Throughout the 21st century, the United States has been impacted by epidemic levels of opioid abuse, addiction, and overdose. In 2000, opioid overdoses were responsible for about 8,400 deaths in the U.S. By 2020, the annual number of opioid overdose deaths in the U.S. had risen to more than 68,000. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is an evidence-based approach that can be a valuable tool in the effort to reverse this trend. People who take part in MAT receive prescription medications that can ease the intense cravings and other distressing symptoms that are characteristic of opioid withdrawal. When they take these medications as directed, they may find it easier to stop using heroin, prescription pills, morphine, fentanyl, and other opioids. However, prescription medication cannot address the behavioral and social aspects of opioid addiction and recovery. To help people make the lifestyle changes that will support long-term recovery from opioid addiction, MAT programs also provide counseling. During counseling sessions, MAT patients can learn to manage stress, resolve conflicts, and deal with other difficult circumstances in a healthy manner without resorting to opioid abuse.
