Addiction is a complex mental health disorder that is treatable using a combination of behavioral and holistic therapies and medications to reduce the physical and psychological symptoms of addiction. How does medication-assisted treatment work? This program reduces withdrawals and cravings in patients during detox and throughout the recovery process using medications that are proven to be effective in treating addiction. It greatly reduces the risk of relapse while patients work with a behavioral therapist through an accredited addiction treatment program.
At 7 Summit Pathways, we are a full-service addiction treatment facility that supports those who are struggling with an addiction to alcohol, cocaine, meth, or other dangerous substances. Our team has years of experience working with Floridians from all walks of life, and we design each of our programs around their unique symptoms. Patients work with therapists in group and private therapy sessions while medical staff administers medication to ease withdrawals and other symptoms. To learn more about our medication-assisted treatment in Florida, call 813.212.7149 today or send us a message online, and we will get back to you promptly.
What Is Medication-Assisted Treatment?
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is an evidence-based therapy for treating addiction and other mental health disorders. It uses a combination of medications approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of substance use disorders, anxiety disorders, major depressive disorder, and other disorders.
The three main types of medication that treat opioid and alcohol withdrawal and dependence include:
- Buprenorphine – This medication is an opioid partial agonist that produces weaker effects than full opioid antagonists and diminishes a person’s dependence and cravings for more. It also greatly reduces the chances of misuse in the future.
- Methadone – This medication is a long-lasting opioid agonist that eases withdrawal symptoms and reduces pain. Patients taking methadone must be enrolled in an addiction treatment program and may be on the medication for up to 12 months or longer.
- Naltrexone – This medication is used to treat opioid and alcohol use disorders and is not an opioid agonist. It blocks the euphoric and sedative effects by binding with opioid receptors similar to buprenorphine and methadone but without any risk of opioid withdrawals from the medication.
7 Summit Pathways understands the value of using medication to treat addiction when combined with behavioral and holistic therapy programs. We run a full assessment of each patient that helps us know which medications and therapies are best to treat their unique symptoms and the causes behind the abuse.
How Does Medication-Assisted Treatment Work?
Using medication to treat addiction and other mental health illnesses is safe and can greatly increase a person’s chance of maintaining long-lasting sobriety and improved mental health. When enrolling in an addiction treatment program, here is what you can expect from a medication-assisted treatment program:
- Medical staff will work with each patient to develop a medical plan to ease their withdrawal symptoms, cravings, and any depressive or anxiety symptoms that are fueling the addiction.
- They will administer specific dosages and make adjustments to find the right combination for maximum benefits with minimal side effects. It may take a few tries to find the exact combination for each patient.
- As withdrawal symptoms begin to fade, medical staff will begin slowly reducing the amount of medication to avoid any withdrawal symptoms. This is a necessary step and can take several weeks before the medication is no longer necessary.
- Most patients will be 100% drug-free by the end of the program. Those with lingering depression or anxiety symptoms may need to continue certain medications to maintain a healthy state of mind.
A medication-assisted treatment program is a necessity for individuals whose withdrawal symptoms are severe enough to cause harm or a relapse. Those who don’t seek help will experience worsening physical and psychological symptoms and potentially develop life-threatening medical conditions.
Find Medication-Assisted Treatment in FL at 7 Summit Pathways
How does medication-assisted treatment work? At 7 Summit Pathways, we will discuss your treatment program with you and your loved ones so you know what to expect during the recovery process. Our boutique treatment facility specializes in treating opioid and alcohol addiction and offers various types of therapies to treat the wide-ranging symptoms and causes of addiction.
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction and like to know more about what is medication-assisted treatment, contact us at 813.212.7149 today to speak with our compassionate team.