Is Medication Assisted Treatment the best option for you?
Are you addicted to opioids? Are you dependent on alcohol to get through the day? Have you tried conventional treatment methods like therapy or peer support groups that are just not working for you? Are you feeling frustrated by a lack of long-term success in your recovery? Medication assisted treatment might be a helpful option for you!
What is Medicated Assisted Treatment?
Medication assisted treatment involves the use of regulated medications in combination with the traditional route of individual and group therapy. This combination of interventions works to address all aspects of the person and their struggles with addiction. Treating the whole person has proven to be the most effective form of substance use treatment.
Forms of Medicated Assisted Treatment that treat opiate/opioid addictions:
- Naltrexone (Vivitrol)
- Suboxone (Buprenorphine)
- Methadone
Forms of MAT that treat Alcoholism:
- Campral (Acamprosate)
- Antabuse (Disulfiram)
The Benefits of Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT)
The use of medication in substance use treatment specifically addresses the chemical reactions and imbalances within the body and brain which traditional therapy does not. The medications given to treat substance use disorders are highly regulated, safe, and proven to be helpful in one’s recovery. The medication works to stop cravings and symptoms of withdrawal so your mind and body can focus on the emotional and behavioral changes that occur through traditional cognitive and behavioral therapies. By removing some of the physical discomfort and psychological cravings associated with withdrawal, you are more likely to succeed in your road to recovery.
Although medication should never be the only form of treatment for a substance use disorder it can certainly aid in the process and yields greater chances of successful recovery with less occurrences of relapse. Those who engage in medication assisted treatment report less cravings, minimal withdrawal symptoms, and the ability to regain or maintain normal lifestyle habits including employment and positive, stable relationships with friends and family.
By removing some of the physical and psychological symptoms associated with substance use withdrawal, individualized therapy will also be more impactful. When the body is experiencing withdrawal, it is difficult for the brain to be present and active in the recovery and treatment process, however when this obstacle is removed, a greater focus can be placed on the personalized strategies for recovery during individual therapy sessions. All forms of substance use and addiction are common, and anyone can be impacted by addiction regardless of age, gender, race or economic status; this disease does not discriminate. As of 2018, there are an estimated two million people experiencing an opioid use disorder alone, alcohol use disorders are even more prevalent. Overcoming any type of addiction can be one of the most difficult tasks a person can be confronted with. Your involvement and participation are crucial to the recovery process and we are committed to work collaboratively with our patients to meet your individual needs.
Here at Ocean State Recovery Center goal is to assist you through this trying time by providing comprehensive, evidence-based treatments to ensure a positive experience and a successful recovery.
