Medication-Assisted Treatment And OUD: Why It Works

Addiction in America is a public health crisis, especially when it comes to opioids. Sadly, the pandemic has only worsened the addiction epidemic. And for many people who were new to sobriety or had fragile coping skills, the pandemic was a time of isolation and relapse. For many people with opioid use disorder (OUD), it will take Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) and treatment or talk therapy to help them cope.

Understanding what MAT helps with can help inform your decisions when it comes to treatment and recovery.

What is Opioid Use Disorder (OUD)?

People with opioid use disorder usually have developed a dependence and tolerance to their drug of choice. Drugs like oxycontin, fentanyl, tramadol, and heroin are all opioids that are highly addictive. Many people start out taking drugs like Oxycontin and tramadol for medical purposes but develop a tolerance to the drug. They may begin to abuse their prescription or have to titrate the dosage up. As their addiction builds, they will become preoccupied with drug use and may suffer problems with finances, relationships, mental and physical health.

If a person uses more of the drug than prescribed and uses it to “get high” or help them with emotions or relaxation, they probably have an opioid use disorder. A disorder means that they are using opioids in a non-therapeutic way. They may be addicted to it and have withdrawal symptoms when they try to cease taking the drug.

MAT, Suboxone and Opioid Withdrawal

People who are addicted to opioids will typically suffer withdrawal symptoms when they cease using opioids. According to the FDA, MAT is considered the “gold standard” of treatment for opioid use disorder.

One of the most well-known types of MAT, Suboxone, combines buprenorphine and naloxone, two different medications. The combination reduces withdrawal symptoms, allowing patients to cope with other aspects of life as they begin to detox and recover from addiction.

Suboxone can help you prevent relapse alongside other treatments.

Getting Help for Addiction

Medication-Assisted Treatment is considered to be a lifesaver alongside talk therapy or drug treatment. We can help you start the journey to reclaiming your life.

Addiction is a disease, and there is treatment available! Call us to learn about MAT and other treatment options available for opioid use disorder. We can answer any questions you have at 910-295-7246.