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Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT)

Overcome addiction with Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) - a holistic approach combining medications and therapy for lasting recovery.

Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT)

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)—also called Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD)—is an evidence-based, whole-person approach that combines FDA-approved medications with counseling, behavioral therapies, and peer support. For people with opioid use disorder (OUD), medication eases withdrawal, stabilizes brain function, reduces cravings, and helps prevent relapse.

Medications Used for OUD

Methadone (full agonist)

  • Long-acting opioid agonist taken orally (in federally certified OTPs).
  • Prevents withdrawal, reduces cravings, and blunts the euphoric effects of illicit opioids.

 

Buprenorphine (partial agonist)

  • Partial opioid agonist with a “ceiling effect,” lowering overdose risk.
  • Reduces or eliminates withdrawal symptoms and cravings without typical opioid euphoria or sedation.
  • Available as:
    • Sublingual/buccal: buprenorphine alone or with naloxone (e.g., Suboxone®, Zubsolv®).
    • Extended-release injections: Sublocade® (monthly) and Brixadi® (weekly or monthly).

 

Naltrexone (antagonist)

  • Opioid receptor blocker that prevents opioid effects (euphoria/sedation).
  • Requires full detox before starting; otherwise can precipitate withdrawal.
  • Available as monthly IM injection (Vivitrol®) or oral tablets.

 

Note: Lofexidine is a non-opioid medication that helps relieve withdrawal symptoms. It is not a MOUD but may be used during detox/transition.

Safety and Benefits

  • MOUD reduces overdose deaths and behaviors that increase the risk of infections (e.g., HIV, hepatitis C).
  • MOUD is safe and effective during pregnancy and breastfeeding (especially methadone and buprenorphine).
  • Despite proven benefits, fewer than 1 in 5 people with OUD receive these medications.

Select FDA-Approved Products

Buprenorphine:

  • Brixadi® (buprenorphine ER) – subcutaneous injection
  • Sublocade® (buprenorphine ER) – subcutaneous injection
  • Suboxone® (buprenorphine/naloxone) – sublingual/buccal film
  • Zubsolv® (buprenorphine/naloxone) – sublingual tablets
  • Buprenorphine/naloxone – sublingual/buccal film or tablets
  • Buprenorphine – sublingual tablets

Methadone:

  • Methadone hydrochloride – oral concentrate; tablets/solutions for oral administration (clinic-dispensed)

Naltrexone:

  • Vivitrol® (naltrexone ER) – intramuscular injection

Suboxone® Treatment at Vivabest Psychiatry PLLC

How treatment works

  1. Comprehensive evaluation: We confirm the diagnosis, review your medical history, and discuss goals.
  2. Induction: If appropriate, many patients begin Suboxone on the first visit. Dosing starts when withdrawal is present to ensure comfort and avoid precipitated withdrawal.
  3. Stabilization: Over the first few weeks, we adjust your dose to control withdrawal, obsessions, and cravings.
  4. Maintenance: You take a small film under the tongue (or buccal) at prescribed intervals, with regular follow-ups.

 

How long does treatment last?

  • Short-term: A few weeks to support transition off opioids.
  • Long-term: Months to years for ongoing relapse prevention. Duration is individualized.

 

Whole-person care

Suboxone works best alongside counseling (individual, group, or peer support). We offer in-person and telepsychiatry visits to fit your schedule, and we’ll tailor a personalized plan that supports lasting recovery.

Other Service

Book an Appointment

Opioid use disorder is a chronic, treatable condition. If you’re ready to explore medication options and supportive therapy, contact Vivabest Psychiatry PLLC to get started.

Benefits of MAT

Accessibility

Receive expert mental health care regardless of your location.

Convenience

Schedule appointments that fit your lifestyle and access care from your preferred space.

Privacy

Enjoy discreet, secure sessions through encrypted technology to protect your confidentiality.

Continuity of Care

Stay connected with your provider for consistent and uninterrupted support.

Access Expert Mental Health Care Anywhere, Anytime

Experience the convenience of telepsychiatry. Connect with licensed professionals for personalized evaluations, therapy, and medication management—all from the comfort of your space.

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