Menu Close

What Is MAT?

Community. Purpose. Technology.

a man smiling while sitting outside in the sun

The opioid epidemic has affected every community in the United States. In response to this public health crisis, MD M.A.T.T. offers medication-assisted treatment (MAT) programs that combine counseling with medications like Suboxone to treat opioid use disorder.

MAT programs have been proven effective in addressing opioid addiction, and MD M.A.T.T. Frederick is committed to making these life-saving services more accessible than ever. If you or a loved one is struggling with opioid addiction, please contact us to learn more about our evidence-based approach to treatment. With no waitlists and same-day appointments often available, we can help you get started on the road to recovery today.

Reach out to us today at 410.816.9457 to begin medication-assisted treatment.

Medication-Assisted Treatment––What Is It?

Medication-assisted treatment is an addiction treatment that uses FDA-approved medications, behavioral therapies, and other treatments like counseling and support groups. This comprehensive approach is more effective in managing addiction.

Several different medications can be used in MAT, but the three most common are methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone. Each of these medications works differently to help those struggling with addiction manage their cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

At MD M.A.T.T. Frederick, we’ve discovered that Suboxone, a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone, is a successful treatment for our patients. Suboxone helps curb drug cravings and withdrawal symptoms while blocking the effects of other opioids.

Positives of Medication-Assisted Treatment

Curbing Cravings

Cravings for opioids are one of the biggest relapse triggers. Medication-assisted treatment can help reduce these cravings, making it easier for those in recovery to stay on track.

The reason people experience cravings is that addiction changes the brain. When someone becomes addicted to opioids, their brain chemistry is altered, which makes it challenging to feel happy or content without using the drug again. Medication-assisted treatment helps restore the brain’s chemistry to its original state, reducing cravings overall.

Relief from Withdrawal Symptoms

Quitting opioids without weaning off can be challenging and often leads to relapse. Stopping suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms like:

  • Vomiting
  • Nausea
  • Muscle aches
  • Diarrhea
  • Fatigue

Medication-assisted therapy can assist with alleviating withdrawal symptoms, making it easier for individuals in recovery to adhere to their treatment program. Withdrawal symptom relief can make a significant impact on early sobriety.

Improving Sleep and Mood

Opioid addiction can harm your mental and physical health. Medication-assisted treatment may improve your mood and sleeping patterns, which are important aspects of overall health. The rush of dopamine that comes with opioid use might generate feelings of euphoria. 

However, once the drug’s effects wear off, you may experience a dip, causing you to feel weary, irritated, and sad. Medication-assisted therapy can assist with the erratic swings in mood by making it easier to deal with everyday stress.

Not only can opioid addiction lead to trouble sleeping, like insomnia, but it can also make it hard to focus or think clearly. Medication-assisted treatment can help you get better sleep and, in turn, improve your overall health.

Increased Ability to Focus on Treatment

Finally, medication-assisted therapy may help you focus on your treatment. It may be challenging to follow your treatment regimen when you have experienced active addiction. Medication-assisted therapy can assist you in concentrating and having higher motivation to recover, making it easier to stay on track.