Medication-Assisted Treatment For Opioid Addiction

 

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is an effective treatment for addiction to alcohol and opioids. It helps individuals normalize brain chemistry and reduce physical cravings. It also helps with withdrawal symptoms. Patients can gradually taper off of their medication to become substance-free. However, this treatment may not be appropriate for every individual.Visit pacificsandsrecovery.com/services/medication-assisted-treatment/ for more insights about this post.

 

Medication-assisted treatment is most effective for patients who are experiencing moderate to severe opioid addiction who have tried multiple abstinence-based treatment options. The medications used in this treatment are buprenorphine and naltrexone. Youth under 16 are not eligible to participate in this treatment, which requires parental consent. In California, minors must be accompanied by an adult.

 

The Orange County MAT Programs  can also be used for pregnant women. A recent study found that medication-assisted treatment helps pregnant women adhere to their prenatal care and the outcome of their newborn is better. Many professional medical organizations have endorsed the use of MAT. If your loved one is a pregnant woman, medication-assisted treatment may be right for him or her.

 

Buprenorphine is a medication that helps people with opioid use disorder reduce withdrawal symptoms. This type of medication is prescribed by a certified healthcare provider. These providers can dispense it in clinics, health departments, and correctional facilities. The medication is closely regulated, and healthcare providers must obtain certification before dispensing it to clients.

 

The stigma that surrounds MAT remains a significant barrier to implementation. Physicians report that the stigma is widespread, affecting patients, clinic staff, and physicians. In addition, there is a strong belief that abstinence is preferable to treatment with opioid agonists. This stigma may prevent patients from seeking treatment.

 

In addition, the availability of these medications is an issue. There is a long waiting list to receive them. For example, a Vermont methadone clinic reported a waitlist of more than 900 people. It is not unusual for a patient to have to wait up to 1.9 years before receiving medication.

 

The staffing requirements vary from state to state. Some models include a designated staff person who supports the prescribing physician. This individual acts as a primary point of clinical contact. Another model, the PCSS-Buprenorphine model, employs an RN as a case manager and performs screening and coordination of care. To get more knowledge about this post, visit: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Opioid_use_disorder#Management