Breaking out of the grip of substance use disorders can feel daunting, especially when you think about encountering unpleasant withdrawal symptoms that can make it challenging to quit drinking or using. At Lakeside-Milam Recovery Centers, we proudly offer medication-assisted treatment to make our clients’ experiences more comfortable and sustainable. This post will dispel myths and provide clarity on MAT’s purpose and efficiency.
What Is Medication-Assisted Treatment?
Medication-assisted treatment marries the best of both worlds: FDA-approved medications and comprehensive behavioral therapies. In that way, MAT addresses the physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of addiction.
Our approach with MAT has led to:
- Enhanced treatment outcomes, giving our clients a much-improved quality of life.
- More than 100,000 people completing long-term addiction treatment.
- A decrease in illicit opioid use and related illegal activities.
- Improved post-treatment employability.
- Notably reduced relapse rates.
Medications in the MAT Arsenal
Three primary medications dominate our MAT toolkit.
- Buprenorphine: This medication helps reduce opioid withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
- Naltrexone: Used after detoxification, it blocks the effects of opioids and alcohol for relapse prevention.
- Acamprosate: Effective in treating alcohol dependence, this medication manages post-acute withdrawal symptoms.
Contrary to misconceptions, MAT doesn’t replace one addiction with another. Instead, these medications help stabilize the brain, readjusting disrupted reward pathways, and allowing for a smoother transition into sobriety. Our clinical addiction experts closely monitor each medication-assisted treatment regimen for maximum effectiveness and safety.
MAT at Lakeside-Milam: A Personalized Approach
Think of medication-assisted treatment as you would any regimen for chronic health conditions – evidence-backed, effective, and tailored specifically for you. The discomfort of drug and alcohol withdrawal symptoms deter some people from getting the lifesaving help they need. MAT makes this process more bearable, ensuring you are stable enough to actively participate in the vital mental health therapies that form the bedrock of lasting recovery.
Everyone is unique, and so is their healing process. At Lakeside-Milam, we firmly believe in MAT’s transformative potential and customize our programs to fit each client’s unique needs. Whether it’s your first time seeking assistance or a return to address lingering challenges, our doors are always open. With the right support and a tailored approach, sobriety isn’t a distant dream – it’s a tangible, achievable reality.
With seven locations across western Washington, quality care has never been more accessible. Our highly trained staff provide a range of specialized services for anyone struggling with addiction. Please call our admissions team today to learn more.
