Enterhealth’s whole-person approach combines comprehensive medical and psychological care with evidence-based behavioral therapy, counseling, and medication-assisted treatment to formulate tailored recovery solutions. This approach ensures each patient has the resources and support they need for lasting recovery.
MEDICATION-ASSISTED TREATMENT (MAT)
Harnessing the Power of Anti-Addiction Medications in Recovery
Understanding Medication-Assisted Treatment and Its Benefits
Medication-assisted treatment offers crucial physical support to reduce the discomfort and mental challenges of early recovery. This evidence-based approach has been shown to significantly improve treatment retention, reduce relapse risk, and support patients in building stable, fulfilling lives. Medication-assisted treatment is more than just symptom management—it’s a foundation for lasting recovery and a renewed sense of control and well-being.
Studies show that medication-assisted treatment significantly improves treatment retention, reduces the risk of relapse, and supports stability in daily life. At Enterhealth, we address both the physiological and psychological aspects of substance use disorders to enhance the chances of lasting recovery.
Medications Used at Enterhealth
At Enterhealth, medication-assisted treatment involves a carefully selected range of FDA-approved medications to address specific substance use disorders. Each medication plays a unique role in reducing cravings, managing withdrawal symptoms, and supporting long-term recovery.
We ensure that each patient receives the medication best suited to their needs as part of a comprehensive plan prioritizing safety, efficacy, and personalized care. Below, we highlight the primary medications used in medication-assisted treatment and how each supports recovery.
Naltrexone
Naltrexone (brand names Vivitrol, Revia, Depade) is a non-addictive medication that blocks the euphoric effects of opioids and alcohol, helping to reduce cravings and prevent relapse. By binding to opioid receptors in the brain, it provides a protective mechanism against the reinforcing effects of these substances, supporting patients in their recovery journey.
Benefits of Naltrexone:
- Reduces cravings for opioids and alcohol
- Blocks euphoric effects, reducing relapse risk
- Non-addictive and suitable for long-term use
Buprenorphine
Buprenorphine (brand names Suboxone, Subutex, Sublocade) is a partial opioid agonist used primarily in opioid use disorder treatment. It helps reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings without producing the same “high” as other opioids, making it a safe and effective option for managing dependence.
Benefits of Buprenorphine:
- Alleviates withdrawal symptoms and reduces cravings
- Lower risk of misuse due to its partial agonist properties
- Improves treatment retention and quality of life
Acamprosate
Acamprosate (brand name Campral) works to stabilize chemical imbalances in the brain caused by chronic alcohol use, reducing withdrawal symptoms and making it easier for individuals to abstain. Its primary benefit is its ability to help patients feel “normal” without alcohol, making it easier to focus on recovery.
Benefits of Acamprosate:
- Reduces alcohol-related withdrawal symptoms
- Supports brain chemistry balance to sustain sobriety
- Helps individuals maintain abstinence and stability
Disulfiram
Disulfiram is a deterrent medication for alcohol use disorder that creates an adverse reaction when alcohol is consumed. By causing unpleasant effects when alcohol is ingested, disulfiram helps individuals maintain abstinence and break patterns of use.
Benefits of Disulfiram:
- Discourages alcohol consumption by causing adverse effects
- Reinforces commitment to sobriety
- Effective for individuals with a high relapse risk
