MAT for Opioids and Alcohol: Know Your Options
Based on DailyMed: naltrexone hydrochloride tablets label
Find compassionate medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid and alcohol addiction at Hope Integrative Medicine in West Ashley, Charleston, SC.
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In this guide
For Opioid Use Disorder
- Buprenorphine eases cravings
- Suboxone adds naloxone
- Ceiling effect lowers overdose risk
For Alcohol Use Disorder
- Naltrexone as a daily tablet
- Or a monthly Vivitrol injection
- Makes the urge to drink easier to resist
Safety First
- Ask before stopping heavy drinking
- No opioids with naltrexone
- Share every medicine you take
What the guideline says
- Medication-assisted treatment combines FDA-approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies to treat opioid use disorder and alcohol dependence.
- Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist that reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms, and its ceiling effect makes overdose less likely.
- Suboxone is a brand-name combination of buprenorphine and naloxone, and the naloxone helps prevent misuse.
- Naltrexone comes as a daily tablet or a monthly Vivitrol injection; it reduces the rewarding effects of alcohol and helps decrease cravings.
- Stopping heavy daily drinking suddenly can cause seizures or delirium tremens, which can be fatal, so talk to a clinician before stopping.
- Naltrexone cannot be taken with any opioid, including pain medicines, buprenorphine or methadone.
Source: DailyMed: naltrexone hydrochloride tablets label
Read the full article: Recovery Starts Here: MAT for Opioid and Alcohol Addiction in West Ashley →
This guide is general health information and does not replace advice from your own provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Naltrexone cannot be taken with any opioid, including pain medicines, buprenorphine or methadone. Tell your provider about every medicine you take.
MAT begins with an in-person assessment at the West Ashley office. Your provider reviews your medical history, substance use, mental health and goals, and explains the medicine options, their benefits and possible side effects.
Yes. The program includes integrated mental health support for conditions such as depression, anxiety or trauma that may contribute to substance use, along with counseling and support group referrals.