If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse, you may have heard about medication assisted treatment programs as a potential tool for recovery. However, many misconceptions and myths surrounding these programs can prevent people from seeking the help they need.
Moreover, this blog post will address some of the most common misconceptions about medication-assisted treatment programs and provide evidence-based information to help set the record straight.
What Are Medication Assisted Treatment Programs?
First, let’s define what we mean by “medication-assisted treatment program.” Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is a holistic addiction treatment. It uses medications, counseling, and behavioral therapies to help people with substance use disorders (SUDs) achieve and maintain recovery.
The medications used in MAT are approved by the FDA. These medications are safe and effective for treating substance use disorders. Some medications commonly used in MAT include methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone.
MAT is a proven, effective medication assisted treatment for addiction. However, many people don’t have access to quality care. Confidant Health is changing that. Confidant provides expert help for medication assisted treatment through our confidential and discreet app.
Now, let’s address some of the common misconceptions about MAT programs. Before searching for medication assisted treatment near me, it will be better to see which are the best nearby locations from your place.
Misconception 1: Medication-Assisted Treatment Programs Are Just Substituting One Addiction For Another
One of the most persistent misconceptions about medication-assisted treatment programs is that they substitute one addiction. The idea is that medications like methadone and buprenorphine replace one drug with another, and people who use them are not “sober.”
FACT: This is a misunderstanding of how medication-assisted treatment programs work. The medications used in medication assisted treatment are carefully prescribed and monitored by trained healthcare professionals. They help manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings, which can be powerful triggers for relapse.
Additionally, the medications used in MAT are designed to be long-acting. This means they do not produce the same “high” that people experience when using drugs like heroin or prescription opioids. This makes it less likely that people will misuse the medications or become addicted to them.
Research has consistently shown that medication-assisted treatment programs effectively reduce drug use and improve outcomes for people in recovery. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) notes that MAT “can help sustain recovery.”
Misconception 2: Medication-Assisted Treatment Programs Are Not Effective
Another common misconception about medication-assisted treatment programs is that they are not effective. Some people believe that medications are just a “band-aid” solution that does not address the underlying issues contributing to addiction.
FACT: Studies have shown that medication-assisted treatment programs can significantly improve outcomes for people with opioid use disorders. For example, a 2018 study published in the Journal of Addiction Medicine found that people who received medication assisted treatments were more likely to remain on the treatment and achieve abstinence from opioids than those who did not receive any treatment and medication.
Moreover, opioid use disorder medication is often used with counseling and behavioral therapies, which can help people address the underlying issues that contribute to addiction. Medication-assisted treatment programs can help people achieve and maintain recovery by providing a more holistic approach to treatment.
Misconception 3: Medication-Assisted Treatment Programs Are Just A Way For Drug Companies To Make Money
Another common misconception about medication-assisted treatment programs is that they are just a way for drug companies to make money. Some people believe that the medications used in medication assisted treatment are overpriced and that the programs are being promoted by pharmaceutical companies solely for profit.
FACT: This is not an accurate portrayal of medication-assisted treatment programs like the 15-minute4me test. While it is true that pharmaceutical companies manufacture the medications used in MAT, they are not exclusively used for addiction treatment. Many medications used in MAT also have other medical uses.
Furthermore, the cost of medication-assisted treatment programs can be offset because they are often less expensive than other types of addiction treatment. For example, inpatient rehab programs can be costly, whereas medication-assisted treatment can be provided on an outpatient basis, which can be more affordable.
Misconception 4: Medication-Assisted Treatment Programs Are Just A Way To Get High Legally
Some people believe that medication assisted treatment programs are just a way to get high legally. They may think that the medications used in MAT produce a similar euphoric effect as illegal drugs and that people are just using them to continue their addiction in a more socially acceptable way.
FACT: As we mentioned earlier, the medications used in MAT are designed to be long-acting and do not produce the same “high” as drugs like heroin or prescription opioids. While it’s true that some people may misuse their medications or use them in ways that are not prescribed, this is not the norm.
Additionally, healthcare professionals will closely monitor people participating in medication-assisted treatment programs. They can detect any misuse or diversion of medications. If someone misuses their medications, they may be tapered off or removed from the program.
Dispelling Misconceptions About Medication-Assisted Treatment Programs: Why They Are a Valuable Tool for Substance Abuse Recovery
Medication assisted treatment programs are a valuable option for addressing substance abuse. It can help people achieve and maintain recovery from this debilitating condition. Unfortunately, there are misconceptions and stigmas surrounding these programs. These misbeliefs can prevent individuals from seeking the appropriate help they need.
However, we can help break down these barriers by understanding the facts about MAT programs. We’ll be able to ensure that everyone who needs help for substance abuse can access the right care. Remember, medication-assisted treatment programs are an evidence-based approach to addiction treatment. It is a science-backed treatment option that can help improve outcomes and save many lives.
Medication-assisted treatment programs are valuable for addressing substance abuse. And helping people achieve and maintain recovery. Unfortunately, many misconceptions and myths surrounding these programs can prevent people from seeking the help they need.
Bottomline
By understanding the facts about medication assisted treatment programs, we can help break down these barriers and ensure that everyone who needs help for substance abuse can access the care they need. Remember, medication-assisted treatment programs are an evidence-based approach to addiction treatment that can help improve outcomes and save lives.
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