How does it work?

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is the use of FDA-approved medications, in combination with counseling and behavioral therapies, to provide a “whole-patient” approach to the treatment of substance use disorders. MAT patients must receive counseling, which could include different forms of behavioral therapy.

These services are required along with medical, vocational, educational, and other assessment and treatment services. The prescribed medications used in MAT programs work to normalize brain chemistry, block the euphoric effects of alcohol and opioids, relieve physiological cravings, and normalize body functions without the negative effects of the abused drug.

What medications are used?

Buprenorphine and Naloxone also known as Suboxone is one of the medications used in our MAT program. Subutex is another form of medication used but does not contain Naloxone. These medications suppress and reduce cravings for the abused drug. It can come in a pill form or sublingual tablet that is placed under the tongue.

Naltrexone (Vivitrol) Naltrexone works differently than methadone and buprenorphine in the treatment of opioid dependency. If a person using naltrexone relapses and uses the abused drug, naltrexone blocks the euphoric and sedative effects of the abused drug and prevents feelings of euphoria. This medication is also used for Alcohol use disorders. When used as a treatment for alcohol dependency, naltrexone blocks the euphoric effects and feelings of intoxication. This allows people with alcohol addiction to reduce their drinking behaviors enough to remain motivated to stay in treatment, avoid relapses, and take medications.

Narcan is the brand name for a drug called Naloxone that blocks the effects of an opioid. It’s primarily used to treat patients during overdose but is also sometimes combined with opioid prescriptions, in the same pill, to decrease the risk of abuse. During an opioid overdose, users can experience respiratory depression, mental confusion, and heart-related complications. Narcan is effective in reversing respiratory depression during an overdose. Narcan really saves lives!!

MAT Program FAQS:

How long is the program?

The duration will vary from person to person. Your provider will closely monitor your progress on these medications and will provide individualized care based on his/her evaluation.

Do I have to be a patient of CareSouth Carolina to join the MAT program?

No, you do not have to be a patient of CareSouth Carolina to participate in MAT.

Where are MAT services offered?

MAT services are offered at Bennettsville, Bishopville, Chesterfield, Hartsville, Latta, Dillon, McColl and Society Hill site locations. We have partnered with Trinity Behavioral Health, Rubicon Family Counseling and ALPHA Behavioral Center for substance abuse counseling

Where can I get more information on the MAT program at CareSouth Carolina?

Please give us a call at 843-624-1891 or 843-758-0937.

MAT Locations:

Bishopville Center: (545 Sumter Highway, Bishopville, SC 29010) 803.484.5317

Chesterfield Center: (204 Perry Wiley Way, Chesterfield, SC 29709) 843.623.5080

Dillon Center: (207 E. Monroe Street, Dillon, SC 29536) 843.774.4337

Hartsville Center (1268 S. Fourth Street, Hartsville, SC 29550) 843.332.3422

Latta Center (122 Latimer Street, Latta, SC 29565) 843.627.6252

Society Hill Center (737 S. Main Street, Society Hill, SC 29593) 843.378.4501

Bennettsville Center: (999 Cheraw Street, Bennettsville, SC 29512) 843.479.2341

McColl Center: (3080 Highway 15-401 E, McColl SC 29570) 843.523.5751

CareSouth Carolina also offers MAT Freedom ROADS Unit at the following locations: