Treating addiction is a complex disorder to treat and calls for using different therapeutic techniques and medication. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) uses FDA-approved medications to treat withdrawal symptoms and cravings. There are several benefits of MAT when combined with behavioral therapies through an accredited addiction treatment program.
Sobrius is a full-service addiction treatment facility in Galax, VA, and welcomes individuals who are struggling with an addiction to alcohol, cocaine, prescription opioids, and other substances. We use MAT for recovery to help ease withdrawals, cravings, and other disruptive symptoms. This program is only available when clients participate in our residential or outpatient programs.
For more information about our medication-assisted treatment program, call 888.596.6514 today to speak with our compassionate team.
Using Medication to Treat Addiction
Using medication to treat addiction is not a new concept. Medication-assisted treatment for opioid use disorder started in the 1960s with the development of methadone maintenance.1 Today, it is used to treat a number of addictions, including opioid use disorder, alcohol use disorder, tobacco use disorder, and other substance use disorders.
Therapists run a full health assessment to determine which medications to use to best treat addiction withdrawals and cravings. The types of medication used to treat addiction include:
- Acamprosate
- Disulfiram
- Naltrexone
- Methadone
- Buprenorphine
- Lofexidine
Medical staff will administer specific dosages for each client and monitor their reactions for any adverse side effects. As their symptoms disappear, they will begin to taper clients off the medication over time to avoid any withdrawals from the medication.
Sobrius supports those who develop a substance use disorder. Our medication-assisted treatment program in Galex, VA, will help you get through withdrawals and cravings safely so you can continue on your sober journey.
What Are the Benefits of MAT?
Treating addiction requires therapeutic interventions and medical support to treat all of the physical and psychological symptoms of the disorder. These medications are safe to take when you abstain from all drugs or alcohol and put in the work to recover.
If this is your first time enrolling in a MAT program, here are some of the benefits of MAT:
Addiction Education
At the start of the program, therapists explain the dangers of abusing drugs and alcohol and how the medication will benefit you. They will answer all of your questions about the types of medication used and any side effects of taking them. They will create a tailored program where medical staff administers medication and monitors each client throughout the program.
Lowered Risk of Relapse
The first 7–10 days can be very difficult without medication. Clients will experience a number of withdrawals, including nausea and vomiting, muscle aches, joint pain, insomnia, sweating, and increasing cravings. The medication used eases these symptoms and makes the recovery process more manageable.
Temporary Relief from Withdrawal Symptoms
Another benefit of medication-assisted treatment is that it provides temporary relief from addiction withdrawals and cravings. Most clients will only need the medication for a short period of time, and once symptoms are more manageable, they will begin tapering off the medication.
Improves Retention Rates
People who participate in medication-assisted treatment are more likely to complete an addiction treatment program. Medication can lead to long-term sobriety by reducing risky behaviors that lead to a relapse. It can also improve socialization, birth rates, the ability to hold a job, and other benefits.
Increases Life Expectancy
An MAT program significantly improves the life expectancy of those who participate in the program. These medications reduce mortality rates, reduce the risk of relapse, and improve your overall health. It can also reduce criminal activity, improve employment retention, and protect against infectious diseases.
For those with an opioid use disorder, MAT can reduce the death rate by more than 50%.
Join Sobrius Today for Our Medication-Assisted Treatment Program
Sobrius welcomes people from all walks of life who struggle with a substance use disorder. We tailor each treatment program based on each client’s unique symptoms and the severity of the addiction. Our MAT for recovery program will coincide with behavioral and holistic therapies for a whole-person recovery experience.
To talk about the benefits of our medication-assisted treatment program in Galax VA, call 888.596.6514 today or use our online contact form to schedule a consultation to meet our dedicated team.
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