Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is the use of medications with counseling and behavioral therapies to treat certain substance use disorders and prevent an opioid overdose. MAT is primarily used for the treatment of addiction to opioids and prescription pain relievers. It cannot be used for addiction to stimulants or tranquilizers.
Medication-Assisted Treatment
In-Network With Most Commercial Insurers
Clinically reviewed by
Dr. Ian Wolds Psy.D.
Last reviewed on July 16, 2026
How Medication-Assisted Treatment Works
The medical community is increasingly convinced of the benefits of this treatment method. “When used appropriately, medications used to treat addiction are not addicting, as they do not cause patients to use them compulsively or in an unhealthy way. Rather, these medications support patients in their recovery,” according to a factsheet published by the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM).
There are three medications currently used to treat opioid use disorder:
- Methadone: Clinic-based opioid agonist that does not block other narcotics while preventing withdrawal while taking it, taken as daily liquid dispensed only in specialty clinics.
- Naltrexone: Office-based non-addictive opioid antagonist that blocks the effects of other narcotics, taken as a daily pill or monthly injection.
- Buprenorphine: Office-based opioid agonist/antagonist that blocks other narcotics while reducing withdrawal risk, taken as a daily dissolving tablet, cheek film, or 6-month implant under the skin.
Muir Wood Treatment Center Reviews
Read about Muir Wood experiences from a parent who has been through it. Read these and other reviews from real parents of Muir Wood alumni. If you would like to speak to an alumni parent, contact us and we’ll arrange it.
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All staff are kind and genuinely concerned for the wellbeing of our son. We felt our son was safe and in a place that would facilitate his growth. We are eternally grateful for you. Thank you.
Kind staff kept our son safe and growing
Jul 2026
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Great services, staff went above and beyond
LL
Jul 2026
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I feel Cassidy received quality care at Muir wood. Her therapist, Lars, sincerely cared about her wellbeing and was able to assist Cassidy in unlocking some long pent up emotions that no one else had been able to assist her with.
NM
Jul 2026
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Muir Wood has been a gift to our son and our family. Their focus on substance abuse, mental health and the family provides comprehensive treatment that our kids deserve but is so incredibly hard to find.
KM
Jul 2026
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My daughter had experience with another facility prior to coming to Muirwood. What a difference! Muirwood staff was caring, they communicated regularly, and they worked to help her with her co-existing disorders.
HL
Jul 2026
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We got great care, full family services. New perspective on Leah's dx and medication.
DM
Jul 2026
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I trusted you with my daughter. I do not take that lightly.
GS
Jul 2026
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My son stayed for 90 days, I am impressed at the young man he has become here. I am so proud of him and all the staff I have interacted with have been phenonemal. Especially, Anthony! He was key in his transformation and will be missed.
JP
Jul 2026
Accreditations
*Please note that at this time, we are not in network with Medicaid/Medi-Cal