What is MAT and How Does it Work?
Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) utilizes intensive therapies and medication to allow a holistic approach to addiction treatment. These medications have been approved by the FDA for use in addiction treatment and have been shown to positively impact success in recovery. MAT was originally intended to treat opioid addiction, however it has recently gained popularity in the treatment of alcohol abuse. The medications used in MAT Drug Rehab in Philadelphia help return brain chemistry to normal function; blocking the euphoric effect drugs or alcohol have on the brain, reducing cravings, and preventing the body from suffering from the negative effects of the drug. Studies have shown that MAT can reduce drug use, criminal involvement, and decrease the risk of diseases.
Common Myths About MAT
Despite the proven effectiveness of MAT, there are still some who may be hesitant to give it a try. Here are some common myths regarding MAT Drug Rehab:
MAT just substitutes one drug for another.
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- However, when taken as prescribed, these medications will reduce cravings and do not produce a “high”. Methadone and Buprenorphine, two medications commonly used in MAT, are opioid-based, however instead of releasing a euphoric feeling like other opioids, they help change the way the brain responds to cravings.
MAT is just a “crutch” for addictive behavior and will not produce long term recovery.
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- In fact, brain functioning is normalized with these medications, allowing clients to have a clear head space and focus on behavioral therapies and counseling that are part of this complete treatment plan.
MAT needs to be part of a long-term treatment plan.
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- Just as every person’s experience with addiction is different, so is their course of treatment. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration advises that addiction treatment should be done in phases. Under the supervision of a medical professional, clients should start with stabilization, which consists of withdrawal symptom management, a complete psychosocial assessment, medical exam, and counseling. In the next phase clients will take on more intensive counseling and medication management. The third phase of treatment is when the physician, along with the client, will decide if medication is still needed and can develop a plan to taper off from there.
Tapering off medications used in MAT quickly is the best course of action.
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- Tapering off these medications too soon can be fatal should relapse occur.
Medications Used in MAT For Alcohol and Drug Addiction
The FDA has approved all medications used in MAT and extensive research has proven they are effective at decreasing cravings and dampen withdrawal symptoms. While none of these medications alone cure addiction, they are instrumental in helping people achieve and maintain recovery. For alcohol use disorder, naltrexone, disulfiram, and acamprosate are commonly used. Disulfiram produces very unpleasant side effects if even the smallest amount of alcohol is consumed, so speak to your doctor before starting this course of treatment. Naltrexone, methadone, and buprenorphine are used for short-acting opioid addiction, such as codeine or heroin. These medications have been shown to be safe to take for any duration and can be very helpful as part of treatment, so ask if MAT Drug Rehab in Philadelphia would be the right option fo you.
About The Source Addiction Treatment Center
The Source Addiction Treatment Center is located in beautiful Fort Lauderdale, FL. They’re nationally accredited rehab center specializes in helping people identify and treat the root causes of their addiction, making recovery possible. Each client receives a comprehensive treatment plan that is unique to their life experiences and needs. MAT Drug Rehab in Philadelphia is utilized for those who may benefit from it. At The Source, you will have a variety of different therapies available to you to help you heal from addiction and past trauma and return to a happier, healthier life. For more information on how MAT at the Source can help you achieve recovery, please call (800) 204-0418 or visit them online at www.thesourcetreatmentcenter.com.
The Source quite frankly saved my life and got me back on track, never giving giving up on me. When you are thinking about and looking through all of the different places to go for treatment this is the one that should stand out from the rest.
