What Is Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)?
Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) is a proven approach to overcoming substance use disorders. It combines FDA-approved medications with counseling and therapy to help individuals manage both the physical and emotional challenges of addiction. By reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms, MAT makes it easier to focus on recovery.
This treatment is especially effective for opioid and alcohol addiction. The medications used in MAT help balance brain chemistry, allowing individuals to regain stability and control over their lives. However, medication alone isn’t enough—counseling and support services play a crucial role in long-term success by providing coping skills and emotional guidance.
At Carolina Recovery in Durham, North Carolina, we believe in a well-rounded approach to treatment. Our MAT program combines medical care with compassionate support to help individuals break free from addiction and build a healthier, more fulfilling future.
Benefits of Medication-Assisted Treatment for Addiction
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is a powerful tool in the fight against addiction.
Reducing Cravings and Withdrawal Symptoms
One of the primary benefits of MAT is its ability to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
Medications help stabilize brain chemistry, making it easier for patients to focus on their recovery without being overwhelmed by intense cravings or debilitating withdrawal symptoms. This makes the detox process more bearable and significantly reduces the risk of relapse.
Improving Treatment Effectiveness
Patients in MAT programs often stay in treatment longer, allowing them to benefit from counseling and behavioral therapies. This increased engagement is crucial for building a strong foundation for long-term recovery. Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) has been proven to lower the risk of overdose, which can be life-saving.
Flexibility
Another significant advantage of Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) is its flexibility. MAT is used in both inpatient and outpatient rehab programs. Whether someone is struggling with opioid use disorder or alcohol use disorder, medications are available to help.
At Carolina Recovery, in Durham, North Carolina, we use Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) to help individuals overcome substance use disorders.
Medications for Substance Use Disorders
We employ several FDA-approved medications for addiction treatment in Durham, NC.
Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (OUD)
For those struggling with opioid addiction, several medications can help:
- Buprenorphine eases cravings and withdrawal by partially activating opioid receptors in the brain.
- Methadone is a long-acting medication that helps stabilize individuals and prevent withdrawal.
- Naltrexone blocks the effects of opioids, preventing any “high” and reducing the risk of relapse.
These medications provide crucial support, making the recovery journey safer and more manageable.
Medications for Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)
To help individuals recover from alcohol addiction, MAT includes:
- Disulfiram discourages drinking by causing unpleasant reactions if alcohol is consumed.
- Naltrexone reduces the pleasurable effects of alcohol, lowering the urge to drink.
- Acamprosate, which helps restore brain balance after long-term alcohol use, makes it easier to maintain sobriety.
By combining medications with therapy and support, Carolina Recovery offers a well-rounded approach to addiction treatment. Our goal is to provide individuals with the tools they need to reclaim their lives and build a healthier future.
Comprehensive Addiction Treatment at Carolina Recovery
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) works best when combined with other therapies. Our recovery center in Durham, NC offers behavioral therapy, family therapy, and support groups.
Addressing Mental Health and Trauma
Many individuals with substance abuse disorders also have mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. Carolina Recovery adopts a dual diagnosis approach, treating addiction and mental health conditions simultaneously.
Behavioral Therapy
One of the most effective therapies used with MAT is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). This approach helps individuals recognize and challenge negative thoughts related to addiction. By developing healthier coping strategies, patients can better manage triggers and stress, reducing the risk of relapse.
Individual and Group Therapy
Individual counseling offers personalized support, helping patients work through specific challenges like trauma or co-occurring mental health conditions. By tailoring therapy to each person’s needs, counselors provide tools to build resilience and sustain recovery.
Group therapy creates a supportive environment where individuals can share their experiences, learn from others, and build a strong sense of community. This is essential for long-term success.
Family Therapy
Addiction affects not only the individual but also their loved ones. Family therapy is an integral part of our treatment programs. We help families learn about the nature of addiction, develop effective communication skills, and work through conflicts. Involving family members in the recovery process fosters a supportive environment.
Support Groups
Support groups play a crucial role in addiction recovery. Participants can share experiences, receive encouragement, and build meaningful relationships with others who understand their challenges. These groups foster a sense of community and promote greater accountability.
Continued Care and Relapse Prevention
Recovery is a lifelong journey, and our comprehensive aftercare programs provide ongoing support, relapse prevention strategies, and a community-focused network to empower sustainable sobriety and lasting wellness.
Why Choose Carolina Recovery for Alcohol and Drug Rehab?
From therapists to support staff, everyone at Carolina Recovery is trained to provide empathetic care for people addicted to drinking alcohol, illegal drugs, or pain medicine. Each team member brings a wealth of knowledge and experience. We understand that recovery is a personal journey. Our team will create a personalized treatment plan to fit your needs, lifestyle, and goals.
At Carolina Recovery, we know that healing from a substance use disorder means rebuilding a healthy, fulfilling life. Our care team includes not only skilled healthcare professionals, but also compassionate peer support specialists who have walked their own paths to recovery and understand the challenges you may face.
Carolina Recovery has helped numerous people in North Carolina struggling with drug abuse and alcohol addiction. We take pride in our patient success stories. Our experienced staff employs evidence-based therapies like medication-assisted treatment and behavioral therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Medication for Addiction
How are medications used in addiction treatment?
Medications in addiction treatment are used to help the body and mind recover from the effects of substance use while reducing withdrawal symptoms and cravings for drugs or alcohol. These medications work by stabilizing brain chemistry and helping you feel more balanced, allowing you to focus on therapy and rebuilding your life instead of fighting constant urges. At Carolina Recovery, our medical team carefully evaluates each person’s needs to determine which FDA-approved medication is appropriate and how it can be safely combined with counseling, therapy, and holistic support.
Is medication-assisted treatment for addiction effective and safe?
Yes. When provided under professional supervision, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is both effective and safe. MAT is an evidence-based treatment for substance use disorders. Research shows that MAT significantly increases long-term recovery rates, reduces relapse, and lowers the risk of opioid overdose. MAT is especially helpful for people with alcohol or opioid addiction. These medications are approved by the FDA and prescribed in carefully monitored doses to ensure safety.
Is MAT the same as replacing one drug with another?
No, medication-assisted treatment is not simply substituting one drug for another. The medications used in MAT are carefully designed to normalize brain chemistry without producing the intense highs or compulsive behaviors associated with substance misuse. They are administered in controlled doses to support recovery, not addiction. At Carolina Recovery, our healthcare professionals use these tools as part of a comprehensive approach that also includes counseling, relapse prevention, and life skills development.
How long does someone stay on medication for addiction recovery?
The length of time someone stays on medication depends on their unique situation and progress in addiction recovery. Some people may need medication support for several months, while others may benefit from longer-term use to maintain stability and prevent relapse. There’s no “one-size-fits-all” timeline.
What happens when I stop taking medication for addiction?
When it’s time to reduce or stop medication in addiction treatment, this process should always be done under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider. Stopping too quickly can lead to withdrawal symptoms or increased cravings, which can raise the risk of relapse. At Carolina Recovery, we create personalized tapering plans to ensure that any changes in medication are gradual and comfortable. As you transition off medication, our team continues to provide therapy, coping strategies, and ongoing support
Insurance and Financial Assistance
At Carolina Recovery, we understand that many people worry about paying for substance abuse treatment. Our team is well-versed in navigating insurance claims and can help you understand your coverage.
We work with major insurance providers to ensure you get the benefits you deserve. If you are concerned about costs, we can discuss sliding fee scales and other financial resources.
Contact Us Today for Help With Addiction!
Taking the first step toward recovery can be daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Carolina Recovery, we are dedicated to helping people reclaim their lives from alcohol and drug abuse. Whether you are seeking information about medication-assisted treatment (MAT) or have questions about our drug abuse treatment plans, our team is here to help.
Contact us today by calling (812) 408-8842 or filling out our online form. We prioritize your privacy and will handle your information with the utmost care.
