Treatment types
What is Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) and how does it work?
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is the use of FDA-approved medications, combined with counseling and behavioral therapies, to treat substance use disorders. For opioid use disorder in particular, MAT is considered the gold standard of care by virtually every major medical organization, including SAMHSA, the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), and the World Health Organization.
Despite the evidence, MAT remains underutilized and sometimes stigmatized. Understanding how it works can help patients and families make more informed treatment decisions.
Medications for opioid use disorder
Three medications are FDA-approved for treating opioid use disorder. Buprenorphine (brand names include Suboxone and Sublocade) is a partial opioid agonist that reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms without producing the full euphoric effect of opioids. It can be prescribed by any licensed prescriber in an office setting. Methadone is a full opioid agonist that reduces cravings and withdrawal. It must be dispensed through federally certified Opioid Treatment Programs (OTPs). Naltrexone (brand name Vivitrol) is an opioid antagonist that blocks the effects of opioids entirely. It's available as a monthly injection or daily oral tablet.
Each medication works differently and is appropriate for different situations. A qualified clinician can help determine which medication — if any — is the best fit for an individual's circumstances.
Medications for alcohol use disorder
Three medications are also FDA-approved for alcohol use disorder. Naltrexone reduces the rewarding effects of drinking and helps reduce cravings. Acamprosate (Campral) helps restore the chemical balance in the brain that is disrupted by chronic alcohol use. Disulfiram (Antabuse) causes unpleasant physical reactions when alcohol is consumed, creating a deterrent to drinking.
Why MAT works
Substance use disorders change brain chemistry. Long-term opioid or alcohol use alters the brain's reward system, stress response, and decision-making circuits. These changes don't reverse immediately when someone stops using — which is why willpower alone is often insufficient and why relapse rates are high without medical support.
MAT medications address the neurological aspects of addiction — reducing cravings, preventing withdrawal, and normalizing brain chemistry — while counseling and therapy address the behavioral, psychological, and social aspects. Research consistently shows that MAT reduces opioid use, overdose deaths, criminal activity, and infectious disease transmission, while improving treatment retention and social functioning.
Common misconceptions
The most persistent misconception about MAT is that it simply "replaces one drug with another." This misunderstands both the pharmacology and the purpose. MAT medications are taken at stable, prescribed doses under medical supervision. They don't produce the euphoric highs and devastating lows of substance abuse. They allow people to function normally, hold jobs, maintain relationships, and engage meaningfully in therapy and recovery.
Another misconception is that MAT is only for short-term use. While some people eventually taper off medications, others benefit from longer-term maintenance. The duration of MAT should be determined by the individual and their treatment team based on clinical need — not by arbitrary timelines or external pressure.
When evaluating treatment facilities, ask whether they offer MAT as an option. A facility that refuses to consider medication-assisted treatment, or that pressures patients to stop medications prematurely, may not be practicing evidence-based care. You can search for facilities that offer MAT in the Treatment Association directory by filtering for MAT services.
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Suboxone vs. methadone: Which MAT medication is right for you?Treatment options for opioid addiction in 2026Fentanyl addiction treatment: A complete guide for 2026Related guides
Suboxone vs. methadone: Which MAT medication is right for you?Treatment options for opioid addiction in 2026Fentanyl addiction treatment: A complete guide for 2026About this article: Written by the Treatment Association editorial team with input from licensed clinicians. Treatment Association is an independent treatment facility directory. We do not provide medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment. If you or someone you know needs help, contact the SAMHSA helpline at 1-800-662-4357.