MAT is the gold standard for opioid use disorder treatment. It combines FDA-approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies.
How we speak about addiction affects patient care and recovery. Use person-first language to reduce bias.
Mechanism: Partial opioid agonist—activates receptors enough to prevent withdrawal but not enough for euphoria.
| Aspect | Details | |--------|---------| | Administration | Sublingual tablet/film, monthly injection | | Setting | Office-based (OBOT), can take home | | Ceiling Effect | Yes—overdose risk lower | | Induction | Must be in mild withdrawal first |
Induction Protocol (Simplified):
Mechanism: Full opioid agonist—fully activates receptors, long half-life.
| Aspect | Details | |--------|---------| | Administration | Daily oral liquid | | Setting | Licensed OTP clinic only | | Ceiling Effect | No—overdose possible | | Induction | Can start immediately |
Key Considerations:
Mechanism: Opioid antagonist—blocks receptors completely.
| Aspect | Details | |--------|---------| | Administration | Monthly injection or daily pill | | Setting | Any healthcare setting | | Ceiling Effect | N/A—no opioid activity | | Induction | Must be opioid-free 7-14 days |
Key Considerations:
| Factor | Buprenorphine | Methadone | Naltrexone | |--------|---------------|-----------|------------| | Retention | High | Highest | Moderate | | Overdose Risk | Low | Moderate | Low (but risk if stopped) | | Accessibility | High (office) | Low (clinic only) | High | | Withdrawal Prevention | Yes | Yes | No (must be off opioids) | | Patient Freedom | High | Low initially | High |
Medication alone is not enough. Combine with:
"What matters most to you in your treatment?"
Help patients choose based on:
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External links
Use one of the external tools below to explore "OUD Treatment Protocols". Check clinical claims against approved sources.
External links
Use one of the external tools below to explore "OUD Treatment Protocols". Check clinical claims against approved sources.