AMATA recognizes the sensitive needs of teens and young adults struggling with substance abuse disorders. AMATA provides adolescent age specific Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) options. AMATA specializes in adolescent patient centered medical care, combined with age-appropriate individualized treatment planning, evidence based behavioral therapy to meet the needs of adolescents and their families.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, Opioid addiction is a chronic condition in which neurologic changes in the “Reward Center” of the brain are responsible for cravings, chronic relapsing, and compulsive substance use.
Providing early, effective treatment to Adolescents and Young Adults struggling with Opioid Use Disorder is critical to prevent worsening addiction and potentially lifelong harm. Providing adolescents and young adults access to Evidence-Based FDA approved medications effective in the treatment of Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) include Buprenorphine, Methadone and Naltrexone. Combined with age-appropriate behavioral therapy, results in engagement in recovery and long-term treatment retention reduced cravings to opioids, reduced risk of overdose, and fewer relapses.
Recent clinical trials revealed adolescents 13 to 18 years of age who received 2 weeks of Medication Assisted Treatment were more likely to continue substance abuse treatment compared with those who received clonidine for the same period of time. A trial conducted compared 2 detoxification regimens among adolescents and young adults 15 to 21 years of age. One group received 8 weeks of Medication Assisted Treatment before tapering, and the second group received 2 weeks. Adolescents who received 8 weeks had lower rates of illicit opioid use while they were taking medications, and the others quickly disappeared once the medication was discontinued. The findings led to conclude that there is no obvious reason to stop medications in adolescent patients who are doing well. Outcomes found that continued medication compliance is associated with helping adolescents achieve long-term sobriety.
Adolescents are vulnerable to drug and alcohol abuse and addiction. To learn more about our adolescent program for addiction, contact us today to speak with an addiction counselor and schedule an assessment.