Medications to Treat Opioid and Alcohol Use Disorder

Medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) and medications for alcohol use disorder (MAUD), in combination with behavioral therapies, are a treatment modalities for opioid use disorder (OUD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD). These medications help individuals reach and maintain recovery, which enables them to improve their overall well-being, physical health, and mental health.

Unfortunately, a misunderstanding of MOUD and MAUD can lead to stigma, which can prevent people from seeking treatment. Medications such as methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone do not substitute one addiction for another. The dosage of the medication prescribed does not produce a euphoric effect. Methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone reduce cravings and withdrawal by occupying the same receptors in the brain that were activated by the opioid.

PerformCare's goal is to improve people's understanding of MOUD and MAUD, and increase access to these medications. If you are providing services to a member who may benefit from MOUD or MAUD, please contact Member Services for assistance in finding a provider close to the member’s home, or refer to the following medication lists to obtain information on residential, outpatient, and partial hospitalization providers.

The following resources will be helpful in understanding substance use disorder care:

• Medication for Opioid Use Disorder, National Institute of Health (PDF)
• Provisional Drug Overdose Death Counts, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• Federal Guidelines for Opioid Treatment Programs, SAMHSA (PDF)
• National Guidance on Essential Specialty Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Care, SAMHSA (PDF)