Thousands of people all over the country are struggling against opioid and alcohol addiction every single day, but what they do not know is whether MAT is the right choice for them. In the past few years, the discourse surrounding long-term recovery has drastically changed. Today, the majority of medical professionals would recommend medication assisted treatment as a scientifically supported and effective method of overcoming addiction.
Is MAT safe in the long term? The answer is affirmative – under professional medical supervision, of course. Here at WisHope Recovery, we are dedicated to providing our patients with medically sound and compassionate treatment that actually works. We utilise an innovative combination of opioid and therapy programs, along with detox programs to help each individual recover.
Key Takeaways
- Clinically, Medication-assisted treatment is proven for relapse prevention and overdose deaths.
- Is MAT safe in a long-term basis? Yes, if managed by an authorized medical practitioner.
- MAT myths usually prevent individuals from getting help that they need.
- Some examples of medication-assisted treatment include drugs like buprenorphine and naltrexone, which are approved and extensively studied by the FDA.
- The combination of medication-assisted treatment in a long-term period and a therapy program is most effective.
What is Medication-Assisted Therapy?
Medication-assisted therapy makes use of FDA-approved medications along with counselling and behavioural therapy sessions. This treatment focuses not only on addressing the physical but also the psychological problems associated with substance abuse disorder. This therapy is used for opioid treatment programs as well as those who suffer from alcohol addiction.
Medication assisted treatment is not always the same. Physicians customize a medication assisted treatment for every patient depending on their medical condition, their substance abuse pattern and other health-related issues.
Is MAT Safe Long-Term? What’s the Scientific Evidence?
This is usually the first question that pops into people’s minds. Numerous studies have consistently proven that MAT is both safe and highly effective. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved the use of certain medications for long-term treatment in opioid and alcohol addiction treatment centres.
A study from 2023 in the New England Journal of Medicine found that participants receiving MAT for two or more years had much lower rates of relapse than those who received MAT for less than two years.
What Are the Common Effects of MAT?
MAT, like any other medication, is bound to have side effects. However, having knowledge about them will help the patients make sound decisions.
The common side effects of MAT include:
- Buprenorphine risks: nausea, headache, constipation, and slight sleep problems
- Naltrexone safety concerns: alteration of liver enzymes (uncommon), fatigue, and loss of appetite
- Side effects of methadone: drowsiness, dry mouth, and heart effects when used in higher doses
- Side effects of Vivitrol: reactions at the injection site, initial flu-like symptoms
The MAT side effects are minor for most patients, but physicians supervise their use by monitoring their patients’ progress in detox programs and during follow-up visits.
What Are the Long-Term MAT Benefits?
The potential MAT benefits for the long term for most patients outweigh any risks associated with it. Here are the things MAT patients can expect from taking medications regularly and under medical supervision:
- Fewer cravings: drugs prevent activation of brain receptors responsible for rewarding substance use.
- Low risk of overdose: buprenorphine and naltrexone greatly decrease the chances of overdose.
- Mental wellness improvement: When prescribed together with therapy, they result in improved well-being.
- Stronger social connections: recovery helps establish better ties with families and loved ones.
- Higher employment levels: statistics prove that MAT patients have higher chances of being employed.
- Greater chances of avoiding relapse: regular medication therapy prevents patients from falling back into addiction.
The alcohol MAT success rate is also impressive. Statistics show that naltrexone and acamprosate can help cut down on alcohol intake by 50% among patients who are receiving those medications along with attending therapy sessions.
What Are the Biggest MAT Myths?
MAT myths are responsible for keeping thousands from seeking treatment every year. Let’s debunk some misconceptions.
Myth 1: MAT simply substitutes one addiction for another.
Not true. FDA-approved medication helps balance your body’s chemistry without the euphoric high associated with substance abuse. It does not create an addiction.
Myth 2: You are not truly sober if you are receiving MAT.
Sobriety refers to leading a functional, healthy, substance-free lifestyle regardless of which medications prescribed by your physician may be contributing to it. This myth is strongly rejected by the medical community.
Myth 3: MAT is only a temporary solution.
It has been proven that MAT lasting a long time may be the best solution. Ending treatment prematurely can increase your chances of relapse immensely.
Myth 4: MAT cannot treat alcohol abuse.
Alcohol addiction treatment using MAT proves extremely successful. In fact, naltrexone shows plenty of research proving its effectiveness in treating alcohol addiction.
How Does MAT Combine With Therapy and Relapse Prevention?
MAT tends to yield optimal results if it is not used alone. Combining medication with therapy interventions, for example, CBT or motivational interviewing sessions, can help patients achieve much more success.
The element of relapse prevention is another important one to add.
Patients get trained to recognise their triggers, find proper ways to cope, and establish support systems that will help them stay sober even after their medication stops. MAT opioid treatment safety is significantly safer if used in conjunction with therapy and community involvement.
Recover from Addiction for the Long-Term
Are you or a loved one prepared to undergo medication-assisted treatment? You do not have to go through the process all alone. Our licensed clinicians at WisHope Recovery offer opioid treatment programs, detox programs, therapy programs, and relapse prevention plans that are tailored for long-term success.
We apply the most effective practices in opioid treatment safety with heartfelt care and compassion to ensure each patient has the best chance of leading a happy and productive life. Learn more at wishoperecovery.com.
FAQs:
What are the risks associated with using buprenorphine?
The risk of mild side effects, including nausea and constipation, is prevalent. However, severe risks can be avoided with proper medical oversight.
Is naltrexone harmful to the liver?
Using naltrexone is safe within the recommended prescription dosage. There is no evidence linking low dosages to liver-related issues.
Is WisHope Recovery capable of helping with my alcoholism with the use of MAT?
Of course! We have treatment plans in WisHope Recovery which entail MAT, among other forms of therapy.
How long am I supposed to stay on MAT?
This varies from patient to patient. Some patients get better from taking MAT for 1-2 years, while others need more extended assistance.