Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) Treatment Centers

At Santa Cruz Drug Rehab, we recognize that Medication-Assisted Treatment saves lives. Our directory connects you with treatment centers providing FDA-approved medications combined with comprehensive counseling.

Why MAT Is the Gold Standard

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, MAT is clinically proven to reduce opioid use, opioid overdose deaths, criminal activity, and infectious disease transmission. It also improves social functioning, treatment retention, and birth outcomes for pregnant women with opioid use disorder.

FDA-Approved Medications

For Opioid Use Disorder:

• Buprenorphine (Suboxone, Subutex): A partial opioid agonist that reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms without producing euphoria at prescribed doses
• Methadone: A full opioid agonist administered through certified opioid treatment programs, effective for severe addiction
• Naltrexone (Vivitrol): An opioid antagonist that blocks opioid effects, available as daily pills or monthly injections

For Alcohol Use Disorder:

• Naltrexone: Reduces alcohol cravings and the rewarding effects of drinking
• Acamprosate (Campral): Helps restore brain chemistry and reduce post-acute withdrawal symptoms
• Disulfiram (Antabuse): Creates unpleasant effects when alcohol is consumed, serving as a deterrent

MAT Is Not "Replacing One Drug with Another"

A common misconception is that MAT simply substitutes one addiction for another. In reality, MAT medications are carefully dosed to prevent withdrawal and cravings without producing intoxication. They allow individuals to function normally, work, care for families, and engage in therapy and recovery activities.

Comprehensive Treatment

Medication alone is not enough. Effective MAT programs combine medications with CBT, motivational interviewing, peer support, and other services. Browse our treatment center directory to find comprehensive MAT programs.