Do you or someone close to you struggle with substance use? In recognition of International Overdose Awareness Day on August 31st, we’re spotlighting medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for substance use disorder and how it can be a powerful tool toward recovery.
What is Substance Use Disorder (SUD)?
Substance use disorder (SUD) is a mental disorder that affects a person’s brain and alters their behavior, causing the inability to control the use of substances such as legal or illegal drugs, alcohol, or medications.
What are the Symptoms of Substance Use Disorder?
Symptoms can range from mild to severe, with addiction being the most severe. Below are some of the following criteria that encompass substance use disorder:
- Using more of a substance or using it for longer than originally intended.
- Trying to stop or use less of a substance but being unable to.
- Experiencing intense cravings or urges to use a substance.
- Neglecting responsibilities at home, work, or school due to substance use.
- Requiring more of a substance to reach the desired effect, signaling an increased tolerance.
- Having withdrawal symptoms when you’re not using a substance.
- Spending more time trying to get, use, and recover from a substance.
- Continuing to use even though it’s causing issues with your family and relationships.
- Giving up important goals or desirable social and recreational activities due to substance use.
- Using substances in settings that put you at risk or in danger.
- Continuing to use a substance despite it causing problems for your physical and mental health.
If you or a loved one have a substance use disorder, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) in combination with therapy can help you manage your symptoms, recognize unhealthy patterns, and start taking steps toward recovery.
What is Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)?
Medication assisted treatment (MAT) uses a prescription medicine to treat adults who struggle with substance use disorder. Prescription medication managed by a qualified professional can help prevent the cravings and withdrawals that keep people tied to the use of more harmful substances.
Outpatient services utilize a combination of medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and an intensive therapy program to give you the highest level of care. MAT can help ease withdrawal symptoms, while a program of one-on-one and group therapy can give you the tools necessary to succeed.
What MAT Medication is FDA-approved?
There are three FDA-approved MAT medications used as methods for substance abuse treatment on the market:
- Methadone is a synthetic and analgesic prescription drug used to reduce opioid cravings, dependency, and withdrawal symptoms in addition to blocking the effects of opioids. When used as intended, methadone can effectively change how the brain and the nervous system respond to pain.
- Buprenorphine is a synthetic opioid used to treat opioid use disorder and pain. Buprenorphine works by reducing heroin and other opioid cravings and withdrawal symptoms while decreasing the pleasurable effects of other opioids.
- Naltrexone has also been used to treat both opioid and alcohol use disorders. This drug is available in long-lasting injectable or pill formats and blocks the euphoric and sedative effects of opioids. Extended-release naltrexone works by binding to and blocking opioid receptors in the brain, which can reduce substance cravings and prevent the euphoric and sedative effects of opioids.
What is the Success Rate of MAT treatment?
With regular participation, MAT has been known to save lives.
According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), MAT treatment is a key component in overdose prevention and can reduce the risk of death. A study found a 50% average retention rate was achieved after 12 months of treatment. This means that individuals enrolled in MAT were still engaged and participating while death as a result of overdose was averted.
What are the Benefits of Combining MAT With Therapy?
Combining therapy with psychiatric care works better than either approach alone, as it allows you to address the psychological and medical aspects of your substance use disorder.
The Associated Clinic of Psychology offers group and one-on-one therapy sessions to provide you with options for privacy and ways to connect with peers who are also on the path to recovery. Our therapists address both substance use and mental health topics in partnership with our psychiatric prescribers who offer medication-assisted treatment. Visit our DBT Therapy page for more information.
Take Action Toward Recovery
You don’t have to do this alone. ACP offers MAT services through our psychiatric prescribers and we aim to be accessible to all who need support. ACP accepts most insurances, including Medicare.
