What is Medication Assisted Treatment?
The consequences of untreated addiction can be tragic for the individual, family, and community. Like heart disease or diabetes, opioid addiction is a chronic disease, a medical condition that can last a lifetime. However, by managing the addiction, a patient can regain a healthy, productive life.
Most people cannot just walk away from addiction. They need help.
Tahoe Forest's Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) program stops the use of the problem drug. It combats the effects of withdrawal and eases cravings. Additionally, MAT addresses the underlying issues that trigger inappropriate drug use and helps people move into healthy, addiction-free lifestyles, or recovery.
Medication, Counseling & Support
There are three, equally-important elements to Medication Assisted Treatment: medication, counseling, and support from family and friends.
Medication
The most common medications used in the treatment of opioid addiction are Buprenorphine and Methadone. Buprenorphine is dispensed at treatment centers or prescribed by certified medical providers and is available at Tahoe Forest Hospital. Buprenorphine tricks the brain into thinking it is still getting the problem opioid. The person taking this medication feels normal, not high, withdrawal does not occur, and cravings are reduced. Buprenorphine is administered when the patient experiences withdrawal symptoms. Methadone is dispensed only at specially licensed treatment centers.
People can safely take treatment medication as long as needed - for months or even years.
Counseling
Support
Get Help
Direct referrals to the MAT Program can be made by calling (530) 582-1212.
Want to learn more about opioid addiction and treatment? Download our program brochure.