Medication-assisted treatment, or MAT, is a proven way to treat opioid addiction and alcohol dependence. MAT uses a combination of FDA-approved medications, counseling, and behavioral therapies to help people manage withdrawal symptoms and work toward long-term recovery. At Santé Center for Healing in Argyle, TX, we offer medical detox and medication-assisted treatment as part of a comprehensive addiction recovery plan. In this guide, you will learn about MAT, how it helps with recovery from alcohol or opioids, and the types of medications used.
What is medication-assisted treatment (MAT)?
MAT is a treatment model that uses FDA-approved medications alongside counseling and other supports to treat opioid use disorder or alcohol use disorder. Comprehensive MAT addresses both the physical symptoms and the psychological recovery process. For people with moderate to severe opioid dependence, MAT is a safe, evidence‑based option that supports stability so patients can focus on life skills, mental health, and sustaining recovery.
What do MAT medications do?
Different MAT medications normalize brain chemistry, ease withdrawal symptoms, and negate the effects of alcohol and opioids so patients can engage fully in the recovery process. At the same time, counseling and behavioral therapies help build coping skills, repair relationships, and support lasting change.
Who should use MAT?
MAT is often recommended when a person has moderate to severe addiction, repeated relapse, or strong withdrawal symptoms that make detox difficult. Other options, such as abstinence‑only programs, can help some patients, but research shows the combination of medication and behavioral therapies is widely effective for many people struggling with opioids or alcohol.
The prescribing provider will consider the severity of addiction, co‑occurring health needs, recovery goals, and other factors before recommending medication-assisted treatment.
Key medications to treat opioid addiction and alcohol dependence
MAT medications work on opioid receptors in the brain to serve a few different purposes.
Methadone
Methadone is a long‑acting medication that reduces withdrawal symptoms and cravings. It binds to the same receptors as heroin, morphine, and other opioids, but at a controlled level that prevents highs and lows. Methadone has been shown to treat opioid dependence and cut overdose risk when used correctly. However, because it is the MAT medication with the most potential for misuse, it is highly regulated and less convenient and accessible than buprenorphine or naltrexone.
Buprenorphine
Buprenorphine activates receptors less strongly than methadone. This helps control cravings and withdrawal symptoms with a lower risk of misuse. Common brand names include Suboxone and Sublocade:
- Suboxone is a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone. It is available as a pill or a sublingual film (dissolves under the tongue), taken once a day. Under normal use, the naloxone is inactive. If Suboxone is misused (for instance, injected), the naloxone is activated and causes intense opioid withdrawal.
- Sublocade is an extended-release form of buprenorphine given as a once-monthly injection. Some patients prefer the convenience of not having to remember medication daily, and eliminating the possibility of missing a dose helps prevent relapse.
Naltrexone
Naltrexone blocks opioid receptors and prevents opioids and alcohol from having a rewarding effect, reducing temptation to use them. It does not help with withdrawal symptoms, but it can be helpful for maintenance once a person is fully detoxed. Naltrexone can be taken orally and is also available in extended-release form as a monthly injection.
Other alcohol addiction treatment options include disulfiram and acamprosate. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration offers in-depth information on each type of FDA-approved medication for AUD and OUD.
Benefits of medication-assisted treatment
Addiction is a medical condition that responds to evidence‑based care. Choosing medication-assisted treatment offers several benefits for patients and families:
- Reduced overdose risk and improved survival
- Better control of cravings and opioid withdrawal
- Stabilized brain chemistry and mood, which supports everyday well-being
- Greater ability to work, study, and rebuild relationships
- Statistically lower rates of illicit opioid use and criminal activity
- Improved engagement in counseling, therapy, and support groups
Because MAT addresses both physical symptoms and psychological needs, patients often report better quality of life and more confidence in recovery.
Why choose Santé Center for MAT in Texas
At Santé Center for Healing, patients receive medication-assisted treatment after careful evaluation and planning. Care is personalized for each person, with attention to a wide range of co‑occurring needs, including mental health and pain management. During MAT, patients receive coordinated therapy, skills training, and relapse prevention planning that support long‑term recovery. If you live near Argyle, TX, or are in the greater Dallas-Fort Worth area, our team can help you design a plan to treat alcohol or opioid addiction with compassion and accountability.
How to decide if MAT is right for you
Use this step‑by‑step approach:
- Talk with a doctor trained in addiction treatment. Share your health history, current medications used, and goals for recovery.
- Review your pattern of use, cravings, and withdrawal symptoms. If you have severe withdrawal or repeated relapse, MAT may be appropriate.
- Discuss which medication fits your needs. Ask how each medicine works, possible side effects, how it treats cravings, and whether it blocks other drugs.
- If you are pregnant, ask about options that are safe for pregnancy and coordinate care with your prenatal team.
- Consider your home environment and supports. Speak with an addiction treatment center intake team to create a personalized plan so you have a clear picture of how medication will fit into counseling and other supports.
MAT isn’t the answer for everyone, but exploring all your options and asking questions helps you make the best choice for you.
The MAT process: what to expect
Here’s a quick look at the MAT timeline:
- Initial assessment: A MAT specialist gathers your medical history, prescription list, past treatments, and recovery goals.
- Medical evaluation: Lab tests and a physical exam help your team select the right medication.
- Medication induction: Your doctor starts medication at a carefully monitored dosage.
- Stabilization: Over the next days and weeks, your team adjusts the prescription as your cravings and withdrawal change.
- Counseling and behavioral therapies: Individual therapy, group sessions, and family work help you practice skills and manage stress.
- Ongoing support: Regular follow‑ups, recovery coaching, and support groups help you stay on track. Many patients remain on MAT maintenance treatment while they build recovery routines.
MAT is available in both residential treatment and outpatient settings, depending on individual needs.
Getting started with expert addiction treatment in Texas
Santé Center offers integrated addiction treatment that respects the whole person. Our services span the continuum of addiction care, from medical detox and residential treatment to outpatient services and aftercare. Explore our medication-assisted treatment program or reach out today to see how MAT can help you treat alcohol or opioid use disorder and build a healthier life.