The Role of Medication-Assisted Treatment in Opioid Use Recovery

Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) affects countless individuals regardless of their background. People from all walks of life, in all types of communities, can be impacted by opioid use. The disorder encompasses misuse of both illegal drugs like heroin and legally prescribed medications such as hydrocodone or oxycodone. The pathway into substance use varies, but the path to overcome it often requires similar approaches.

The Nature of Opioid Addiction

Opioids are known for their powerful pain-relieving properties, making them highly effective for short-term pain management following surgery or injury. However, their potential for addiction is substantial. Opioids can induce a rush or high, which many individuals find themselves chasing repeatedly. Over time, tolerance develops, necessitating higher doses to achieve the same effect. This leads to a dangerous cycle that can be incredibly tough to break.

The Withdrawal Challenge

Withdrawal symptoms from opioids are severe. As the drug exits the body, individuals may experience intense bone and muscle pain, exhaustion, and a general sense of malaise. These symptoms can drive individuals to use opioids again, not just to recreate the initial high, but to avoid the discomfort of withdrawal. This constant loop makes stopping opioid use extremely challenging.¹

What is Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) or Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD)?

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) now referred to as Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) offers an effective solution for individuals with OUD. MOUD is an evidence-based intervention that combines prescribed medications with medical supervision to manage withdrawal symptoms without inducing the high associated with opioid use.²

The medications used in MOUD, such as buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone, are designed to help reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings without the experience of a high. When taken as prescribed under the care of a healthcare professional, these medications can be both safe and effective.

MOUD is unique because the intervention approaches substance use disorder primarily by altering the physiological dependency cycle, meaning how our bodies and brains are impacted by addictive substances. This approach helps break the dependency cycle by managing cravings and withdrawal symptoms, allowing individuals to focus on recovery.

MOUD is most effective when combined with psychotherapy, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, to also address the thoughts, behaviors, and feelings that contribute to substance misuse.

The Importance of MOUD

MOUD has demonstrated its potential to save lives.³ By mitigating withdrawal symptoms and reducing cravings, MOUD helps individuals regain control and begin the path to recovery. It is a crucial option for those facing the overwhelming challenge of OUD, providing a structured and supportive means to achieve stability.

Despite the proven effectiveness of medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD), there is still significant stigma surrounding their use. Many people wrongly view these treatments as merely replacing one addiction with another, which discourages individuals from seeking help. Additionally, some extend the stigma they have towards people with substance use conditions to the treatment as well. The path to recovery can look different for everyone. Truly understanding addiction, how it can impact anyone, and overcoming this stigma is crucial to providing life-saving support for those in recovery.

MOUD: A Path to Hope

Opioid use disorder often leads to chaos in the lives of those affected, but MOUD offers a beacon of hope. With the appropriate medical supervision and adherence to the prescribed treatment, individuals can find relief and start to rebuild their lives. MOUD is a powerful tool in the fight against opioid addiction, offering a stabilizing force and a chance for a better future.

MOUD is not the only path to recovery, but it is a critically important one. Its ability to reduce dependency and support individuals through their recovery process makes it a valuable asset in overcoming opioid addiction.

Sources:

1. Berger, F. (2016). Opiate and opioid withdrawal: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. Medlineplus.gov. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000949.htm
2. Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (2024) Information about medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD). Available at: https://www.fda.gov/drugs/information-drug-class/information-about-medications-opioid-use-disorder-moud (Accessed: 02 September 2024).
3. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2024, April 11). Medications for Substance Use Disorders. Www.samhsa.gov. https://www.samhsa.gov/medications-substance-use-disorders
4. Dickson-Gomez, J., Spector, A., Weeks, M., Galletly, C., McDonald, M., & Green Montaque, H. D. (2022). "You're Not Supposed to be on it Forever": Medications to Treat Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) Related Stigma Among Drug Treatment Providers and People who Use Opioids. Substance abuse: research and treatment, 16, 11782218221103859. https://doi.org/10.1177/11782218221103859