Medication Assisted Treatment For Opioid Use Disorder in Texas
Medications for addiction treatment can be a valuable component in treating addictions to drugs or alcohol. They are not the only solution, but they serve as an important tool when combined with other therapies and treatments. Addiction treatment can be an incredibly complex process, and medication-assisted treatment is used to help with the withdrawal symptoms of quitting a drug or alcohol addiction, as well as treat any underlying mental illness that may have contributed to the person's initial use of drugs or alcohol in the first place.
Inpatient and outpatient rehab programs usually provide some type of medication treatment for addiction, as well as mental health services. Addiction is a disease that affects the brain, so it's essential to treat not only the symptoms of withdrawal or cravings, but also any underlying conditions such as depression or anxiety disorders.
At Resolute Addiction and Behavioral Health we can identify addiction and mental health problems and provide treatment for addiction and mental illness in one convenient location. Addiction is often co-occurring with severe emotional or behavioral issues, so it's crucial to find a provider that can treat both conditions at once.
Opioid Withdrawal And Craving
When someone stops using opioids abruptly, the nervous system becomes hyperactive. Patients may experience muscle aches, nausea, sweating, diarrhea, anxiety, insomnia, and intense cravings. In some cases, blood pressure and heart rate rise significantly, and these symptoms often begin within hours and can last for several days.
Cravings can also involve conditioned behavioral patterns and stress responses that increase relapse risk even after detoxification. Our treatments address both the physiologic and behavioral components of addiction.
Medications Used In Opioid Use Disorder Treatment
Buprenorphine Based Treatment
Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist that binds to opioid receptors with high affinity but activates them at a lower level than full opioids. This property reduces withdrawal symptoms and cravings without producing the same level of euphoria.
Common formulations include:
- Suboxone, which combines buprenorphine with naloxone to discourage misuse
- Subutex, a buprenorphine-only formulation
- Sublocade, a once-monthly extended release injection
- Brixadi, a long acting injectable option
Before initiating buprenorphine, we review current opioid use patterns and determine appropriate timing to avoid precipitated withdrawal. Induction begins when early withdrawal symptoms appear. We then monitor stabilization over several days and adjust dosing based on craving intensity, withdrawal control, and sedation. Contact your local Suboxone provider at Resolute to set up a consultation.
Naltrexone And Vivitrol
Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist that blocks opioid receptors. It prevents opioids from producing euphoric effects. Folks often contact us for Vivitrol shots -- these are the extended release injectable form administered once every four weeks. Note that patients must complete detoxification before starting naltrexone, and we confirm opioid abstinence prior to administration. In follow-up visits, we review cravings, mood symptoms, and any reactions at injection sites.
When is Injectable Treatment Appropriate?
Long acting injectables such as Sublocade, Brixadi, or Vivitrol may benefit individuals who prefer not to manage daily dosing or who have difficulty otherwise adhering to medication schedules. We evaluate your medical history, stability, and recovery goals before recommending injectables.
Comprehensive Assessment Before Starting MAT
Treatment begins with a structured clinical evaluation. We review opioid use history, prior treatment attempts, overdose risk, co-occurring psychiatric conditions, and current medications, and we also use laboratory testing as appropriate.
Because opioid use disorder frequently overlaps with depression, anxiety, trauma, or ADHD, we assess these conditions separately and integrate psychiatric as necessary.
Ongoing Monitoring And Follow Up
MAT always requires consistent follow up. Early in treatment, visits should be more frequent so we can monitor dose response and side effects. We assess craving intensity, sleep quality, mood stability, occupational functioning, and adherence.
We can also use urine screening to support accountability and guide your treatment plan. If breakthrough cravings, sedation, or continued opioid use enter the equation, we adjust the treatment plan accordingly.
We Integrate Counseling And Recovery Support
Medication stabilizes your neurobiology, but we also seek behavioral change. We coordinate care with counseling services and licensed therapists, and some patients engage in individual therapy, group support, or structured outpatient programs.
Our team includes board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners experienced in substance use treatment and Medication Assisted Treatment. Jeremiah Sanders, PMHNP-BC, leads the practice and holds certification to provide MAT for opioid use disorder. Patients can always count on structured oversight and clear communication from us, and we are committed to doing everything in our power to aid your recovery.
Is Medically Assisted Treatment Replacing One Drug With Another?
Buprenorphine does not produce the same rapid intoxication associated with heroin or prescription opioid misuse. When taken as prescribed, it stabilizes receptor activity and reduces compulsive use patterns. The goal is functional recovery, reduced overdose risk, and improved stability.
And remember, medications are chosen at the individual level. Some patients remain on maintenance therapy for extended periods, and others taper off gradually under supervision.
Who Qualifies For MAT In Texas?
Adults diagnosed with Opioid Use Disorder may qualify for outpatient treatment. Eligibility depends on current use pattern, withdrawal status, medical stability, and readiness to participate in follow up care. We provide treatment in Longview and serve surrounding East Texas communities within state lines.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Medication Assisted Treatment For Opioid Use Disorder?
Medication Assisted Treatment uses FDA-approved medications such as buprenorphine or naltrexone to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings. It combines medication with clinical monitoring and behavioral support.
How Soon Does Buprenorphine Start Working?
Many patients experience relief from withdrawal symptoms within the first day of induction. Stabilization continues over several days as dosing is adjusted based on response.
Do I Have To Go To Inpatient Rehab First?
Not always. Many individuals qualify for outpatient MAT if they are medically stable and able to attend follow up visits. We determine the appropriate level of care during evaluation.
How Long Will I Need To Stay On Medication?
Duration varies. Some patients remain on maintenance therapy long term. Others taper gradually under supervision once stability has been maintained.
Is MAT Covered By Insurance?
Many insurance plans cover buprenorphine based treatment and extended release injectables when medical criteria are met. Our staff can assist with verification.
Can I Receive Telehealth Appointments For MAT?
Certain follow up visits may be conducted via telehealth when clinically appropriate and permitted by regulation. Initial evaluation and induction planning typically occur in person.
Do You Work With Patients Outside of Longview, TX?
Yes. Resolute serves patients across East Texas within state lines. Many individuals travel from Tyler, Marshall, and Texarkana for outpatient opioid treatment. Follow up care may include a combination of in person and telehealth visits when clinically appropriate and permitted by regulation.
Schedule An Opioid Treatment Evaluation
If opioid use has begun to affect your health, relationships, or daily stability, structured outpatient treatment may help restore control. Call (903) 213-9120 to schedule a confidential evaluation at Resolute in Longview, Texas.