Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is an evidence-based approach to treating substance use disorders, combining medication with counseling and behavioral therapies. At Michael’s House, we offer a MAT program in Palm Springs, California, to support individuals in their recovery. Our MAT program includes medications like buprenorphine and naltrexone, which have been shown to treat opioid use disorders effectively.
In addition, we provide access to therapy sessions and support groups to address the psychological and social factors related to addiction. If you are interested in learning more about our medication-assisted treatment program or our drug and alcohol detox center, reach out to us at 760.548.4032. We are available to answer any of your questions and concerns.
Medication-Assisted Treatment Helps with Withdrawal Symptoms
The main goal during detox is removing drugs or alcohol from the body and physically stabilizing the person struggling with addiction. Many treatment programs begin with a detox program that can be either residential or outpatient, depending on the circumstances. Both programs often use medications to manage withdrawal symptoms that can be uncomfortable and even dangerous if left untreated. Some of these withdrawal symptoms include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Muscle aches
- Diarrhea
- Headaches
- Irregular heart rate
- Fever, sweats, and chills
- Insomnia
- Restlessness
- Anxiety and depression
- Confusion
- Hallucinations
- Shaking and seizures
Medications can help alleviate these symptoms and make detox more comfortable and manageable.
Medicines Used During Detox
Physical and psychological dependency can develop when you or a loved one uses drugs or alcohol. When the drugs are stopped, withdrawal symptoms appear. These symptoms can differ depending on the drug of choice and the length of the addiction.
Some detox medications are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat substance use and dependency during detox and recovery. In contrast, others are effective for managing withdrawal symptoms. No medications are approved for the treatment of benzodiazepine or stimulant withdrawal, although different medications can relieve certain side effects and drug cravings. Medicines used during detox may vary depending on the substance and the individual’s health and medical history.
Medications used during alcohol detox include:
- Acamprosate – Used to reduce cravings and prevent relapse
- Disulfiram – Results in an unpleasant reaction when alcohol is consumed
- Naltrexone – Reduces craving for alcohol and blocks the effect of alcohol on the brain
- Baclofen – Can help with alcohol withdrawal and cravings
Medications used during opioid detox include:
- Buprenorphine (Suboxone) – Blocks opioid effects, helps with withdrawal symptoms, and reduces cravings
- Methadone – Stops opioids effects, helps with withdrawal symptoms, and reduces cravings
- Naltrexone – Can prevent relapse by blocking opioid effects
- Clonidine – Helps with symptoms such as anxiety, agitation, muscle aches, and sweating
Medications used during stimulant detox include:
- Antidepressants – Helps with depression and mood disturbances
- Antipsychotics – Assists with anxiety, agitation, or psychosis
- Clonidine – For managing high blood pressure, irregular heart rate, and other physical symptoms
Addiction medicine is constantly evolving. As new effective medications become available, they may be added to detox protocols. Your medical team can determine which medications suit your situation during a detox program.
Medication-Assisted Treatment for Long-Term Recovery
When it comes to long-term recovery, a medication-assisted treatment program can be a vital part of the process. This type of program helps people struggling with addiction by providing medication that helps to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. A MAT program can set up a patient for successful long-term recovery by providing support, therapy, and medication management.
At our medication-assisted treatment program in Palm Springs, CA, we understand the importance of this type of care. MAT programs can make a recovery more manageable, allowing individuals to focus on achieving and maintaining sobriety. The mission of Michael’s House is to help those struggling with addiction overcome their dependencies and lead healthier lives.
Finding Help from a Medication-Assisted Treatment Program at Michael's House
Medication-assisted treatment can be a valuable tool in recovery from addiction. It can help reduce cravings, manage withdrawal symptoms, and address any underlying mental health issues. Recovery can be a complex process, and providing resources and programs, such as MAT, can make a big difference in successful long-term sobriety. Contact us, and we can help you or your loved one choose a treatment program that offers a full continuum of care. There’s no shame in reaching out for help. Call us at 760.548.4032 to speak to an admissions coordinator.