Inpatient vs. Outpatient MMT: Which Is Safer?

Both inpatient and outpatient methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) programs are very safe. However, for those who require intensive care or who have never attended a formal addiction treatment program before, it is often much safer to start in a residential facility. Call 800-994-1867Who Answers? to find inpatient programs that will cater to your needs and help you recover from opioid addiction.

Methadone Maintenance: A Highly Regulated Treatment Option

According to the National Institute of Justice, “MMT is one of the most monitored and regulated medical treatments in the country.” This is because methadone itself, when taken in high doses, can be addictive, so government administrations like the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and the Drug Enforcement Agency must regulate and review every MMT program in the United States. This high level of supervision does allow these programs to be very safe for patients, whether in residential or outpatient facilities.

Inpatient vs. Outpatient MMT

Both of these options are particularly safe and effective and must adhere to a strict code in order to be able to dispense methadone. But there are some reasons why you may want to choose an inpatient facility, especially in the beginning of your treatment.

Outpatient MMT

Those suffering from comorbid disorders should seek inpatient MMT.

  • It is easier on many patients to transition from residential care into outpatient care after learning to cope with daily problems associated with recovery and addiction in a controlled environment. Then, you can slowly move into a less controlled facility once you feel you have mastered these skills in a more restricted setting.
  • According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, “Recent reports have highlighted the potential dangers, including death, or the improper use… of methadone.” In order to avoid these issues, especially in the beginning of your recovery where your chances of relapse may be higher, you can attend an inpatient program where you will not have the opportunity to misuse your medication.
  • Those who are suffering from comorbid disorders, medical issues associated with their opioid abuse, and other severe or long-term issues should absolutely attend inpatient care. These programs are usually more intensive and provide more treatment options to those patients who need them, which can make a person’s overall recovery much easier and safer.
  • If you are in a situation at home where you do not have a strong support group of family and friends to help you during MMT, you may want to consider attending residential care. It can be very difficult to get through recovery without this type of support, and in inpatient programs, your doctors, nurses, therapists, and even other patients can become a part of your support system that will help you continue your recovery from addiction.

Seek Methadone Maintenance Treatment Now

It can be difficult to know which program is right for you, especially when you are struggling with other issues associated with substance abuse and the decision to recover. Call 800-994-1867Who Answers? now to find safe, reliable treatment options as well as the facilities that will be most beneficial to your needs. Tell us what you require from your treatment program, and we will help you find the best rehab center for you. Call today to start your journey of recovery.

Choosing Between Inpatient and Outpatient Methadone Treatment Programs

Methadone treatment is one of the oldest and most trusted treatment types for opioid addiction syndromes. Though there is no …

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