MAT works by blocking the effects of alcohol or drugs, like opioids, on the brain. This helps to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Additionally, this allows patients to focus on their recovery. MAT for AUD also helps reduce the desire to drink. Furthermore, some medications will make a person sick if they drink any alcohol.

Medications are prescribed in combination with counseling and other support services. This helps individuals build a strong foundation for long-term recovery. MAT also allows individuals to remain connected with treatment providers who can monitor medication use and provide additional support as needed.

Some of the different types of medications used with MAT for drug addictions not associated with opioid use disorder include:

• Topiramate: Topiramate is an anticonvulsant medication that can be used to help reduce cravings for drugs like cocaine or methamphetamine. 
• Bupropion: Bupropion is an antidepressant that can be prescribed to help manage depression or anxiety associated with drug addiction, as well as nicotine dependence.
• Benzodiazepines: Benzodiazepines may be prescribed to help address anxiety associated with drug addiction.

The most common drugs used with medication-assisted treatment in Atlanta for opioid addiction include:

• Methadone: Methadone is an opioid agonist medication used to help manage opioid addiction and cravings. It works by blocking the effects of opioids on the brain, reducing cravings, and preventing relapse. 
• Buprenorphine: Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist that reduces drug cravings while also managing withdrawal symptoms and helping to prevent relapse. 
• Naltrexone: Naltrexone blocks opioid receptors in the brain, reducing cravings for opioids and helping to prevent relapse. 
• Lofexidine: Lofexidine is an anti-hypertensive medication used to reduce physical symptoms of opioid withdrawal, such as sweating, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle aches, and agitation. 

In addition, anti-anxiety and anti-depressive medications can be prescribed to help treat co-occurring conditions. 

Medications commonly used when treating alcohol addiction can include:

• Acamprosate: Acamprosate is an anti-craving medication used to reduce alcohol cravings and withdrawal symptoms, helping to maintain sobriety. 
• Disulfiram: Disulfiram prevents the body from breaking down alcohol, causing unpleasant side effects if someone consumes alcohol while taking it. 
• Naltrexone: Naltrexone blocks opioid receptors in the brain, reducing cravings for alcohol and helping prevent relapse. 
• Topiramate: Topiramate is an anticonvulsant medication that can be used to help reduce cravings for alcohol. 
• Bupropion: Bupropion is an antidepressant that can be prescribed to help manage depression or anxiety associated with addiction to alcohol.

When you want help with your addiction, Inner Voyage Recovery near Atlanta provides a safe, secure, and caring environment to take your initial recovery steps. In addition, we offer personalized treatment programs that can include using MAT when it is beneficial for your detox and recovery. To start your addiction treatment with MAT, contact us today.