Substance abuse treatment can be done in so many ways. One of them is medicated assisted treatment. While it may seem risky on paper, it can be very effective for those who are looking to beat their addiction.

This guide will discuss the importance of this treatment method. If you are looking for a detox center that does this, Gallus Detox is one place in the Phoenix area that will offer. For more information, visit their website at – https://www.gallusdetox.com/locations/arizona/phoenix-detox-center/

If you or someone you know may need assistance in terms of treating substance abuse, there are ways to approach it. If you are interested in learning more about medication assisted treatment, keep reading. Let’s dive in a little deeper.

What is Medication Assisted Treatment?

Medication Assisted Treatment or MAT utilizes pharmaceutical grade medications that are aimed at helping people beat their substance abuse. However, the medication treatment is part of the treatment plan.

Aside from the medication itself, regular therapy and counseling sessions are also incorporated. Granted, medication alone will not help you beat your substance abuse. This is typical for those who have been addicted to opioids to utilize this kind of treatment.

What medications are used for MAT?

These are the following medications that are used for MAT for those beating their opioid addiction:

  • Methadone: This is one of the most common medications that are used for treating substance abuse. Methadone is used to reduce the cravings and withdrawal symptoms from opioids. 
  • Buprenonphrine: This has similar effects to methadone. However, this is easily accessible to persons undergoing treatment because it can be found in community clinics, medical clinics or hospitals, and correctional facilities. 
  • Naltrexone: This medication is known as an opioid antagonist. Which means that it can block the opioid receptors and thus causing an effect that may feel like euphoria. This is medication that will need to be used in a certain time period. This can be used from 7 to 10 days after withdrawal from opioids.

How effective is MAT for substance abuse recovery?

More than 2 million people had been treated for an opioid disorder including those who had been addicted to heroin and other related drugs. What makes MAT effective is that the medications used are aimed at reducing the cravings and withdrawal symptoms of these opioid drugs.

MAT allows those the opportunity to treat their substance abuse with a custom made plan that fits them best. At the same time, they are taking part in a therapy method that has been proven to work. Amongst the common results of MAT include but are not limited to:

  • Increased chances of sticking to their treatment program
  • Increases the chances of survival
  • Decreases overall use (and behavior stemming from their abuse or addiction)
  • Increases their chances of living a more fulfilling life including finding employment
  • Improves successful pregnancies in women who have had previous substance abuse/addiction problems

As you can see, the list of benefits and results above may be a good reason why MAT may be the best option. While medication is part of the treatment process, it should be noted that sticking with it will increase your chances of success.

Are there any other MATs for other addictions?

Yes. MATs are not just for those that have been addicted to opioids. Those who have abused alcohol can benefit from this kind of therapy method. The medications that have been used for alcohol addiction include naltrexone, Disulfirame, and Acamprosate. 

Once again, it has been proven to be effective for those dealing with their addiction. If you abuse drugs and alcohol, it may be wise to consider using naltrexone since it can be used for both. You don’t want to cause any kind of medication interaction that will affect your health negatively.

How long does an MAT treatment last?

This will depend on several factors. It can depend on the type of medication that is being used along with the individual needs of a patient. On average, an MAT treatment will last about a year.

After 90 days, the amount of medication used for the treatment will decrease. The reduction will continue over time until it is no longer needed. This is the common timeframe if an individual is using methadone as their treatment.

If they are using other medication such as buprenorphine, the treatment can last anywhere from a few months to even more than a year. Once again, this will depend on the patient’s needs. For those using naltrexone, it will be 12 weeks until a person will no longer need it for their treatment.

That’s why it is important to consider your options in terms of the kind of medication you need. This can determine how long your treatment may last. Choose wisely and make sure that you ask questions or address any concerns about your treatment including side effects or any safety issues that may occur.

As you begin your treatment, you will need to follow your schedule that includes regular therapy. Be sure to let your substance abuse counselor know about your medication treatment. This will give them the pertinent information they need if anything were to happen to you in terms of medical conditions.

They may also make recommendations if needed to adjust your medication dosage. However, that doesn’t mean they have the authority on whether or not your dosage decreases.

Final Thoughts

Medication Assisted Treatment can be a life saver. As effective as it can be, it should be part of your recovery process from substance abuse. If you are dealing with it yourself, you are not alone.

Plus, you have options at your disposal. If you are interested in including MAT as part of your treatment plan, contact Gallos Detox in Phoenix today. We will walk you through the process and explain what to expect during your treatment process.

Don’t wait any longer to get help. Contact us today and we’ll put you on the right path.