What is medication-assisted treatment?
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) combines FDA-approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies to treat opioid use disorder. MAT reduces opioid use, overdose deaths, criminal activity, and infectious disease transmission while improving retention in treatment and social functioning. It is the evidence-based standard of care — not a substitute for "real" recovery, but a proven, life-saving component of treatment.
The three medications
Buprenorphine (Suboxone, Subutex) is a partial opioid agonist that reduces cravings and withdrawal without producing the high of full opioids. It can be prescribed by certified physicians in office-based settings — making it far more accessible than methadone. The DATA 2000 Act removed the requirement for a special waiver, making it prescribable by any licensed clinician.
Methadone is a full opioid agonist dispensed through federally regulated opioid treatment programs (OTPs). It requires daily visits to a clinic, at least initially. It has the longest track record and is highly effective for people who don't respond to buprenorphine.
Naltrexone (Vivitrol) blocks opioid receptors, eliminating the effect of opioids. It requires full detoxification before starting — a significant barrier. It is available as a monthly injection, which helps with adherence.
Research consistently shows that longer duration of MAT produces better outcomes. Stopping MAT prematurely dramatically increases overdose risk — tolerance lost during treatment means much lower doses can be fatal. Work with your prescriber on the appropriate duration of treatment for your situation.
Accessing MAT
SAMHSA's treatment locator (findtreatment.gov) can identify MAT providers near you. For buprenorphine, search for "buprenorphine waivered providers" in your area. Telehealth has dramatically expanded buprenorphine access — many providers now offer evaluation and prescribing through video visits.