What Is Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)?

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:

• Sublocade (Buprenorphine Extended-Release): A monthly injection that provides steady medication levels, eliminating the need for daily dosing. Reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms for opioid use disorder.
• Brixadi (Buprenorphine Extended-Release): A newer injectable option available in weekly or monthly formulations. Provides flexible dosing for opioid use disorder treatment.
• Vivitrol (Vivitrol Extended-Release): A monthly injection that blocks the effects of opioids and reduces alcohol cravings. Works for both opioid and alcohol use disorders.

For alcohol use disorders:

• Vivitrol (Vivitrol): A monthly injection that reduces alcohol cravings and the pleasurable effects of drinking
• [Medication — verify with clinical team] (Campral): Helps restore the brain's chemical balance disrupted by chronic alcohol use
• [Medication — verify with clinical team] (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:

• Our clinical team prescribes and monitors MAT medications
• Medication options include Vivitrol, Sublocade, and Brixadi (all FDA-approved injectable medications)
• Clinical 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.