Nationwide Evidence-Based Treatment

Medication-Assisted Treatment for Opioid and Alcohol Use

Our medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program combines FDA-approved medications with evidence-based behavioral therapy to reduce cravings, prevent relapse, and support long-term recovery. Clinical monitoring and individualized care ensure safe, structured stabilization.

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Confidential. Free assessment. Most insurance accepted.

Nationwide Evidence-Based Treatment

Medication-Assisted Treatment for Opioid and Alcohol Use

Our medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program combines FDA-approved medications with evidence-based behavioral therapy to reduce cravings, prevent relapse, and support long-term recovery. Clinical monitoring and individualized care ensure safe, structured stabilization.

Verify Insurance Coverage
Call (302) 555-1234
  • Available 24/7
  • HIPAA Compliant
  • No Obligation

Confidential. Free assessment. Most insurance accepted.

15+

Years of Service

5000+

Lives Transformed

92%

Completion Rate

24/7

Support Availiable

Evidence-Based

Clinical Protocols
NIDA-aligned treatment approaches

Dual Diagnosis

Expertise
Integrated mental health & addiction care

Individualized

Treatment Planning
Tailored to each clinical profile

Nationwide

Care Network
Facilities across the United States

Medication-Assisted Treatment

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is an evidence-based, whole-patient approach to treating substance use disorders (SUDs) that integrates FDA-approved medications with behavioral therapies and counseling. MAT is not a standalone intervention – it is one component of a comprehensive, individualized care plan.
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), MAT has been clinically demonstrated to improve treatment retention, reduce illicit drug use, decrease overdose deaths, lower the transmission of infectious diseases, and improve social functioning.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) describes addiction as a chronic brain disorder – and like other chronic conditions, it often benefits from both pharmacological and behavioral management. MAT addresses the neurobiological underpinnings of substance use disorders alongside the psychological and social dimensions of recovery.

The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) both recognize MAT as an effective, evidence-supported treatment approach that can significantly reduce overdose mortality and improve long-term outcomes for people with opioid and alcohol use disorders.

Key Clinic Facts

40–60%

Reduction in opioid use with MAT

50%+

Decrease in overdose mortality

2x

Improved treatment retention

↓ Risk

Of infectious disease transmission

Health Effects of Methamphetamine Use

The severity of health effects typically correlates with the duration and intensity of use. Early intervention can help reduce long-term complications.

Opioid Use Disorder (OUD)

Opioid use disorder is a chronic medical condition characterized by compulsive opioid use despite harmful consequences, accompanied by neurobiological changes that affect craving, reward, and impulse control. MAT is the most evidence-supported pharmacological treatment for OUD, recognized by the FDA, SAMHSA, NIDA, and ASAM.

This includes disorders related to prescription opioid misuse, heroin use, and synthetic opioids such as fentanyl – which has significantly increased overdose risk nationwide. MAT has been shown to reduce overdose deaths, illicit opioid use, and the associated harms of active OUD.
Opioid Addiction Fentanyl Addiction

Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)

Alcohol use disorder is a medical condition involving problematic alcohol use that causes significant impairment or distress. AUD affects millions of people across the United States and is associated with serious health, social, and occupational consequences.

FDA-approved medications used in the treatment of AUD work to reduce cravings and support sobriety when combined with behavioral health care. Medical supervision is essential during alcohol use disorder treatment, particularly during the stabilization phase, due to potential medical risks associated with alcohol withdrawal.
Alcohol Addiction
Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC); National Institutes of Health (NIH). Health effects documented across peer-reviewed clinical literature.

FDA-Approved Medications for MAT

Important: All MAT medications must be prescribed and monitored by qualified, licensed healthcare providers. The information below is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute prescribing guidance, dosing information, or medical advice.

Buprenorphine

FDA-Approved | For Opioid Use Disorder

Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist, meaning it activates opioid receptors in the brain but to a significantly lesser degree than full opioid agonists. This mechanism helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms without producing the same level of intoxication associated with opioid misuse.
May be prescribed in office-based or clinic settings by certified providers. No dosing information provided here.

Methadone

FDA-Approved | For Opioid Use Disorder

Methadone is a long-acting full opioid agonist that helps reduce cravings and the physical discomfort of withdrawal. For the treatment of opioid use disorder, methadone must be dispensed through federally regulated Opioid Treatment Programs (OTPs). This clinical structure ensures appropriate oversight and safety monitoring.
Available only through federally certified OTPs. No dosing information provided here.

Naltrexone

FDA-Approved | Opioid & Alcohol Use

Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist that blocks the effects of opioids at receptor sites in the brain. It does not produce physical dependence. Naltrexone is FDA-approved for both opioid use disorder and alcohol use disorder. It is non-addictive and requires no special facility certification to prescribe, though medical oversight is always required.
Available in oral and extended-release injectable formulations. No dosing information provided here.
Additional FDA-Approved Medications for Alcohol Use Disorder: Acamprosate and disulfiram are also FDA-approved for alcohol use disorder. All decisions regarding medication selection, appropriateness, and monitoring are made exclusively by licensed healthcare providers in consultation with the individual in treatment.
Clinical Mechanism

How Medication Supports Recovery

Medications used in MAT do not simply manage symptoms – they target the neurobiological mechanisms underlying substance use disorders, creating a foundation for sustainable recovery.

Stabilizes Brain Chemistry

MAT medications modulate opioid and dopamine receptor activity – the neurological pathways disrupted by prolonged substance use.

Reduces Cravings

By addressing receptor-level deficits, MAT medications blunt the intense urge to use substances – a primary driver of relapse.

Decreases Withdrawal Severity

Physical withdrawal symptoms can be a major barrier to treatment entry. MAT reduces severity, supporting treatment engagement.

Improves Treatment Retention

People receiving MAT are significantly more likely to remain engaged in treatment – a key predictor of long-term outcomes.

Lowers Overdose Risk

MAT reduces exposure to illicit substances and, in some cases, directly blocks or reduces the effect of opioids – lowering overdose mortality.

Note on Individual Variation

Recovery is not linear, and the effectiveness of MAT varies between individuals depending on the substance involved, the severity of the disorder, co-occurring health conditions, and social and environmental factors. Clinical assessment by a qualified addiction medicine specialist is essential to determining whether MAT – and which medication – may be appropriate for a given individual.

Clinical Eligibility

Is MAT Right for You?

Determining whether MAT is appropriate requires a comprehensive clinical assessment by a qualified addiction medicine professional. The following factors may indicate that a person could benefit from MAT as part of their treatment plan – but this list is not exhaustive and does not substitute for a clinical evaluation.

MAT is not appropriate for everyone. A qualified clinician will evaluate medical history, substance use history, co-occurring conditions, and individual goals to determine the most appropriate course of treatment.
No universal claims or guarantees of outcome are made. Treatment response is individual and varies based on many clinical and personal factors.

Explore Co-Occuring Mental Health Conditions

Diagnosed Opioid or Alcohol Use Disorder

MAT is primarily indicated for individuals with a clinically diagnosed opioid use disorder or alcohol use disorder, as determined through a formal assessment.

History of Relapse

For individuals who have experienced multiple episodes of relapse, MAT may provide additional neurobiological support during recovery efforts.

Significant Withdrawal Symptoms

Individuals who experience moderate to severe withdrawal symptoms may benefit from the stabilizing effects of MAT to support safe and sustained treatment engagement.

Co-Occurring Mental Health Conditions

People with co-occurring conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, or other mental health disorders may benefit from an integrated treatment approach that addresses both substance use and mental health.

Treatment Programs & Services

We offer a full continuum of care, from initial stabilization through long-term recovery support. Each program is guided by ASAM placement criteria and current clinical best practices.

Inpatient Rehabilitation

Structured, residential clinical care

24-hour supervised care in a medically managed residential environment for individuals with moderate to severe substance use disorders requiring intensive clinical support.

  • Appropriate for: Severe addiction, medical detox needs, unstable home environment
  • Duration: Typically 30–90 days
  • Components: Medical supervision, individual & group therapy, medication management
Learn More

Outpatient Programs

Flexible therapy-based care

Flexible, therapy-based care that allows individuals to continue living at home while receiving structured clinical support and evidence-based treatment services.

  • Appropriate for: Mild to moderate symptoms, strong support system, step-down from inpatient
  • Duration: 3-12 months
  • Components: Individual therapy, group sessions, relapse prevention, family counseling
Learn More

Dual-Diagnosis Treatment

Integrated mental health + addiction care

Integrated treatment for co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders. Research consistently demonstrates that simultaneous treatment of both conditions improves outcomes.

  • Appropriate for: Co-occurring depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder with substance use
  • Duration: Varies by clinical assessment
  • Components: Psychiatric evaluation, integrated therapy, medication management
Learn More

Medication-Assisted Treatment

FDA-approved medications + therapy

FDA-approved medications combined with counseling and behavioral therapies to provide a whole-patient approach to substance use disorder treatment.

  • Appropriate for: Opioid use disorder, alcohol use disorder, withdrawal management
  • Duration: Individualized; may be ongoing
  • Components: Buprenorphine, methadone, or naltrexone combined with behavioral counseling
Learn More

Medical Detoxification

Safe withdrawal + 24/7 clinical supervision

Medical detox provides a safe, monitored environment to manage withdrawal symptoms as the body clears itself of substances. This process minimizes physical risks and ensures patient comfort before transitioning to ongoing therapy.

  • Appropriate for: Severe alcohol, opioid, or prescription drug dependence requiring medical intervention
  • Duration: 3 to 10 days, depending on the substance and severity
  • Components: 24/7 medical monitoring, medication-assisted treatment, withdrawal symptom management, transition planning
Learn More

Safety, Monitoring, and Risks

MAT medications have an established safety profile when used under medical supervision. As with any pharmacological treatment, clinical oversight and transparent communication with your care team are essential.

Medical Supervision Required

All MAT medications must be prescribed and monitored by qualified healthcare providers. Regular clinical monitoring – including assessments of medication response, side effects, and overall health – is a standard component of MAT.

Risk of Drug Interactions

MAT medications may interact with other prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, or supplements. It is essential to disclose all current medications to your prescribing provider before initiating MAT.

Misuse Risk Considerations

Some MAT medications carry a potential for misuse or diversion. This is a key reason why clinical oversight, structured dispensing protocols, and treatment program enrollment are critical to safe MAT delivery.

Combination Risks with Other Substances

Combining MAT medications with alcohol, benzodiazepines, or other central nervous system depressants significantly increases the risk of respiratory depression and overdose. This must be discussed in full with your prescribing provider.

Reduced Tolerance After Discontinuation

Opioid tolerance decreases rapidly after periods of abstinence or treatment. If opioids are used after stopping MAT – particularly without medical guidance – overdose risk increases substantially. Discontinuation of MAT should only occur under clinical supervision.

Ongoing Assessment & Adjustment

MAT is not a static prescription. Treatment plans are regularly reassessed based on clinical response, life circumstances, and recovery progress. Ongoing communication with your care team is a cornerstone of safe MAT.

Emergency & Crisis Resources

If you or someone you know is experiencing a medical emergency – including signs of overdose – call 911 immediately. Do not wait.
For emotional support or mental health crises in the United States, call or text 988 (Suicide and Crisis Lifeline) – free, confidential, available 24/7. If you need naloxone (Narcan) information for overdose reversal, speak with a licensed pharmacist or healthcare provider.

Where MAT Is Provided

MAT is available across multiple levels of care, from intensive inpatient settings to community-based outpatient programs. The appropriate level of care is determined through clinical assessment.

During Medical Detox

Medical detoxification is the first phase of clinical treatment, focused on safely managing acute intoxication and withdrawal under medical supervision. MAT medications may be initiated during detox to stabilize the individual and reduce withdrawal discomfort.

Detox alone is not treatment – it is a medically managed entry point into a broader continuum of care. Transitioning to ongoing treatment following detox is essential for long-term recovery.
Medical Detox Programs

Inpatient Residential Programs

Inpatient or residential treatment provides 24-hour structured care in a clinical setting. MAT may be integrated throughout the residential stay, with daily medical monitoring, pharmacological management, and co-occurring behavioral therapy services.

Inpatient programs are typically indicated for individuals with more severe substance use disorders, co-occurring medical or psychiatric conditions, or limited stable support in their home environment.
Inpatient Rehab Programs

Outpatient Programs

Outpatient MAT allows individuals to receive medication management and behavioral health services while living at home and maintaining work, family, and community responsibilities. Outpatient programs range in intensity from standard outpatient to Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) and Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP).

Outpatient MAT is often most appropriate for individuals with stable housing, strong social support, and less severe substance use disorders or as a step-down following inpatient care.
Outpatient Rehab Programs
Level of care placement must be guided by a qualified clinical professional using comprehensive assessment. The above is educational and not a substitute for individualized evaluation.

Insurance Coverage & Financial Options

The Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act requires most insurance plans to cover substance use disorder treatment at parity with medical and surgical care. Beacon Addiction Care accepts most major insurance providers.

Our financial counselors work with each patient and family to maximize insurance benefits, explain out-of-pocket costs, and identify additional resources including state-funded programs and sliding-scale options.

Contact Us Today (302) 555-1234

Accepted Insurance Providers

  • Aetna
  • Cigna
  • Humana
  • Medicaid
  • TRICARE
  • BlueCross BlueShield
  • UnitedHealthcare
  • Kaiser Permanente
  • Medicare
  • Anthem

Don’t see your provider? Contact us – we work with most plans.

Frequently Asked Questions

The following information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider for guidance specific to your situation.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is an evidence-based approach to treating substance use disorders that combines FDA-approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies. MAT is recognized by leading health authorities – including SAMHSA, NIDA, ASAM, and the CDC – as an effective, whole-patient approach to treating opioid use disorder (OUD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD). It addresses the biological, psychological, and social dimensions of addiction.

This is a common misconception. MAT medications are FDA-approved, clinically monitored treatments that work on brain receptors to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, helping individuals stabilize and engage meaningfully in recovery. The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) and SAMHSA emphasize that MAT is not drug substitution – it is a legitimate medical treatment for a chronic brain disorder. Using MAT does not mean a person is “not in recovery.”

Three FDA-approved medications are commonly used in MAT: buprenorphine (a partial opioid agonist that reduces cravings and withdrawal), methadone (a long-acting opioid agonist dispensed in regulated clinical settings), and naltrexone (an opioid antagonist that blocks opioid effects). For alcohol use disorder, naltrexone, acamprosate, and disulfiram may be considered. All medications must be prescribed and monitored by qualified, licensed healthcare providers.

When used as prescribed and monitored by a qualified healthcare provider, MAT medications have a well-established safety profile supported by decades of clinical research. Like all medications, they carry risks – particularly when combined with other substances such as alcohol or sedatives. Medical supervision is essential to minimize risks and ensure appropriate care. Individuals should discuss their full medical history and current medications with their treatment provider.

The appropriate duration of MAT is individualized and determined by the treating clinician in collaboration with the patient. According to SAMHSA and ASAM, there is no universal time limit. Some individuals benefit from short-term MAT during early recovery, while others benefit from longer-term treatment. Decisions about duration are based on clinical assessment, personal history, and the individual’s overall recovery progress. No one should stop MAT medications without guidance from their provider.

Many insurance plans are required to cover substance use disorder treatment, including MAT, under the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA). This includes Medicaid, Medicare, and most private insurance plans offered through the Affordable Care Act marketplace. Coverage specifics – such as which medications are covered, prior authorization requirements, and cost-sharing – vary by plan. Our care specialist can help verify your benefits confidentially.

Yes, and clinical guidelines strongly recommend it. MAT is most effective when integrated with behavioral health services such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), individual counseling, group therapy, and relapse prevention planning. This integrated model addresses the full spectrum of addiction – medical, behavioral, and psychosocial – and is considered the standard of care by SAMHSA and ASAM.

Seek emergency medical care immediately by calling 911 if you or someone you know is experiencing signs of an opioid overdose (such as unresponsiveness, slow or stopped breathing, or blue lips), an alcohol-related medical emergency, or any life-threatening medical event. For mental health crises, call or text 988 (Suicide and Crisis Lifeline) at any time – it is free, confidential, and available 24/7.

Reviewed by Rebecca Thompson, RN

Board-Certified in Addiction Medicine | Nursing Director
Last Updated: February 2026

Sources & Citations:

Reviewed by Rebecca Thompson, RN

Board-Certified in Addiction Medicine | Nursing Director
Last Updated: February 2026

Sources & Citations:

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment options.

Confidentiality Notice: Beacon Addiction Care is committed to protecting your privacy. All communications are handled in accordance with HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) regulations and 42 CFR Part 2 federal confidentiality requirements for substance use disorder treatment records.

Beacon Addiction Care does not guarantee specific treatment outcomes. Individual results vary based on the nature and severity of the substance use disorder, co-occurring conditions, and adherence to the treatment plan.

Evidence-Based Treatment Options Can Reduce Risk and Support Recovery

Speak confidentially with a care specialist today. Our team can answer your questions about MAT, help explore treatment options, and verify your insurance benefits – at no obligation.
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