Maintenance Medication-Assisted Therapy (MAT)

What are the Effects of Substance Use Disorder (SUD)?

In a world where substance use disorders (SUD) affected 48.5 million Americans in 2023 alone, finding effective, accessible treatment options remains a critical challenge.¹

^‍At Pathfinder Recovery, we believe that everyone deserves a chance to heal, regardless of where they are in their journey. We’re here to meet you where you’re at and create your best path forward—all from the security of your own home.

Maintenance medication-assisted therapy (MAT) stands as one of the most evidence-based approaches to treating SUD, yet it remains misunderstood and underutilized.

What is SUD?: A Closer Look

Maintenance MAT utilizes FDA-approved medications specifically designed to address the biological aspects of SUD. These medications are prescribed based on individual needs, substance use history, and recovery goals.

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"Naltrexone/Vivitrol is the most common medication used. It works in two ways, the first is that it blocks endorphins. Since patients don’t get the overwhelming feeling of relief after taking their substance it gives them time to rethink taking a second. The more important way that Naltrexone works is that it suppresses dopamine release in the risk reward pathway. This helps decrease cravings and desire to take their substance. Naltrexone works for alcohol use disorder as well as opioid use disorder. Vivitrol is Naltrexone that comes as a once a month shot. Also for alcohol use disorder there is Acomprasate and Topomax. They both work by increasing the neurotransmitter GABA in the brain without suppressing Glutimate. In this way, they decrease cravings. Another medication is Antabuse, which is pure negative reinforcement. If you drink while taking it, you get very sick. The last medication is n-acetylcystine (NAC) This is an over the counter antioxidant. We believe that it works by decreasing free radicals in the brain and therefore decreasing cravings.

For opioid use disorder, there is Naltrexone/Vivitrol (as noted above). Other medications include Methadone, which is a pure agonist for the opioid receptors. Buprenorphine is a partial agonist as well as antagonist. Buprenorphine comes as a daily medication as well as a weekly or monthly shot."- Dr. David Hendricks, Chief Medical Officer

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Understanding Maintenance Medication-Assisted Therapy (MAT)

Maintenance medication-assisted therapy combines FDA-approved medications with behavioral therapies to create a comprehensive approach to treating SUD.Unlike short-term detox approaches, maintenance MAT focuses on long-term stability and recovery support.²

Maintenance medication-assisted therapy for addiction is not simply about substituting one substance for another – it's about providing a foundation for healing while addressing the complex physical and psychological aspects of addiction.

This holistic therapy's approach recognizes that recovery is not a one-size-fits-all process and that medications can play a crucial role in supporting long-term sobriety.

What is MAT?: An Overview

Beyond Short-Term Detox: The Power of Maintenance

While short-term MAT helps individuals safely withdraw from substances, maintenance medication-assisted therapy provides ongoing support that can last months or even years.

Short-term detox MAT typically lasts days to weeks and focuses primarily on managing withdrawal symptoms. In contrast, maintenance medication-assisted therapy continues beyond the acute withdrawal phase to:

Stabilize brain chemistry over time
Reduce or eliminate cravings
Prevent relapse during the vulnerable early recovery period
Allow individuals to focus on developing recovery skills and rebuilding their lives

At Pathfinder Recovery, we understand that recovery means different things to different people, and we're committed to meeting you exactly where you are in your journey.

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How Maintenance Medication-Assisted Therapy (MAT) Supports Recovery

Maintenance medication-assisted therapy provides a foundation for lasting recovery by addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of SUD.

Reducing Cravings and Preventing Relapse

One of the most significant challenges in early recovery is managing intense cravings that can lead to relapse.

Maintenance medication-assisted therapy works directly on the brain's reward pathways to:

Reduce or eliminate cravings for substances
Block the euphoric effects of opioids or alcohol if used
Normalize brain chemistry disrupted by substance use
Decrease the likelihood of impulsive use during vulnerable moments

By mitigating withdrawal symptoms and cravings, MAT reduces the inclination to relapse, which significantly lowers overdose risk.

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"Every patient should be educated on maintenance medications. Patients who suffer from opioid use disorder have a much higher risk of overdose and death after going through detox. It is important to screen each candidate using specific inclusionary criteria to ensure they are an appropriate fit for the program medically as well as psychologically."- Dr. David Hendricks, Chief Medical Officer

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Stabilizing Brain Chemistry and Improving Mental Health

SUD also causes significant changes to brain structure and function. Maintenance MAT helps restore balance to these systems using relapse prevention strategies, which can improve overall mental health.

When brain chemistry begins to stabilize through maintenance medication-assisted therapy, many individuals experience:

Improved mood regulation
Reduced anxiety and depression symptoms
Better sleep patterns
Enhanced cognitive function
Greater emotional stability

These improvements create a positive cycle – as mental health improves, individuals become better equipped to engage in therapy and make positive life changes, which further supports their recovery.

Space to Focus on Behavioral Therapy

When cravings and withdrawal symptoms are managed through maintenance MAT, individuals can direct their energy toward the psychological and social aspects of recovery.

This shift in focus allows for:

Deeper engagement in therapy sessions
Development of healthy coping skills
Rebuilding damaged relationships
Pursuing education or employment goals
Creating a stable, substance-free lifestyle

At Pathfinder Recovery, we understand that recovery is not only about treatment – it's about empowerment, healing, and unwavering support. Our approach of virtual individual and group therapy ensures that client receives truly personalized care that addresses all aspects of their recovery journey.

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Common Medications Used in Maintenance Medication-Assisted Therapy (MAT)

Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) Medications

Effective management of OUD often involves the use of FDA-approved medications. Some of the key medications used in maintenance MAT and their benefits for individuals seeking recovery include:

Buprenorphine

Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist that helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms without producing the full euphoric effect of other opioids. When combined with naloxone, it helps prevent misuse.³

Key benefits of buprenorphine in maintenance medication-assisted therapy include:

Lower risk of overdose compared to full agonists
Ability to be prescribed in office-based settings
Long-acting effects requiring less frequent dosing
Ceiling effect that limits potential for misuse

Research shows that at medium to high doses, buprenorphine is effective at retaining patients in treatment and suppressing self-reported heroin use.⁴

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"The only medications that would develop a dependency are Methadone and Buprenorphine. The thing to remind patients is that these are controlled medications and the disease are regulated. They will prevent withdrawal symptoms and help prevent overdose and death. If patients wish to come off these medications in time, we can do it at a very slow rate."- Dr. David Hendricks, Chief Medical Officer

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Methadone

Methadone is a long-acting full opioid agonist that has been used in maintenance MAT for over 50 years. It's typically dispensed daily at specialized clinics.⁵

Methadone offers several advantages as part of maintenance medication-assisted therapy, including:⁶

Considered the "gold standard" for OUD treatment.
Research supports efficacy rates as high as 60% in keeping individuals opioid-free.
Can be initiated at any stage during treatment.
Shows the greatest results in retention rates among MAT options.

Naltrexone (Vivitrol)

Unlike buprenorphine and methadone, naltrexone is an opioid antagonist that blocks the effects of opioids.⁷

Naltrexone in maintenance MAT works by:

Reducing cravings over time.
Providing protection against impulsive use.
Requiring less frequent administration (monthly injections).

Research suggests that injectable naltrexone may decrease relapse rates and extend the median time to relapse.⁸

Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) Medications

Understanding the role of medication in treating AUD is crucial. Some medications used in MAT for the treatment of alcohol use disorder include:

Acamprosate

Acamprosate helps restore the balance of brain chemicals disrupted by alcohol use, reducing cravings and supporting abstinence.

In maintenance medication-assisted therapy for AUD, acamprosate reduces post-acute withdrawal symptoms, decreases alcohol cravings, and works best when started after detoxification.

Disulfiram

Disulfiram creates an unpleasant reaction when alcohol is consumed, serving as a deterrent to drinking.

As part of maintenance medication-assisted therapy, disulfiram:⁹

Causes nausea, flushing, and other uncomfortable symptoms if alcohol is consumed
Serves as a psychological deterrent
Works best for highly motivated individuals
Requires complete abstinence from alcohol

Naltrexone for AUD

Naltrexone is also effective for AUD, helping to reduce cravings and the rewarding effects of alcohol. When used in maintenance medication-assisted therapy for AUD, naltrexone:¹⁰

Blocks the pleasurable effects of alcohol
Reduces heavy drinking days
Can be taken daily as a pill or monthly as an injection
Does not require abstinence before starting

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Virtual Maintenance MAT with Pathfinder Recovery

At Pathfinder Recovery, we're redefining access to maintenance medication-assisted therapy through our innovative telehealth approach.

We believe that geography, transportation issues, or scheduling conflicts should never stand between someone and the care they need.

The Importance of Medical Supervision

All maintenance MAT plans require proper medical oversight. At Pathfinder Recovery, our team of licensed professionals works closely with each individual to:

Determine the most appropriate medication based on individual needs
Monitor for side effects and adjust dosages as needed
Track progress and make changes to the treatment plan when necessary
Ensure safe and effective use of medications
Provide education about how the medications work

Our team of mental health professional provides expert care that prioritizes both safety and effectiveness in our virtual maintenance medication-assisted therapy program.

Virtual Assessment and Prescription Process

Getting started with maintenance MAT at Pathfinder Recovery begins with a comprehensive virtual assessment.

Our telehealth MAT process follows these steps:

Initial virtual consultation: Meet with our medical team to discuss your history, current situation, and goals.
Comprehensive assessment: Complete thorough medical and psychological evaluations to determine the most appropriate MAT approach.
Personalized treatment planning: Receive a customized Maintenance MAT plan tailored to your specific needs.
Regular virtual check-ins: Ongoing appointments to monitor progress, adjust medications as needed, and address any concerns.

By utilizing advanced technology, we maintain continuous connectivity and accountability throughout your healing journey, ensuring you receive the highest quality care regardless of your location.

Integrating Virtual Therapy with MAT

Maintenance medication-assisted therapy is most effective when combined with behavioral therapies. At Pathfinder Recovery, we offer a full spectrum of virtual therapy options to complement your medication treatment.

Our virtual therapy services include:

Individual counseling: One-on-one sessions with licensed therapists who specialize in SUD recovery.
Group therapy: Virtual groups that provide peer support and shared learning experiences.
Family therapy: Sessions that involve loved ones to heal relationships and build a strong support system.
Peer recovery coaching: Guidance from certified peer recovery coaches who have lived experience with recovery.

No matter what your background is, our programs are designed to be personally tailored to help our clients achieve their goals and long-lasting wellness.

Family Therapy: What to Expect

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Role of Harm Reduction in Maintenance Medication-Assisted Therapy (MAT)

Harm reduction is a crucial component of our approach to maintenance medication-assisted therapy. This philosophy recognizes that recovery is a journey, not a singular event, and that reducing harm is valuable even when complete abstinence isn't immediately achievable for everybody.

How Do We Approach Harm Reduction?

Key harm reduction principles in Pathfinder Recovery’s expert MAT approach include:

Meeting clients where they are currently in their readiness for change.
Focusing on reducing negative consequences for our clients rather than demanding perfection.
Recognizing that any positive change is valuable and worth celebrating.
Providing non-judgmental, compassionate care regardless of current substance use.
Offering multiple pathways to recovery that respect the individual’s goals and values.

Pathfinder Recovery’s harm reduction approach to maintenance MAT works to decrease illicit drug use, with rates of use getting smaller the longer individuals are in treatment.

This gradual improvement allows individuals to build stability and make positive changes at a sustainable pace.

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Combining MAT with Holistic and Behavioral Therapies

While medications are a vital component of maintenance medication-assisted therapy, they work best when combined with behavioral therapies and holistic approaches.

This comprehensive strategy addresses all aspects of recovery—physical, psychological, emotional, and social.

At Pathfinder Recovery, we provide clinically-robust and truly individualized treatment with dignity. Our approach ensures that maintenance medication-assisted therapy is part of a comprehensive plan that addresses all aspects of your recovery.

Evidence-Based Therapeutic Approaches

Our virtual therapy program incorporates several evidence-based approaches that complement maintenance medication-assisted therapy.

Some of these therapies include:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT helps identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors related to substance use. As part of maintenance medication-assisted therapy, CBT helps:

Recognize triggers and high-risk situations
Develop effective coping strategies
Challenge distorted thinking about substances
Build problem-solving skills
Prevent relapse through cognitive restructuring

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

DBT focuses on emotional regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and mindfulness.

Within a maintenance medication-assisted therapy program, DBT helps:

Manage intense emotions without turning to substances
Build skills to tolerate distress without engaging in harmful behaviors
Improve relationships and communication
Develop mindfulness practices for staying present
Balance acceptance and change in recovery

Our team recognizes that addressing underlying trauma is also essential for long-term success, which is why we offer specialized trauma therapies to complement maintenance MAT as well.

Holistic Approaches and MAT

Recovery involves the whole person, which is why we also incorporate holistic approaches alongside maintenance medication-assisted therapy.

Our holistic offerings include:

Mindfulness and Meditation

Mindfulness practices help individuals develop awareness of thoughts, feelings, and sensations without judgment.

When combined with MAT, mindfulness can:

Reduce stress and anxiety
Increase awareness of cravings without automatically acting on them
Improve focus and attention
Enhance overall well-being
Support emotional regulation

Movement and Body-Based Practices

Physical activity and body-based practices support recovery by improving physical health and providing healthy coping mechanisms.

Our virtual program includes:

Yoga sessions led by certified instructors
Breathwork techniques for stress management
Guidance on incorporating movement into daily life
Education about the mind-body connection in recovery

Nutritional Support

Proper nutrition plays a vital role in healing the body and brain during recovery. Our maintenance MAT program includes nutritional guidance focused on:

Foods that support brain healing
Establishing regular eating patterns
Addressing nutritional deficiencies common in recovery
Using nutrition to stabilize mood and energy

By integrating these holistic approaches into treatment, we create a comprehensive recovery program that nurtures all aspects of well-being and supports lasting change.

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Aftercare Options After Maintenance Medication-Assisted Therapy (MAT)

While some individuals benefit from indefinite maintenance medication-assisted therapy, others may eventually transition off medications under proper medical supervision. This decision should always be personalized and made collaboratively between the individual and their healthcare provider.

Some important considerations for transitioning off MAT include:

Length of time in stable recovery
Strength of recovery support system
Development of effective coping skills
Current life stressors and triggers
Individual health factors and history

If tapering is pursued, it should be done gradually under close medical supervision to minimize withdrawal symptoms and reduce relapse risk. The process may take months or even years, depending on the individual's needs and medication type.

Programming with Pathfinder Recovery

At Pathfinder Recovery, we are committed to providing personalized care that aligns with your specific recovery needs. We support your choices, whether that involves long-term maintenance MAT to maintain stability, or a carefully planned tapering process to eventually discontinue medication.

Recognizing that each person's journey is distinct, we prioritize a treatment plan that honors your individual circumstances.

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Choosing Pathfinder Recovery for Maintenance Medication-Assisted Therapy (MAT)

When it comes to maintenance medication-assisted therapy, having the right provider can make all the difference in your recovery journey. Pathfinder Recovery offers a unique approach to virtual MAT that combines clinical excellence with compassionate, personalized care.

The Pathfinder Difference

What sets Pathfinder Recovery's maintenance medication-assisted therapy program apart is our commitment to removing barriers and providing truly individualized care.

Our unique approach includes:

Fully virtual care
Comprehensive assessments and personalized treatment
Integrated therapy and medication management
Flexible scheduling
Team of licensed and compassionate professionals
Peer recovery support
Harm reduction philosophy for long-lasting healing

We are the only telehealth provider offering a full continuum of care including virtual detox, peer coaching, MAT, outpatient services, and specialized tracks for diverse needs.

Next Steps to Lasting Wellness

Recovery is a journey, and taking that first step can be the hardest part. At Pathfinder Recovery, we're here to walk alongside you every step of the way, providing the support, expertise, and compassion you need to succeed.

Maintenance MAT has helped countless individuals find stability, healing, and hope in recovery. With Pathfinder Recovery's virtual approach, this evidence-based treatment is more accessible than ever before.

At Pathfinder Recovery, we believe there should be ZERO shame no matter what you are dealing with – be it SUD, mental health challenges, trauma, or any combination of factors.

Find Inpatient-Quality Care at Home

Whether you're just beginning to explore treatment options or you're ready to start your recovery journey, we're here to help. Our team is committed to providing the information, support, and care you need to make informed decisions about your recovery.

Remember, recovery is possible, and you don't have to do it alone. With Pathfinder Recovery's maintenance medication-assisted therapy program, you can access high-quality care from the comfort and privacy of your own home, setting the foundation for lasting recovery and improved quality of life.

Your home is our foundation. Your future is our mission. Let us help you find your path to recovery today.