Medication-Assisted Treatment for Addiction

By the clinical team at Next Step Psychiatry • Lilburn, GA

What Is Medication-Assisted Treatment?

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is the use of FDA-approved medications combined with counseling and behavioral therapies to treat substance use disorders. MAT is considered the gold standard for opioid use disorder and is also effective for alcohol use disorder. The medications used in MAT are not simply replacing one addiction with another, despite this common misconception. They work by normalizing brain chemistry, reducing cravings, and blocking the euphoric effects of substances, allowing patients to focus on the behavioral and psychological aspects of recovery.

Medications Used in MAT

For opioid use disorder, the three FDA-approved medications are buprenorphine (Suboxone, Sublocade), methadone, and naltrexone (Vivitrol). Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist that reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms without producing a significant high. It can be prescribed in office-based settings, making it widely accessible. Methadone is a full agonist dispensed through specialized clinics and is most appropriate for severe opioid dependence. Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist that blocks the effects of opioids entirely and is available as a monthly injection. For alcohol use disorder, medications include naltrexone, acamprosate (Campral), and disulfiram (Antabuse), each working through different mechanisms to reduce drinking.

The Evidence Supporting MAT

The evidence for MAT is overwhelming. Studies show that MAT for opioid use disorder reduces opioid use by 60 to 90 percent, decreases overdose deaths by 50 percent, reduces criminal activity, improves employment rates, and increases retention in treatment programs. A landmark 2020 study in the New England Journal of Medicine found that patients on buprenorphine were 75 percent less likely to die from any cause compared to those receiving no medication. The World Health Organization lists buprenorphine and methadone as essential medicines. Despite this evidence, stigma and misconceptions continue to limit access to MAT.

Addressing the Stigma Around MAT

Perhaps the greatest barrier to MAT is the persistent belief that taking medication for addiction is just trading one drug for another. This is medically inaccurate. Addiction fundamentally changes brain chemistry and function. MAT medications restore normal brain function, much like insulin treats diabetes or antihypertensives treat high blood pressure. Expecting someone with severe opioid use disorder to recover through willpower alone is like expecting a diabetic to normalize their blood sugar through positive thinking. Recovery is not defined by the absence of all medications but by improved health, functioning, and quality of life.

MAT at Next Step Psychiatry

At Next Step Psychiatry in Lilburn, we provide comprehensive psychiatric care that includes evaluation and treatment of substance use disorders. We work with patients to determine whether MAT is appropriate, select the right medication based on individual circumstances, and provide ongoing monitoring and support. We believe in treating the whole person, which often means addressing co-occurring mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and PTSD alongside the substance use disorder. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, we encourage you to reach out for a confidential evaluation.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call 911 or the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.