Medication-assisted treatment is an important aspect of managing the symptoms of substance use disorder and relapse prevention. It can also help people who have been in recovery for some time and are still experiencing symptoms. What is MAT, and what makes it different from other forms of addiction treatment? What do you need to know about MAT preparation before beginning the program? Learn more about medication-assisted treatment in Tacoma, Washington, so you can decide if MAT might help support your recovery from opioid use disorder.

Before beginning an MAT program, you likely have questions about what the program involves and what you need to do for MAT preparation. Find answers to your questions about medication-assisted treatment by reaching out to Bayview Recovery at 855.478.3650. Our Tacoma, Washington, treatment facility offers a wide variety of outpatient addiction treatment programs, including MAT, gender-specific treatment, and dual diagnosis.

What Is MAT?

Medication-assisted treatment is a highly effective way to manage opioid addiction by using an FDA-approved medication to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. MAT should be used in combination with behavioral therapies, such as counseling, relapse prevention, and peer support programs for the best treatment outcome. The goal of these treatment strategies in MAT is to reduce the likelihood of relapse by keeping you feeling as comfortable as possible. When you aren’t afflicted with painful withdrawal symptoms and intense opioid cravings, it’s much easier to participate in addiction therapies and resist temptations.

Medication-Assisted Treatment Preparation

Preparing for medication-assisted treatment can set you up for the greatest chance of recovery success. If you struggle with opioid use disorder, here are seven helpful tips for medication-assisted treatment preparation:

1. Find a treatment facility that offers medication-assisted treatment

MAT has become fairly common, so locating a reputable treatment center with an MAT program should be easy.

2. Look for comprehensive MAT programs

Most MAT programs combine medication with therapy and support, but you should confirm this before choosing a program.

3. Learn about the different medications used for MAT

Most medications approved for MAT are used to treat opioid use disorder. However, some may also help with recovery from alcohol addiction.

4. Understand the role that MAT plays in your recovery

While medication can mitigate withdrawal symptoms and cravings, it’s not a “cure” for addiction. That is why it’s so important to make sure the program you choose includes various therapies to increase your chances of maintaining your recovery.

5. Accept that medication-assisted treatment may be needed long-term to prevent relapse

While some people may only need medication for a few months, others may need it up to a year or more before progressing enough in their recovery to go without medication.

6. Familiarize yourself with the potential side effects of MAT medications

Many of the side effects mimic opioid withdrawal symptoms but should be less severe. While on medication for opioid use disorder, you may experience headaches, dizziness, nausea, and constipation. Ask your provider for advice on how to manage these symptoms if they arise.

7. Never stop taking your medication without consulting your provider

Abruptly stopping your mat medication can be just as dangerous as quitting opioids cold turkey. If you feel that your medication is ineffective or causing uncomfortable side effects, you should immediately reach out to the treatment team at your facility for guidance.

Recover with Medication-Assisted Treatment at Bayview Recovery

Opioid withdrawal symptoms no longer have to hold you back from the recovery you deserve. Medication-assisted treatment at Bayview Recovery can help prevent discomfort so you can stay focused and motivated on your new sober lifestyle. Reach out to us today at 855.478.3650 to find out more and enroll in MAT at our Tacoma treatment center.