Every day, individuals and families across Long Island face the devastating impact of overdose. As fentanyl and other synthetic opioids continue to drive record-high death rates in New York and nationwide, finding practical, evidence-based solutions has never been more urgent.
One of the most proven approaches to preventing relapse and reducing the risk of fatal overdose is medication-assisted treatment (MAT). This comprehensive method combines FDA-approved medications with counseling, therapy, and ongoing medical support.
At Victory Recovery Partners, we know that recovery isn’t one-size-fits-all. With services available across our five Long Island locations, clients can receive the care they need—quickly, safely, and without judgment.
In this article, we’ll explore:
- How medication-assisted treatment helps protect against overdose
- Why it’s considered a gold standard in addiction medicine
- How Victory’s evidence-based model supports lasting recovery for individuals and families throughout Suffolk and Nassau Counties.
What Is Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)?
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is an evidence-based approach to addiction recovery that combines FDA-approved medications with behavioral therapy and counseling. It is primarily used to treat opioid use disorder, but it can also support recovery from alcohol and other substance dependencies when medically appropriate.
The goal of MAT is to stabilize the body’s systems affected by substance use, reduce withdrawal symptoms, and help individuals regain control of their health. By addressing both the biological and psychological aspects of addiction, MAT supports long-term recovery and lowers the risk of relapse—one of the leading factors contributing to overdose.
How MAT works
MAT uses medications that act on the same brain receptors as the misused substances but in safer, controlled ways that reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms without producing a euphoric high. This allows individuals to focus on therapy, rebuilding relationships, and restoring stability in their daily lives.
There are several FDA-approved medications used in MAT, depending on the type of substance and the person’s treatment needs.
For Opioid Use Disorder:
- Methadone: Reduces cravings and withdrawal by activating opioid receptors in a controlled, supervised setting.
- Buprenorphine (Suboxone): Partially activates opioid receptors to prevent withdrawal and minimize misuse potential.
- Naltrexone (Vivitrol): Blocks the effects of opioids, reducing the risk of relapse.
Each of these medications works differently, but all are designed to help people stabilize physically and mentally so they can fully engage in the recovery process.
For Alcohol Use Disorder:
Before beginning treatment for alcohol dependence, a healthcare provider determines which medication best fits the person’s medical history and recovery goals. Commonly prescribed options include:
- Naltrexone (Vivitrol or Revia): Reduces the rewarding effects of alcohol and helps curb cravings.
- Acamprosate (Campral): Helps normalize brain activity disrupted by long-term alcohol use and reduces the urge to drink.
- Disulfiram (Antabuse): Causes unpleasant physical reactions when alcohol is consumed, discouraging use.
When used as part of a structured recovery plan, these medications support both the physical and psychological aspects of healing.
Behavioral and psychological support
While medication plays a vital role, therapy and counseling are equally essential. MAT programs are most effective when combined with:
- Individual therapy to address the emotional and behavioral aspects of addiction.
- Group counseling to foster connection, accountability, and community.
- Education and relapse prevention planning to promote lasting recovery.
Medication-assisted treatment is not a “replacement drug” or a shortcut to recovery—it’s a medically supervised pathway that helps restore health, function, and hope while protecting against the dangers of overdose.
How Does Medication-Assisted Treatment Help Protect Against Overdose?
One of the most critical questions in addiction medicine today is: How does medication-assisted treatment help protect against overdose? Research shows the answer is clear. MAT saves lives.
Relapse following detox or abstinence is one of the most significant risk factors for overdose because the body’s tolerance decreases, making even small doses potentially lethal. MAT directly interrupts this cycle by stabilizing the brain, reducing cravings, and helping people maintain consistent recovery engagement.
1. Stabilizing the brain and body
MAT medications help restore balance to the brain systems disrupted by addiction. By easing withdrawal symptoms and lowering cravings, people can focus on recovery instead of fighting constant urges to use.
Some of the main ways MAT helps stabilize recovery include:
- Reducing withdrawal symptoms that can lead to relapse.
- Blocking the euphoric effects of drugs or alcohol to prevent reinforcement.
- Normalizing brain chemistry so individuals can function and think clearly.
When the brain and body are stable, people are more likely to stay in treatment and less likely to relapse or overdose.
2. Reducing the risk of illicit use
Another way medication-assisted treatment helps protect against overdose is by lowering the need for dangerous, unregulated substances. Street drugs are often mixed with fentanyl, making even one relapse potentially fatal. Access to prescribed medications like methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone offers a safer, medically supervised alternative.
Research from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) confirms that MAT dramatically reduces overdose deaths and keeps people engaged in care longer—two key factors in long-term recovery.
3. Supporting long-term engagement in care
MAT works best when combined with therapy, counseling, and support groups. This integrated approach helps individuals build coping skills, strengthen relationships, and stay connected to treatment. People who remain in MAT for at least a year are far less likely to relapse or overdose than those who leave treatment early.
In short, MAT doesn’t just manage withdrawal—it provides the medical and emotional stability needed to prevent relapse, protect against overdose, and support lasting recovery.
Victory Recovery Partners’ Approach to MAT on Long Island
At Victory Recovery Partners, medication-assisted treatment isn’t just about reducing withdrawal symptoms—it’s about restoring stability, safety, and hope. With five convenient locations across Suffolk and Nassau Counties, Victory offers accessible, evidence-based care to help Long Island residents break free from substance dependence and protect against overdose.
Comprehensive, integrated care
Victory’s MAT program brings medical, therapeutic, and psychiatric services together under one roof. This integrated approach ensures that each patient receives the right combination of medication and behavioral support to achieve lasting recovery.
Our team provides several FDA-approved medication options tailored to each individual’s needs:
- Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone): A daily medication that reduces cravings and withdrawal for opioid use disorder.
- Sublocade: A once-monthly injectable form of buprenorphine that offers consistent symptom control and convenience.
- Vivitrol (naltrexone): A non-addictive monthly injection that blocks the effects of opioids and alcohol, reducing relapse risk.
- Methadone: A long-acting medication for opioid dependence available through our certified opioid treatment programs in Suffolk County.
Together, these medications help patients stabilize quickly, stay engaged in therapy, and significantly reduce their risk of relapse or overdose.
Fast, accessible, and judgment-free treatment
Victory operates on a “no one left behind” philosophy. Intake is fast—often within 24 hours—because timely access to treatment can be the difference between relapse and recovery. Our clinics welcome individuals who may have been turned away elsewhere, offering compassionate, judgment-free care to anyone seeking change.
Whether you’re starting Suboxone, transitioning to Vivitrol, or exploring long-term maintenance, our focus remains the same: provide the safest, most effective path toward sustainable recovery.
Protecting Lives Through Compassionate Care
When it comes to saving lives, understanding how medication-assisted treatment helps protect against overdose is essential. By combining proven medications with therapy and medical care, MAT reduces cravings, prevents relapse, and stabilizes both body and mind—dramatically lowering the risk of fatal overdose.
At Victory Recovery Partners, we believe no one should be left behind. With same-day access, integrated care, and five convenient Long Island locations, we make recovery accessible, personalized, and judgment-free.
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, contact Victory Recovery Partners today. Let recovery be your victory.
FAQs: How Does Medication-Assisted Treatment Help Protect Against Overdose?
Is medication-assisted treatment safe long-term?
Yes. MAT is considered a gold standard for treating opioid and alcohol use disorders. It’s safe, effective, and supported by decades of research when prescribed and monitored by qualified professionals.
How quickly can someone start MAT at Victory Recovery Partners?
Victory’s intake process moves quickly—patients can often begin treatment within 24 hours. With five Long Island locations across Suffolk and Nassau Counties, our team provides fast, compassionate, and judgment-free access to care.
Does MAT replace one drug with another?
No. MAT uses medications in controlled doses to restore balance—not to substitute addiction. These treatments help people regain stability, function safely, and reduce the risk of overdose.