Medication-Assisted Treatment in San Francisco, CA

About Medication-Assisted Treatment

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) combines FDA-approved medications — such as methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone — with counseling and behavioral therapy to treat opioid or alcohol use disorder. The medications work by reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms, allowing the person to focus on the behavioral and psychological work of recovery.

MAT is considered an evidence-based standard of care for opioid use disorder in particular. Length of treatment is individualized — some people use MAT for a period of months during early recovery, while others continue longer-term under medical supervision.

Medication-Assisted Treatment in San Francisco, CA

Common Questions

What medications are used in MAT?

The most common are methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone for opioid use disorder, and acamprosate, disulfiram, or naltrexone for alcohol use disorder.

Is MAT just replacing one drug with another?

No — MAT medications are used at medically supervised doses to reduce cravings and withdrawal, not to produce the same effects as the substance being treated. It's an evidence-based treatment, not a substitution.

How long do people stay on MAT?

This varies by individual. Some use MAT for months during early recovery; others continue longer-term under ongoing medical supervision.

Is MAT covered by insurance?

Most major insurance plans, Medicaid, and Medicare cover MAT, given its status as an evidence-based standard of care.