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Medication-Assisted Treatment Program for Addiction

A medication-assisted treatment program is an evidence-based treatment for individuals struggling with substance use disorder (SUD), often from opiates, such as heroin, morphine, or prescription medications. Going through opioid withdrawal involves intense physical symptoms that may make it hard for those in outpatient treatment plans to stay on the road to recovery. This treatment option slowly reduces opioid dependence with regular meetings with their treatment provider.

What is Medication-Assisted Treatment?

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) refers to the use of medication (as prescribed and overseen by a physician) to support recovery from addiction. There are currently three medications approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating opioid addiction: Methadone, Suboxone (Buprenorphine), and Naltrexone. 

While not used for long-term substance abuse treatment, Naloxone is an FDA-approved medication that reverses the effects of an opioid overdose. This temporary addiction medicine is crucial in preventing overdose deaths. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)’s National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 2.1 million people have an opioid use disorder (OUD) — with an additional 8.2 million misusing opioids in the past year. 

All Meridian patients participating in our Medication-Assisted Treatment Program are required to undergo random urine drug screens, participate in intensive counseling sessions, and attend other recovery activities. Free consultations are offered for individuals and/or families.

Residential treatment facility at Meridian.

Methadone Therapy

Methadone has been used for over 45 years to treat opioid addiction. It has been proven effective when taken as prescribed by a physician and used in combination with intensive counseling and other recovery services. Methadone reduces opioid craving and withdrawal while also preventing the euphoric effects of other abused opioids. It is not intended for the treatment of chronic pain.

Admission Criteria: Adults dependent on opioids for one year or more. Clients must demonstrate previous unsuccessful treatment attempt(s).

Naltrexone/Vivitrol Therapy

Naltrexone/Vivitrol is not an opioid drug. Instead, it blocks the effects of opioids like heroin or oxycodone.

Naltrexone (pill form) and Vivitrol (monthly intramuscular injection) are both non-narcotic, non-addictive substances that create a blockade, preventing abused opioids from binding to the opioid receptors in the brain.

Admission Criteria: Adults dependent on opioids (or alcohol use disorder) who have successfully maintained abstinence for a period of at least 7 to 10 days. Clients who have successfully completed detoxification (detox) or residential treatment, as well as clients preparing for release from incarceration, are strongly encouraged to consider this option for sustaining their recovery.

Suboxone Therapy

Suboxone (Buprenorphine) was developed as an alternative to methadone treatment and has been used, primarily in physician offices, since 2002. Like methadone, suboxone reduces opioid craving and withdrawal while preventing the euphoric effects of other abused opioids.

Suboxone is highly effective when utilized in combination with intensive counseling and other recovery services. It is not indicated for the treatment of chronic pain.

Admission Criteria: Adults dependent on opioids who are struggling to sustain recovery due to physical withdrawal symptoms.

Find Hope in Your Recovery

Our Medication-Assisted Treatment Services are available at the following Meridian HealthCare locations:

Meridian Road Campus

527 N. Meridian Road
Youngstown, OH 44509
Phone: 330.797.0070

Warren Office

320 High Street, NE
Warren, OH 44481
Phone: 330.797.0070

Scheduled Appointments and Walk-Ins Welcome

Meridian offers walk-in assessments and scheduled appointments. 

Walk-ins are offered Monday-Friday 8:00 am–1:00 pm at our Meridian Road location. At our Warren office,

walk-ins are welcome Monday-Friday 7:00 am–1:00 pm. Walk-ins are first-come, first-serve.

The assessment is a conversation between you, the assessment counselor, and your family member (if applicable) to better understand

your concerns and the reason you’re seeking substance use disorder treatment. Our counseling services utilize a person-centered

approach that prioritizes non-judgment, non-discrimination, and personalization.

FAQ About Medication-Assisted Treatment

How long will I need to take medication for my opioid addiction?

The length of treatment in our Medication-Assisted Treatment Program varies based on the individual and his or her unique needs. Typically, clients are most successful in a MAT program if they remain in treatment for more than a year.

Before beginning a medication taper, the counselor and physician will create an individualized recovery program and discuss relapse prevention strategies and the importance of a sober support network.

At Meridian HealthCare, we recognize that medication assists in recovery from addiction and that counseling and engagement in other recovery-orientated affiliations increase the chances of remaining clean and sober, with or without the use of medication.

Once I start taking medication for my opioid addiction, will I ever be able to stop?

It is possible to safely and comfortably taper off the medication when done slowly, carefully, and under the supervision of your treating physician.

Is taking medication for my opioid addiction just trading one drug for another?

Individuals in a MAT opioid treatment program are not “swapping addictions,” but rather exchanging a debilitating addiction for an approved treatment that allows them to lead a more productive life.

Active addiction destroys lives and families, leading to chaos and devastating consequences. On a daily basis, we see individuals reconnect with their families, get back to work, resume hobbies and interests, and lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.

How often do I need to come into the treatment center?

The frequency of services is based upon a thorough clinical assessment, which will take into account your individual needs and the challenges you’re facing.

Medication-Assisted Treatment at Meridian

Our Medication-Assisted Treatment Program is successful because we combine it with counseling and other important recovery activities. You don’t have to navigate your recovery alone – our experienced staff is ready to help guide you toward a better tomorrow.

If you think a medication-assisted treatment program is a good next step (or you want to make a referral), we’re just a phone call away. Reach out today and find your hope at Meridian!

Contact Meridian
Man struggling with drug addiction in a counseling session.

What do current and recovering patients have to say about Meridian?

Without the help I got from Meridian, I would be dead. I’m so grateful to them for everything they did. Thanks to Meridian, I got my life back.

They actually care. Meridian helped me with my recovery. Really, they saved my life.

My Meridian counselor was the BEST ever. You should never hesitate to ask if you need help — they are great.

I had a great experience at Meridian. They are the best out there for drug and mental health issues.