MEDICATION-ASSISTED TREATMENT IN COLORADO

What is MAT?

Medication assisted treatment (MAT) is an evidence-based treatment for addiction. MAT does not provide a cure for addiction/dependence, but rather, provides an avenue for the individual to live a functional life with the assistance of medication, counseling, and behavioral health services. MAT fills the receptors in the brain, warding off withdrawal symptoms, while reducing the likelihood of engaging in compulsive and dangerous drug seeking behavior.

We offer two of the three MAT options that can be used to treat opioid addiction: buprenorphine/Suboxone, and naltrexone/Vivitrol. Each of these medications acts differently and may be prescribed per the specific needs of the individual.

The following organizations endorse MAT:

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
• U.S. Department of Health & Human Services
• National Center for Biotechnology Information
• National Institute for Health
• American Society of Addiction Medicine

Medications:

Medication options including: Buprenorphine/Suboxone, Vivitrol injection, oral naltrexone, Antabuse, Campral, and other options that may be explored based on each individual’s unique needs.

BUPRENORPHINE (Suboxone, Zubsolv, generics)

Buprenorphine is a medication that comes in film and tablet form. By taking the place of the opioids used by patients, buprenorphine prevents cravings and makes withdrawal from opioids feel less intense. Patients on buprenorphine report feeling normal, functional and having a clear mind all day long, which allows them to make positive choices the way that they did prior to their addiction. When buprenorphine is combined with counseling and other forms of support, it can be highly effective in helping patients recover from addiction.

NALTREXONE (Vivitrol)

Naltrexone is a monthly injectable medication that is useful for the treatment of opioid addiction and alcohol addiction. Vivitrol has been clinically proven to reduce the probability of relapse. For those suffering from an opioid addiction, Vivitrol may be initiated only after opioid detoxification. Vivitrol may also be used by patients who have completely tapered off of buprenorphine (Suboxone, Zubsolv, generics) or methadone to prevent relapse. This medication binds to receptors in the brain and prevents patients from feeling any pleasant effects of opioids or alcohol.

CAMPRAL & ANTABUSE

Antabuse is an oral medication that comes in tablet form. The medication works by blocking the processing of alcohol in the body. This creates a negative response to an individual who drinks alcohol while on the medication. Campral can be used in combination with Antabuse and restores the natural balance of chemicals in the brain. The combination of medications support abstinence from alcohol.