What is the primary treatment for opioid use disorder?

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) with buprenorphine or methadone serves as the primary treatment for opioid use disorder due to its effectiveness in reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms associated with opioid dependence. Buprenorphine is a partial agonist that activates the opioid receptors, but to a lesser extent than full agonists, reducing the potential for misuse while still providing relief from withdrawal. Methadone, a full agonist, helps individuals manage cravings and prevent withdrawal symptoms.

The integration of these medications with counseling and behavioral therapies maximizes treatment outcomes, addressing both the physiological and psychological aspects of the disorder. This dual approach helps patients achieve stability and reduces the risk of relapse.

In contrast, therapies that rely solely on psychotherapy or traditional counseling methods do not address the biological dependency that opioids create, which is critical in managing opioid use disorder effectively. Over-the-counter pain relievers do not provide the necessary support for someone with a significant opioid dependence, as they lack opioid receptor activity and therefore do not alleviate withdrawal or cravings.