Medication-assisted treatment, commonly referred to as MAT, is a comprehensive approach to treating substance use disorders. Through a three-part approach of medication management, counseling, and behavioral therapy, MAT can provide a holistic, evidence-based model of care for our clients. As a result of this combination, MAT offers beneficial services to those people struggling with a substance use disorder by helping them to achieve and maintain long-term recovery and sobriety.
Vogue Recovery Center offers MAT services as a key part of our comprehensive treatment program for clients with an SUD who need this level of clinical care. If you or someone you love are in need of addiction assistance, learn more about how MAT services may be able to help them begin the journey to a happy, healthier life.
What Is MAT Treatment?
Medication-assisted treatment, at its core, is a medication management program for alcohol use disorder (AUD), opioid use disorder (OUD), and other substance use disorders (SUDs). In addition to the foundational element of medication, folks who participate in a MAT program also participate in a wide range of behavioral therapies and counseling. Through the combination of these three services, you can receive the help you need through a comprehensive treatment approach for recovering from substance use disorders.
Three Components of MAT
Medication-assisted treatment programs are highly effective in the treatment of SUDs when integrating the three components of MAT. Due to MAT programs being an evidence-based practice, each aspect of the program works in unison to support long-term recovery.
The three components of MAT include:
- Medication
- Counseling
- Behavioral Therapy
Through the combination of these components, MAT services can provide people in recovery with ways to fight cravings, learn healthy coping skills, and rebuild their self-esteem.
MAT Medications
MAT programs tend to prescribe medications that reduce cravings for substances, such as opioids or alcohol. Using FDA-approved medications, medication-assisted treatment emphasizes a reduction of the withdrawal symptoms and cravings that often lead to relapses.
The most common medications used in MAT include:
- Methadone
- Buprenorphine
- Naltrexone
- Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone)
- Sublocade (buprenorphine extended-release)
- Vivitrol (naltrexone for extended-release injectable suspension)
The medications used during MAT programs have been extensively studied and proven effective at helping people manage their addictions over time. MAT medication management can help you focus on other aspects of your recovery instead of being distracted by substance cravings.
Counseling in Medication-Assisted Treatment
During an MAT program, you will receive counseling services provided by licensed therapists or social workers. These professionals offer essential bits of guidance to help you identify your unique triggers and discover healthy coping skills. Developing these coping skills is an essential part of recovery, as they work to alleviate the likelihood of a relapse during times of stress and temptation.
Through encouraging you to explore the root causes of your addiction, MAT counseling works to help you understand how you can reach your recovery goals. During these counseling sessions, you and your therapist discuss your aspirations in recovery, as your therapist helps to develop plans for obtaining employment, housing, finances, and healthy relationships.
Behavioral Therapy Sessions
Behavioral therapy is the last key component of MAT programs, providing clients with the practical tools needed to manage relapse risk factors, notably anxiety and boredom. During behavioral therapy sessions, your therapist will help teach you about positive reinforcement techniques, such as goal setting and celebrating success, to keep you motivated on the path toward recovery. Also offered during behavioral therapy are lessons on mindfulness meditation and assertiveness training. These skills are meant to be integrated into your daily life outside of the treatment sessions, supporting the long-term success of your journey to recovery.
Benefits of Medication-Assisted Treatment
There are numerous benefits to people seeking help for substance use disorders by entering a medication-assisted treatment program. Vogue Recovery Center’s MAT programs combine evidence-based medications with behavioral therapy and counseling to assist in managing withdrawal symptoms while reinforcing your inner healing.
Benefits of MAT include:
- Reduce cravings for drugs and alcohol
- Incorporate harm reduction and relapse prevention measures
- Address co-occurring mental health issues (if present)
- Reduce the risk of overdose or accidental death during detoxification
- Provide accountability throughout the recovery journey
We at Vogue believe that offering MAT services makes it easier for you to stay connected with our team of medical professionals. Our highly trained medical staff is here to understand your condition and provide personalized care that we tailor specifically for your needs. We know that healing cannot be accomplished by a one-size-fits-all approach, and as a result, we pride ourselves on emphasizing individualized care. Due to this, Vogue is proud to offer our clients MAT services so they can get the care they need to prepare the path for long-term sobriety.
Who Can Benefit From Medication-Assisted Treatment?
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is an effective approach for people who are struggling with substance use disorders, including opioid use disorder and alcohol use disorder. This treatment form combines medications with counseling and behavioral therapies to treat the person, not just the addiction. MAT is a particularly beneficial method when traditional methods of recovery, such as abstinence or individual therapy, have not been successful.
MAT is most appropriate for people who have made a committed decision to overcome their addiction but find that they cannot do so through willpower or therapy alone. MAT is also a vital component of treatment for people who have experienced repeated relapses or are facing co-occurring mental health disorders that exacerbate their substance use disorder.
Medication-Assisted Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder
During treatment for addiction, you may receive medication-assisted treatment for opioid addiction with methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone. These FDA-approved medications treat opioid use disorders, including short-acting opioids such as heroin, morphine, and codeine, in addition to semi-synthetic opioids such as oxycodone and hydrocodone. MAT for opioids can also be beneficial for those with an addiction to synthetic opioids such as fentanyl.
MAT medications used to treat opioid addiction include:
- Methadone (Dolophine, Methadose)
- Buprenorphine (Suboxone, Subutex, Probuphine, Sublocade)
- Naltrexone (Vivitrol)
Typically, all medications during medication-assisted treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD) assist in reducing cravings and drug-seeking behavior in an effort to prevent relapse. MAT programs often provide methadone for its ability to block the effects of opioids. In addition, both methadone and buprenorphine affect the same part of the brain as an opioid such as heroin. Unlike most opioids, however, buprenorphine and methadone effectively reduce both withdrawal symptoms and cravings for opioids.
Alternatively, you can receive MAT for opioid addiction with extended-release naltrexone. It is important to note that you must have completed medical detoxification before receiving MAT with naloxone. Due to this, opioid detox can be uncomfortable for those struggling with an active opioid addiction. Despite this discomfort, NIDA finds that medication-assisted treatment programs using buprenorphine/naloxone and those using solely extended-release naltrexone are both effective in treating opioid addiction.
Medication-Assisted Treatment for Alcohol
There are currently three FDA-approved medications available for people receiving medication-assisted treatment for alcohol addiction. These medications treat alcohol use disorders by targeting the way your brain processes and responds to alcohol. In doing so, MAT can successfully reduce your risk of relapse during and after detox.
MAT medications used to treat alcohol addiction include:
- Naltrexone (Vivitrol)
- Acamprosate (Campral)
- Disulfiram (Antabuse)
Naltrexone blocks opioid receptors involved in the rewarding effects of drinking and in the craving for alcohol. MAT using naltrexone tends to reduce the likelihood of relapse in people who have a history of heavy drinking. While naltrexone can be a highly effective MAT treatment for alcohol in some people, it is important to remember that genetics can impact how successfully the drug works.
Acamprosate can help reduce symptoms of long-lasting withdrawal and can provide relief from symptoms that include insomnia, anxiety, dysphoria, and restlessness. Acamprosate is most effective in the treatment of substance abuse in individuals with long-term severe addictions.
During treatment for alcohol addiction, MAT programs may use disulfiram (Antabuse) to alter the body’s absorption of alcohol. After disulfiram has been administered, the chemical acetaldehyde begins to build up in your body if a relapse occurs. If you drink after disulfiram treatment, your body will show a series of unpleasant side effects, including nausea and irregular heartbeat. Knowing disulfiram’s negative side effects, you may be hesitant to enter this form of MAT service. Despite this, MAT programs using disulfiram can greatly increase your chances of avoiding a relapse if you’re highly motivated to quit drinking.
Medication-Assisted Treatment Services at Vogue Recovery Centers
At Vogue Recovery Centers, we know that treatment is going to look different for each of our clients’ journeys to recovery. That’s why we offer a medication-assisted treatment program, when clinically appropriate, as part of our comprehensive care program for those struggling with SUDs.
Vogue Recovery Center’s MAT services include:
- Consultations with physicians specializing in addiction medicine
- Comprehensive assessments to determine which type of medication may be best suited for your individual needs
- Access to medications such as Vivitrol and Suboxone
- Counseling from certified counselors
- Continued care after completing detox and residential programs
- Education about the benefits of medication-assisted treatment and recovery
- Support groups where you can connect with others who are also receiving MAT services
- Referrals to additional resources if necessary
Our MAT services can be an essential aspect of the overall recovery process, as medication and therapy provide an additional layer of support while you work towards overcoming your substance use disorder. While the medication works to curb cravings and withdrawal symptoms, our therapists will work with you on addressing the root causes of your addiction, helping you heal.
MAT Programs Near Me
If you or a loved one is looking for a MAT program near you, Vogue offers these services across the Southwest.
Vogue’s MAT program in Phoenix, AZ
Vogue Recovery Center in Phoenix, Arizona, offers an adult-only, welcoming environment where you’ll receive the clinical expertise and support needed to free yourself from drug and alcohol abuse. At our rehab centers in Phoenix, AZ, we believe long-term addiction recovery requires an integrative approach to substance abuse treatment. This means that we simultaneously address co-occurring mental health disorders, trauma, and other difficulties that can cause addiction. During treatment, we blend traditional and alternative therapies. In doing so, we provide a wide range of addiction treatment services to meet all of our clients’ needs.
Our substance abuse treatment programs are inclusive of all and welcome anyone who needs help. For this reason, our therapists are trained in treating members of the LGBTQIA community, those struggling with homelessness, and people with severe mental illness. Vogue Recovery Center Phoenix also offers specialized drug and alcohol addiction programs for veterans and first responders.
Vogue’s MAT program in Los Angeles, CA
Vogue Recovery Center offers a six-bed alcohol and drug rehab in Los Angeles, California. With a low client-to-staff ratio, our detox program provides an exceptional level of personalized care for individuals struggling with addiction.
Set in Tarzana, a serene suburb of LA, our luxury rehab center provides a peaceful, discreet setting for the work of recovery. At our addiction treatment center, we specialize in treating high-profile clients, working professionals, and others who desire utmost privacy and comfort find that their needs are met and exceeded at our Los Angeles rehab center.
Vogue’s MAT program in Las Vegas, NV
Tucked into a quiet metropolitan area in Las Vegas, Nevada, Vogue Recovery Center offers a comfortable, private treatment setting for adults seeking to reclaim their lives from the grip of substance use disorders and mental health challenges. Our rehab in Las Vegas, NV, is dedicated to offering a holistic healing environment conducive to long-term recovery.
Recognizing the link between substance abuse and mental health issues, we emphasize an integrated treatment approach that addresses the underlying causes of mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD, as well as drug and alcohol addiction. Our holistic care ensures that both the symptoms and root causes of addiction and mental illness are treated simultaneously.
MAT FAQ
What is MAT?
According to SAMHSA, “Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is the use of medications, in combination with counseling and behavioral therapies, to provide a “whole-patient” approach to the treatment of substance use disorders.” All medications used in MAT programs are FDA-approved, and each service is provided within an individualized treatment plan.
What are the phases of MAT?
During treatment at Vogue Recovery Center, the three main phases of MAT include:
- Induction (1-2 days)
- Stabilization (multiple weeks)
- Maintenance (varies)
Before you begin treatment, your personal care team at Vogue will discuss the treatment options available for you when making your personalized care plan. Throughout your time in our program, we continuously monitor your progress to ensure your safety and comfort during each portion of our MAT program.
What is the success rate of MAT?
While it can be difficult to quantify the success rates of addiction recovery programs, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) supports the use of MAT as an evidence-based treatment for substance use disorders. SAMHSA states that MAT “has proved to be clinically effective and to significantly reduce the need for inpatient detoxification services.”
Buprenorphine FAQ
What is buprenorphine used for?
Buprenorphine is an FDA-approved medication used to treat Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) as a medication-assisted treatment (MAT). During MAT, buprenorphine suppresses and reduces your cravings for opioids.
Is buprenorphine an opioid or an opiate?
Buprenorphine is an opioid partial agonist.
What kind of narcotic is buprenorphine?
Buprenorphine is a Schedule III narcotic analgesic that has value as a medical treatment, yet also presents a moderate risk of addiction.
Is buprenorphine the same as Suboxone?
Buprenorphine is not the same as Suboxone. It is, however, combined with naltrexone to create Suboxone (Buprenorphine/Naltrexone).
Sublocade FAQ
What is Sublocade used for?
Sublocade is the brand name for buprenorphine. Provided as a prescription medicine, Sublocade treats adults with moderate to severe opioid use disorders (OUDs) within an MAT program.
How long do Sublocade shots last?
As a long-acting medication, the effects of Sublocade injections typically last around four weeks (28 to 30 days).
Is Sublocade a narcotic?
Yes, Sublocade is a Schedule III narcotic analgesic. Schedule III controlled substances have value as a medical treatment, yet also present a moderate risk of addiction.
Is Sublocade addicting?
Yes, Sublocade has the potential risk for the development of physical and psychological dependence.
Naltrexone FAQ
What is naltrexone used for?
Naltrexone is an FDA-approved medication used to treat alcohol use disorder (AUD) and opioid use disorder (OUD) within an MAT program. Physicians also utilize low doses of Naltrexone for off-label treatments of conditions including chronic pain, inflammation, autoimmune disorders, cancer, and mental health issues.
What does taking naltrexone feel like?
Unlike other medications used to treat opioid addiction, taking naltrexone will not make you feel high or euphoric. Instead, naltrexone is meant to make you feel naturally relaxed.
Is naltrexone an antidepressant?
No, naltrexone is not an antidepressant. Naltrexone is a class of medications called opiate antagonists. With that being said, research on Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) has produced positive outcomes in the treatment of depression and anxiety.
Vivitrol FAQ
What do they use Vivitrol for?
Vivitrol, the brand name medication for naltrexone, is used to treat alcohol use disorder (AUD) and opioid use disorder (OUD) within an MAT program.
Who qualifies for Vivitrol?
To qualify for Vivitrol you must be:
- 18 years or older
- In treatment for alcohol dependence
or
- In treatment for opioid dependence
- Completed acute stage of opioid withdrawal
or
- Completed acute stage of alcohol withdrawal
Is Vivitrol the same as Suboxone?
No, Vivitrol is not the same as Suboxone. Vivitrol is the brand name medication for naltrexone. Suboxone is a combination of buprenorphine and naltrexone. They do, however, both interact with opioid receptors in the brain to block the effects of opioids, manage cravings, and lessen symptoms of withdrawal.
Is Vivitrol the same as Narcan?
No, Vivitrol is not the same as Narcan. Vivitrol is the brand name medication for naltrexone. Vivitrol interacts with the brain’s opioid receptors to block the effects of opioids, treat symptoms of withdrawal, and manage cravings. Narcan is the brand name medication for Naloxone, which is a medication used to reverse or reduce the effects of opioids.
Suboxone FAQ
What does the Suboxone do?
Suboxone is a prescription medication composed of buprenorphine and naltrexone. Suboxone blocks the side effects of opioids, lessens withdrawal symptoms, and reduces opioid cravings.
Is Suboxone a controlled narcotic?
Yes, Suboxone is classified as a Schedule III controlled substance. This means that Suboxone has value as a medical treatment, but also represents a moderate risk of addiction.
Is Suboxone the same as methadone?
No, Suboxone is not the same as methadone. Suboxone is a combination of buprenorphine and naltrexone. Methadone is a synthetic opioid agonist used in the treatment of opioid use disorder (OUD) and chronic pain. They are both used in MAT programs to lessen symptoms of withdrawal and manage cravings.
Methadone FAQ
What is the main use of methadone?
Methadone is an FDA-approved medication that is typically offered within a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program for opioid use disorders (OUDs).
Does methadone harm you?
As with all addictive substances, methadone can harm your body if you abuse the medication. Like other opioids, long-term use of methadone can result in damage to your liver, brain, and nerves.
Why do people stay on methadone?
Methadone is a safe treatment for opioid use disorder when prescribed within a MAT program. As a full opiate agonist, Methadone can keep people from getting high on other opioids, such as heroin or prescription painkillers. Most importantly, methadone maintenance helps to prevent relapse, which minimizes the risk of overdose and death.
Entering MAT for Drug & Alcohol Addiction
We at Vogue Recovery Centers offer a wide range of therapies and wellness activities to meet the needs of all our clients. If you’re ready to change your life, let us help guide you to the path of recovery. Changing your life starts with a single call. Reach out to us today.
