Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): How It Works?

Summary: Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is an evidence-based approach to addiction treatment that combines FDA-approved medications with behavioral therapy and counseling to treat substance use disorders — primarily opioid and alcohol addiction. MAT is endorsed by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), and the World Health Organization as the standard of care for opioid use disorder. Research consistently demonstrates that MAT reduces overdose deaths, decreases illicit drug use, improves treatment retention, and supports long-term recovery. MAT is most effective when delivered within a structured treatment program that includes individual therapy, group therapy, and relapse prevention — not as a standalone prescription. At Overland IOP, medication-assisted treatment is coordinated as part of our outpatient IOP and PHP programs, with in-person treatment available in Los Angeles and virtual programs accessible to patients throughout California.

What Is Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)?

Medication-assisted treatment, commonly referred to as MAT, is a clinical approach to treating substance use disorders that uses FDA-approved medications in combination with counseling and behavioral therapies. MAT is not “replacing one drug with another” — it is a medically supervised intervention that stabilizes brain chemistry, reduces cravings, blocks the euphoric effects of certain substances, and normalizes body functions without producing the dangerous highs and lows of active addiction.

MAT is most commonly used to treat opioid use disorder (addiction to heroin, fentanyl, oxycodone, hydrocodone, and other opioids) and alcohol use disorder. The medications used in MAT have been rigorously studied in clinical trials and are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration specifically for the treatment of addiction.

The behavioral therapy component of MAT is equally important. Medication alone addresses the biological aspects of addiction, but lasting recovery requires addressing the psychological, emotional, and behavioral patterns that drive substance use. This is why MAT is most effective when delivered within a structured treatment program that includes individual therapy, group therapy, psychoeducation, and relapse prevention. SAMHSA — Medications for Substance Use Disorders

FDA-Approved Medications Used in MAT

Three primary categories of FDA-approved medications are used in medication-assisted treatment, each targeting different substances and working through different mechanisms.

Medications for Opioid Use Disorder

Buprenorphine (Suboxone, Sublocade, Zubsolv) is a partial opioid agonist, meaning it activates opioid receptors in the brain but produces a much weaker effect than full agonists like heroin or fentanyl. Buprenorphine reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms without producing significant euphoria, and it has a “ceiling effect” that limits its potential for misuse. It is classified as a Schedule III controlled substance and can be prescribed by qualified physicians in office-based settings. Buprenorphine is available as a daily sublingual tablet or film (Suboxone) or as a monthly injectable (Sublocade). NIDA — Medications to Treat Opioid Use Disorder

Methadone is a full opioid agonist that reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms by acting on the same brain receptors as other opioids, but in a controlled, long-acting manner that does not produce the intense highs associated with illicit use. Methadone is a Schedule II controlled substance and, by federal regulation, can only be dispensed through certified Opioid Treatment Programs (OTPs). It is taken daily, typically as a liquid, and requires regular clinic visits. Methadone has been used in addiction treatment since the 1960s and remains one of the most effective medications for severe opioid use disorder.

Naltrexone (Vivitrol) is an opioid antagonist — it blocks opioid receptors entirely, preventing opioids from producing any effect. Unlike buprenorphine and methadone, naltrexone is not a controlled substance and has no potential for misuse. It is available as a daily oral tablet or as a monthly extended-release injection (Vivitrol). Naltrexone requires full detoxification from opioids before initiation (typically 7–14 days), which is an important clinical consideration when planning treatment.

Medications for Alcohol Use Disorder

Naltrexone is also FDA-approved for alcohol use disorder. In this context, it works by reducing the pleasurable effects of alcohol and decreasing cravings. The injectable form (Vivitrol) is particularly useful for patients who may struggle with daily medication adherence.

Acamprosate (Campral) helps restore the chemical balance in the brain that is disrupted by chronic alcohol use. It is most effective for individuals who have already achieved initial abstinence and is used to reduce the discomfort and cravings that often lead to relapse in early recovery. Acamprosate is taken as a tablet three times daily.

Disulfiram (Antabuse) works through aversion — it causes unpleasant physical reactions (nausea, flushing, headache, vomiting) when alcohol is consumed, creating a strong deterrent against drinking. Disulfiram is most effective for highly motivated patients and is typically used as one component of a broader treatment plan.

How MAT Works in Outpatient Treatment

MAT is most effective when integrated into a structured treatment program rather than provided in isolation. In outpatient settings, MAT typically involves three interconnected components:

Medical assessment and medication induction. Before starting MAT, a physician or psychiatrist conducts a comprehensive evaluation including substance use history, medical history, current medications, and any co-occurring mental health conditions. The appropriate medication is selected based on the substance involved, the severity of the disorder, the patient’s medical profile, and their treatment goals.

Ongoing medication management. Once medication is established, patients meet regularly with their prescribing physician for dosage adjustments, side effect monitoring, and drug testing. The frequency of medication management visits varies based on stability — early in treatment, visits may be weekly; as patients stabilize, visits may shift to biweekly or monthly.

Behavioral therapy and counseling. Medication addresses the biological component of addiction, but therapy addresses the psychological, emotional, and social dimensions. CBT helps patients identify triggers and build coping strategies. DBT develops emotional regulation skills. Group therapy provides peer support and accountability. Psychoeducation builds understanding of the disease model of addiction and the recovery process. Relapse prevention planning prepares patients for high-risk situations after treatment ends.

Why MAT Is Effective: What the Research Shows

MAT is one of the most extensively studied interventions in addiction medicine. The evidence consistently shows that MAT for opioid use disorder reduces overdose deaths by approximately 50 percent compared to treatment without medication. It decreases illicit opioid use, reduces criminal activity associated with drug-seeking behavior, improves treatment retention rates, and increases the patient’s ability to maintain employment and stable housing.

MAT for alcohol use disorder reduces heavy drinking days, increases the number of abstinent days, and significantly improves treatment retention compared to behavioral therapy alone.

Patients who receive MAT are significantly more likely to remain in treatment — and treatment retention is one of the strongest predictors of long-term recovery. Individuals who leave treatment prematurely are at substantially higher risk of relapse and overdose.

Despite this evidence, MAT remains underutilized. According to SAMHSA, fewer than half of individuals with opioid use disorder receive any form of medication treatment. Stigma, misunderstanding about how MAT works, and limited access to qualified prescribers continue to be barriers. The reality is clear: MAT saves lives, and withholding it from patients who could benefit is not evidence-based care. NIDA — Medications to Treat Opioid Use Disorder Research Report

MAT and Co-Occurring Mental Health Conditions

Many individuals with substance use disorders also have co-occurring mental health conditions — depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, or personality disorders. This is known as dual diagnosis, and it is the rule rather than the exception: according to NIMH, approximately 50 percent of individuals with a substance use disorder also meet criteria for a mental health condition.

MAT is particularly important for dual diagnosis patients because untreated addiction makes mental health conditions worse, and untreated mental health conditions increase the risk of relapse. Integrated treatment — addressing both conditions simultaneously with coordinated medication management and behavioral therapy — produces significantly better outcomes than treating them sequentially or separately. NIMH — Substance Use and Co-Occurring Mental Disorders

Common Misconceptions About MAT

“MAT is just replacing one addiction with another.” This is the most common and most harmful misconception about medication-assisted treatment. Addiction is characterized by compulsive use despite negative consequences, loss of control, and continued use in the face of harm. MAT medications, when taken as prescribed, do not produce these effects. They stabilize brain chemistry, reduce cravings, and allow patients to function normally — the opposite of active addiction.

“You’re not really sober if you’re on MAT.” Recovery is defined by the restoration of health, function, and quality of life — not by the absence of all medication. People with diabetes take insulin. People with hypertension take blood pressure medication. People with opioid use disorder can take buprenorphine or naltrexone as part of a medically managed recovery plan. The goal of treatment is improved function and sustained recovery, not ideological purity about medication.

“MAT should only be short-term.” The optimal duration of MAT varies by individual. Some patients benefit from 6 to 12 months of medication followed by a gradual taper. Others benefit from long-term or indefinite maintenance, particularly those with severe or recurrent opioid use disorder. Premature discontinuation of MAT is associated with significantly higher rates of relapse and overdose. Treatment duration should be determined by clinical assessment, not arbitrary timelines.

“MAT is only for opioid addiction.” While MAT is most commonly associated with opioid use disorder, FDA-approved medications also exist for alcohol use disorder (naltrexone, acamprosate, and disulfiram). MAT is an important component of comprehensive alcohol addiction treatment.

MAT Insurance Coverage in California

Under the California Mental Health Parity Act and the federal Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act, insurance companies are required to cover substance use disorder treatment — including MAT medications and associated behavioral therapy — at the same level as physical health treatment. Most major private insurance plans, Medi-Cal (California’s Medicaid program), and Medicare cover MAT. California’s Drug Medi-Cal Organized Delivery System (DMC-ODS) has expanded access to MAT through county-based organized delivery systems across the state. Federal regulatory changes now allow any physician with a standard DEA registration to prescribe buprenorphine for opioid use disorder without requiring a separate waiver, significantly expanding MAT access throughout California. CMS — Mental Health Parity

Virtual MAT Programs in California

Overland IOP provides virtual IOP and PHP programs with integrated medication-assisted treatment accessible to patients throughout California. Our psychiatrist conducts medication management appointments via telehealth for patients receiving buprenorphine or naltrexone, and our licensed clinicians deliver individual therapy, group therapy, psychoeducation, and relapse prevention through the same structured schedule as our in-person programs. California law permits licensed professionals to provide MAT-related telehealth services statewide, and federal regulations allow physicians to prescribe buprenorphine via telehealth. Virtual programs follow the same evidence-based treatment model as in-person care, using CBT, DBT, ACT, motivational interviewing, and psychodynamic therapy. Morning, afternoon, and evening tracks are available. All telehealth services are provided by professionals licensed under California law. Most major insurance plans are accepted. Call (800) 530-3100 to discuss virtual MAT treatment options.

In-Person MAT Programs in Los Angeles

Overland IOP provides in-person outpatient addiction treatment with integrated medication-assisted treatment at 3415 Overland Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90034. Our on-site psychiatrist evaluates each patient’s substance use history, medical profile, and co-occurring conditions to determine whether MAT is clinically appropriate. When MAT is indicated, the psychiatrist prescribes and manages the medication directly or coordinates with external prescribers and Opioid Treatment Programs as needed. Medication management is integrated into the patient’s overall treatment plan alongside individual therapy, group therapy, CBT, DBT, ACT, and relapse prevention. Our IOP program provides 3 hours per day of therapy 3–5 days per week, and our PHP provides 6 hours per day, 5 days per week. Treatment plans are reviewed and updated weekly. We treat opioid use disorder, alcohol use disorder, and co-occurring mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders. We accept most major insurance plans including Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, Blue Shield of California, Kaiser, TRICARE, and SAG-AFTRA, and offer same-day admission. Call (800) 530-3100 for a free, confidential consultation.

FAQs About Medication-assisted Treatment (MAT)

Q1: What is medication-assisted treatment (MAT)?

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is an evidence-based approach to addiction treatment that combines FDA-approved medications with behavioral therapy and counseling. MAT is primarily used to treat opioid use disorder and alcohol use disorder. The medications used in MAT — including buprenorphine (Suboxone), methadone, naltrexone (Vivitrol), acamprosate, and disulfiram — work by stabilizing brain chemistry, reducing cravings, blocking the effects of substances, or creating aversive reactions to alcohol. MAT is endorsed by SAMHSA, NIDA, and the World Health Organization as the standard of care for opioid use disorder.

Q2: What medications are used in MAT for opioid addiction?

Three FDA-approved medications are used to treat opioid use disorder. Buprenorphine (brand names Suboxone, Sublocade, Zubsolv) is a partial opioid agonist that reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms without producing significant euphoria. Methadone is a full opioid agonist that stabilizes brain chemistry and is dispensed through certified Opioid Treatment Programs. Naltrexone (Vivitrol) is an opioid antagonist that completely blocks opioid receptors, preventing any effect from opioids. Each medication has different clinical indications, and the right choice depends on the patient’s substance use history, medical profile, and treatment goals.

Q3: What medications are used in MAT for alcohol addiction?

Three FDA-approved medications are used to treat alcohol use disorder. Naltrexone (available as a daily tablet or monthly Vivitrol injection) reduces cravings and the pleasurable effects of alcohol. Acamprosate (Campral) helps restore chemical balance in the brain after chronic alcohol use and reduces the discomfort that can lead to relapse. Disulfiram (Antabuse) creates unpleasant physical reactions when alcohol is consumed, serving as a deterrent. These medications are most effective when combined with behavioral therapy such as CBT, DBT, and group therapy within a structured outpatient program.

Q4: Is MAT just replacing one drug with another?

No. This is the most common misconception about medication-assisted treatment. Addiction is defined by compulsive use despite harm, loss of control, and escalating negative consequences. MAT medications, when taken as prescribed under medical supervision, do not produce these effects. They stabilize brain chemistry, reduce cravings, and allow patients to function normally — which is the opposite of active addiction. MAT is comparable to using insulin for diabetes or antihypertensives for high blood pressure: it is a medical intervention for a medical condition, not a substitute addiction.

Q5: How long does medication-assisted treatment last?

The optimal duration of MAT varies by individual and is determined by clinical assessment — not arbitrary timelines. Some patients benefit from 6 to 12 months of medication followed by a gradual taper. Others, particularly those with severe or recurrent opioid use disorder, benefit from long-term or indefinite maintenance. Research consistently shows that premature discontinuation of MAT medications is associated with significantly higher rates of relapse and overdose. Treatment duration should be based on clinical stability, treatment progress, and individual recovery goals.

Q6: Can I receive MAT through an outpatient program?

Yes. MAT is commonly delivered in outpatient settings, including Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) and Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP). Outpatient MAT allows patients to receive medication management and structured behavioral therapy while living at home and maintaining work, school, or family responsibilities. IOP typically provides 3 hours per day of therapy 3–5 days per week, and PHP provides 6 hours per day, 5 days per week. MAT medication management is integrated into both programs alongside individual therapy, group therapy, and relapse prevention.

Q7: Does insurance cover medication-assisted treatment in California?

Yes. Under the California Mental Health Parity Act and the federal Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act, insurance companies are required to cover substance use disorder treatment — including MAT medications and associated behavioral therapy — at the same level as physical health treatment. Most major private insurance plans, Medi-Cal, and Medicare cover MAT in California. Overland IOP accepts most major insurance plans including Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, Blue Shield of California, Kaiser, TRICARE, and SAG-AFTRA. Call (800) 530-3100 for a free insurance verification.

Q8: Where can I find in-person MAT programs in Los Angeles?

Overland IOP provides in-person outpatient addiction treatment with integrated medication-assisted treatment at 3415 Overland Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90034. Our on-site psychiatrist manages MAT medications as part of comprehensive IOP (3 hours per day, 3–5 days per week) and PHP (6 hours per day, 5 days per week) programs that include individual therapy, group therapy, CBT, DBT, and relapse prevention. We treat opioid use disorder, alcohol use disorder, and co-occurring mental health conditions. Morning, afternoon, and evening scheduling options are available. We accept most major insurance plans and offer same-day admission. Call (800) 530-3100 for a free consultation.

Q9: Can I access MAT remotely in California through Overland IOP?

Yes. Overland IOP provides virtual IOP and PHP programs with integrated medication-assisted treatment accessible to patients throughout California. Our psychiatrist conducts medication management appointments via telehealth for patients receiving buprenorphine or naltrexone, and our licensed clinicians deliver individual therapy, group therapy, psychoeducation, and relapse prevention through the same structured schedule as in-person programs. California law permits licensed professionals to provide MAT-related telehealth services statewide. Virtual programs include morning, afternoon, and evening tracks. Most major insurance plans are accepted. Call (800) 530-3100 to discuss remote treatment options.

Q10: Does Overland IOP treat co-occurring mental health and addiction with MAT?

Yes. Overland IOP specializes in dual diagnosis treatment — addressing substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions simultaneously. Our psychiatrist coordinates MAT medications with any psychiatric medications a patient may need (such as antidepressants, mood stabilizers, or anti-anxiety medications), ensuring safe and effective treatment of both conditions. We treat depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders alongside opioid use disorder, alcohol use disorder, and other substance use conditions. Integrated treatment is available through our in-person programs in Los Angeles and our virtual programs serving patients across California. Call (800) 530-3100 for a free, confidential consultation.