In 2018, it was estimated that over 2 million people struggled with an opioid use disorder which includes prescription pain medication containing opiates and heroin. Those numbers have most assuredly increased substantially over the past few years due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
What Is Medicated Assisted Treatment (MAT)?
Combining medication with therapy can successfully treat these disorders, and for some people struggling with addiction, Medicated Assisted Treatment (MAT) can help sustain recovery. MAT is also used to prevent or reduce opioid overdose.
MAT treatment is considered to be a controversial topic, and it is important to remember that what works for one person, may not work for another. Addiction recovery requires a highly personalized approach, with the end goal of helping those struggling with addiction to fully recover and live self-directed lives.
MAT is a treatment method that has shown to be effective to:
- Improve patient survival
- Increase retention in treatment
- Decrease illicit opiate use and other criminal activity among people with substance use disorders
- Increase patients’ ability to gain and maintain employment
- Improve birth outcomes among women who have substance use disorders and are pregnant
The FDA has approved several different medications to treat alcohol and opioid use disorders. MAT medications relieve the withdrawal symptoms and psychological cravings that cause chemical imbalances in the body. Medications used for MAT are evidence-based treatment options and do not just substitute one drug for another.
Brick House Recovery is a CARF-accredited, Higher Powered based, family-centered Partial Hospitalization Program program, and we follow very strict guidelines for MAT treatments. If you or someone you know needs substance abuse treatment, please contact us today.
