Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) combines FDA-approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapy to treat opioid and alcohol use disorders. At RVK Treatment, MAT is integrated across our continuum—from medical detox through outpatient care. MAT reduces cravings, prevents overdose, improves retention in treatment, and saves lives. It is not a substitute for recovery work; it is a tool that makes that work possible.

For opioid use disorder, we offer buprenorphine (Suboxone, Subutex) and naltrexone (Vivitrol). Buprenorphine can be initiated during detox to manage withdrawal and continued long-term to reduce cravings and block opioid effects. Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist that blocks the euphoric effects of opioids and can be administered as a monthly injection for adherence. The choice of medication depends on individual factors—substance history, medical conditions, and client preference. Our physicians tailor every MAT plan.

For alcohol use disorder, we offer naltrexone (oral or injectable), acamprosate, and disulfiram. Naltrexone reduces craving and the rewarding effects of alcohol. Acamprosate helps stabilize brain chemistry during early abstinence. Disulfiram creates an aversive reaction if alcohol is consumed and is used when clients want an additional accountability tool. Not every client needs MAT for alcohol; our team evaluates and recommends based on clinical need.

MAT is most effective when combined with counseling. Medication addresses the biological aspects of addiction; therapy addresses the behavioral, psychological, and social dimensions. Our MAT clients participate in individual and group therapy, relapse prevention planning, and peer support. We do not view MAT as "replacing one drug with another"—we view it as evidence-based medicine that supports recovery.

MAT is covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid. Stigma around MAT persists in some circles, but the evidence is clear: MAT reduces overdose death, improves retention, and increases the likelihood of sustained recovery. Our team is happy to answer questions and address concerns. Call our admissions line to learn more about MAT options and whether this approach might benefit you or your loved one.

MAT is appropriate for a wide range of individuals, including those with moderate to severe opioid use disorder, people with a history of relapse following abstinence-only treatment, clients who have experienced opioid overdose, and individuals with alcohol use disorder who have not responded adequately to behavioral interventions alone. MAT is not limited by age, gender, or socioeconomic background—it is a clinical tool whose appropriateness is determined by the nature of the substance use disorder, the individual's treatment history, and their personal goals. Our physicians discuss all available options with each client, respecting autonomy while providing clear clinical recommendations grounded in current evidence.

Day-to-day MAT care at RVK Treatment involves regular appointments with a prescribing physician for medication monitoring, dosage adjustments, and side effect management. Clients on buprenorphine typically visit weekly during the early stabilization phase and may move to biweekly or monthly visits as they achieve stability. Naltrexone injections are administered monthly. Alongside medication appointments, MAT clients participate in individual therapy, group counseling, and relapse prevention programming. This integrated model ensures that the biological stabilization provided by medication is reinforced by behavioral change, social support, and psychological growth. Case managers assist with practical needs such as transportation, employment, and housing that support treatment adherence.

Our clinical philosophy around MAT is informed by the latest research from SAMHSA, NIDA, and the American Society of Addiction Medicine. We view MAT as a first-line treatment for opioid use disorder and an important option for alcohol use disorder—not a last resort or a sign of weakness. We educate clients and families about how these medications work at the neurological level, reducing cravings and blocking euphoric effects without producing a high when taken as prescribed. This education helps combat the stigma that still surrounds MAT in some recovery communities and empowers clients to make informed decisions about their own care with confidence and clarity.

Long-term outcomes for clients engaged in MAT are compelling. Research shows that MAT for opioid use disorder reduces opioid-related overdose deaths by up to 50 percent, improves treatment retention, decreases criminal activity, and increases employment rates. For alcohol use disorder, naltrexone and acamprosate have been shown to reduce heavy drinking days and support sustained abstinence when combined with counseling. At RVK Treatment, we track MAT adherence rates, treatment retention, and client-reported outcomes to continuously improve our protocols. We believe that every person struggling with opioid or alcohol addiction deserves access to medication-assisted treatment, and we are committed to providing it with clinical excellence, compassion, and respect.