Enhanced Methadone MAT Program at AdCare RI

Alongside the standard medication-assisted treatment (MAT) protocols that utilize naltrexone (Vivitrol) or buprenorphine to address opioid dependence, AdCare Rhode Island provides three distinct and specialized methadone treatment protocols designed specifically for individuals suffering from opioid use disorder. Each protocol is tailored to meet the unique needs of patients, ensuring a comprehensive and individualized approach to recovery. These specialized methadone programs aim to effectively mitigate withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, and support long-term sobriety, fostering a safer and more supportive environment for those seeking help.

Option 1: Methadone Induction and Maintenance

Individuals seeking inpatient treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD) have the option to initiate their recovery journey with methadone, a proven medication used in the management of OUD. At AdCare Rhode Island, once a patient begins their treatment with methadone, the clinical team closely monitors and tailors the dosage to ensure the patient achieves optimal stabilization throughout their inpatient stay.
As the inpatient phase of treatment comes to an end, AdCare Rhode Island facilitates a smooth transition for the patient to a methadone clinic of their choice. This approach allows individuals to continue their methadone maintenance therapy in an environment that is convenient and accessible for them, significantly enhancing the continuity of care.
It’s important to note that some individuals may choose to remain on methadone maintenance treatment for an extended period, which could range from several months to an open-ended timeframe, depending on their personal recovery journey and needs. Should any individual wish to explore transitioning to an alternative medication for opioid use disorder or consider tapering off methadone entirely, AdCare Rhode Island is committed to supporting them through this decision. Their dedicated team is equipped to provide the necessary guidance and resources to ensure a safe and effective transition, tailoring the process to each individual’s unique circumstances.

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 offers a specialized program designed to assist suitable patients in transitioning from methadone maintenance therapy to alternative medications such as Suboxone or Vivitrol. This program primarily targets individuals currently enrolled in methadone maintenance programs within accredited opioid treatment facilities (OTPs).
With our innovative approach, participants have the opportunity to undergo detoxification and transition to either Suboxone or Vivitrol within an expedited timeframe of just four weeks. This accelerated transition stands in stark contrast to the conventional detoxification protocols for methadone, which can require patients on high doses—such as 150 ml of methadone—anywhere from one to two years to complete the process.
The advantages of our four-week transition program are becoming increasingly appealing to patients, as it not only significantly reduces the duration of detox but also provides a pathway to medications that may better align with their individual lifestyles and recovery goals. Many patients are increasingly choosing this faster, more flexible method of detox to regain control over their lives and embrace a more tailored approach to their medication-assisted treatment (MAT).

Option 3: Accelerated Methadone Detox

AdCare provides a specialized accelerated detox program for patients who are currently undergoing methadone maintenance therapy and are seeking to discontinue its use in a more expedient manner. This intensive 4-week detoxification process is tailored for a carefully selected group of individuals who have not only established a solid foundation in their recovery journey but also demonstrate a commitment to their treatment goals.
Unlike conventional methadone tapering protocols, which can extend over several months or even years, our accelerated detox program is designed to significantly shorten this timeline. Throughout the program, participants receive comprehensive support and medical supervision, ensuring a safer and more comfortable transition off methadone. This unique approach enables patients to regain control of their lives more rapidly while staying focused on their recovery objectives.

“Our Enhanced MAT Program is leading the way in Rhode Island…Some patients took advantage of the Accelerated 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 detox from methadone over a 4-week period, our compassionate Rhode Island team can help support you throughout your recovery journey.