Medication-Assisted Treatment for
Addiction in NH

Medication-assisted treatment, or MAT, can make a big difference in early recovery. At Heartfelt Recovery Centers in New Hampshire, we combine medication with therapy to help people feel more stable and supported as they heal.

What Is MAT Addiction Therapy?

MAT uses FDA-approved medications alongside therapy to treat substance use disorders. It’s most commonly used for alcohol use disorder and opioid use disorder, especially during the early stages of treatment. These medications reduce cravings and ease withdrawal symptoms, making it easier to focus on recovery.

Research shows that MAT is highly effective. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), MAT helps people stay in treatment longer and lowers the chance of returning to substance use. MAT is often used as part of a medical detox process, where care teams monitor and support you as substances leave your system. This approach helps people start recovery with more comfort, safety, and support.

Medication-Assisted Alcohol Withdrawal

Alcohol withdrawal can be more than uncomfortable: it can be dangerous. In some cases, people may face seizures, hallucinations, or a serious condition called delirium tremens (DTs). These risks make it difficult to quit drinking alone.

MAT for alcohol addiction uses medications that help reduce these symptoms and lower the chance of complications. Combined with counseling and regular check-ins, it helps people start recovery with fewer barriers and more hope.

MAT Therapy for Opioid Addiction

Opioid withdrawal can bring on intense flu-like symptoms, pain, anxiety, and powerful cravings. For those living with opioid addiction, including addiction to heroin or prescription painkillers, this can be a major barrier to getting better.

MAT offers a way through. With medications that stabilize the body and calm the brain, people can take the first step without being overwhelmed by withdrawal. It also lowers the risk of overdose and gives people a better chance of staying on the path to long-term recovery.

MAT Medications

Several medications are used in MAT, depending on the substance involved. These medications don’t replace one drug with another; they’re carefully prescribed to reduce harm and support healing. All are FDA-approved and used as part of a full treatment plan.

Medications for Alcohol Use Disorder

For alcohol addiction, common medications include:

  • Naltrexone, which blocks the pleasurable effects of alcohol and helps to reduce cravings
  • Acamprosate, which helps restore brain balance after someone stops drinking
  • Disulfiram, which causes unpleasant symptoms if alcohol is consumed, acting as a strong deterrent

These medications all work in different ways, and your care team will help decide what’s best for you. They’re most effective when paired with counseling and support groups.

Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD)

For opioid addiction, including heroin and prescription opioids, MAT includes:

  • Methadone, which relieves withdrawal and blocks opioid effects
  • Buprenorphine, which eases symptoms and reduces cravings
  • Suboxone medication, a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone that lowers misuse potential while supporting recovery

These medications help people find stability without the highs and crashes of opioid misuse. Again, medications are most effective when used with counseling and regular support.

Medications for Other Substance Use Disorders

While MAT is primarily used for alcohol and opioid use, some medications are being explored for other types of addiction, such as stimulants or sedatives. These are still considered on a case-by-case basis and only under medical supervision.

Benefits of Medication-Assisted Treatment

MAT offers real benefits that help people stay on track and feel better faster:

Eases withdrawal and cravings

Medications can reduce the worst physical symptoms, making recovery less overwhelming

Keeps people in treatment longer

According to SAMHSA, people in MAT are more likely to stay engaged in their program

Reduces relapse and overdose risk:

According to the NIH, MAT can cut the risk of overdose death for certain substances by over 50%

Supports therapy and mental health

Many people with addiction also face anxiety, depression, or trauma. MAT works well alongside addiction therapy to support dual diagnosis recovery

Improves stability and well-being

When people feel physically better, they’re more able to focus on healing, relationships, and the future

Our MAT Program Levels of Care at Heartfelt Recovery, NH

At Heartfelt Recovery Centers, we provide MAT across several outpatient levels of care. We tailor treatment based on where you are in your recovery journey.

Based in New Hampshire? Enter MAT Therapy Today

At Heartfelt Recovery Centers, we offer more than medication: we offer hope. Our MAT programs are built around each person’s needs, combining professional care with warmth and understanding. Whether you’re just starting out or have tried before, we’re here to support you with tools that work.

Let us help you take the first step. Contact us today and begin a recovery path that’s built around your needs, at your pace.

FAQs

Yes. MAT uses FDA-approved medications and is overseen by licensed professionals.

Absolutely. Research shows it helps people stay in treatment, feel better sooner, and avoid relapse.

Yes, organizations like SAMHSA and the CDC support MAT as an effective approach to treating addiction.

No. Some programs don’t offer MAT, so it’s important to ask before enrolling.

It depends on your situation. Some people benefit from short-term use, while others need longer support.

There’s no “cure,” but MAT helps people manage symptoms and build a life in recovery.

Yes. MAT always includes counseling and therapy to address emotional and mental health needs.

Just give us a call or send a message. We’ll schedule a free consultation, learn more about your goals, and help you take the next step.

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