Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) combines FDA-approved medications with therapy and counseling to treat substance use disorders. MAT is considered the standard of care for opioid use disorder, and it has strong evidence for alcohol use disorder as well.
At The Recovery Village Columbus, MAT is part of our treatment programs, not a separate clinic. Our medical team prescribes and manages medications as part of an individualized plan that also includes therapy, group support and care for co-occurring mental health conditions.
Call (614) 362-1686 to learn about MAT at our Groveport campus.
How MAT Works
Long-term opioid or alcohol use changes how the brain handles cravings, stress and reward. MAT medications work on those same systems. Depending on the medication, they can ease withdrawal, reduce cravings or block the high from opioids or the rewarding effects of alcohol. That stability makes it easier to focus on therapy and rebuild daily life. For people with opioid use disorder, MAT also lowers the risk of overdose.
Free, Confidential Helpline
Ready to take the next step toward recovery?
Our Recovery Advocates are available around the clock to answer your questions, verify your insurance, and help you find the right level of care — at no cost to you.
Medications for Opioid Use Disorder
For opioid use disorder, including addiction to fentanyl, heroin and prescription painkillers, options may include:
- Buprenorphine, which partially activates opioid receptors to relieve withdrawal and cravings without producing the same high. It’s available as a daily film or tablet (Suboxone) or as a long-acting injection (Sublocade or Brixadi).
- Naltrexone, which blocks opioid receptors so opioids don’t produce a high. The monthly injection (Vivitrol) can be started once you’ve been off opioids long enough, usually after detox.
If you currently take methadone, tell our admissions team so your medication can be coordinated safely before and during treatment.
Medications for Alcohol Use Disorder
FDA-approved medications for alcohol use disorder include:
- Naltrexone, which reduces cravings and the rewarding effects of drinking.
- Acamprosate (Campral), which can help reduce ongoing discomfort and cravings after you stop drinking.
- Disulfiram (Antabuse), which causes an unpleasant reaction if you drink and works as a deterrent.
Your medical team will talk with you about whether one of these is a good fit, based on your health, your history and your goals.
MAT at Every Level of Care
You can start or continue MAT at each stage of treatment on our campus:
- Medical detox: buprenorphine and other medications can ease opioid withdrawal while you stabilize.
- Residential treatment: your medication is managed daily alongside therapy.
- PHP and IOP: you keep taking your medication with regular check-ins as you step down.
Before you leave, your discharge plan covers how you’ll continue your medication with a provider close to home.
MAT and Behavioral Therapy
Medication works best alongside therapy. At The Recovery Village Columbus, MAT is combined with individual therapy, group therapy and evidence-based approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). Together, they address both the physical and psychological sides of addiction. Learn more about our dual diagnosis treatment.
Is MAT Right for Me?
MAT may be a good fit if you:
- Have opioid use disorder, including fentanyl, heroin or prescription opioid addiction
- Have alcohol use disorder and strong cravings
- Have relapsed after past attempts to stop
- Have survived an overdose
There are currently no FDA-approved medications for cocaine or meth addiction. For stimulants, treatment relies on behavioral therapies such as contingency management.
Insurance Coverage for MAT
Most insurance plans cover MAT medications and related services. The Recovery Village Columbus is in network with many major Ohio insurers. Verify your insurance or call (614) 362-1686.
FAQ: Medication-Assisted Treatment
Is MAT just replacing one drug with another?
No. MAT medications are FDA-approved treatments that stabilize brain chemistry, reduce cravings and support recovery. Taken as prescribed and combined with therapy, MAT improves treatment outcomes and lowers the risk of overdose.
How long do I need to be on MAT?
It varies. Some people take MAT medications for months, while others benefit from longer-term treatment. Stopping too early can raise the risk of relapse, so your medical team will work with you on the right timeline.
Can I start Suboxone during detox?
Often, yes. Buprenorphine is commonly started during opioid detox once withdrawal has begun, which helps ease symptoms. Your medical team decides when it’s safe to start.
What’s the difference between Suboxone and Vivitrol?
Suboxone contains buprenorphine, which partly activates opioid receptors to relieve cravings and withdrawal. Vivitrol is a monthly naltrexone injection that blocks opioid receptors and can only be started after you’ve been off opioids for a period of time.
Does insurance cover MAT?
Most insurance plans cover FDA-approved MAT medications. Call (614) 362-1686 to verify your benefits.
Sources: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, “Medications for Substance Use Disorders”; U.S. Food and Drug Administration, “Information about Medications for Opioid Use Disorder”; National Institute on Drug Abuse, “Medications to Treat Opioid Use Disorder Research Report.”
