MAT

Medication-assisted treatment is tailored to the specific needs of individuals with opioid use disorder. 

Definition

The medication-assisted treatment definition is sometimes referred to as medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD). Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) sets the bar for the management of opioid use disorder (OUD). It addresses the mental and physical sides of opioid dependency, combining mental health support with prescription medications to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

Historical context

In 2002, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) first approved buprenorphine-based medications for the treatment of OUD. In 2022, President Biden signed the Mainstreaming Addiction Treatment (MAT) Act, another step toward expanding access to MAT programs¹. Today, efforts to improve access to MAT continue, for example, through Medicaid coverage.

How medication-assisted treatment works

Under the definition of medication-assisted treatment (MAT), programs combine pharmacological treatment (medication) with behavioral treatment (therapy or counseling). As of June 2025, there are three medications approved by the FDA for MAT: buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone². One commonly prescribed medication is Suboxone® (important safety information).

Why MAT is used for opioid use disorder (OUD)

Benefits of reducing recurrent opioid use

MAT has been shown to increase treatment retention rates as well as patient survival rates in OUD patients^3,4. Given its positive impact, it is a popular option for helping patients manage OUD.

Effectiveness in long-term recovery

Given that MAT can improve treatment retention rates for patients seeking care for OUD, it can be an effective part of a long-term recovery plan. The good news is that long-term care is becoming more feasible thanks to the rise in telehealth treatment options.

Common medications used in MAT

Buprenorphine

Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist, meaning it activates the same receptors in the brain as an opioid, but with less intensity.

Methadone

Methadone is a synthetic opioid that, like buprenorphine, can be part of a MAT program. Also an opioid agonist, it reduces cravings and minimizes uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms.

Naltrexone

Naltrexone is another medication used in MAT programs. It helps to reduce the euphoric and sedative effects of opioids by binding and blocking receptors (instead of activating them, as with buprenorphine and methadone)⁵.

Myths + misconceptions about MAT

"It's just replacing one drug with another."

There is a misconception that because MAT programs include a pharmacological component, they simply replace one drug with another. This is untrue, as medication can be a crucial aspect of the ongoing management of OUD and generally offers a safer and more effective approach than going "medication-free."

MAT vs. abstinence-only approaches

MAT offers a science-backed approach that deviates from the abstinence-only methods of old-school rehab facilities. While there are still advocates for abstinence-based treatment, recent research suggests that MAT programs can save lives and reduce relapse rates.

How to access medication-assisted treatment

Online vs. in-person options

Telehealth is expanding access to MAT programs, allowing people to get care even if they live in a rural area or can't afford to disrupt their daily lives with in-person care. Ophelia works remotely: Patients are prescribed Suboxone, which is sent electronically to their local preferred pharmacy, and receive ongoing support through virtual appointments with clinicians.

Insurance + cost considerations

Another advantage of telehealth programs is that they're often more cost-effective than in-person treatment centers. Additionally, MAT-relevant medications like buprenorphine and methadone may be covered by insurers or, depending on the state, Medicaid.

Learn more about medication-assisted treatment

Related blog posts

• What Is Methadone?
• Suboxone® vs. Methadone
• Methadone vs. Buprenorphine

Related glossary terms

• Buprenorphine: A partial opioid agonist used in the treatment of OUD, as well as for pain management.
• Methadone: Another FDA-approved medication, which is a full opioid agonist, often used in MAT programs for OUD.
• Naloxone: An essential emergency medication that can rapidly reverse the effects of opioid overdose.
• Opioid addiction treatment: Providing care for individuals living with OUD.
• Suboxone: A combination medication containing buprenorphine and naloxone, often used to treat OUD.

Sources:

1. Heidbreder, C., Fudala, P., Greenwald, M. (January 10, 2023). History of the Discovery, Development, and FDA-Approval of Buprenorphine Medications for the Treatment of Opioid Use Disorder. Drug and Alcohol Dependence Reports. Retrieved June 25, 2025, from https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10040330/
2. (December 26, 2024). Information about Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD). US Food and Drug Administration. Retrieved June 25, 2025, from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/information-drug-class/information-about-medications-opioid-use-disorder-moud
3. Timko, C., Schultz, N., Cucciare, M., et al. (October 14, 2015). Retention in Medication-Assisted Treatment for Opiate Dependence: A Systematic Review. Journal of Addictive Diseases. Retrieved June 25, 2025, from https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6542472/
4. Mosel, S. (February 28, 2025). Medications for Addiction Treatment. American Addiction Centers. Retrieved June 25, 2025, from https://americanaddictioncenters.org/addiction-medications
5. What Is Naltrexone? University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Psychiatric Research Institute. Retrieved June 25, 2025, from https://psychiatry.uams.edu/clinical-care/outpatient-care/cast/what-is-naltrexone/