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Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
FDA-approved medications combined with counseling and behavioral therapies to treat alcohol use disorder
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) uses FDA-approved medications alongside counseling and behavioral therapies to treat alcohol use disorder. The medications help reduce cravings, block the pleasurable effects of alcohol, or create unpleasant reactions to drinking.
MAT is not replacing one drug with another - it's using medications as prescribed by a doctor to normalize brain chemistry, reduce cravings, and support long-term recovery. MAT is always combined with counseling and behavioral support.
FDA-Approved Medications for Alcohol Use Disorder
How It Works
Blocks opioid receptors in the brain that produce the pleasurable effects of alcohol. Reduces cravings and makes drinking less rewarding, helping you stay sober.
Dosing
Daily pill (50mg) or monthly injection (380mg)
Best For
- Moderate to severe alcohol use disorder
- After completing detox (must be alcohol-free 7-10 days before starting)
- People who respond well to blocking the rewarding effects
- Those who prefer monthly injection option
Common Side Effects
Nausea, headache, dizziness, fatigue (usually mild and temporary)
How It Works
Helps restore normal brain chemistry that was disrupted by chronic alcohol use. Reduces cravings and makes it easier to maintain abstinence by stabilizing neurotransmitter balance.
Dosing
Three times daily (two 333mg tablets each time)
Best For
- Maintaining abstinence after detox
- People with persistent cravings
- Those committed to complete abstinence
- Works best when started soon after detox
Common Side Effects
Diarrhea, nausea, gas (usually temporary)
How It Works
Creates extremely unpleasant physical reactions if you drink alcohol (nausea, vomiting, headache, chest pain). Acts as a strong deterrent to drinking by making it physically uncomfortable.
Dosing
Daily pill (250mg typical dose)
Best For
- Highly motivated individuals committed to abstinence
- Those who respond well to deterrent-based approach
- People with strong support system to ensure compliance
- Those who benefit from accountability
Common Side Effects
Metallic taste, drowsiness, headache. Severe reaction if alcohol is consumed (nausea, vomiting, heart palpitations, difficulty breathing).
- Reduces alcohol cravings
- Decreases risk of relapse
- Supports brain healing
- Improves treatment retention
- Evidence-based and FDA-approved
- Can be combined with any therapy
- Increases long-term success rates
- Helps normalize brain chemistry
- May reduce drinking amount if relapse occurs
- Provides extra support during recovery
- Works alongside counseling
- Covered by most insurance plans
- Moderate to Severe Alcohol Use Disorder
Diagnosed with alcohol dependence or addiction
- Completed Detox
Already alcohol-free and want support staying sober
- Strong Cravings
Experience intense urges to drink
- History of Relapse
Previous attempts at sobriety were unsuccessful
- Preference for Medication Support
Open to using medication as part of recovery
- Commitment to Counseling
Willing to combine medication with therapy
Medical Evaluation
Complete assessment with a doctor who specializes in addiction medicine. Discuss your drinking history, health conditions, and treatment goals.
Medication Selection
Your doctor recommends the best medication based on your needs, medical history, and preferences.
Starting Medication
Begin medication with clear instructions about dosing, side effects, and what to expect. Some medications require you to be alcohol-free for several days first.
Combined with Therapy
Attend regular counseling sessions (individual, group, or both) while taking medication. This combination is essential for best results.
Regular Monitoring
Regular check-ins with your doctor to monitor effectiveness, side effects, and adjust treatment as needed.
Ongoing Support
Continue medication and counseling for as long as beneficial. Some people use MAT short-term, others benefit from longer-term support.
The duration of MAT varies by individual and medication:
- Disulfiram: Typically used short-term (months)
- Naltrexone: Often used for 6-12 months or longer
- Acamprosate: Usually continued for one year or more
Your doctor will work with you to determine the right duration based on your progress and needs. Some people benefit from longer-term medication support.