Enhanced Methadone MAT Program at AdCare RI

In addition to the conventional MAT protocols involving naltrexone (Vivitrol) or buprenorphine for opioids, AdCare Rhode Island offers the following 3 separate, unique methadone protocols for opioid use disorder.

Option 1: Methadone Induction and Maintenance

Individuals seeking inpatient treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD) may elect to be inducted on methadone as a medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD). Once started on methadone, AdCare Rhode Island stabilizes the patient on methadone during the course of treatment.

As inpatient treatment concludes, AdCare seamlessly transitions the patient to the methadone clinic of their choosing, so they can continue with methadone maintenance in a location convenient for them.

Option 2: Transition from Methadone to Suboxone or Vivitrol

AdCare Rhode Island can transition appropriate patients from methadone maintenance to Suboxone or Vivitrol. Individuals who are currently enrolled in a methadone maintenance program through an opioid treatment program (OTP) have the option of rapidly detoxing and transitioning to either Suboxone or Vivitrol over a 4-week period.

Our rapid 4-week transition takes considerably less time than the standard protocol for methadone detox, which can take a patient on 150 ml. of methadone 1-2 years to detox. As a result, more patients are opting to rapidly detox from methadone and convert to a MAT that better suits their lifestyle and goals.

Option 3: Rapid Methadone Detox

AdCare also offers a rapid methadone detox for patients who are currently on a methadone maintenance protocol and want to discontinue methadone use by quickly detoxing.

This is a 4-week detox from methadone maintenance for a select group of patients who have built a strong recovery program. Our rapid methadone detox significantly accelerates the typical timeline of a conventional clinic taper which can take multiple months/years.

“Our Enhanced MAT Program is leading the way in Rhode Island…Some patients took advantage of the Rapid Methadone Detox to detox from methadone and transition to either Suboxone or Vivitrol over a four-week period. We also saw some patients that were doing well on Suboxone for one-to-two years elect to be weaned off the medication.” — Michael Coburn, MD, ABAM, Medical Director

Effectiveness of Vivitrol, Suboxone, and Counseling

“Patients choosing MAT tend to be highly motivated and want to take advantage of the anti-craving and opioid-blocking medications available to help them maintain their sobriety,” said Dr. Coburn.

Vivitrol, for example, is the brand name of an extended-release, once-a-month injection of naltrexone that completely blocks the intoxicating and pleasurable effects of opioids in the brains of individuals struggling with OUD. Vivitrol’s capacity to reduce drug cravings is also beneficial for people with alcohol use disorder (AUD).

“When MAT is used with counseling and other recovery supports, a successful recovery is very likely,” stressed Dr. Coburn, referencing the early NIDA clinical trials study, Extended Suboxone Treatment Substantially Improves Outcomes for Opioid-Addicted Young Adults.

Suboxone, a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone, helps people reduce or stop their use of opiates. The buprenorphine eases drug cravings, and the naloxone is included to deter misuse of the medication.

Participants in the study who received Suboxone (buprenorphine-naloxone) and counseling for 12 weeks had substantially better outcomes than those who received the standard treatment of short-term detoxification combined with counseling.

Another NIDA clinical trials network study comparing buprenorphine/naloxone (Suboxone) to extended-release naltrexone (Vivitrol)—combined with up to 24 weeks of outpatient treatment—showed similar positive outcomes for both medications.

The study also confirmed that people struggling with opioid dependence who follow detoxification with no medication are very likely to return to drug use.

The clinical team at AdCare Rhode Island employs evidence-based practices to help individuals make healthy decisions and develop solid coping strategies around substance use. Treatment methods can include:

• Motivational enhancement therapy (MET).
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
• Psychoeducational groups.
• 12-Step meetings.

Therapeutic and recreational activities such as acupuncture, drumming, meditation, and yoga are also available to help support the permanent lifestyle changes needed to maintain a healthy long-term recovery.

If you or someone you love is struggling with opioids, AdCare—a drug and alcohol rehab in New England—provides evidence-based treatment, including medications for opioid use disorder.

Our knowledgeable clinical team customizes each person’s treatment plan to ensure it meets their needs. Whether you are looking for a medical detox from opioids, want to transition from methadone to another MOUD, or would like to rapidly detox from methadone, our compassionate Rhode Island team can help support you throughout your recovery journey.