Intermediate
Technical
IVT
methadone maintenance therapy
Long-term opioid replacement treatment using methadone to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
Full Definition
A form of medication-assisted treatment where patients receive daily doses of methadone, a long-acting synthetic opioid, to manage opioid use disorder. This therapy helps stabilize patients by preventing withdrawal symptoms and reducing cravings, allowing them to function normally while engaging in counseling and rehabilitation. Treatment is typically administered through specialized opioid treatment programs (OTPs) with strict federal oversight and can continue indefinitely as maintenance therapy.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as MMT in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "The patient has been stable on methadone maintenance therapy for eighteen months." — Treatment progress note
- "Insurance coverage for methadone maintenance therapy varies significantly between providers." — Benefits verification document
Also known as
MMT
methadone treatment
Contrasted with
rapid detox
abstinence-only treatment
Don't confuse with
methadone detoxification
buprenorphine maintenance