Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is the combination of the use of medications and behavioral therapies to treat substance use addictions.
More specifically, MAT programs are most often recommended to those suffering from alcohol use disorder (AUD) and opioid use disorder (OUD). Medications used for MAT are U.S Food and Drug Administration-approved and are known to be the most effective intervention in treating OUD, compared to behavioral interventions and medication alone. Each MAT medication differs in the way it works to relieve withdrawal symptoms and/or block the euphoric effects of the drugs.
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, medication-assisted treatment has proven to be effective in treating the withdrawal symptoms and negative effects of opioid and alcohol use.
Paired with treatments such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and counseling, MAT programs utilize a “whole person” approach to treating opioid dependence and alcohol addiction and are helpful in assisting patients in long-term sobriety. This treatment approach has been known to
- Improve survival rates of those suffering from substance use disorders.
- Increase retention and willingness to remain in treatment.
- Decrease illicit opioid use, binge drinking, and other health problems caused by addiction
- Increase daily functioning and ability to maintain a normal routine.
- Improve live birth outcomes among women who are pregnant and struggling with substance use.