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MAT (Medication-Assisted Treatment) integrates FDA-approved medications with diverse behavioral therapies for the comprehensive treatment of specific substance use disorders. This multifaceted approach enables the simultaneous pharmacological management of physical symptoms associated with substance use or withdrawal, coupled with behavioral therapeutic interventions addressing related psychological, mental, and emotional challenges.

 

Prior to enrolling in a MAT program, individuals undergo a comprehensive assessment conducted by a physician. This assessment facilitates the determination of the most suitable course and level of MAT, including the most appropriate medications tailored to an individual’s specific needs.

 

Patients typically commence with a period of medical detoxification to facilitate stability during substance withdrawal. Subsequently, they progress through a rehabilitative phase of treatment that aims to empower them with coping strategies for significant life challenges. Throughout this process, a combination of medication and therapy remains employed. Upon completion of the rehabilitative and supportive phases of MAT, patients transition to medical maintenance treatment, primarily involving medication to manage their substance use disorder in the long term.

 

The specific medications prescribed to patients may vary depending on the type of substance use disorder being treated. In cases of opioid use disorder management, treatment medications may undergo gradual taper-off (although long-term maintenance may persist for several years, potentially indefinitely). MAT has demonstrated efficacy in treating both alcohol use disorder and opioid use disorder.

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