Dispelling the Myth: Understanding the Science Behind Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for Addiction Recovery

I wanted to really delve into this topic but decided to keep it short and simple, expanding on it a little bit more if I get questions about any portion of what I am sharing on medication-assisted treatment. Think of this as a crash course in MAT.

I. Introduction

How many of you have heard someone say that taking medication to treat addiction is just “trading one addiction for another”? I remember being guilty of stigmatizing medication-assisted treatment (MAT) myself until I learned the science and evidence behind it. I once had a friend afraid to tell her family and friends that she was on MAT for her opioid addiction because she feared being judged as “weak” or “not truly in recovery.” This misconception and stigma surrounding MAT are based on misunderstandings and misconceptions that must be addressed to ensure that individuals have access to adequate and evidence-based addiction treatment.

II. Defining Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) — What is MAT?

MAT is a well-established treatment approach that combines FDA-approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies to help individuals overcome addiction. The medications used in MAT, such as methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone, stabilize brain chemistry, reduce withdrawal symptoms, and block the euphoric effects of opioids or other substances. This allows individuals to manage cravings and focus on their recovery without experiencing the extreme highs and lows associated with addiction. MAT has been extensively researched and proven effective in treating addiction to opioids, alcohol, and other substances.

III. The Stigma Surrounding MAT

The stigma surrounding addiction treatment, including MAT, is often based on misconceptions and societal attitudes about addiction and recovery. The belief that using medications in addiction treatment is just “trading one addiction for another” is a common misconception stigmatizing MAT. This perception leads to discrimination, shame, and fear of judgment for those who seek MAT, often resulting in a reluctance to disclose their treatment to others. The fear of being seen as “weak” or “not truly in recovery” can prevent individuals from accessing this effective form of treatment.

IV. The Science and Evidence behind MAT

Research and evidence have consistently shown that MAT is a highly effective approach to addiction recovery. Numerous studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of MAT in reducing opioid use, decreasing the risk of overdose, improving retention in treatment programs, and increasing overall success rates for long-term recovery. For example, a study published in the Journal of Addiction Medicine found that individuals receiving MAT for opioid addiction were more likely to remain in treatment and less likely to relapse than those who did not receive MAT. Another study published in the New England Journal of Medicine showed that buprenorphine, a common medication used in MAT, reduced illicit opioid use and improved treatment retention in individuals with opioid addiction.

V. Dispelling the Myth of “Trading One Addiction for Another”

It is crucial to dispel the myth that MAT is just “trading one addiction for another.” MAT is not about substituting one addiction for another but instead using medications to manage addiction's physical and psychological symptoms. At the same time, individuals engage in counseling and behavioral therapies to address the underlying causes of their addiction. MAT helps individuals achieve stability, reduces cravings, and allows them to function daily without the constant pursuit of substances. It also allows individuals to address the underlying issues that contribute to their addiction, such as trauma, mental health disorders, and social determinants of health.

VI. Addressing the Stigma Surrounding MAT

Addressing the stigma surrounding MAT is essential to ensure that individuals can access practical and compassionate addiction treatment. Education and awareness campaigns that provide accurate information about the science and evidence behind MAT can help dispel misconceptions and reduce stigma. It is important to emphasize that MAT is an evidence-based treatment approach recommended by leading addiction experts and organizations, including the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). By understanding the science and evidence behind MAT and dispelling the myth that it is just “trading one addiction for another,” we can support individuals in their recovery journey and promote access to effective addiction treatment options.

VII. Conclusion

In conclusion, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is a proven and practical approach to addiction recovery that combines FDA-approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies. The misconception and stigma surrounding MAT are based on misunderstandings and misconceptions that must be addressed. By understanding the science and evidence behind MAT, we can dispel the myth that it is just “trading one addiction for another” and promote access to adequate and evidence-based addiction treatment. It is time to recognize and support MAT as a legitimate and valuable option for individuals seeking recovery from addiction. Let us work together to reduce stigma, increase awareness, and ensure all individuals have access to the comprehensive care they need to overcome addiction and live healthy lives.

SOURCES:

American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM). (2015). Definition of Addiction. Retrieved from https://www.asam.org/Quality-Science/definition-of-addiction

Center for Substance Abuse Treatment. (2017). Medication-Assisted Treatment for Opioid Addiction in Opioid Treatment Programs. Treatment Improvement Protocol (TIP) Series, №63. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

Mattick, R. P., Breen, C., Kimber, J., & Davoli, M. (2014). Methadone maintenance therapy versus no opioid replacement therapy for opioid dependence. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (2).

National Alliance for Medication-Assisted Recovery (NAMA Recovery). (2017). Dispelling the Myth: Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for Opioid Use Disorder. Retrieved from https://www.methadone.org/images/Documents/DISP_MYTH_FACT_SHEET.pdf

National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). (2020). Effective Treatments for Opioid Addiction. Retrieved from https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/effective-treatments-opioid-addiction

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). (2020). Medication-Assisted Treatment. Retrieved from https://www.samhsa.gov/medication-assisted-treatment

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). (2016). Medication-Assisted Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder Pocket Guide. Retrieved from https://store.samhsa.gov/product/Medication-Assisted-Treatment-for-Opioid-Use-Disorder-Pocket-Guide/SMA16-4892PG

Volkow, N. D., Frieden, T. R., Hyde, P. S., & Cha, S. S. (2014). Medication-Assisted Therapies — Tackling the Opioid-Overdose Epidemic. New England Journal of Medicine, 370(22), 2063–2066.

Where can I find Success Stories?

There are many success stories of individuals who have used Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) to overcome addiction. These stories can be found in various online resources, books, documentaries, and testimonials shared by individuals who have experienced recovery through MAT. Here are some suggestions on where you can find success stories related to MAT:

Treatment provider websites: Many addiction treatment centers, clinics, and healthcare organizations that provide MAT may have success stories or testimonials from individuals who have successfully used MAT to overcome addiction. These stories may be featured on their websites, blogs, or social media pages.

Recovery advocacy organizations: Organizations such as Faces & Voices of Recovery (https://facesandvoicesofrecovery.org/) and The National Alliance for Medication Assisted Recovery (https://www.methadone.org/) may have success stories or testimonials from individuals who have used MAT in their recovery journeys. These organizations often aim to raise awareness and reduce stigma around addiction and recovery and may feature personal stories of recovery on their websites or in their publications.

Books and memoirs: Many individuals who have experienced recovery through MAT have written books or memoirs to share their personal stories. These books can provide first-hand accounts of how MAT has helped individuals overcome addiction and rebuild their lives. Examples of such books include “The Recovering: Intoxication and Its Aftermath” by Leslie Jamison and “Dopesick: Dealers, Doctors, and the Drug Company that Addicted America” by Beth Macy.

Online recovery communities: Online forums, support groups, and social media communities focused on addiction and recovery may have success stories shared by individuals who have used MAT as part of their recovery journey. Websites such as Reddit, Sober Recovery (https://www.soberrecovery.com/), and In The Rooms (https://www.intherooms.com/) are examples of online platforms where individuals may share their personal experiences with MAT.

Documentaries and videos: Some documentaries and videos feature personal stories of individuals who have successfully used MAT to overcome addiction. These can be found on platforms like YouTube, Vimeo, and other online video-sharing platforms. Examples include “The Anonymous People” documentary (https://manyfaces1voice.org/the-anonymous-people/) and “Recovery Advocacy Project” (https://www.recoveryvoices.com/recovery-advocacy-project).

*This article has been updated as of: 10/4/2023

About the author:

Jamie is a former addiction counselor who now writes fiction about substance abuse and mental health issues. She has authored two short novels in her Memoirs of a Black Sheep series and a series she co-authors, The Borderline Chronicles, on Amazon Kindle Vella. Jamie has also formed her own small publishing company, Flawed By Design Publishing LLC, where she produces her published works and offers other writing and media services.

Flawed by Design is a woman-owned, veteran-owned business for those who seek a writing coach, editor, or proofreader.