You've tried to quit drinking before, but struggled with cravings or have relapsed
What Is Medication-Assisted Treatment for Alcohol?
Receive the support you need to finally recover from alcohol addiction. Call 303.268.2987 today and discover MAT for alcohol use disorder.
Clinically reviewed by Tia Conard, LCSW-S — Vice President of Clinical Services, Alsos Behavioral Health
Alcohol addiction is overwhelming in every way—not just for the person drinking, but also for their family, friends, and support system. And recovery can feel unattainable when cravings are intense. But it doesn't have to be. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for alcohol is a medically proven approach that helps people just like you regain control and start healing with dignity.
At Sheridan Grove Recovery, we offer MAT in a compassionate, structured environment. For those searching for MAT available near Denver, our Aurora-based treatment center provides 24/7 nursing support and trauma-informed care to help clients feel in control of their lives again.
How MAT works for alcohol use disorder
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a chronic medical condition that changes brain chemistry and behavior. With AUD, giving up alcohol is not a matter of willpower. AUD is a complex disease that requires expert care. MAT uses FDA-approved medications to lessen cravings, block the pleasurable effects of alcohol that you’ve learned to expect, and support your brain’s recovery.
These medications restore chemical balance while therapy equips you with the tools you need for long-term sobriety.
Are you a good candidate for MAT?
MAT can support a wide range of individuals who want to take hold of an alcohol-free life. It's especially helpful for people whose bodies and brains have become physically dependent on alcohol and have found it difficult to quit when they've tried before.
You're likely a good candidate for MAT if:
You drink heavily on a daily basis and experience withdrawal symptoms
You've been diagnosed with alcohol use disorder (AUD)
You live with a co-occurring mental health condition, such as anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or depression
You use other substances in addition to alcohol
You're motivated to get better, but feel stuck or overwhelmed by physical dependency
At Sheridan Grove Recovery, we approach each person's treatment with structured, trauma-informed care, clinical insight, and respect. Before MAT is prescribed, our team completes a thorough assessment to determine whether you're a strong candidate and what the safest and most effective plan will be for you.
You don't have to hit rock bottom to qualify for treatment, and you don't have to figure everything out on your own. If you or someone you love is struggling with alcohol use, our team is here to guide you through your options and help you move forward with confidence and strength.
Medication and therapy
Medication is just one piece of a comprehensive plan for your healing. In order for MAT to be effective, it should be paired with evidence-based therapies that address the emotional and psychological roots of addiction. When these things go unaddressed, people are left without knowledge of what factors led to their addiction, and therefore more susceptible to relapse.
At Sheridan Grove, our treatment team uses a range of therapeutic approaches alongside MAT, including:
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Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) approach to identify and reframe harmful thought patterns
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Individual and group therapy formats to help foster peer support and personal growth
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Life skills training to rebuild independence and confidence
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Trauma-informed care that acknowledges the deep impact of past experiences
Using medication to aid your recovery doesn't mean you're masking emotions or delaying healing. It simply reduces the physical barriers, so that you're clear-minded for therapy and the introspection that it takes to confront hard truths and finally heal. MAT gives clients clarity and support for the recovery journey.
What types of medications are used for alcohol use disorder?
At Sheridan Grove Recovery, we use several medications to support you during recovery from alcohol use disorder. Each is carefully chosen based on a client’s medical history, co-occurring diagnoses, and substance use background.
Find out if MAT is right for you.
Our admissions team will guide you through next steps, and an authorized medical provider will evaluate whether MAT is appropriate for you. Reach out today to take the first step.
Vivitrol (naltrexone)
Vivitrol is a non-addictive, once-monthly injection that helps reduce the pleasurable effects of alcohol in the brain. By blocking opioid receptors, it diminishes cravings and lowers the risk of relapse. Vivitrol is often chosen for individuals who have already detoxed and are focused on staying alcohol-free. It’s especially effective for people with a history of relapse or co-occurring mental health concerns, as it carries no risk of physical dependence.
Subutex (buprenorphine)
Though primarily used to treat opioid use disorder, Subutex may be considered for clients facing addiction to more than one substance, such as alcohol and opioids. As a partial opioid agonist, Subutex helps stabilize individuals with complex substance use. It can be an effective option when alcohol addiction is tied to opioid misuse, offering a pathway to address both conditions concurrently.
What are the risks associated with MAT?
As with any medication, MAT has potential risks and side effects, which is why it's always administered under careful supervision.
Some possible side effects include:
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Nausea
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Headache
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Fatigue
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Mild injection site reactions (for Vivitrol)
These risks are typically manageable, and the benefits of MAT outweigh the drawbacks. At Sheridan Grove, clients are closely monitored and supported through every step of their treatment to ensure safety and comfort. We provide MAT in a judgment-free setting, focused solely on helping clients reclaim their lives.
How long does MAT take to help with alcohol addiction?
Recovery isn’t linear and the timeline varies for everyone. Many clients begin to feel relief from cravings within the first week of MAT, while others may continue MAT for several months as they work through the psychological and behavioral aspects of addiction.
At Sheridan Grove, MAT is typically introduced during medical detox (also known as withdrawal management) and carried through residential treatment. Our clinical team works closely with each client to make adjustments to their treatment plan as needed.
When can you start MAT for alcohol addiction?
When to begin MAT depends on an individual’s drinking status. For safety reasons, medications like Vivitrol, for example, can only be administered after alcohol has cleared the system, which is why MAT often begins during or immediately after detox.
Sheridan Grove offers medical detox with 24/7 nursing services, allowing clients to begin their recovery safely and under supervision. Once stabilized, MAT can be introduced quickly to help reduce cravings and prevent early relapse. With around-the-clock admissions and transportation available, help is accessible when it’s needed most.
24/7 admissions available.
Our Aurora-based team is ready to help you begin your recovery safely and with dignity, any time of day or night.
Get the support you need today—contact Sheridan Grove Recovery for MAT
Sheridan Grove Recovery is located in Aurora, Colorado, and provides compassionate addiction care for the greater Denver area. Every day, our team will honor the bravery you've shown in choosing recovery by offering you the respect you deserve. Whether you're seeking help for yourself or someone you love, we're here with the resources and clinical support you need.
Here's more of what we offer:
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24/7 admissions and detox support
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MAT delivered by licensed medical professionals
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Transportation support to and from treatment
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Compassionate, nonjudgmental staff trained in addiction medicine
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Commercial insurance and Medicaid accepted
Everyone deserves access to effective, dignified care—no matter where they're starting from. Our MAT program meets clients where they are and helps them move forward with confidence.
Take the next step toward healing
Medication-assisted treatment is not a shortcut—it’s a lifeline. By combining science, structure, and compassion, MAT helps individuals recover from alcohol addiction. Whether you’ve tried treatment before or are seeking help for the first time, we're here for you.
Sheridan Grove proudly accepts Medicaid, so addiction treatment is available to those who need it. We serve you and your family with the compassion needed for transformation and none of the judgment. Find clinically grounded care regardless of your financial status. Our team works closely with clients and families to help navigate insurance coverage and make treatment as accessible and stress-free as possible.
Ready to take the next step? Call our admissions team today to learn more about MAT and find out if it’s the right option for you or call 303.268.2987.
Healing in the heart of Aurora. Recovery for Greater Denver.
What is medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for alcohol use?
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for alcohol use combines FDA-approved medications with therapy in order to treat alcohol use disorder (AUD). It helps reduce cravings, prevent relapse, and give clients the clarity they need to participate in treatment.
Does MAT just replace one addiction with another?
No. This is a misconception. MAT medications, such as Vivitrol, don’t cause a “high” and aren't addictive when taken as prescribed. They work to stabilize brain chemistry, allowing individuals to focus more effectively on therapy and healing.
Can I start MAT while I’m still drinking?
Most MAT medications for alcohol use disorder are started after alcohol is cleared from your system. That’s why Sheridan Grove offers medical detox with 24/7 nursing. Once you're stabilized, an authorized medical provider will determine when to begin MAT.
How long will I be on MAT?
The length of time someone stays on MAT varies. Some individuals benefit from a few months of medication support, while others may continue for a year or more. Treatment is always personalized, and we’ll work with you to reassess your plan as your needs change.
Is MAT covered by Medicaid or insurance?
Both Medicaid and commercial insurance accepted — neither undercuts the other. Everyone deserves access to treatment, regardless of their financial situation.
What are the side effects of MAT medications?
Side effects depend on the medication. Our medical team monitors clients closely to manage any side effects and ensure that treatment remains safe.
Do I still need therapy if I’m taking medication?
Yes. Medication helps reduce cravings, but therapy addresses the root causes of addiction, like trauma, mental health conditions, and negative thought patterns. At Sheridan Grove, MAT and therapy work together to support your recovery.
Can MAT help if I have both alcohol and opioid addiction?
Yes. Some medications, such as Subutex or Suboxone, may be used in cases of polysubstance use. Our team will assess your needs and create a tailored plan that addresses all aspects of your substance use.
Is MAT offered during residential treatment at Sheridan Grove?
We integrate MAT into our detox and residential care programs. Once medically stabilized, clients receive MAT alongside individual and group therapy, all provided in a structured 24/7 setting.
Questions, answered
Frequently asked questions.
Are you a good candidate for MAT?
MAT can support a wide range of individuals who want to take hold of an alcohol-free life. It's especially helpful for people whose bodies and brains have become physically dependent on alcohol and have found it difficult to quit when they've tried before. You're likely a good candidate for MAT if: You've tried to quit drinking before, but struggled with cravings or have relapsed You drink heavily on a daily basis and experience withdrawal symptoms You've been diagnosed with alcohol use disorder (AUD) You live with a co-occurring mental health condition, such as anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or depression You use other substances in addition to alcohol You're motivated to get better, but feel stuck or overwhelmed by physical dependency At Sheridan Grove Recovery, we approach each person's treatment with structured, trauma-informed care, clinical insight, and respect. Before MAT is prescribed, our team completes a thorough assessment to determine whether you're a strong candidate and what the safest and most effective plan will be for you. You don't have to hit rock bottom to qualify for treatment, and you don't have to figure everything out on your own. If you or
What are the risks associated with MAT?
As with any medication, MAT has potential risks and side effects, which is why it's always administered under careful supervision. Some possible side effects include: Nausea Headache Fatigue Mild injection site reactions (for Vivitrol) These risks are typically manageable, and the benefits of MAT outweigh the drawbacks. At Sheridan Grove, clients are closely monitored and supported through every step of their treatment to ensure safety and comfort. We provide MAT in a judgment-free setting, focused solely on helping clients reclaim their lives.
How long does MAT take to help with alcohol addiction?
Recovery isn’t linear and the timeline varies for everyone. Many clients begin to feel relief from cravings within the first week of MAT, while others may continue MAT for several months as they work through the psychological and behavioral aspects of addiction. At Sheridan Grove, MAT is typically introduced during medical detox (also known as withdrawal management) and carried through residential treatment. Our clinical team works closely with each client to make adjustments to their treatment plan as needed.
When can you start MAT for alcohol addiction?
When to begin MAT depends on an individual’s drinking status. For safety reasons, medications like Vivitrol, for example, can only be administered after alcohol has cleared the system, which is why MAT often begins during or immediately after detox. Sheridan Grove offers medical detox with 24/7 nursing services, allowing clients to begin their recovery safely and under supervision. Once stabilized, MAT can be introduced quickly to help reduce cravings and prevent early relapse. With around-the-clock admissions and transportation available, help is accessible when it’s needed most.
Take the next step
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