Medication-Assisted Treatment
An Evidence-Based Approach
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT), or medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD), is the use of FDA-approved medications to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). In combination with counseling and behavioral therapies, these medications can help people to manage symptoms and sustain recovery.
How Does MAT Work?
MAT/MOUD medications engage with the same parts of the brain that are activated by opioids. While in the system, they can block the effects of other drugs or decrease the symptoms of dependence and withdrawal. Use of these medications can improve treatment outcomes by reducing cravings, normalizing brain chemistry, and providing relief from physical aspects of dependence that might disrupt early stage recovery.
How can MAT Help?
Studies have shown that MAT/MOUD can:
- Help patients manage withdrawal symptoms
- Suppress or reduce cravings for opioids
- Reduce the likelihood of recurring use and overdose
- Reduce likelihood of negative health outcomes due to continued use, including HIV and hepatitis transmission
- Reduce risk of incarceration related to substance use
- Improve pregnancy outcomes for individuals with OUD
- Prolong retention in addiction treatment
These effects can support the physical and emotional stability necessary for long-term success in recovery. Medications for OUD treatment should be paired with appropriate therapies and support services as recommended by a treatment provider. Individual outcomes may vary based on medication and treatment program.
Key MAT Statistics
Studies have revealed that medication-assisted treatment is associated with many positive health and treatment outcomes including reduced opioid use and OUD-related symptoms, reduced risk of infectious disease transmission, increased likelihood that a person will remain in treatment, and greater likelihood of employment, among others.
SRHN does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any information published on this website or by this brand is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. Prior to starting any medication or treatment plan always consult a medical doctor or other qualified healthcare provider regarding questions that you may have about any past, present, or suspected medical conditions and how those medical conditions may be impacted by starting any medication or treatment plan. Never disregard professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the SRHN Website.