MAT is a supervised detoxification program from opioid physical dependence that promotes a transition to further rehabilitation and relapse prevention. Increasing facility visits for emergency and detoxification treatment for heroin and short-acting prescription opioids has led to a need for more effective and safer pharmacological treatment options.
Opioid Addiction is a treatable disease, but it requires significant care, coordination and collaboration among providers and care resources. MAT places an emphasis on medication assistance and coordinating integrated outpatient care services in treatment of patients with opioid dependence.
Although acute opioid withdrawal is not life-threatening it can present with significant clinical symptoms and places patients at risk for relapse to abusing short-acting opioids and co-morbid symptoms. Inpatient treatment based on recognized standards provides for increased patient safety as well as comfort by controlling the acute withdrawal symptoms in a systematic manner. Buprenorphine has emerged as a preferential treatment option for acute opioid detoxification due to its safety, demonstrated effectiveness in short withdrawal regimens, and lower abuse potential.
In short, MAT is a safe, effective opioid addiction treatment.
