The role of medication-assisted treatment (MAT) in drug rehab

Starting recovery can feel overwhelming, especially if you’ve tried to quit before and struggled with withdrawal or cravings. That’s where medication-assisted treatment rehab comes in.
MAT combines medications with counselling and behavioural therapies to support people through recovery.

It’s not a shortcut or a quick fix—but it can make the process safer, more manageable, and more effective for many.

Here’s a closer look at how it works, who it’s for, and why it’s becoming a trusted part of many drug rehab programs.

What is medication-assisted treatment (MAT)?

Medication-assisted treatment rehab is a type of addiction care that uses medications alongside therapy and other support to help people stop using drugs like GHB, heroin, meth, fentanyl, alcohol, and prescription opioids.

The medications used in MAT help stabilise your body and mind, but it’s a common myth that they simply replace one addiction with another. But you are not. All you’re doing is using a medical tool to support your body and brain while you do the deeper work of recovery.

Common medications used in MAT

Different medications are used for different substances. Your care team will work with you to figure out what’s right for your needs.

Some of the most common medications in medication-assisted treatment rehab include:

• Methadone: Often used in heroin rehab or fentanyl rehab, this helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms without creating a high
• Buprenorphine: Used to treat opioid addiction. It helps manage cravings and can be taken at home in some cases
• Naltrexone: Blocks the effects of opioids and alcohol. You can’t get high while it’s in your system, which helps reduce relapse
• Disulfiram or Acamprosate: Used for alcohol recovery but may be part of a plan if alcohol use is also involved

These medications are only part of the picture, but they can be a powerful support, especially in the early stages of treatment.

Who is MAT right for?

Medication-assisted treatment rehab is often recommended for people with a history of opioid use or those recovering from long-term or high-risk drug use. It’s especially useful for people who have:

• Tried to quit but relapsed
• Experienced painful or dangerous withdrawal
• Strong cravings that interfere with daily life
• A dual diagnosis (addiction + mental health concerns)

MAT can be used in both inpatient and outpatient settings, depending on what kind of support you need. Your care team will assess your situation and help you decide if MAT makes sense as part of your recovery journey.

Thinking about getting help for substance abuse? Learn more about our cocaine rehab or meth rehab programs.

What Are the Benefits of Medication-Assisted Treatment?

There are a lot of reasons why MAT is used in rehab—and why it’s backed by research.
Some key benefits include:

• • Lower risk of relapse: Cravings are often one of the biggest barriers to staying clean. MAT helps reduce them
  • Easier withdrawal: Detox is less intense and more manageable with the right medication support
  • Better engagement with therapy: When you’re not in pain or distress, it’s easier to focus on doing the work
  • Improved mental health: Some medications can also support mood and brain chemistry, helping with co-occurring conditions
  • Increased safety: MAT helps reduce the risk of overdose, especially for people coming off strong opioids like fentanyl or heroin

What to Expect During MAT

If you and your Arrow Health team decide that MAT is right for you, here’s a general idea of what the process might look like:

• Assessment: You’ll meet with our specialists to review your health, history, and goals.
• Detox: If needed, your detox may include medication to ease symptoms.
• Medication start: You’ll begin your MAT plan, usually under close supervision at first.
• Therapy and support: As you stabilise, you’ll attend therapy sessions, groups, and recovery activities.
• Monitoring and adjustment: Your medication plan may be tweaked over time depending on how you’re feeling.
• Aftercare: MAT doesn’t have to stop when rehab ends. You can continue with medication as part of your long-term recovery if needed.

Getting back on track with medication-assisted treatment rehab

Medication-assisted treatment rehab isn’t about replacing one thing with another. It’s about giving your brain and body the support they need to heal, so you can focus on building a life that feels good without substances.

If you’re struggling with addiction, MAT might be one of the tools that helps you turn things around. And you don’t have to figure it out alone. Our team will be there to guide you every step of the way.