MAT Programs for Opioid Dependency

Psychological Addiction Services (PAS) in Madison, WI strives to help individuals with substance abuse disorders on their road to sobriety. We make this happen by providing treatments alongside counseling.

Our Goal

The mission of Psychological Addiction Services (PAS) is to help people who suffer from opioid dependency, including prescription medications and heroin, find the strength to break the bond of addiction, and the courage to build a healthy productive life of recovery.

Two women sitting in a circle talking to each other.

Methadone

This treatment was developed more than 50 years ago, and it is the considered standard care as well as the most effective approach. It is not a cure for opioid dependency, but it has some positive effects such as:

  • Drastic decrease in cravings and withdrawals
  • Motivating patients to stay away from illicit street drugs for a long period

In addition, methadone does not make people “high.” However, it does make them feel normal, which allows them to function once again.

There are patients who are successful in the program, making them candidates for tapering down their methadone dose. Before the discontinuation, these individuals must have a stable home and personal life to avoid withdrawal.

Suboxone

Based on the assessment of the physician, we will provide Suboxone. These programs have a high chance of effectiveness on those who are dependent on Oxycontin, Percocet, Morphine, and other opioids.

Patients will also receive care from our experienced doctors, counselors, and nurses who are available every step of the way. The program will vary with each individual but generally have four phases, namely:

Induction

Stabilization

Maintenance

Medical Withdrawal

With opioid dependence being a long-term medical condition, some patients may need treatment for extended periods. This thought can be quite daunting, but patients can find comfort knowing that they are not alone.

A woman sitting next to a doctor with her hand on the forehead of another person.

Does medication-assisted treatment work?

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is the use of medications, such as methadone or Suboxone, in combination with substance abuse counseling to treat the disease of addiction. Approved medications can help people stabilize while they make the lifestyle changes necessary for long-term recovery.

MAT has been thoroughly studied for more than 50 years and is widely considered the most effective way to treat opioid addiction. Medication-Assisted Treatment with the use of Methadone, Buprenorphine, or Suboxone is highly effective, and patients can expect positive outcomes including: 

  • Reduced withdrawal symptoms and controlled cravings
  • Continued participation in school, work, and families while in treatment
  • Helps patients stabilize early in their recovery

At a therapeutic dose, methadone and suboxone do not create the “high” that illicit drugs produce.