You’re not alone if you’re exploring medication assisted treatment rehab for your loved one. Medication assisted treatment rehab, or MAT, combines FDA-approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies to address both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction. By integrating pharmacological support with evidence-based therapy, you and your family can tackle cravings, ease withdrawal, and build a foundation for lasting recovery.
MAT has helped millions of people stabilize their lives and reduce the risk of relapse. In 2024, around 1 in 5 people aged 12 or older in the United States who needed substance use treatment received it, totaling about 10.2 million individuals [1]. Understanding how MAT works, what to expect in a residential setting, and how to support your loved one can empower your family to make informed decisions on the road to recovery.
Understand medication assisted treatment
Medication assisted treatment rehab blends medication with therapy to create a comprehensive approach to addiction care. Rather than relying on abrupt detox alone, MAT normalizes brain chemistry, blocks the euphoric effects of opioids or alcohol, and relieves physical cravings without causing a high. This balanced strategy helps participants stay engaged in therapy, manage co-occurring mental health issues, and rebuild healthy routines.
Who MAT serves
- Individuals with opioid use disorder who need relief from cravings and withdrawal
- People with alcohol use disorder when traditional counseling alone hasn’t succeeded
- Clients with co-occurring mental health disorders who benefit from integrated care
Key benefits
- Improved treatment retention: Patients receiving MAT are up to 74% more likely to stay in treatment during the first year [2]
- Reduced overdose risk: Agonist medications like methadone and buprenorphine cut overdose-related mortality by about 50% [3]
- Holistic recovery: Combining pharmacological and psychosocial therapies addresses vocational, family, legal, and medical needs [4]
Explore key MAT medications
Selecting the right medication depends on your loved one’s substance use disorder, medical history, and recovery goals. Below is an overview of the most common FDA-approved medications.
Opioid use disorder meds
The three primary options for opioid addiction treatment are:
- Methadone, a long-acting full opioid agonist that eases withdrawal and reduces cravings
- Buprenorphine (Suboxone), a partial agonist available in physician offices, making access easier
- Extended-release naltrexone (Vivitrol), an opioid antagonist injected monthly
| Medication | Mechanism | Benefits | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Methadone | Full agonist | High retention rates, significant overdose risk reduction | Requires daily clinic visits |
| Buprenorphine (Suboxone) | Partial agonist with naloxone | Office-based prescribing, lower overdose risk | Potential for misuse if unsupervised |
| Extended-release naltrexone | Opioid receptor blocker | No opioids in system, monthly dosing | Risk of overdose if discontinued early |
The Illinois Department of Public Health notes that combining these medications with therapy and support services leads to the best outcomes [5].
Alcohol use disorder meds
For alcohol dependence, MAT options include:
- Disulfiram, which causes unpleasant reactions to alcohol
- Naltrexone, which blocks alcohol’s rewarding effects
- Acamprosate, which restores brain chemicals disrupted by chronic drinking
These medications, approved by the FDA, reduce relapse rates and help manage withdrawal symptoms with medical supervision [6].
Navigate treatment phases
Navigating MAT involves three main phases, each tailored to your loved one’s needs and readiness.
Assessment and detox
- Comprehensive evaluation by a physician to determine the appropriate medication and level of care
- Medical detox to clear substances safely under clinical supervision
- Baseline tests and screenings for co-occurring mental health or medical issues
Rehabilitative phase
- Combination of medications with individual therapy, group counseling, and family sessions
- Structured daily schedule that may include educational workshops, life-skills training, and holistic activities
- Ongoing monitoring of side effects, dosage adjustments, and emerging needs
Maintenance and tapering
- Gradual dose reduction when clinically appropriate, with support to prevent relapse
- Continued access to outpatient counseling, peer support groups, and alumni programs
- Long-term focus on sobriety milestones and healthy lifestyle integration
You can learn more about how MAT is woven into residential care at our MAT integrated inpatient treatment page.
Integrate MAT with therapy
Medication on its own rarely addresses the emotional and behavioral roots of addiction. Combining MAT with therapy gives your family a 360-degree support system.
Behavioral and psychosocial supports
- Cognitive behavioral therapy to challenge negative thoughts and develop coping strategies
- Motivational interviewing to build commitment and set realistic goals
- Trauma-informed care for those with past adverse experiences
Family involvement
- Family therapy sessions to improve communication and rebuild trust
- Education on addiction as a brain disease to reduce stigma at home
- Guidance on setting healthy boundaries and offering constructive support
By engaging in family-centered therapy, you help create an environment where your loved one feels understood and accountable.
Address cravings and withdrawal
Managing intense cravings and withdrawal symptoms is vital for early success in MAT rehab.
Medication effects on cravings
- Methadone and buprenorphine stabilize brain chemistry, reducing the urge to use
- Naltrexone blocks euphoric effects, making relapse less rewarding
- Acamprosate and disulfiram curb alcohol cravings by normalizing neurotransmitter function
Managing withdrawal safely
- Medical supervision during detox prevents severe complications
- Adjunct therapies such as yoga, meditation, and acupuncture can ease discomfort
- Access to 24/7 nursing support and on-call medical professionals
When cravings flare, your family can lean on therapeutic tools and emergency support to keep recovery on track.
Support families through MAT
Your role as a family member can be pivotal. Understanding your responsibilities and resources ensures everyone stays aligned.
Education and communication
- Attend workshops on addiction science and MAT protocols
- Practice open, nonjudgmental dialogue with your loved one
- Develop a relapse prevention plan that outlines warning signs and emergency contacts
Building a support network
- Connect with peer groups for families of individuals in MAT
- Enlist a sponsor or mentor who’s navigated MAT successfully
- Use community resources such as faith-based groups or online forums
A strong support network reduces isolation and reinforces your commitment to your loved one’s healing journey.
Consider insurance and access
Navigating costs and coverage can feel daunting, but federal and state policies often help.
Coverage under parity laws
The 2008 Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act requires group health plans to provide the same benefits for substance use disorders as for medical care [4]. Most private insurers cover at least part of MAT, and Medicaid often covers methadone maintenance in many states.
State-funded programs
State-funded rehab centers offer free or low-cost MAT services to individuals with limited resources. While waiting lists can be long, priority is typically given to high-risk populations such as pregnant women and those with co-occurring disorders [1].
Evaluate program settings
Choosing the right environment for MAT rehab shapes the quality and success of care.
Residential rehab with medication support
Residential programs provide 24/7 medical monitoring, structured routines, and a drug-free living environment. You might explore options such as residential rehab with medication support or specialized locations like residential mat scottsdale to find the best fit for your family.
Low barrier care and outpatient options
If your loved one has work or family commitments, outpatient models like MAT + therapy Scottsdale or day-treatment programs can offer medication management alongside flexible counseling schedules. These programs aim to reduce access obstacles and support long-term engagement.
By weighing the benefits of residential stability against the flexibility of outpatient care, you can select a setting that aligns with your family’s needs and your loved one’s recovery goals.
Navigating medication assisted treatment rehab involves understanding the science behind MAT, choosing the right medications, integrating therapy, and building a supportive home environment. With clear information, the right resources, and a committed family approach, you can help your loved one embrace recovery, manage cravings and withdrawal safely, and move toward a healthier, more stable future.
