Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): What It Is and Why It Works

Medication-Assisted Treatment, commonly known as MAT, is one of the most evidence-based and effective approaches to treating opioid and alcohol use disorders. Yet it remains one of the most misunderstood — with some people incorrectly believing that using medication to treat addiction is simply trading one drug for another. The science tells a different story entirely.

What Is MAT?

MAT combines FDA-approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies to treat substance use disorders. The medications used in MAT work by normalizing brain chemistry, blocking the euphoric effects of opioids and alcohol, relieving physiological cravings, and stabilizing body functions without the dangerous highs and lows of active addiction. MAT is not a crutch — it is medicine treating a medical condition.

FDA-Approved MAT Medications

For opioid use disorder, the three primary MAT medications are buprenorphine (often prescribed as Suboxone), which reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms; methadone, which reduces cravings and blocks opioid effects; and naltrexone (Vivitrol), which fully blocks opioids from producing any effect in the brain. For alcohol use disorder, medications include naltrexone, acamprosate (which reduces cravings), and disulfiram (which causes unpleasant reactions when alcohol is consumed, acting as a deterrent).

What the Research Says

The evidence in favor of MAT is overwhelming. Studies consistently show that MAT reduces opioid use, decreases overdose deaths, lowers rates of infectious disease transmission, reduces criminal activity, and improves patients' ability to maintain employment and stable housing. Patients on MAT are also significantly more likely to remain engaged in treatment and less likely to relapse compared to those receiving behavioral therapy alone.

At Athena Behavioral Health Group, we offer comprehensive MAT programs as part of our integrated approach to addiction treatment. Our medical team works with each patient individually to determine the right medication, dose, and combination of therapies. If you have questions about whether MAT might be right for you or your loved one, contact us — we are here to help.