Substance use disorders affect millions of people across the United States. Addiction can lead to job loss, ruined relationships, and a variety of health conditions, including overdoses. If you are battling drug or alcohol addiction, a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program might be the right choice for you. MAT can help you on your path to recovery.
If you or someone you love is struggling with substance use disorder, a medication-assisted treatment program can help. Reach out to Lotus Recovery Centers today at 833.922.1615 to get your life back.
What Is Medication-Assisted Treatment?
Medication-assisted treatment is an evidence-based approach to addiction treatment that involves the use of certain FDA-approved medications. A careful combination of behavioral therapies, counseling, and medication can help those struggling with substance use disorders heal. It’s mainly used to treat alcohol and opioid addiction, so it may not be right for everyone. A MAT program is meant to reduce withdrawal symptoms while you are in the beginning stages of drug detox and as you enter inpatient treatment.
The Role of MAT in Rehab
Certain addictive substances like opioids and alcohol cause unpleasant or even painful withdrawal symptoms during detox. These can include:
- Vomiting
- Digestive issues
- Anxiety
- High blood pressure
- Seizures
Medication used in a detox program will help relieve these withdrawal symptoms and even curb cravings for alcohol or opioids. The medications offered have a low potential for abuse, and a treatment team closely monitors all dosages. Additionally, medication-assisted treatment is always complemented by a behavioral therapy program. At Lotus Recovery Centers, we believe that true recovery involves building the healthy coping skills you need to avoid relapse in the future. In addition, our therapists help clients work through the underlying causes of addiction in group and individual therapy sessions. While medications are useful in preventing severe withdrawal symptoms and reducing cravings, they’re just one part of a comprehensive approach.
What Are Some Medications Used in a MAT Program?
There are a number of medications used in our MAT programs. These include methadone, Suboxone, and Vivitrol. All of these medications are FDA-approved to treat opioid use disorders, and Vivitrol can also treat alcohol dependence.
These medications work in slightly different ways. Methadone, for example, is taken each day and can ease withdrawal symptoms. It offers pain relief, which can be helpful for those who struggle with chronic pain. However, it also has a potential for abuse, so it’s important to closely follow your doctor’s instructions when taking methadone. Suboxone is taken orally, can reduce cravings for opioids, and has a low potential for abuse. Finally, Vivitrol is given as a shot once a month and reduces cravings for opioids and alcohol.
While these medications can be effective, it is important to remember that they are not a cure in and of themselves. Treating substance use disorder requires not only medication-assisted treatment but also talk therapy, peer support groups, and a team of doctors ready to work with you. However, medication-assisted treatment can be an important part of your recovery, and it’s important to start as soon as possible.
Reach Out to Lotus Recovery Centers Today for Effective Addiction Treatment
A medication-assisted treatment program can be a valuable tool in your recovery process and can help you on the road to wellness and sobriety. Lotus Recovery Centers offers compassionate, comprehensive treatment programs in our centers in Delaware and West Virginia. If you’re ready to begin the journey to recovery, our team can help determine if a MAT program is a right choice for your needs. Reach out to our team using our online form or call us today at 833.922.1615 to begin your recovery journey.
