What is the FDA approved treatment for opioid dependence? These include methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone.
Opioid dependence is a public health crisis that has devastating consequences for individuals, families, and their communities. Medication assisted treatment (MAT) has emerged as a viable approach at combating the serious problem. But are these medications safe? And what is the FDA approved treatment for opioid dependence?
Today, Aegis Medical answers these questions and offers insight into the three most commonly used MATs For people looking for opioid addiction treatment in Michigan.
Medication-Assisted Treatment
Medication-assisted treatment involves using FDA-approved medications to help people manage their opioid dependence symptoms. These drugs work to target the brain’s opioid receptors, which can reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings and help to normalize brain function. This can provide relief from withdrawal symptoms and create a strong and stable foundation for recovery.
The three most common mat medications are:
- Methadone: Those looking for opioid addiction treatment in Michigan may be familiar with methadone. This long-acting opioid antagonist reduces withdrawal symptoms and drug cravings. It can also help stabilize a person’s liver.
- Buprenorphine: This is a partial opioid antagonist that works within the brain to bind to opioid receptors.
- Naltrexone: Like methadone, naltrexone is an opioid antagonist that can help block the effects of opioids. This can make the reward much less, which may, in turn, reduce cravings.
What Are the Benefits of Opioid Addiction Treatment?
MAT therapies are effective and safe. Further, when administered in a safe, secure, and controlled clinical environment, opioid addiction treatment offers further benefits, including:
- Reduced overdose risk. One of the most significant benefits of medication-assisted therapy is that it can potentially reduce a person’s risk of overdose. By blocking the euphoric effects of illicit drugs, these medications may reduce someone’s desire to use in the first place.
- Improved treatment retention. MAT is associated with higher treatment retention rates. Once a person is stabilized, they may find it much easier to engage with counselors and other support services. All of this can assist in the likelihood of successful recovery.
- Enhance overall well-being. Opioid dependence can take a huge toll on a person’s mental and physical health. Those receiving opioid addiction treatment in Michigan utilizing MAT therapies can best focus on restoring their lives, personal and professional goals, and overall health.
- Lower transmission of infectious diseases. It’s no secret that opioid addiction is linked with the transmission of HIV, hepatitis C, and other infectious diseases. MAT has shown great promise in its effectiveness in reducing a person’s willingness to risk sharing needles and other negative behaviors. By reducing the use of illicit opioids, MAT contributes to reducing the spread of these diseases.
MAT is an effective opioid addiction treatment that offers hope for individuals wrapped up in the throes of dependence. By combining medications with counseling and behavioral therapies, MAT is a truly comprehensive and personal approach to recovery. For more information about medication-assisted therapy for you or someone you love, contact Aegis Medical today.
Aegis Medical offers online opioid addiction treatment for those suffering from addiction. When you choose Aegis Medical, you can use your own pharmacy, benefit from our board-certified expertise, and receive treatment from anywhere from a judgment-free practitioner whose sole purpose is to help you walk your recovery journey with confidence. Dr. Peter Farago is licensed throughout the US and Canada and is a member of the American Society of Addiction Medicine, the Canadian Society of Addiction Medicine, and the American Board of Preventive Medicine. Aegis Medical is also HIPAA Verified and accepts most insurance plans.