When it comes to treating alcohol addiction, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) offers a hopeful path forward. MAT blends medication to ease withdrawal symptoms with compassionate behavioral therapies, giving people the support they need to overcome addiction. This approach can work better than just medication or therapy alone, especially when it comes to managing cravings and navigating withdrawal. It’s a powerful, supportive way to help people move toward recovery.
At our treatment center in Mississippi, Woodland Recovery Center uses medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for alcohol withdrawal to give our clients the best chance at recovery. Our medical team and therapists create personalized MAT plans for each client. Give us a call today to discuss any questions you may have and explore whether MAT could be the right choice for you or a loved one.
Understanding Alcohol Use Disorder
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a serious condition that makes it difficult to stop or control drinking, even when it causes harm to health, work, or relationships. But AUD doesn’t just affect individuals—it ripples through families, communities, and entire social systems. The good news? Help is within reach. From alcohol withdrawal medications to MAT programs, there are effective treatment options that can make a real difference.
Signs of Alcohol Use Disorder
A range of signs and symptoms may suggest the presence of alcohol use disorder, including the following:
- Cravings or a strong desire to drink
- Difficulty controlling the amount or frequency of drinking
- Continuing to drink despite negative consequences
- Spending a significant amount of time obtaining, using, or recovering from alcohol use
- Developing tolerance to alcohol, requiring more to achieve the desired effects
- Experiencing alcohol withdrawal symptoms when trying to stop or reduce drinking
If you or someone you know is exhibiting these signs, it may be time to consider seeking treatment for AUD.
How to Detox from Alcohol Safely
Detoxing from alcohol is a crucial first step in recovery and must be done safely. The process depends on factors like withdrawal severity, medical history, and level of dependence.
- Medical supervision – Detox should be conducted under the care of medical professionals to monitor withdrawal symptoms and provide necessary interventions.
- Medication support – Alcohol withdrawal syndrome medication such as benzodiazepines or anticonvulsants may be prescribed to ease withdrawal symptoms and reduce complications.
- Hydration and nutrition – Proper hydration and a balanced diet help the body recover from the effects of prolonged alcohol use.
- Transition to treatment – Detox is just the beginning. A structured treatment program, including MAT and behavioral therapy, is necessary for lasting recovery.
By incorporating medication-assisted treatment, people can manage withdrawal symptoms safely and reduce cravings, increasing the likelihood of long-term sobriety.
What to Know About Medication-Assisted Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder
Medication-assisted treatment for alcohol use disorder combines the use of FDA-approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies to provide a whole-patient approach to treatment. It’s not simply about taking medication—it’s a comprehensive treatment plan designed to address the individual’s specific needs.
You can expect MAT to help reduce alcohol withdrawal symptoms and cravings, making it easier to avoid drinking. It also helps restore balance to brain circuits affected by prolonged alcohol use, allowing you to focus better on lifestyle changes.
The types of medications used and the duration of treatment can vary based on individual factors, from the severity of your AUD to personal health considerations. MAT has been proven to increase patient survival rates, retain patients in treatment, and decrease substance use.
Types of Medications Used for MAT for Alcohol Use Disorder
There are a few FDA-approved medications commonly used in MAT for alcohol use disorder, including:
Disulfiram (Antabuse)
Disulfiram works by producing severe adverse effects when alcohol is consumed, counteracting the urge to drink. It’s most effective for individuals who have already completed detox and are motivated to maintain abstinence.
Naltrexone (Vivitrol)
Naltrexone blocks the euphoric and sedative effects of alcohol, reducing cravings and the desire to drink. It can be taken orally or through monthly injections.
Acamprosate (Campral)
Acamprosate helps restore the chemical balance in the brain altered by alcohol abuse. It can help alleviate some of the long-term withdrawal symptoms, such as insomnia, anxiety, and restlessness, thus facilitating sustained abstinence.
Each of these medications serves a different purpose and is most effective when combined with counseling and behavioral therapies. Medication for alcohol cravings plays a crucial role in relapse prevention by helping individuals resist the urge to drink as they work toward long-term recovery.
Call Woodland Recovery Center to Begin MAT for Alcohol Addiction
If you or a loved one is showing signs of alcohol addiction, our team is here to help. Our compassionate and knowledgeable experts can guide you through the process of starting medication-assisted treatment for alcohol withdrawal. Call us today at 662.222.2989 or contact us online to learn how we can support you on your path to recovery and an alcohol-free future.
