Opioid addiction can impact every aspect of an individual’s life, from their physical and mental health to their work and personal relationships. It can take hold quickly and be very difficult to break free from without help. Those who try to overcome addiction on their own often find themselves struggling and eventually relapsing. However, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) provides another avenue for those seeking recovery from addiction.
Combining effective medications with counseling and behavioral therapies, MAT has proven to be a successful treatment for those struggling with addiction. At MD M.A.T.T., we’ve seen firsthand how MAT can help our patients overcome addiction and go on to lead healthy and fulfilling lives.
To learn more about MAT or to schedule an appointment, reach out today at 410.364.8194.
What Is Medication-Assisted Treatment?
Medication-assisted treatment is a comprehensive approach to treating addiction that combines behavioral therapies with FDA-approved medications. This type of treatment has been shown to be an effective way to manage addiction, especially when used in conjunction with other forms of treatment like counseling and support groups.
While there are a number of different medications that can be used in MAT, the three most common are methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone. Each of these medications works in different ways to help those struggling with addiction manage their cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
At MD M.A.T.T., we’ve found that Suboxone, which is a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone, is an effective medication for our patients. Suboxone helps to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms while also blocking the effects of other opioids.
Benefits of Medication-Assisted Treatment
Reducing Cravings
One of the biggest triggers for relapse is intense cravings for opioids. Medication-assisted treatment can help to reduce these cravings, making it easier for those in recovery to stay on track.
Cravings happen because of the changes that addiction has made to the brain. When someone is addicted to opioids, their brain chemistry is altered. This change can make it difficult to feel happy or content without the drug. Medication-assisted treatment helps to restore the brain’s chemistry, which can in turn help to reduce cravings.
Withdrawal Symptom Relief
Quitting opioids cold turkey can be difficult and often leads to relapse. This is because quitting suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms like:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Muscle aches
- Fatigue
Medication-assisted treatment can help to relieve these symptoms, making it easier for those in recovery to stick to their treatment plan. Withdrawal symptom relief can make a big difference in someone’s ability to stay sober in the early stages of recovery.
Improved Mood and Sleep
Opioid addiction can take a toll on your mental and physical health. Medication-assisted treatment can help to improve your mood and sleep, two important factors in overall health.
The rush of dopamine that comes with using opioids can lead to feelings of euphoria. However, once the effects of the drug wear off, you may experience a crash that leaves you feeling tired, irritable, and depressed. Medication-assisted treatment can help to even out these mood swings, making it easier to cope with everyday stressors.
In addition, opioid addiction can cause sleep problems like insomnia. This can make it difficult to focus and make good decisions. Medication-assisted treatment can help to improve your sleep, which can in turn improve your overall health.
Improved Ability to Focus on Treatment
Finally, medication-assisted treatment can help to improve your ability to focus on your treatment. When you’re struggling with addiction, it can be difficult to stick to your treatment plan. Medication-assisted treatment can help to improve your focus and motivation, making it easier to stay on track.
Find Lasting Recovery at MD M.A.T.T.
If you’re ready to start your journey to recovery, we can help. Learn more about medication-assisted treatment at MD M.A.T.T. today by calling our team at 410.364.8194.
