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Reviewed by Addiction is a complex, layered issue that affects not only individuals but families and communities, which often requires mixed approaches for long-term recovery.
In response to the growing addiction epidemic in the U.S., federal agencies have made it a priority to improve access to Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), a comprehensive approach to treating addiction. MAT combines FDA-approved medications with counseling, behavioral therapies, and patient monitoring.
Studies show that MAT significantly improves treatment adherence and reduces illicit drug use, making it a more practical option than either medication or therapy alone. Keep reading to learn more about how MAT can help stop addiction and transform lives.
Table Of Contents:
What Is MAT Therapy?
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is an integrated approach to treating substance use disorders (SUD), particularly opioid addiction. It combines psychosocial interventions with FDA-approved medications, such as methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone, to enhance recovery outcomes.
This therapy conveys two critical points:
- Medication alone is not the sole solution to addiction
- It works in conjunction with other forms of treatment
This dual approach recognizes the complex nature of addiction, which often involves psychological, social, and environmental factors that medication alone cannot address. MAT offers a comprehensive framework that acknowledges the importance of both pharmacological and therapeutic interventions.
By combining effective medications with counseling and behavioral therapies, MAT aims to provide a well-rounded strategy for those seeking recovery from addiction. This combination not only helps to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and cravings but also supports individuals in developing coping skills and addressing co-occurring disorders.
How Does MAT Therapy Work?
MAT works by addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction, offering a more holistic approach to recovery. This treatment method has a couple of goals, including:
- Normalizing brain chemistry: MAT helps to reestablish normal brain function.
- Blocking the euphoric effects of drugs: Some medications used in MAT block the effects of drugs in the body.
- Relieving physical cravings: MAT medications can reduce cravings and prevent withdrawal.
- Reducing symptoms of withdrawal: MAT medications can help with the physical difficulties that people experience when they stop taking drugs.
What Are the Medications Used In MAT Therapy?
The cornerstone of MAT therapy is the use of FDA-approved medications, which are specifically designed to help reduce the intense cravings and withdrawal symptoms associated with addiction.
Initially, MAT was developed and primarily used to address opioid use disorder (OUD). Over time, however, the success of MAT in treating opioid addiction led to its application in other substance use disorders, particularly alcohol use disorder (AUD).
The medications for alcohol or addiction may include:
| Medication | Disorder Treated | How It Works | Administration | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Methadone treatment | Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) | Full opioid agonist, reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms by activating opioid receptors. | Daily oral solution or tablet | Reduces cravings, minimizes withdrawal, and helps stabilize recovery. |
| Buprenorphine | Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) | Partial opioid agonist activates opioid receptors but to a lesser degree, reducing the risk of misuse. | Sublingual tablet, film, or implant | A lower risk of overdose reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms. |
| Suboxone (buprenorphine + naloxone) | Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) | Combination of buprenorphine with naloxone (opioid antagonist); naloxone helps prevent misuse by causing withdrawal symptoms if injected. | Sublingual tablet or film | Discourages misuse and reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms. |
| Naltrexone (Narcan) | Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) & Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) | Opioid antagonist; blocks the euphoric and sedative effects of opioids or alcohol. | Oral tablet or monthly injection | It prevents relapse by blocking the effects of opioids and alcohol. |
| Disulfiram | Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) | Causes unpleasant reactions (nausea, flushing, headache) when alcohol is consumed. | Oral tablet | Discourages alcohol consumption by causing adverse reactions. |
| Acamprosate | Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) | It helps restore brain balance in individuals who have stopped drinking by reducing cravings. | Oral tablet (taken 3 times a day) | Reduces cravings and anxiety associated with alcohol withdrawal. |
| Vivitrol (naltrexone extended-release) | Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) & Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) | Extended-release version of naltrexone; blocks opioid and alcohol effects for 30 days per injection. | Monthly injection | Long-acting protection against relapse for both OUD and AUD. |
Today, MAT is recognized as an effective, evidence-based approach for treating both opioid and alcohol addiction, broadening its reach to help more people recover from substance use disorders.
Psychosocial Interventions
While medications play a critical role in managing the physical aspects of addiction, psychosocial interventions address the behavioral and psychological components. This often includes:
- Counseling: Therapy sessions provide a safe space to explore underlying emotional issues that may have contributed to addiction.
- Behavioral Therapies: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other therapeutic approaches are often used to help individuals develop coping strategies to prevent relapse.
- Support Networks: MAT programs emphasize the importance of building a solid support system, such as peer groups or community-based resources.
Monitoring and Adjustment
A key component of MAT therapy is continuous monitoring by healthcare professionals.
Patients are regularly evaluated to ensure the chosen medication and dosage are effective and adjusted as necessary. This monitoring also extends to mental health and behavioral progress, ensuring the treatment plan is comprehensive and adaptable to the individual’s changing needs.
Does Insurance Cover MAT Therapy?
Many insurance plans cover Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for substance use disorders, including opioid and alcohol addiction.
Coverage for MAT is mandated under several healthcare policies and laws that recognize addiction as a treatable medical condition. The extent of coverage, however, can vary depending on the type of insurance plan and the specific medications or services provided.
Private Insurance
Most private health insurance plans are required to provide coverage for addiction treatment, including MAT, under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). This law classifies addiction treatment as an essential health benefit, meaning plans must cover services like counseling, behavioral therapy, and MAT medications such as methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone. However, coverage detailsโsuch as co-pays, deductibles, and prior authorization requirementsโmay differ depending on the provider.
Medicare
Medicare, which provides health coverage for people aged 65 and older and some younger individuals with disabilities, also covers MAT.
As of 2020, Medicare Part B covers opioid use disorder treatment, including counseling and FDA-approved medications like methadone and buprenorphine, when administered in certified opioid treatment programs (OTPs). Medicare Part D may cover other MAT medications like naltrexone.
Medicaid
Medicaid, a state and federally-funded insurance program for low-income individuals, covers MAT in all states. However, the specific medications and services covered can vary by state.
Most states offer coverage for methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone, along with counseling and behavioral therapy, as part of the treatment process. Medicaid expansion under the ACA has also helped broaden access to MAT in many states.
State-Funded Programs
Many states offer programs that provide coverage or financial assistance for MAT for those without private insurance or Medicaid. These state rehab programs are often designed to help individuals access addiction treatment services, including MAT medications and therapies, regardless of their financial situation.
While insurance coverage for MAT has expanded, individuals need to check with their insurance provider to understand what treatments and medications are covered and whether any restrictions, such as prior authorization or specific provider networks, apply to their plan.
How Long Does MAT Last?
The length of MAT therapy depends on the individual’s needs and the severity of their addiction. There is no set timeline for how long treatment will continue, but here are some general guidelines:
- Many programs: Last one to three months, like traditional addiction therapy programs
- Severe addictions: May last a year or more
- Methadone: Doctors recommend a 12-month program
- Buprenorphine: Research suggests that most people relapse if they take the medication for less than six months
- Alcohol: Research suggests MAT therapy should be continued for at least a year
The FDA recommends periodically re-evaluating the need for continuing MAT. For some patients, treatment may continue indefinitely.
How to Find MAT Treatment Near Me?
Finding Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for opioid or alcohol use disorder is easier than ever, thanks to numerous resources that can guide you to nearby clinics, programs, and healthcare providers. Here are several effective ways to locate MAT treatment options near you:
- Visit the SAMHSA Treatment Locator
- Call the 24/7 National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for more personalized assistance.
- Search your state health departmentโs website for addiction services or MAT programs.
- Consult with your primary care doctor is another reliable way to find MAT treatment.
- If you have health insurance, your providers can often help you locate nearby addiction treatment centers.
- Community health clinics and federally funded health centers often offer MAT services at reduced costs or for free.
- Donโt hesitate to talk to friends, family, or support groups who have experienced drug rehab.
Overcome Addiction, Get Back Your Life
Addiction is a complex and layered issue, but with the proper treatment, recovery is possible. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) has consistently proven to be an effective solution for opioid and alcohol use disorders, helping to manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms and reducing the risk of relapse.
By pairing FDA-approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies, MAT offers a comprehensive approach to addiction treatment. Despite MAT’s demonstrated effectiveness, many people still face barriers to accessing this life-saving treatment.
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, donโt wait and explore the available MAT options. Contact a local rehab center to discuss personalized treatment options based on your medical needs.
People Also Ask
What does MAT do for addicts?
MAT helps addicts by reducing withdrawal symptoms and cravings, improving treatment retention, and lowering relapse rates. It combines FDA-approved medications with therapy to treat both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction.
What is MAT in substance abuse treatment?
MAT (Medication-Assisted Treatment) is a comprehensive approach to substance abuse treatment that uses FDA-approved medications alongside counseling and behavioral therapies to treat opioid or alcohol addiction, improving recovery outcomes and reducing relapse risks.
What is the success rate of MAT treatment?
MAT significantly improves recovery outcomes, with research showing it increases treatment adherence by 50% and reduces illicit opioid use, overdose deaths, and relapse rates compared to non-medicated treatments. Success rates vary by individual and duration of therapy.
Page Sources
- Trusts, P. C. (2016, November 22). Medication-assisted treatment improves outcomes for patients with opioid use disorder. The Pew Charitable Trusts. https://www.pewtrusts.org/en/research-and-analysis/fact-sheets/2016/11/medication-assisted-treatment-improves-outcomes-for-patients-with-opioid-use-disorder
- Robinson, S. M., & Adinoff, B. (2017). The mixed message behind โMedication-Assisted Treatmentโ for substance use disorder. The American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse, 44(2), 147โ150. https://doi.org/10.1080/00952990.2017.1362419
- Medication-Assisted Treatment FAQ. https://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/opioids/treatment/mat-faq.html
- Opioid Use Disorder Treatment Services. Medicare. https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/opioid-use-disorder-treatment-services
- Timko, C., Schultz, N. R., Cucciare, M. A., Vittorio, L., & Garrison-Diehn, C. (2015). Retention in medication-assisted treatment for opiate dependence: A systematic review. Journal of Addictive Diseases, 35(1), 22โ35. https://doi.org/10.1080/10550887.2016.1100960
- Mancher, M., & Leshner, A. I. (2019, March 30). The Effectiveness of Medication-Based Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder. Medications for Opioid Use Disorder Save Lives - NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK541393/