Opioid Agonist Treatment

Opioid Agonist Treatment (OAT) is a medical approach used to help individuals with opioid dependency reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. It involves prescribing medications like methadone or buprenorphine, which activate the same brain receptors as opioids but do so in a controlled, longer-lasting way. This stabilizes the individual's condition, decreases illicit drug use, and helps improve social and health outcomes. OAT is part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes counseling and support, aiming to promote recovery and reduce the risks associated with opioid addiction, such as overdose.