The first phase of recovery for many is detoxification. From withdrawals to cravings, this process can be complex. For some, it could result in a drastically negative outcome, such as relapse. Without the proper support and resources, attempting to detox can be dangerous and, for some, even deadly. Medication-assisted treatment, known as MAT, is not required for everyone entering detox. It must be medically necessary and overseen by a health care professional. However, when incorporated into someone’s treatment program, it could be the missing link needed to support long-term success.
What Is MAT?
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) defines MAT as the use of medications with behavioral interventions and counseling to complete a holistic approach to an individual’s recovery. This means that the entire person is being treated. From the side effects of withdrawal to the prevention of cravings, medication can be an option to reduce or eliminate these so someone can focus on their recovery.
10 Things Everyone Should Know About MAT
MAT is becoming increasingly popular to help those with opioid use disorder (OUD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD) find healing. Here are ten things everyone should know about MAT:
#1. It Is a Whole-Person Approach
MAT treats the body and mental health in addition to behaviors. All factors of someone’s health are considered and addressed.
#2. Prevents Relapse
Some medications can reduce or eliminate cravings. Medication, along with a strong recovery program, promotes successful recovery, reducing the risk of relapse.
#3. Supports Success With Employment
When someone has a higher rate of success in their recovery, this allows them to be more successful in other areas of their lives, such as employment.
#4. Lowers the Risk of Contracting Bloodborne Disease
This is done by reducing and eliminating the use of needles. The success of MAT in substance abuse treatment reduces the number of people using needles unsafely for the use of substances.
#5. Decreases Criminal Activity
MAT decreases other possible criminal activity associated with substance use disorder (SUD). When someone is actively in recovery, they are less likely to engage in criminal activity.
#6. Improved Rate of Healthy Births
Mothers struggling with SUD are given medications to stop using substances during pregnancy. As a result, this reduces the risk for mothers and children during and after childbirth.
#7. Medications Used for AUD
Acamprosate works to prevent the use of alcohol. Disulfiram gives individuals unpleasant side effects if they ingest alcohol. Naltrexone blocks the euphoric effects of intoxication.
#8. Opioid Dependency Medications
Buprenorphine suppresses and reduces cravings. Methadone reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms and blocks the effects of opioids. Naltrexone also is used to block the effects of opioids. Naloxone is used to prevent overdose.
#9. MAT Is Mostly Used for OUD
In general, MAT is primarily used to treat addiction to opioids and prescription painkillers that contain opioids.
#10. OTP Regulations Notice
Along with a link to additional information on the updates being made, SAMHSA shares on their site, “On December 13, 2022, SAMHSA published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) to update the regulations governing Opioid Treatment Programs, in order to remove barriers that have impeded Americans’ treatment for opioid use disorders.” This will result in an incredible difference for those being impacted by the lack of access to supportive medications. The recovery community will be watching this closely.
Is MAT Right for You?
Overall, these ten major points on MAT are a great starting point for someone interested in MAT as a treatment option. However, more importantly, medication is based on the individual and their healthcare professionals. If an individual is considering MAT as a possible option for treatment, discuss the pros and cons with the health care team providing detox or inpatient/outpatient treatment. They will help determine the best options for that individual.
What works for one person may not work for another. Medications also interact, and medical professionals will ensure to prevent adverse interactions between medications. Having a holistic healthcare approach allows the professionals overseeing mental health care and possible medications to work with the rest of the care the client receives.
Destiny Recovery Center’s Policy on MAT
When describing the detox program offered at Destiny Recovery Center, we state, “Withdrawal can be lethal, especially from opioids or alcohol withdrawal, resulting in delirium tremens, severe seizures, and potential death.” As a result, medical staff closely monitors clients throughout this process.
During detoxification and inpatient treatment, medical staff will oversee the use, if needed, of medications. This begins with optional comfort medications during detox to alleviate side effects of withdrawal, such as vomiting or diarrhea. In some cases, clients experience insomnia during this time, and medications could be offered to assist those having difficulty.
When appropriate, medical staff may recommend medications to assist in continued treatment. The recovery team, along with the client, will discuss the benefits and the options and incorporate MAT into their plan as required. Destiny Recovery Center’s policy supports the use of MAT but does not require it. Each client has their own treatment plan created for them based on their individual needs.
Incorporating medication along with behavioral support and counseling is known as medication-assisted treatment (MAT), resulting in a whole-person approach to the treatment of substance use disorder (SUD). Sometimes those considering starting their journey in recovery may not have been informed that MAT is a possible option. For someone who has been struggling with SUD, a health professional may recommend MAT be added to their treatment program. While participating in treatment at Destiny Recover Center, MAT may be involved in your recovery plan. Combing medications with behavioral treatments can help you find healing. If your or someone you know has questions about MAT or its use within treatment, reach out to Destiny Recovery Center today at (909) 413-4304.