Millions of people in the United States struggle with opioid addiction and other forms of substance use disorder (SUD). It can be very challenging to overcome opioid use disorder. National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) research shows that medically-assisted treatment (MAT) programs offer the most comprehensive treatment for this complex addiction.
Despite evidence supporting the effectiveness of MAT, there are many myths about this treatment approach. Unfounded myths and misinformation can keep people from getting the treatment they need to address opioid use disorder.
This article will explore some of the myths about medication-assisted treatment. You will learn:
- What MAT programs offer
- The truth about common MAT myths
- Where to find comprehensive MAT programs and addiction recovery support
If you or someone you love struggles with opioid abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Find comprehensive MAT programs at Archstone Behavioral Health. Our intake specialists can help you find the right levels of treatment, resources, or other recovery support. Contact our team now to learn about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
What is Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) programs offer medical support and medications to help people safely taper off opioids or manage long-term withdrawal symptoms. People may take buprenorphine, methadone, or other drugs to reduce the risk of relapse.
The primary goal of MAT programs is to prevent uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms, allowing people to safely stop taking addictive drugs, including opioids.
MAT programs typically utilize a holistic approach to addiction treatment. People take medications to support the recovery process. They also receive counseling, education, behavioral therapies, and other holistic health services. This comprehensive approach can help people understand and overcome the complex roots of substance abuse.
Research shows that MAT is a highly effective treatment for opioid use disorder. However, common myths about this treatment approach can keep people from utilizing these treatment programs.
Contact the Archstone Behavioral Health specialists to learn more about MAT programs or to explore all of your treatment options.
8 Myths About MAT
Misconceptions and misinformation about MAT programs can prevent people from seeking this effective form of treatment. Here is the truth about some of the most common myths about MAT.
1. Myth: MAT is only for severe addiction
Many people believe someone needs to have a severe addiction to benefit from MAT. However, research shows that MAT is effective for mild, moderate, or severe opioid addictions. This treatment approach is proven to be effective at helping people manage prescription and illicit opioid addiction.
2. Myth: MAT increases the risk of overdose
Some people mistakenly believe that MAT can increase the risk of a lethal overdose. However, this is far from the truth. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) studied overdose risk in MAT treatment. It found that MAT reduced the risk of overdose by 38% when people took buprenorphine. The risk of overdose dropped 59% in those taking methadone.
3. Myth: MAT prevents “real” addiction recovery by trading one addiction for another
People in MAT programs take buprenorphine, methadone, or other medications regularly. This can lead people to believe that people in MAT programs are simply trading one addiction for another.
However, MAT medications do not cause a “high” or other desirable side effects. People must take these medications to prevent opioid withdrawal symptoms.
4. Myth: MAT is a crutch
People may believe that MAT programs are an “easy” way out of addiction. However, people in MAT programs must still work hard to identify and overcome the roots of their addiction. MAT programs also include counseling, education, mental health treatment, holistic therapies, and other evidence-based approaches.
5. Myth: Insurance doesn’t cover MAT
The Affordable Care Act (ACA) requires insurance companies to cover addiction and mental health treatment. This includes a range of SUD treatment programs, including medication-assisted treatment.
Insurance plans can vary in their coverage. It is important to check the details of your specific plan before seeking treatment. Doing this can help reduce unexpected out-of-pocket expenses.
6. Myth: MAT is only for short-term use
Research shows that buprenorphine, methadone, or other MAT medications are safe for long-term use. Medication-assisted treatment programs are proven to be more effective at helping people achieve long-term recovery than programs that rely on detoxification.
7. Myth: MAT is expensive
Insurance typically covers some or all costs related to addiction treatment, including medication-assisted treatment programs. However, NIDA estimates these medications cost between $115 and $126 per week for those without insurance.
8. Myth: Pregnant people can’t use MAT
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) reports that MAT programs are safe and effective for pregnant people. It is effective at helping people stop using harmful opioids and maintain long-term abstinence.
Find Out More About Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
Contact the Archstone Behavioral Health specialists to learn more about medication-assisted treatment programs. Learn about this safe and effective form of treatment or explore our other recovery support programs. Reach out to our experts with questions or to schedule an intake appointment today.
References:
- Science Direct: Medication-Assisted Treatment
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Effects of Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for Opioid Use Disorder on Functional Outcomes: A Systematic Review
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): Substance Use Disorder Treatment Options
- The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: Medication-assisted Treatment Remains the Recommended Therapy for Pregnant Women
