Addiction treatment centers offer various programs for the treatment of substance use disorders (SUDs) and alcohol use disorders (AUDs). One of the most sought-after components within these programs is medication-assisted treatment or MAT. Whether you are in or considering residential treatment, partial hospitalization programs (PHPs), or intensive outpatient programs (IOPs), MAT can prove to be an immeasurable tool in recovery from addiction, particularly to opioids. Backed by more than 50 years of research, MAT when combined with other therapies has been shown to be effective in the treatment of opioid addiction. At AATC – Gloucester, we understand how vital these medications can be in helping to navigate the first stages of recovery. Helping to lessen the cravings and physical withdrawal from a substance, specific medications support you to get through the first and often most difficult stages of recovery. Once you successfully detox, medications may continue to be used along with therapies specifically for your unique recovery needs and journey. Medications used at our Hayes location include methadone and buprenorphine (Suboxone). There is a mistaken idea when it comes to medications to help stop using drugs or alcohol. This is that using medications replaces one addiction with another. And while any type of medication can be misused, MAT has a proven track record in helping individuals recover from addictions, particularly opioid addiction. MAT has been proven to reduce overdose risks, decrease criminal behavior, increase time in treatment, and is clinically proven to be an effective treatment for substance use disorders. If you or someone you love has a SUD or AUD our MAT at AATC – Gloucester is here to help.  Contact us today to learn more or get started.