Opioid use disorder is when someone uses opioid drugs without having a prescription for them. OUD also occurs when someone uses opioids in a different way than their doctor told them to. For most people, a MAT for opioids program can help.
If you are doing either of these things, the first thing we want you to do is to give yourself a break. A drug addiction or drug use disorder is challenging. Sometimes, people don’t realize they have OUD or an addiction to opioids until it is more severe.
We are here to help you overcome opioid use disorder.
What Opioids are Commonly Abused?
To learn more about addiction treatment, many family members of addicts often want to know what opioids people abuse. Some of the opioids that fall into this category include:
- Oxycodone
- Hydromorphone
- Morphine
- Fentanyl
- Heroin
Opioids are potent drugs that relieve pain. People can develop an addiction to them quickly or over time.
Opioids change the way a person’s brain works. After these changes happen, the body believes it needs opioids to function correctly. The person who uses this type of drug may need more opioids to feel the same way they did when first using opioids. It all starts with dependency. Then, the user will likely develop an addiction.
If you are struggling with the abuse of any opioids, don’t feel bad. You are not alone. Many others have been in your shoes. They understand what you are going through and are available to help. You can go into a medication assisted treatment program. MAT for opioids are beneficial.
What Is MAT for Opioids?
MAT for opioids, also known as Medication Assisted Treatment is a program that uses substitute medications. These medications help people to stop using opioids.
There are numerous questions that people seeking medication assisted treatment often have. How does Suboxone work? What medications do doctors give to detox center patients? We can provide you with the answers you need.
Some medications used in medication assisted treatment include:
- Naltrexone (ex. ReVia) prevents pleasurable feelings when using opioids
- Methadone (ex. Metadol) stops people from experiencing the fast high that opioids provide
- Buprenorphine or Suboxone (often given with naloxone) targets areas in the brain that opioids do
Knowing more about these medications can help you to see how beneficial MAT for opioids can be. Sometimes, these medications help to relieve withdrawal symptoms. Other times, the medicines help in managing cravings.
MAT programs also help people to stop thinking about getting or using drugs all the time. People who attend a MAT program often find they can concentrate better. They are more productive in their recovery lifestyle, as well.
What Should You Know About MAT Programs?
Do you worry about starting new medications? If so, you may wonder what it would be like to take these medications.
MAT medications can be very potent. The potency and strict use of these medications are why doctors will follow set guidelines in a MAT program. Doctors give patients MAT medications in specific ways. They make sure every medicine is safe for the patient.
It is essential to know that doctors often have patients sign an agreement. This agreement states the patient will take their medications exactly as the doctor tells them to. The patient will agree not to share their medicine with other people. If the patient doesn’t abide by the agreement, their doctor may stop treating them with these medications.
How Much Suboxone or Other Medication is Taken?
Do you want to know how much Suboxone, naltrexone or other MAT medication you will be given?
The amount of medication given to patients in a MAT program will vary. However, doctors will give most patients one pill each day to start. There might be some medications that you will wean off from after a certain length of time. Many patients need to see the doctor every time they need to get a dose of medication.
Over time, the doctor might adjust your medication dosage. Since everyone is different, the combination of medications may need to be trial and error. You might experience some side effects. However, the side effects of MAT medications are usually minimal.
The doctor might recommend that you take some medications for longer. Many patients have medicines they take for the rest of their life.
During the MAT program, you will receive education on OUD treatment. You will also receive counseling services. The combination of medications, educational materials and counseling will increase your chances of being successful in recovery.
Conclusion
MAT for opioids can help you overcome opioid use disorder. In this program, you will receive medications to help you stop using opioids. These medications can also help relieve withdrawal symptoms and prevent pleasure from opioid use. They can also help you to manage cravings and live a better recovering lifestyle.
Follow-up care after a MAT program is also essential. The follow-up care allows you to continue getting the medications that you need. It also helps you to have a support system for when you need additional recovery help.
Are you struggling with opioid use disorder? If so, contact us today to enter into treatment or just learn more about your options.
