Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) Centers

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) represents the gold standard for treating opioid and alcohol use disorders. By combining FDA-approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies, MAT addresses both the biological and psychological aspects of addiction. Research consistently demonstrates that MAT reduces overdose deaths by more than 50%, improves treatment retention, and supports long-term recovery.

MAT Medications for Opioid Use Disorder

Three FDA-approved medications treat opioid addiction:

• Methadone: Full opioid agonist eliminating withdrawal and cravings; administered daily at certified opioid treatment programs (OTPs). Longest track record with extensive research supporting effectiveness.
• Buprenorphine (Suboxone, Sublocade): Partial opioid agonist with ceiling effect, reducing abuse potential; prescribed by certified physicians in office settings or as monthly injection. Offers greater flexibility and privacy.
• Naltrexone (Vivitrol): Opioid antagonist blocking opioid effects; requires complete detox before starting; available as daily pill or monthly injection. Best for motivated individuals after detox completion.

MAT for Alcohol Use Disorder

FDA-approved medications for alcohol addiction:

• Naltrexone: Reduces cravings and blocks rewarding effects of alcohol; available as daily pill or monthly injection
• Acamprosate (Campral): Helps restore brain chemistry balance; reduces cravings and supports abstinence
• Disulfiram (Antabuse): Causes unpleasant reaction if alcohol consumed; provides deterrent for impulsive drinking

Comprehensive Treatment Approach

MAT is never medication alone. Quality programs integrate counseling, behavioral therapies, case management, recovery support services, treatment for co-occurring conditions, and peer support. The medication component allows individuals to engage fully in therapy and recovery activities by eliminating withdrawal, cravings, and physiological barriers to recovery.

Addressing Stigma and Misconceptions

MAT faces unfortunate stigma, with some viewing it as "replacing one drug with another." This is false. MAT medications are prescribed at stable therapeutic doses, don't produce euphoria, allow normal functioning, and are medicine treating a medical condition. Research overwhelming supports MAT as most effective treatment for opioid use disorder. Organizations like SAMHSA, NIDA, and medical professional societies strongly endorse MAT.

Finding MAT Treatment

Look for programs offering multiple MAT medication options, addiction medicine physicians, comprehensive counseling services, individualized treatment planning, support for long-term medication management, and evidence-based behavioral therapies. Our directory helps locate opioid treatment centers and programs offering MAT.

MAT resources and information:

• SAMHSA MAT Resources
• NIDA - Medications to Treat Opioid Addiction