Key Takeaways
- MAT combines FDA-approved medications with behavioral therapy and counseling to treat substance use disorders.
- Three FDA-approved medications for opioid use disorder are buprenorphine (Suboxone/Subutex), methadone, and naltrexone (Vivitrol).
- MAT has been shown to reduce opioid overdose deaths by 50% or more compared to non-medication treatment approaches.
- MAT is not "replacing one addiction with another" — it is evidence-based medical treatment that normalizes brain chemistry.
- SAMHSA considers MAT the gold standard for opioid addiction treatment.
- Individuals in MAT programs show higher rates of treatment retention, reduced illicit drug use, and improved social functioning.
What Is MAT?
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is a comprehensive approach to treating substance use disorders that combines FDA-approved medications with behavioral therapies and counseling. Rather than relying on willpower alone, MAT addresses the biological aspects of addiction by stabilizing brain chemistry, reducing cravings, and blocking the euphoric effects of opioids and alcohol.
MAT is endorsed by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), and the World Health Organization (WHO) as a best practice for treating opioid and alcohol use disorders.
How Does MAT Work?
Addiction changes the brain's reward, motivation, and stress systems. MAT medications work at the neurochemical level to counteract these changes:
For opioid use disorders:
- Buprenorphine (Suboxone, Subutex): A partial opioid agonist that reduces cravings and withdrawal without producing a significant high. Taken daily as a sublingual tablet or film.
- Methadone: A full opioid agonist that prevents withdrawal and reduces cravings. Typically dispensed daily at a specialized clinic.
- Naltrexone (Vivitrol): An opioid antagonist that blocks the effects of opioids entirely. Available as a monthly injection.
For alcohol use disorders:
- Naltrexone: Reduces the pleasurable effects of alcohol and decreases cravings
- Acamprosate (Campral): Helps restore the brain's chemical balance disrupted by chronic alcohol use
- Disulfiram (Antabuse): Causes unpleasant reactions when alcohol is consumed, serving as a deterrent
The "Replacing One Addiction" Myth
One of the most persistent misconceptions about MAT is that it "replaces one addiction with another." This is medically inaccurate:
- MAT medications are taken at stable, prescribed doses that do not produce intoxication
- They normalize brain function rather than disrupting it
- They are combined with therapy that addresses the behavioral and psychological aspects of addiction
- The American Medical Association, WHO, and NIDA all recognize MAT as legitimate medical treatment
- Just as insulin treats diabetes and antihypertensives treat high blood pressure, MAT medications treat a brain disease
What MAT Looks Like at Trailhead
At Trailhead Treatment Center, MAT is integrated into our comprehensive treatment programs:
- On-site Nurse Practitioner prescribes and monitors MAT medications
- Medication options include Suboxone, Subutex, Vivitrol, Naltrexone, and Methadone
- NP appointment within 24 hours of PHP admission, 72 hours for IOP
- Client choice on medication maintenance vs. tapering — no pressure either way
- Combined with therapy — individual counseling, group therapy, and psychoeducation
If you or a loved one is facing these challenges, learn more about learn about our medication-assisted treatment program available at Trailhead Treatment Center in Salem, NH.
Who Benefits from MAT?
MAT is most commonly used for:
- Individuals with opioid use disorders (prescription painkillers, heroin, fentanyl)
- People with alcohol use disorders who have not responded to behavioral treatment alone
- Those at high risk of relapse or overdose
- Individuals in early recovery who need help managing intense cravings
Trailhead Treatment Center provides how MAT supports opioid addiction recovery to support lasting recovery and wellness.
Conclusion
MAT is the most effective evidence-based treatment for opioid and alcohol use disorders, combining the power of medication with therapeutic support. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, MAT may be the right approach. Trailhead Treatment Center offers MAT as part of our comprehensive outpatient programs in Salem, NH.