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Medication-Assisted Therapy
Medication-Assisted Therapy (MAT) is a comprehensive treatment method that combines the use of FDA-approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies to address substance use disorders such as opioid, alcohol, and nicotine addiction. The primary goal of MAT is to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, decrease the likelihood of relapse, and help individuals regain stability in their daily lives. For opioid addiction, common medications include methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone; for alcohol addiction, acamprosate, disulfiram, and naltrexone are often used; and for nicotine addiction, nicotine replacement therapy, bupropion, and varenicline are effective options. By integrating medical and psychological support.
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Abuse Potential Of Suboxone Use
Suboxone (buprenorphine + naloxone) was designed to reduce the abuse potential of traditional opioids, but it’s not abuse-proof. like Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist Produces mild euphoria and pain relief at higher-than-prescribed doses. Lower “high” compared to heroin or oxycodone, but still rewarding to some users. Long-term use can lead to physical dependence, making people continue use to avoid withdrawal. Some misuse Suboxone by bypassing the intended sublingual route to get a quicker effect. Risk of infectious diseases when injected.
Effects Of Suboxone Misuse
Misusing Suboxone—a medication that combines buprenorphine and naloxone to treat opioid dependence—can cause serious physical, mental, and social consequences.
Here’s a breakdown of the main effects:
- Confusion, poor judgment – impairing decision-making.
- Mood swings, anxiety, or depression – from brain chemistry disruption.
- Dependence & withdrawal symptoms – chills, muscle aches, insomnia when stopping abruptly.
- Cognitive impairment – slowed thinking, memory problems.
Recovery From An Opiate Addiction
Transparency is key during initial assessments
Recovery from an opiate addiction is a long-term process that involves addressing both the physical dependence on the drug and the underlying psychological and behavioral aspects of addiction. The first stage is often detoxification, where the body clears the opiates, typically under medical supervision to manage withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, muscle aches, insomnia, and intense cravings. While recovery is challenging and may involve setbacks, with consistent treatment, support, and personal commitment, many people successfully achieve and maintain long-term sobriety.
Consider a Combination Approach to Treatment
The primary approach for treating Suboxone addiction combines medically assisted treatment (MAT) with behavioral therapy. Research from Harvard Health shows that MAT is strongly linked to a lower risk of relapse.
Suboxone maintenance, a form of MAT, pairs FDA-approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies. Most MAT programs incorporate one or more of the following medications to support recovery:
- Active ingredients are buprenorphine and naloxone
- Used to treat opiate addiction and withdrawal
- Administered via sublingual film or tablet
- Blocks opiate effects
- Reduces cravings
- Given as an injection (Vivitrol shot) or in pill form
- Extended-release buprenorphine
- Monthly injection
However, always consult with a board-certified Therapist to figure out what will work best for you. We are the top Suboxone detox and rehab center in Hermitage, practicing outpatient opiate addiction treatment at your home or hotel, or in our luxury medical clinic in Hermitage.