Medication assisted treatment (MAT) combines FDA-approved medication with medical care for substance use disorders. MAT addresses the physical side of addiction, and counseling addresses behavior and habits. When withdrawal and cravings are managed, you can focus on daily tasks.
Options in MAT
Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist. It attaches to opioid receptors, and it reduces withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Suboxone combines buprenorphine with naloxone, and you place the film under your tongue. Naloxone is added to discourage misuse by injection. It must dissolve fully under the tongue. Brixadi is an extended-release buprenorphine injection given weekly or monthly. A provider administers it in a clinical setting, so you do not need to manage a daily dose at home. Sublocade is given once a month, and it releases buprenorphine steadily so that daily dosing is not needed.
Benefits of Consistent Treatment
Key outcomes tied to consistent medication assisted treatment include:
- Lower rates of overdose death
- Reduced illicit drug use
- Higher treatment retention
- Greater stability in daily responsibilities such as work and relationships
Retention matters because longer treatment allows more time to build routines. It supports ongoing medical monitoring. Missing appointments may increase the risk of relapse, and your care team can help you plan around scheduling conflicts. If barriers like transportation or work hours affect your ability to attend, tell your provider, and they can help identify solutions. Medication manages physical symptoms. Counseling helps you address triggers and habits. Both parts work together in a complete treatment plan. MAT does not replace effort or commitment, but it removes a significant physical barrier so that other progress becomes possible. Each follow-up visit is an opportunity to review your progress, address concerns, and stay connected to care. Your provider tracks your response to medication over time, and adjustments can be made.
Steps for Starting Care
The first step is a medical evaluation, so your provider reviews your substance use history, current health, and current medications. Lab tests may be ordered, and a urine drug screen is often part of the visit. These results help your provider select a safe medication and dose. After the evaluation is complete, your provider recommends a medication, and you discuss the schedule together. During the evaluation, your provider may also screen for co-occurring conditions. Depression, anxiety, and chronic pain can affect treatment. Identifying them early lets your care team build a complete plan.
Be prepared to share your full medical history, including any past treatment attempts. This information helps your provider avoid medications that may interact with other conditions or prescriptions. If you are currently using opioids, your provider will explain what to expect during the transition to MAT. Some medications require a short waiting period before the first dose, and your provider will guide you through each step. You do not need to manage this process alone, and your care team will give you clear instructions before your first dose.
Schedule Your Medication Assisted Treatment
MAT combines medication with medical care to support long-term recovery. Suboxone, Brixadi, Sublocade, and Vivitrol each offer a different schedule, and your provider can help you compare them. If you want to begin, call your clinic today.