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    Medication-assisted treatment: myths and facts

    MAT is one of the most evidence-backed tools we have — and one of the most misunderstood. Here's what it is, who it's for, and what it isn't.

    Dr. Patel
    Dr. Patel
    Medical Director, MD, ABAM
    Clinically reviewed by Michelle Grunstein, LMFT, LPCC
    March 15, 2026 7 min read
    Medication-assisted treatment: myths and facts

    What is MAT?

    Medication-assisted treatment combines FDA-approved medications — like buprenorphine, naltrexone or methadone — with counseling and behavioral therapies.

    The medication isn't the treatment. The medication is what makes the treatment possible.

    Common myths

    'MAT is just trading one addiction for another.' It isn't. Used as prescribed, these medications stabilize brain chemistry without producing a high.

    'Real recovery means being on nothing.' Recovery means living a full life. For many, that includes medication — just like it does for diabetes or hypertension.

    Who MAT is for

    MAT is most studied for opioid and alcohol use disorders. It's not the right fit for everyone, and the decision is made collaboratively with our medical team after a full assessment.

    Dr. Patel
    Written by
    Dr. Patel
    Medical Director, MD, ABAM

    Dr. Patel oversees medical detox protocols and medication-assisted treatment.

    Medication-assisted treatment: myths and facts — Avedis Recovery Blog