Medication Assisted Treatment is an effective method for achieving recovery
Science has proven medication treatment, when combined with other supportive services, is successful in leading patients to live productive lives in recovery.
Medications are already used to assist with opioid withdrawal (detoxification), however, opioid withdrawal by itself is NOT treatment—it is merely the first step within the treatment process.
Opioid addiction is associated with a high rate of relapse. Medication can effectively manage cravings, decreasing potential for relapse.
Myth: Prescribing medication for addiction is substituting one addiction for another.
Fact: When used properly, taking medication to manage the symptoms of addiction is like taking insulin to regulate diabetes.
Medications Used to Treat Opioid Addiction
Buprenorphine (Subutex, Suboxone)
- Decreases withdrawal symptoms for a longer period of time compared to methadone
- Prescribed by specialized physicians Methadone (Methadose, Dolophine)
- Reduces cravings and prevents withdrawal symptoms
- Monitored in specialized opioid treatment programs
Naltrexone (Depade, ReVia, Vivitrol)
- Prevents feeling the effects of a drug
- Prescribed as an oral medication or by monthly injections
When not treated effectively, opioid abuse can lead to these potential consequences:
- Increase in heroin use
- Increased needle use
- Increased rates of HIV/AIDS
- Increase in crime Increased risk of overdose