Medication-Assisted Treatment for Opioid & Alcohol Use Disorder

Yes, in most cases. If you're in mild-to-moderate opioid withdrawal (typically 8–12 hours since your last use of short-acting opioids, or 24–48 hours for long-acting opioids like methadone), we can prescribe buprenorphine during your first telehealth visit. The prescription is sent electronically to your pharmacy immediately after the appointment.

No. This is a common myth. Buprenorphine is a medication that stabilizes brain chemistry, just like blood pressure medication or insulin stabilizes physical conditions. It treats opioid use disorder medically. Studies consistently show MAT patients have dramatically better outcomes — including lower overdose death rates, better mental health, and improved quality of life — compared to those who attempt abstinence without medication support.

Most major insurance plans cover MAT treatment, including Medicaid and Medicare. Since the passage of the Mental Health Parity Act, substance use disorder treatment must be covered at the same level as other medical conditions. We accept most major insurance and will verify your coverage before your appointment. Self-pay options are also available.

There's no one-size-fits-all answer. SAMHSA guidelines recommend treating OUD like a chronic disease — many patients benefit from long-term maintenance (years), while others may stabilize and taper after 12–24 months. We never rush tapering. Your provider will work with you to make the decision based on your recovery goals and medical history.

Yes. We provide telehealth MAT to patients in Virginia and Florida. Our providers are licensed in both states to prescribe buprenorphine via telemedicine. You never need to visit our Maryland office. Your prescription will be sent to a pharmacy in your home state.

Co-occurring mental health conditions are very common in OUD patients. As a full-service family practice, we can address anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other conditions alongside your MAT. We also provide referrals to therapists and counselors who specialize in addiction recovery when appropriate.

Absolutely. Your medical records are protected by HIPAA and, for substance use disorder specifically, by 42 CFR Part 2 — a federal regulation that provides even stronger privacy protections than standard HIPAA. We will never disclose your treatment to your employer, family, or anyone else without your explicit written consent.

Yes. MAT is highly effective for alcohol use disorder (AUD), not just opioid addiction. FDA-approved medications like naltrexone work by blocking the brain's reward response to alcohol, which dramatically reduces cravings and the pleasure of drinking. Studies show naltrexone reduces heavy drinking days by up to 25% and significantly increases abstinence rates. It can be taken as a daily oral pill or as a monthly Vivitrol injection (no daily pill to remember). Icon Medicine treats both OUD and AUD — you do not need a history of opioid use to qualify for our MAT program.

Icon Medicine uses FDA-approved medications for AUD:

Naltrexone (oral, daily) — Blocks opioid receptors in the brain, removing the pleasurable "buzz" from alcohol and reducing cravings. Most commonly prescribed, can be started immediately.

Vivitrol (naltrexone injection, monthly) — Same mechanism as oral naltrexone but given as a once-monthly shot. Eliminates the need to remember a daily pill and helps with adherence.

Both medications are non-addictive, do not cause sedation, and can be prescribed via telehealth. Your provider will recommend the best option based on your drinking history and preferences.