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Medication-Assisted Treatment for Opioid Addiction

We recognize that embarking on the journey to overcome opioid addiction can be difficult, which is why our priority is ensuring your treatment experience is as comfortable and supportive as possible.

With our medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program, we effectively manage your cravings and withdrawal symptoms, helping to reduce the risk of relapse and allowing you to regain control over your life.

Additionally, our MAT programs provide you with the opportunity to concentrate on enhancing other aspects of your well-being, and our dedicated team will be there to assist you every step of the way.

Three Phases of Medication-Assisted Treatment

Your treatment journey begins with the administration of the first dose of methadone or buprenorphine at our treatment center. Depending on the medication selected, we may initiate a larger dose immediately, or gradually increase it over time. Rest assured, our medical providers will collaborate closely with you to make these important decisions. 

As you continue to receive your medication from our treatment center, you’ll notice your cravings and withdrawal symptoms will start to go away. The relief of these physical side effects paves the way for greater stability in your recovery, enabling you to actively participate in counseling and support services to address the root causes of your opioid use.

Once we find the right dose of medication and help you live a healthier lifestyle, you may be able to take home your medication and dose on your own, which will keep you from making daily visits to your treatment center. You will also start seeing your family, social and work situations improve, which will get you on the path to a more purposeful life.

Advantages of Methadone Treatment

  • As a full opioid agonist, methadone satisfies your brain and body’s need for opioids without the risk of abuse.
  • Methadone helps prevent physical withdrawal symptoms and cravings that may otherwise lead to relapse. With a lasting effect of 24 to 36 hours, daily visits to your treatment center for methadone provide structure during your recovery.
  • Methadone maintains its effectiveness at varying doses, making it suitable for treating fentanyl, heroin, and high doses of prescription opioids.
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding women can safely use methadone without causing harm to themselves or their babies.

 

Possible Side Effects of Methadone Treatment

Like all medications, finding the right dose of methadone for you might take some time, so it’s crucial to be aware of any of the following side effects:

  • Cold or flu-like symptoms
  • Sweating
  • Weight gain
  • Nausea
  • Constipation
  • Headaches
  • Mood swings
  • Sleep issues

As you start your methadone treatment, our medical provider will talk with you about possible drug interactions and necessary precautions to make sure that your treatment remains both safe and effective.

Benefits of Buprenorphine Treatment

  • Similar to methadone, buprenorphine works best when combined with counseling and support, and it offers several benefits for medication-assisted treatment:
  • As a partial opioid agonist, buprenorphine activates the opioid receptors in your brain to a lesser extent than methadone.
  • Buprenorphine can block the effects of other opioids, curb cravings, and alleviate withdrawal symptoms, helping you avoid relapse.
  • Being a long-acting medication, you may transition to taking buprenorphine every other day after initially using it daily. Immediate side effects can occur if buprenorphine is misused, preventing overdose or using it recreationally.
  • Buprenorphine is considerably safer for pregnant or breastfeeding women than continuing opioid use or attempting to quit without assistance.
  • Buprenorphine is available at select BAART locations.

Possible Side Effects of Buprenorphine Treatment

Our patients typically report mild side effects from buprenorphine; however, it’s crucial to inform your medical provider about any symptoms you may experience so they can adjust your dose accordingly.

Like other medications, buprenorphine may require some adjustments if you encounter side effects such as:

  • Headaches
  • Mood swings
  • Sleep issues
  • Upset stomach or vomiting
  • Constipation
  • Cold or flu-like symptoms
  • Sweating

Before beginning your buprenorphine treatment, our team will discuss potential medication interactions and necessary precautions to ensure you receive the maximum benefit from your treatment.

Other Support Services

In order to help your success in recovery, it’s essential to address every facet of your life impacted by opioid use. That’s why our treatment centers offer an extensive option of services designed to care for you holistically, which may include:

Our dedicated team conducts a medical assessment during your initial appointment and continuously monitors your health through testing and follow-up visits, ensuring your physical well-being.

Upon beginning treatment with us, you’ll receive a personalized treatment plan managed by your counselor, addressing your needs as you progress through treatment.

For pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, we collaborate with other healthcare providers and connect you to social services, ensuring the health and well-being of both you and your baby.

Throughout your treatment, our knowledgeable staff will help you understand the complexities of addiction and equip you with relapse prevention strategies, keeping you on track with your treatment and recovery.

Should you require additional support during treatment, we can connect you with housing, transportation, employment, and other community resources that facilitate your success in recovery.

When it’s time to conclude your treatment with us, we’ll assist you in tapering off your medication and connect you with ongoing support for long-term recovery.

If you need to travel but wish to continue receiving your daily medication, your treatment center can coordinate dosing transfers to one of our nationwide locations.

Ready to start your path to recovery? Contact us today for more information.

Start Recovery from Opioid Addiction Now

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) can set you on the path towards positive transformation. Our medical providers will collaborate closely with you to determine the most suitable medication and dosage for your unique needs, adjusting your personalized treatment plan as needed to ensure your success in recovery.

Don’t hesitate to contact your treatment center today to ask any questions about MAT and begin your path to recovery. We’re here to help you every step of the way.