Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT)

Opioid overdoses are on the rise today. Several individuals are dying from opioids. In 2021 there was a 28.5% increase during a 12-month period of individuals having drug overdoses. In 2021 75,673 individuals were determined to be addicted to opioids. This continues to rise if we do not get a grip on drug use in the United States. 

Do you know there are ways to help individuals with their abuse of opioids? Have you ever heard of medication-assisted treatment (MAT)? MAT is provided for individuals who want help with their drug use. MAT comes in various forms. From oral tablets to injections. Let me say it does not matter how you get clean if it comes from MAT to using a 12-step program.

Several different forms of medication can be used to help individuals. The first that most are familiar with is methadone and suboxone. Several others can be used. You need to go with your doctor and see what will be best for you. Other options for MAT are buprenorphine, naltrexone, and zubsolv. 

Do not be afraid to open up to your doctor. I can tell you it is the best thing that I ever did. I decided I had had enough, went to my doctor, and got the medication I needed to beat my drug addiction. Medication is not the only thing I used; I also chose to do counseling and look for effective treatment support. I can tell you it was the best thing that I did. Remember this, just because you use a medication does not mean you are sober.

Also, remember that you might not need to take this medication for life. It depends on the work you put in for your recovery.  

You are worth your recovery, and someone is cheering you on. One day at a time. Let us take the first step!

References:

CDC. (2021). https://cdc.gov/nchs/pressroom/nchs_press_releases/2021/20211117.htm 

Written By: Melissa Pena