MAT for Opioid Use Disorder

Lakeside-Milam treats opioid use disorder through a combination of one-on-one therapies, group sessions, and medication-assisted treatment, or MAT. This is considered the gold standard of care by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

MAT relies on proven, non-addictive medications to restore the brain’s neurochemical balance, which is disrupted by chemical dependency. Approved drugs include buprenorphine and naltrexone. Once a person finds equilibrium and achieves neurochemical stability, they can fully participate in the therapies offered at our residential and outpatient facilities.

MAT is an incredibly effective program. SAMHSA has determined that the combination of medication and therapy improves rates of patient survival, increases their ability to maintain employment, and decreases criminal activity and opiate use among people with substance use disorders.

Medication-assisted treatment is recommended for those with opioid use disorders, including those with addictions to:

• Hydrocodone (Vicodin, Lorcet)
• Oxycodone (OxyContin, Roxicodone)
• Fentanyl (Sublimaze)
• Carfentanil
• Codeine
• Heroin
• Oxycodone/paracetamol (Percocet)
• Opium
• Morphine
• Oxymorphone (Opana)
• Hydromorphone (Dilaudid)

Sudden cessation of opioid drugs can cause serious side effects, including gastrointestinal upset, increased blood pressure, insomnia, and dehydration. Attempting to quit alone also increases the risk of unmanageable cravings and relapse. Medical supervision can prevent these complications, ensuring that each client has the support they need to remain sober.

One of the greatest benefits of MAT is its ability to prevent fatal overdose. Using FDA-approved medications under the supervision of an accredited treatment center reduces the death rate among addicted individuals by over 50%. Buprenorphine and naltrexone are partial opioid agonists, meaning that they block the euphoric effects of opioid drugs and alleviate physical cravings.

The clinicians at Lakeside-Milam Recovery Centers have seen the positive outcomes achieved by medication-assisted treatment. When combined with complementary therapies, this proven approach helps those with opioid use disorder to find lifelong recovery. Contact our admissions team for more information about residential and outpatient MAT programs in your area.