MAT

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is a program that helps people with opioid or alcohol addictions overcome their dependency. Experienced nurse practitioners Scott Lane, FNP-C, Sean Leonard, PMHNP-BC, and their team at NuGen Wellness Center in Boise, Idaho, have considerable expertise in using MAT. They help return your healthy brain chemistry and limit withdrawal side effects and cravings. Call the office or book an appointment online today to find out how you could benefit from MAT.

What is MAT?

MAT is an approved program for people with substance use disorder. It can help you overcome addictions to alcohol, illegal narcotics like heroin, and strong prescription painkillers, such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, fentanyl, and morphine.

Drugs like these often take over people’s lives. They become so dependent on them psychologically and physically that nothing in life seems as important. Addiction can cost people their careers and homes, cause relationship breakdowns, lead to numerous health problems, and potentially cause premature death.

However, coming off drugs can be extremely challenging. In addition to severe cravings, suddenly stopping your drug intake could cause withdrawal effects, such as nausea and vomiting, pain, sweating, diarrhea, and disorientation.

MAT is a combination of medication and talk therapy that gives people with substance misuse problems the best chance of recovering from addiction.

What medications does MAT use?

Medications included in MAT are:

Buprenorphine

Buprenorphine is an opioid antagonist that makes it easier for you to quit. It reduces the pleasurable effects of opioids while preventing your body from suffering extreme withdrawal. Buprenorphine is available as a sublingual pill (you dissolve it under your tongue), a slow-release injection, or a tiny implant.

Naloxone

Naloxone reverses opioid overdoses.

NuGen Wellness Center uses Suboxone® for MAT, which contains buprenorphine and naloxone.

How do I get started with MAT?

To see if you’re a suitable candidate for MAT, the NuGen Wellness team performs a thorough evaluation. They check your medical history, do a physical exam, and request lab tests. Your provider also explains how MAT works and what’s involved in the treatment.

If MAT is a good fit for you, your NuGen Wellness provider prescribes the medications you need and arranges therapy sessions.

Regular therapy focuses on helping you manage daily challenges and work through the underlying issues that make you vulnerable to addiction.

How long does the MAT program last?

The time you need to spend on a MAT program varies — some people do well after several weeks or months; others need to stay on MAT for longer. The NuGen Wellness team treats each patient as an individual, supporting them at every step and taking the time needed to achieve lasting recovery.

To learn how MAT can improve your life and health, make an appointment at NuGen Wellness Center. Call the office or use the online booking tool today.