Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is a treatment approach for substance use disorders that combines behavioral therapy, counseling, and the use of FDA-approved medications. This evidence-based approach effectively treats alcohol and tobacco and is a vital tool in the fight against the opioid epidemic. If you are looking for substance abuse treatment programs in Florida, Remedy Recovery, a medication-assisted treatment Florida center, can get you the help you need. Call 855.509.1130 today and get on the path to recovery.

medication assisted treatment What Is MAT?

MAT is not a quick fix or a magic bullet for addiction but a long-term treatment approach that can help people achieve and maintain recovery. Medications used in MAT reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making it easier for people to stick to their treatment plan and stay in recovery.

Behavioral therapy and counseling are essential components of MAT. They can help people develop the skills and knowledge to cope with triggers, manage their emotions, and build a support system.

Why Is MAT Important?

Medication-assisted treatment programs can have several benefits for people struggling with addiction because it:

  • Treats the whole person, not just the addiction
  • Addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction
  • It is proven to be effective in treating substance use disorders
  • It can help people achieve and maintain long-term recovery
  • Reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms
  • Reduces the risk of relapse and overdose
  • It helps people regain control of their lives
  • Improves mental and physical health
  • Increases the ability to participate in treatment and other activities
  • Greater participation in work, school, or other activities
  • Improves relationships with family and friends
  • Reduces criminal activity

What Medications Are Used in Medication Assisted Treatment Programs?

Medication-assisted treatment is an individualized treatment approach, and the specific medication or combination of medications used will be based on the needs of the individual. Here are some of the medications used to treat opiates, alcohol, and tobacco.

Opiates

There are three FDA-approved medications used in MAT for the treatment of opioid addiction:

  • Methadone – A long-acting synthetic opioid agonist taken orally, activates the brain’s opioid receptors, preventing withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
  • Buprenorphine – A partial opioid agonist which activates the brain’s opioid receptors but to a lesser extent than methadone or heroin. It is used to relieve withdrawal symptoms and cravings and block the effects of other opioids. It is taken orally or under the tongue.
  • Naltrexone – An opioid antagonist that is taken orally or as an injectable suspension. It is used to block the effects of other opioids and to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

Alcohol

There are three FDA-approved medications used in MAT for the treatment of alcohol addiction:

  • Acamprosate – This medication is taken orally, and it helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms and restore normal brain function.
  • Disulfiram – A medication that produces an unpleasant reaction when alcohol is consumed, making it less likely that people will drink. It is taken orally.
  • Naltrexone – An opioid antagonist that is taken orally or as an injectable suspension. It is used to block the effects of alcohol and to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

Tobacco

There are two FDA-approved medications used in MAT for the treatment of tobacco addiction:

  • Bupropion – A medication taken orally works by inhibiting the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine, which can help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
  • Varenicline – A medication that reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms and blocks the pleasant effects of nicotine. It is taken orally.

How Do I Get Started with Medication-Assisted Treatment in Florida?

If you are interested in starting a medication-assisted treatment program, the first step is to contact our team at 855.509.1130. They will conduct an assessment to determine if MAT is right for you and, if so, what combination of medications will be most effective.

If you struggle to find substance abuse treatment programs in Florida, don’t wait to get help. Remedy Recovery will put you on the path for you to restart your life.