Medication Assisted Treatment Program

MEDICATION ASSISTED TREATMENT SERVICES FOR SUBSTANCE USE DISORDERS
Source: SAMHSA.GOV
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is the use of medications, in combination with counseling and behavioral therapies, to provide a “whole-patient” approach to the treatment of substance use disorders. 
Research shows that a combination of medication and therapy can successfully treat these disorders, and for some people struggling with addiction, MAT can help sustain recovery. MAT is also used to prevent or reduce opioid overdose.
MAT is primarily used for the treatment of addiction to opioids such as heroin and prescription pain relievers that contain opiates. The prescribed medication operates to normalize brain chemistry, block the euphoric effects of alcohol and opioids, relieve physiological cravings, and normalize body functions without the negative and euphoric effects of the substance used.
MAT Effectiveness
MAT has proved to be clinically effective and to significantly reduce the need for inpatient detoxification services for these individuals. MAT provides a more comprehensive, individually tailored program of medication and behavioral therapy that address the needs of most patients.
The ultimate goal of MAT is full recovery, including the ability to live a self-directed life. This treatment approach has been shown to:
  • Improve patient survival
  • Increase retention in treatment
  • Decrease illicit opiate use and other criminal activity among people with substance use disorders
  • Increase patients’ ability to gain and maintain employment
  • Improve birth outcomes among women who have substance use disorders and are pregnant
Research also shows that these medications and therapies can contribute to lowering a person’s risk of contracting HIV or hepatitis C by reducing the potential for relapse.
MAT Medications
FDA has approved several different medications to treat alcohol and opioid use disorders MAT medications relieve the withdrawal symptoms and psychological cravings that cause chemical imbalances in the body. Medications used for MAT are evidence-based treatment options and do not just substitute one drug for another.
  • Alcohol Use Disorder Medications
Acamprosate, disulfiram, and naltrexone are the most common medications used to treat alcohol use disorder. They do not provide a cure for the disorder, but are most effective in people who participate in a MAT program.
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  • Opioid Dependency Medications
Buprenorphinemethadone, and naltrexone are used to treat opioid use disorders to short-acting opioids such as heroin, morphine, and codeine, as well as semi-synthetic opioids like oxycodone and hydrocodone. These MAT medications are safe to use for months, years, or even a lifetime. As with any medication, consult your doctor before discontinuing use.
Introducing the Serenity Mental Health Outpatient MAT Program: Serving clients throughout Nevada
Now available in person at our Las Vegas location or via 100% telehealth to serve clients anywhere in the state of Nevada!
Serenity Mental Health Outpatient MAT Program offers both a face to face clinic and a fully virtual telehealth clinic. Medications offered through the Serenity MAT program include: : SUBOXONE, SUBLOCADE and NALTREXONE.  Clients participating in the MAT program also receive outpatient counseling services which may include individual counseling sessions, group counseling sessions or both. Counseling services are also offered as face to face or telehealth services. Depending on your location, MAT medications may be delivered directly to your home by our partner pharmacy. Required urine screening can be conducted at our Las Vegas office or at any community based laboratory location throughout the state of Nevada.
Our MAT program is easy, convenient, and effective! Doctor visits, counseling sessions, and medications are now available to any client residing anywhere in the state of Nevada without having to leave the home!