it harder to break free from the physical and mental aspect of addiction. Paired with therapy and counseling, Vivitrol treatment can increase the odds of a patient completing treatment and reaching sustainable recovery. As an antagonist to help remove the physical temptation to use alcohol or opioids, those under Vivitrol treatment no longer feel the euphoric effects of alcohol or opiates when consuming the substance.
A Source of Accountability
Southeast does not prescribe any controlled substances, but offers Vivitrol treatment. Vivtrol offers a safe alternative for long-term treatment results and healing. Providing a sense of accountability, Vivitrol treatment works within the first month of injections to safeguard against relapse. For those suffering from alcohol addiction, Vivitrol treatment prevents endorphins from reaching opioid receptors in the brain. For those with opioid dependence, Vivitrol blocks all opiate receptors in the brain. In this, patients who have struggled can continue to focus on coping skills and new tools to continue their sobriety.
Sustained Recovery
While not intended for long-term use, Vivitrol can be vital in kick-starting the recovery process. Under the supervision of doctors, therapists, and counselors, when Vivitrol treatment is facilitated by a professional staff and used in a comprehensive way, optimal healing can be achieved. Southeast Addiction Center in Georgia is proud to be a licensed Vivitrol treatment provider helping facilitate lasting recovery and sustainable results.
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