Medication Assisted Treatment

Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) is the use of medication, in combination with counseling and behavioral therapies, to treat substance use disorders and prevent opioid overdose.* Furthermore, research shows that for many people struggling with addiction, combining therapies is the most successful approach to abstinence and long-term recovery .

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved three medications for the treatment of opioid use disorder: methadone, buprenorphine (Suboxone) and Naltrexone (Vivitrol). Although each one works differently, all three change the way the brain and nervous system respond to pain by blocking the euphoric effects (“high”) of opioid drugs like heroin and prescription opioids, such as codeine, oxycodone and fentanyl. Under MAT protocols, these medications are always administered under the care of a medical professional working closely with clinical staff and following strict state and federal guidelines. Read more about Methadone, Suboxone, and Vivitrol.

In August of 2016, CODAC was named RI’s first Center of Excellence (COE) for Opioid Use Disorder—and remains the only provider authorized to offer all three FDA-approved medications in the state of RI. COE’s provide expedited access to care as a requirement. All six of CODAC locations guarantee that your treatment process will begin within 24 hours of first contact.