Common Misconceptions About Medication Assisted Treatment Programs

Misconceptions About Medication Assisted Treatment Programs

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?

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

Addiction Medicine

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.

Additionals:

Abdul Aziz Mondol is a professional blogger who is having a colossal interest in writing blogs and other jones of calligraphies. In terms of his professional commitments, he loves to share content related to business, finance, technology, and the gaming niche.

View all posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related

Cannabinoids

CBG vs. CBN: Navigating The Lesser-Known Cannabinoids

While cannabis usage and exploration are evolving, the shadow of its most popular cannabinoid pair, THC and CBD, may finally be lifting on two newbies to this magical family tree within the flower we all know and love Cannabigerol (CG) and Cannabinol (CBN). With the preponderance of experience from the familiar fun of THC-induced highs to the meditative balm of CBD’s therapeutic benefits, these less-well-known cannabinoid compounds may come as a surprise – and cannabis connoisseurs may just find them to be a treat for the CBD-toned brain. And as one who’s dipped a toe into all things cannabis-related personally and professionally, I’d like to share some insights into these so-called minor cannabinoids, but in a major, professional, and trusted way. Hail to the unknown and underappreciated! Enter CBG and CBN, stage left Research, personal experience, and murmurs of the ganja community are about to collide for your entertainment and perhaps enlightenment about these two oft-overlooked members of the cannabis clan. What Are CBG and CBN? To get the lowdown, it’s a good idea to figure out exactly what CBG and CBN are. CBG, or cannabigerol, is sometimes referred to as the ‘mother of all cannabinoids’ because, in its acidic CBGA form, it’s the precursor molecule of several other cannabinoids. Non-psychoactive, it’s believed to have a number of potentially beneficial therapeutic actions. The other compound is CBN or cannabinol, which results when THC ages and breaks down. It’s mildly psychoactive but nowhere near as much as cannabis itself. The Unique Promise of CBG CBG first came onto my radar when I was researching botanical solutions to gut ailments. Word on the street was that the cannabinoid could potentially provide immense relief – an assertion ostensibly supported by CBG’s reported anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. In my case, I found some of that buzz to be spot-on. Soon after adding this cannabinoid to my routine, I took note of some discernible improvements with respect to my digestive comfort. I didn’t experience transformative results right out of the gates but, over time with continued use, those uncomfortable days grew less frequently. Studies also indicate that CBG might have neuroprotective, anticancer, and antibacterial effects. CBG might be the ultimate versatile cannabinoid for physical relief and preventative health benefits. The Calming Effects of CBN The first time I used CBN was to help a friend sleep better. She’d tried meditation and melatonin without much luck. Both made her light and scatterbrained and though she could manage her insomnia with the sheer force of will, she was curious to try another approach. I was curious, too, and decided to experiment alongside her. My own sleep patterns were never great, even on nights when I could turn off the TV (and the iPad) in time to hit the sheets by midnight. Alongside her, I found CBN to be a relaxing sleep aid. I wouldn’t call it a ‘sleeping pill’ as it doesn’t put you down for the night quite the same way that sort of remedy does. But there are lots of nights when I need a nudge toward rest, times when my mind is filled with deadlines and to-dos. On those occasions, a CBN-infused tincture has become an excellent tool for inducing a Guitar-Strum-Country-And-Western brain noodle. CBN is also being tested as a pain reliever, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotectant (a compound with the ability to reduce cell death associated with stroke, traumatic brain injury, and neurodegenerative disorders). Human trials are just beginning, but the outlook appears encouraging.  Personal Experience: A Balancing Act My experience trying to understand the world of CBG vs CBN has been confusing, enlightening, and, above all, very informative. I have learnt that, while both cannabinoids can supplement our lives, they have to be used at the right time to work for specific needs. CBG has become my ally during the day, a cannabinoid that makes me feel slightly better than usual but does not have any psychoactive effects. CBN will stay in my nighttime routine, not as a substitute for sleeping pills but as a way to create a more prone state. Pros and Cons Pros - CBG: Potential digestive aid and anti-inflammatory. Non-intoxicating, making it suitable for daytime use. Versatile benefits span from neuroprotection to antibacterial effects. Pros - CBN: Promotes relaxation and may improve sleep quality. Mildly psychoactive, offering a gentle experience. Potential pain reliever and anti-inflammatory properties. Cons - CBG: Low availability and more expensive due to lower yields from cannabis plant.  Research is still emerging, making definitive conclusions about its efficacy premature. Cons - CBN: Effects can vary greatly among individuals; not everyone may experience significant sleep benefits. Because it’s apparently derived from the degradation of THC, its legal status can be unclear in some places. Final Thoughts This journey of discovery into CBG and CBN has both amazed me and taught me a lot. My experiences have generally been good ones, but reactions can differ – start small and work up from there, to be sure. While the research is still emerging, it’s possible that CBG and to some extent, CBN can transcend their minor cannabinoid status and join the ranks of CBD and THC. For cannabis connoisseurs and curious neophytes alike, this new frontier means looking deeper than ever into the increasingly multilayered beauty and therapeutic promise of the plant. Cheers to good science and many more cannabinoids on the horizon. Read Also: How Does CBD Affect Your Drug Tests? How CBD Oil Capsules Are Changing People’s Lives What is Cannabis Oil and how does CBD Oil Work?

READ MOREDetails
Treatment Options for Cocaine Addiction

Available Treatment Options for Cocaine Addiction

Cocaine in itself is a dangerous drug if taken for a long time, it becomes more dreadful when the drug dealers mixed it with other opioids to enhance its effects. If you don’t know about such illegal mixing, the overdose of the drug may be fatal, which is becoming common nowadays. It’s a common belief that it’s hard to combat cocaine addiction as compared to the other drug addiction that is not true in all cases. Still, the research studies are undergoing to find out the best and authentic treatment for cocaine addiction, as there are no registered medications by the FDA to treat such kind of addiction, but there are other therapies available like behavioral therapy, group counseling, etc. special treatments are still underway for the cocaine addiction due to the availability of the limited resources. Outpatient Treatment Facility The outpatient treatment setting is arranged for those cocaine abusers who cannot stay in the rehab center. While they are allowed to stay at home or in a community area during the period of their treatment, where they have scheduled visits to a rehab facility for treatment like individual or group therapies. The treatment varies from person to person, so you may require to visit the center once or twice a week for around six hours in one sitting. The duration of outpatient treatment may last from weeks to even months with gradual recovery progress. Inpatient Treatment Facility The inpatient facilities are not equivalent to the hospital but basic addiction recovery treatments are available there. Infinite Detox Austin provides settings that offer pharmacological treatment, mental and social support, occupational support, etc. this type of recovery program mostly lasts for about six months. For simple cocaine abusers, detoxification and other short-term treatments are enough, but for chronic cocaine addiction along with comorbidities inpatient rehab centers are preferable. This kind of individual-based one-to-one therapeutic program is helpful for you to regain the body equilibrium before going back to the hometown. Recognized Treatment or Therapy Methodologies 1. Contingency Management This approach is related to the management of high-risk situations and can be used in several types of treatment settings. During this therapy, individuals are rewarded for not using the drug. This is used to formulate the ability of each patient to deal with the drug cravings and the root cause behind them. This treatment is found to be a realistic and auspicious one. 2. Cognitive-behavioral Therapy This therapy approaches change the behavior of the individual towards the use of the drug and force him/her to develop new plans to cope up with the ongoing treatment. This may be done in group settings or on an individual basis at both inpatient and outpatient recovery programs. This approach may include gaining knowledge about new methods to handle the drug cravings, suicidal thoughts, and lethal withdrawal symptoms, which may lead you towards relapse. 3. Matrix Model This model is based on the principle of self-discipline, which involves features of many other treatment approaches, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, contingency management, and 12-step programs, etc. This model includes emotional support, personal counseling sessions, and family education. It is seen as a proven treatment of addiction so it gets a lot of attention in society. 4. Medication-assisted Treatment (MAT) Pharmacological therapy is used to provide you with the prescribed medications to combat drug usage. This method is still under consideration especially in the case of opioid addiction as the trials for cocaine abuse have not all been steadily efficacious and have not been extensively studied. However, if effective medications are developed for long-term use then MAT would become the most demanding and essential treatment option. Read Also: Are You Sick and Tired of Drugs? 4 Tips to Find an Effective Drug Therapy Cannabis can Help in the Fight Against Drug Addiction Four Effective Things To Recover From Heroin & Drug Addiction Treatment

READ MOREDetails
CBD Use

When is it Time to Start Considering CBD Use?

Mental and physical health problems affect millions of people worldwide every year. While modern pharmacology has solutions for many health problems, they often come with significant side effects. To avoid the side effects of mainstream drugs, many people resort to using natural remedies like CBD. CBD oil is one such natural product that is extracted from cannabis/marijuana plants. Unlike THC, which is one of over a hundred chemicals found in cannabis, CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning that it doesn't give you the sensation of being 'high.’ While scientific studies have to corroborate CBD’s efficacy in treating health problems, the apparent benefits are worth recognition. Here’s when you may start considering CBD use: 1. Pain Relief The use of marijuana as an analgesic dates back thousands of years. Today, we know that CBD is one of the key components of marijuana that helps with pain relief. Studies suggest that CBD affects the endocannabinoid receptor activity, thus reducing inflammation and the sensation of pain in subjects with chronic pain. For example, multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that affects the brain and spinal cord. It causes pain, difficulty walking, and muscle spasms. When used on its own or in combination with other drugs, CBD can help alleviate these symptoms. The use of CBD for arthritis pain is also well documented. Read more: CBD for Pain Relief: Dosage Guidelines and Safety 2. Mental Health As awareness about mental health problems increases, scientists are trying to find newer and safer treatment methods. Two common and potentially debilitating mental health problems include depression and anxiety. While these can effectively be treated with pharmacological drugs, CBD provides a natural solution to these problems. The substances in CBD interact with the serotonin receptors in the brain that regulate mood and behavior. For this reason, many people use CBD to get relief from the symptoms of depression. 3. Cancer and Chemotherapy Pain Cancer exists in many forms and affects different areas of the body. It is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Until now, chemotherapy is a mainstream cancer treatment. It is a cocktail of strong drugs that are used to restrict the uncontrolled growth of tumors. While chemotherapy is effective, it causes many unpleasant side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, pain, and hair loss. CBD is thought to be effective in reducing cancer-related pain as well as chemotherapy-induced pain, nausea, and vomiting. Read more: The Role of CBD Isolate in Eradicating Cancer 4. Other Uses There are several other conditions where the use of CBD could be helpful. For example, it can be used to control acne in young adults, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties and the ability to control sebaceous gland secretions. Even though it is not clinically proven, CBD is also commonly used to reduce seizures in epilepsy patients. It may also improve the symptoms and the quality of life of individuals suffering from Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. CBD has stress reduction properties, which is why many people use it to cope with high blood pressure. Its anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory properties also have a positive effect on heart tissues in people having heart diseases. However, these benefits are not scientifically corroborated. As such, you must not start using CBD without consulting with your doctor. In addition, a professional CBD services provider offers a wide range of CBD products which you can check at https://thejointcannabis.ca which is a perfect destination to explore. Conclusion Many people who have used CBD think that it comes with health benefits. And many studies have already looked at the substance’s health effects. However, more researches and clinical trials are required to validate the benefits of CBD. While CBD is generally safe, it comes with some side effects and can negatively interact with other drugs. For these reasons and more, it is recommended that you must consult with a doctor before you start to use CBD. Even if your doctor allows you to use CBD, be sure to keep an eye on your health and stop using the substance if you experience negative effects. Read Also: The CBD Health Supplements Making People Feel Good Again How CBD Oil Capsules Are Changing People’s Lives What is the Ideal CBD Dosage for You? Making the Best from Third Party Lab Testing CBD: The understanding of its benefits

READ MOREDetails