Choosing treatment

What is medication-assisted treatment (MAT)?

Published October 12, 2025 · 8 min read · Updated April 2026

Reviewed for accuracy by licensed clinical professionals.

What MAT is

MAT combines FDA-approved medications with behavioral therapy to treat substance use disorders. It is the gold standard for opioid and alcohol use disorders, reducing overdose death by approximately 50%.

Medications

For opioids: buprenorphine (Suboxone), methadone, and naltrexone (Vivitrol). For alcohol: naltrexone, acamprosate, and disulfiram. For nicotine: nicotine replacement, varenicline, bupropion.

Not replacing one addiction with another

MAT stabilizes brain chemistry without producing the high, impairment, or escalating use that characterize addiction. It is treatment — the same way insulin treats diabetes.

The evidence

MAT reduces opioid overdose death by 50%, reduces illicit opioid use, increases treatment retention, improves employment and social functioning, and reduces criminal behavior.

Authoritative sources

This article references guidelines from: SAMHSA · NIDA · ASAM

Frequently asked questions

Is MAT replacing one drug with another?

No. MAT stabilizes brain chemistry without producing addiction-like impairment or escalation. It is evidence-based medical treatment.

How long should someone stay on MAT?

Longer duration is associated with better outcomes. The right duration is a clinical decision between patient and provider, not an ideological one.

Does MAT work?

Yes. MAT reduces overdose death by 50%, reduces illicit use, and improves treatment retention and quality of life.

Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. SAMHSA: 1-800-662-4357.