Battling addiction to drugs or alcohol can be difficult without professional help. When someone abuses substances, their body will adapt to the constant presence of drugs or alcohol. Attempting to detox from substances can cause unpleasant and, in some cases, potentially dangerous withdrawal symptoms. If you or a loved one is trying to recover from a substance use disorder, a medication-assisted treatment program may be the best way to get through the early stages of withdrawal.
Gemini Recovery is your destination for comprehensive, evidence-based addiction treatment. We offer medication-assisted treatment alongside a host of other treatment protocols to suit each individual client’s needs. If you think you or a loved one may benefit from addiction therapy programs in Pennsylvania, contact us at 888.341.2524 for more information on our programs.
What Is Medication-Assisted Treatment?
Medication-assisted treatment is a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to managing substance use disorders. This innovative treatment protocol combines the use of FDA-approved medications with behavioral therapies and counseling to provide a holistic treatment for individuals living with addiction. By targeting the physical, psychological, and social aspects of addiction, medication-assisted treatment has proven effective in reducing illicit drug use, preventing overdose, and improving quality of life.
Medication-assisted treatment has primarily been used to treat opioid addiction, including heroin, prescription pain relievers, and synthetic opioids like fentanyl. It has also been effective in treating alcohol use disorder. The main goal of medication-assisted treatment is to stabilize brain chemistry, reduce cravings, and prevent withdrawal symptoms. This allows clients to focus on other aspects of their recovery, such as behavioral therapies, counseling, and support groups.
Medications Used in Medication-Assisted Treatment
There are a number of primary medications used in medication-assisted treatment:
- Methadone – Methadone is a long-acting synthetic opioid agonist that works by binding to the same receptors as opioids.
- Buprenorphine – Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist that also binds to the same receptors as opioids but with less intensity. This helps to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and cravings without inducing the high that accompanies opioid use.
- Naltrexone – Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist that works by blocking the effects of opioids on the brain.
- Acamprosate – Acamprosate is used to treat alcohol addiction by restoring the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain.
- Disulfiram – Disulfiram is an alcohol-sensitizing drug that discourages alcohol consumption by causing unpleasant physical reactions, such as nausea and flushing, when alcohol is consumed.
The proper medication to be used will be determined by the client’s physician and addiction specialists.
What Are the Benefits of Medication-Assisted Treatment?
Medication-assisted treatment has been shown to have numerous benefits for individuals struggling with addiction. Some of these benefits include:
- Reduced cravings and withdrawal symptoms – Medication-assisted treatment helps to stabilize brain chemistry, reducing the intensity of cravings and withdrawal symptoms, which makes it easier for clients to focus on their recovery.
- Improved adherence to treatment – Clients who participate in medication-assisted treatment are more likely to remain in treatment compared to those who do not receive medication support.
- Reduced risk of overdose – By providing a controlled, therapeutic dose of medication, there is a reduced risk of overdose and the associated negative health outcomes.
- Lower rates of relapse – MAT has been shown to reduce the rate of relapse by addressing the physical aspects of addiction and providing ongoing support through therapy and counseling.
- Improved quality of life – Medication-assisted treatment enables clients to regain control over their lives, improve their physical and mental health, and build stronger relationships with family and friends.
Medication-assisted treatment is a powerful tool in the fight against addiction. While it is not a one-size-fits-all solution, MAT has demonstrated significant success in helping individuals achieve long-term recovery and improved quality of life.
Start MAT at Gemini Recovery
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, consider exploring MAT as a potential treatment option. At Gemini Recovery, we are experienced in administering MAT for various substance use disorders as part of a comprehensive treatment program. We are committed to helping our clients break free from substance abuse and addiction. You can contact us at 888.341.2524 to learn more about your treatment options.
