Learn About MAT

A: Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is an evidence-based approach to treating substance use disorders, particularly opioid addiction. It involves combining medications with counseling and behavioral therapies to provide comprehensive care. MAT is not simply switching one addiction for another. Let me explain why:

1. Medications Used: MAT primarily involves the use of medications approved by regulatory bodies, such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The commonly used medications for opioid use disorder include methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone. These medications are carefully prescribed and managed by healthcare professionals.
2. Mechanism of Action: The medications used in MAT work in different ways. Methadone and buprenorphine are opioid agonists, meaning they activate the same opioid receptors as opioids but in a controlled and safer manner. They help reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings while blocking the effects of illicit opioids. Naltrexone, on the other hand, is an opioid antagonist that blocks the opioid receptors, preventing the person from experiencing the euphoric effects of opioids.
3. Treatment Goals: The goal of MAT is not to replace one addiction with another, but rather to help individuals stabilize their lives, reduce the harms associated with drug use, and ultimately achieve recovery. MAT provides a controlled and regulated medication regimen, which allows individuals to function normally and engage in daily activities without the adverse consequences of uncontrolled drug use.
4. Comprehensive Approach: Medication-Assisted Treatment is most effective when combined with counseling and behavioral therapies. It addresses not only the physiological aspects of addiction but also the psychological and social factors that contribute to substance use disorders. By integrating medication with therapy, MAT helps individuals develop coping mechanisms, make positive behavioral changes, and improve their overall well-being.
5. Safety and Supervision: MAT is administered under medical supervision. Healthcare professionals carefully assess individuals before prescribing medication, monitor their progress, and make adjustments as needed. This close monitoring ensures safety and prevents misuse of the medications.

A: In Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) programs, which are commonly used for opioid addiction, there are several mechanisms in place to ensure accountability and support the recovery process. Here are some ways in which people in MAT are typically held accountable:

1. Medical supervision: MAT is administered under the supervision of healthcare professionals, usually physicians or addiction specialists. These professionals closely monitor the individual’s progress, adjust medication dosages if necessary, and provide medical guidance throughout the treatment process.
2. Regular clinic visits: Individuals in MAT programs are required to visit the clinic or treatment center regularly for check-ups, medication management, and counseling sessions. These visits allow healthcare providers to assess the person’s progress, address any concerns or challenges, and make necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.
3. Drug testing: Random drug testing is often conducted in MAT programs to ensure that individuals are not using illicit substances in addition to their prescribed medication. Regular drug tests help identify any potential relapses and provide an opportunity for intervention or additional support if needed.
4. Counseling and therapy: Alongside medication, counseling and therapy are integral parts of MAT programs. Individuals are typically required to attend individual or group therapy sessions to address underlying issues related to addiction, develop coping strategies, and work towards sustained recovery. These sessions provide accountability and support in maintaining sobriety.
5. Treatment agreements or contracts: Some MAT programs may require individuals to sign treatment agreements or contracts that outline the expectations, responsibilities, and rules of the program. These agreements often include commitments such as regular attendance, compliance with medication protocols, and active participation in counseling and therapy.
6. Peer support groups: Participation in peer support groups, such as 12-step programs like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) or SMART Recovery, may be encouraged as part of MAT programs. These groups provide a sense of accountability through regular meetings and connections with others who are also in recovery.

It’s important to note that accountability in MAT is not meant to be punitive but rather to support individuals in their recovery journey. The aim is to ensure that individuals receive appropriate medical care, adhere to the treatment plan, and have access to the necessary support systems for successful recovery.

A: The presence of a Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) program alone does not necessarily increase crime rates. MAT programs are designed to provide support and treatment for individuals struggling with substance use disorders, particularly opioids. These programs typically involve a combination of medication, such as methadone or buprenorphine, and counseling or behavioral therapy.

Research suggests that MAT programs can be effective in reducing drug use, overdose deaths, and criminal activity associated with substance abuse. By providing individuals with evidence-based treatment, MAT programs can help stabilize their lives, reduce cravings, and minimize withdrawal symptoms. As a result, participants are less likely to engage in illegal activities to obtain drugs, reducing their involvement in criminal behavior.

Furthermore, MAT programs often offer additional support services, such as mental health counseling, vocational training, and assistance with housing and employment. These comprehensive approaches aim to address the underlying causes of substance abuse and help individuals reintegrate into society. By providing these resources, MAT programs can contribute to reducing crime and improving community safety.

However, it’s important to consider the context and implementation of MAT programs. The location and management of a program, as well as community perceptions and attitudes, can influence outcomes. Successful integration of MAT programs into communities involves collaboration among healthcare providers, law enforcement, policymakers, and community members to address concerns, provide education, and ensure adequate resources are available.

In summary, having a MAT program nearby does not inherently increase crime. In fact, these programs can have a positive impact by reducing drug-related criminal activity and promoting the overall well-being of individuals struggling with substance use disorders.

A: Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is not necessarily lifelong, but the duration of treatment can vary depending on individual circumstances. MAT is commonly used for substance use disorders, particularly opioid and alcohol use disorders, and involves the use of medications in combination with counseling and behavioral therapies to provide a comprehensive approach to treatment.

The use of medications in MAT aims to help individuals manage withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, and stabilize their physical and mental well-being. The specific medications used in MAT can vary depending on the substance being treated. For example, methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone are commonly used for opioid use disorder, while medications like acamprosate and naltrexone are used for alcohol use disorder.

The duration of MAT can be influenced by factors such as the severity of the substance use disorder, individual response to treatment, the presence of co-occurring mental health disorders, and personal goals for recovery. Some individuals may benefit from long-term maintenance treatment with medications, as it can help sustain recovery and prevent relapse. Others may gradually taper off medications under medical supervision once they have achieved stability and developed effective coping strategies.

It is important to note that MAT is not solely reliant on medications. It is typically provided in conjunction with counseling, behavioral therapies, support groups, and other psychosocial interventions. These components of treatment help address the underlying causes of substance use disorders and support individuals in making lasting lifestyle changes.

Ultimately, the decision regarding the duration of MAT should be made in consultation with healthcare professionals who can evaluate an individual’s specific needs and provide personalized recommendations based on the best available evidence and clinical judgment.

A: We offer both medication and behavioral therapies to assist you in your recovery. The medications commonly used in MAT are Methadone, Buprenorphine, Suboxone, Vivitrol, Sublocade, and Naltrexone. 

The behavioral therapies address the cognitive, well-being, and outside circumstances that may have led to the addiction in the first place, while the medications help remove withdrawals and cravings to ensure long-term success during recovery.

A: Our highly-trained staff will assess your body’s physical needs, your individual needs and the situation to determine the best course of action, appropriate medication and dosage and the best therapeutic approaches for the most effective results possible.

A: The prescribed medications are used to alleviate the symptoms of withdrawal by building a baseline within the body that also helps remove the cravings of addiction. It is not designed to get a patient “high” but allows the patient to slowly wean off dependency to other opioids and alcohol.

A: Call our office (435) 241-7778 & schedule an appointment or simply walk into our clinic, 134 W. 1180 N. St.4, Monday-Friday, 6am-8am.

A: After getting started on the appropriate medical and therapeutic treatment plans, our staff would be happy to assist in helping your loved ones understand why this treatment is the best course of action for your recovery. 

Many people assume that using a prescribed opioid to treat an addiction is simply trading one addiction for another, however, this could not be further from the truth. Your treatment plan is tailored to your needs and is monitored closely, highly-regulated by professionals and is intended to assist you by avoiding withdrawals, which is the hardest part of recovery.

A: Walk in or schedule an appointment for a consultation. During the appointment we can answer any questions and address concerns that you or your loved one may have. We can show them what the path to recovery through MAT looks like and set a proposed plan that suits their needs.