When you recommend medication for addiction treatment (MAT) to a patient, how often do you hear, “Isn’t that just replacing one addiction with another?” or “I think medications are just a crutch.” These misconceptions aren’t just frustrating—they actively prevent people from getting the care they need.
MAT, sometimes referred to as medication-assisted treatment, is one of the most effective tools for treating opioid and alcohol use disorders, yet stigma and misinformation persist. For addiction professionals, understanding the facts about MAT is key to guiding patients and their families toward evidence-based care. Let’s set the record straight on some of the most common myths surrounding MAT.
Myth: MAT Just Replaces One Addiction with Another
One of the most common concerns is that MAT simply swaps one substance for another. In reality, medications like buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone do not produce the euphoric effects of illicit substances when taken as prescribed. Instead, they work by stabilizing brain chemistry, reducing cravings, and allowing patients to focus on long-term recovery.
Think of MAT like a seatbelt—it doesn’t eliminate the risks of driving, but it dramatically reduces the chances of severe injury. For patients who struggle with frequent relapses, MAT can provide stability so they can fully engage in counseling, employment, and rebuilding their lives.
Myth: MAT Should Only Be Used for a Short Time
There is no universal timeline for MAT. Some patients may need it for months, while others may benefit from longer-term use. Think individualized treatment plans, rather than arbitrary cutoffs. Just as we don’t limit the duration of medications for diabetes or depression, MAT should remain available as long as it is beneficial to the patient’s recovery. The National Institute on Drug Abuse emphasizes that patients who remain on medication treatment for opioid use disorder for a longer time tend to have better outcomes, and the risk of relapse greatly increases after patients stop taking medication.1
For some, MAT may be needed only during the high-risk early stages of recovery. For others, it may serve as a long-term management strategy, much like medications for high blood pressure. The key is regular patient assessment and a flexible approach, rather than assuming all patients should discontinue at a set time.
Myth: MAT Is Only for Severe Addiction
MAT is often seen as a last resort, but it can benefit individuals at any stage of substance use disorder. Patients with early signs of opioid or alcohol dependence can use MAT to manage cravings before their condition worsens. It’s a proactive tool, not just an emergency response.
Myth: MAT Increases the Risk of Overdose
Some believe that MAT makes overdose more likely. In reality, MAT dramatically reduces the risk of overdose by stabilizing patients and preventing relapse. Medications like buprenorphine have a “ceiling effect,” meaning they do not produce stronger effects at higher doses, making overdose far less likely compared to full opioids.
A 2024 analysis funded by the National Institutes of Health found that instead of increasing the risk of overdose, higher daily doses of buprenorphine led to a lower risk of subsequent emergency department visits or inpatient services related to behavioral health issues compared to those receiving standard doses.2
How Referring Professionals Can Support Patients with MAT
MAT is one of the most researched and effective interventions for opioid and alcohol use disorders. For professionals in addiction treatment and healthcare, understanding these facts can lead to better patient referrals and improved treatment outcomes.
- MAT is not a last resort. It can be used at any stage of substance use disorder to prevent progression and improve outcomes.
- Duration should be individualized. There is no single timeline for how long someone should stay on MAT.
- MAT saves lives. It reduces overdose risk, increases treatment retention, and allows individuals to focus on long-term recovery.
Partnering with RCA for Comprehensive MAT Treatment
At Recovery Centers of America, we incorporate MAT into a full continuum of care in which patients receive medication, counseling, and long-term support for sustained recovery. Our programs are designed to provide addiction professionals with a trusted resource for referrals, making it easier for patients to access high-quality, evidence-based treatment.
If you’re a provider looking to connect your patients with comprehensive care, RCA is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our programs and referral partnerships.
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