What is MAT, and what does it have to do with addiction recovery? Addiction is a complex disease, and it can be challenging to overcome, especially on your own. With the advances in addiction treatment, you no longer have to struggle through an unbearable detox to start your recovery. FDA-approved medications are now available to help make withdrawal more manageable so you can stay on track. If you need support to deal with powerful cravings and withdrawal discomfort, try medication-assisted treatment in Tacoma, Washington.

Bayview Recovery offers high-quality MAT in Tacoma to help you recover from even the most severe addictions. With our help, you will get through the ups and downs of withdrawal in minimal discomfort. Call us today at 855.478.3650 to find out how our medication-assisted treatment in Washington can help make lasting recovery your reality.

What Is Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)?

Medication-assisted treatment is a combination of medication and counseling. This approach can help you stop or reduce opioid or alcohol use and reduce or eliminate the risk of relapse. Some of the most commonly used medications in MAT include:

• Buprenorphine
• Suboxone
• Methadone
• Naltrexone

Your treatment team will assess you when you go in for your first appointment to determine which MAT medications may be most appropriate for you. Some medications used in MAT have a potential for addiction, so it is important to follow your doctor’s orders precisely. Taking too much of the medication can also result in an overdose, so if you feel your medication is not providing relief from withdrawal symptoms and cravings, talk to your provider. They can determine if it is safe to increase your dosage or to switch you to another medication.

How Can MAT Medications Help Treat Addiction?

Medication-assisted treatment is a proven way to help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. MAT medications support addiction recovery in several ways:

• Medications can decrease the urge to use drugs or alcohol.
• Medications can replace opioid drugs or alcohol to minimize cravings.
• Medications can alleviate the discomfort of withdrawal symptoms.

When cravings and withdrawal symptoms are under control, you are more likely to stick with your treatment plan. In this sense, MAT medications help you avoid relapse and overdose.

When Should You Consider Medication-Assisted Treatment in Washington?

It is important to remember that MAT is not a cure for addiction. It is a treatment option that can help you manage alcohol or opioid use disorder and improve the quality of your life. MAT may be right for you if:

• You have tried other treatments but did not find them to be helpful or effective.
• You are misusing your prescription opioids and are worried about the physical and psychological symptoms of withdrawal.
• You have a moderate to severe alcohol addiction, and you are worried about your safety if you stop drinking.

Some people are concerned that taking MAT medications may result in swapping out one addiction for another. Since some of the medications you used for MAT can be addictive, this is a valid concern. However, the risk of addiction is much lower than it is for the drugs you are trying to quit. Also, you will be under the supervision of a medical professional throughout treatment. Taking your prescription exactly as advised and notifying your provider of any side effects will greatly reduce any chances of developing a dependence on your MAT medication.

Bayview Recovery: Your Top Choice for MAT in Tacoma

Overcoming opioid or alcohol addiction does not have to be an awful experience. You can find safe medication-assisted treatment in Tacoma, Washington, at Bayview Recovery. By combining proven MAT medications with various behavioral and holistic therapies, we can make your treatment a positive, life-changing experience. Reach out to us today at 855.478.3650 to schedule an assessment and start living a life free from the grip of addiction.