When you’re ready to break free from opioid addiction, the first big question is: What treatment should I choose?
You might picture traditional rehab centers, but treatment today is more flexible than ever. Some people thrive in structured inpatient programs, while others do better with outpatient care or medication-assisted treatment (MAT)—a science-backed approach using Suboxone, methadone, or naltrexone to manage cravings and prevent relapse.
The right choice depends on your lifestyle, the severity of your addiction, and what kind of support you need to stay on track. Do you need round-the-clock medical supervision? A flexible option that lets you keep working? A medication that helps stabilize you without a full rehab stay?
The key to a successful recovery is finding the treatment that aligns with your needs, lifestyle, and level of addiction. In this guide, we’ll compare the most common opioid addiction treatments—how they work, who they’re best for, and their pros and cons—so you can make the most informed decision for your recovery.
Inpatient Treatment: A Highly Structured Approach to Opioid Addiction Treatment
Inpatient rehab, or residential treatment, provides 24/7 medical care and support in a controlled environment. Patients live at the treatment center for a set period—usually 30, 60, or 90 days, though longer stays are available for those who need extended care.
This type of treatment is ideal for people with severe opioid addiction, frequent relapses, or co-occurring mental health disorders. The structured setting removes access to opioids, minimizing triggers and giving patients time to focus fully on recovery.
Pros of Inpatient Treatment
- 24/7 medical and emotional support, reducing the risk of relapse in early recovery
- Structured environment, eliminating exposure to triggers and drug access
- Intensive therapy, including individual counseling, group therapy, and behavioral therapy
- A break from daily life, allowing full focus on recovery
Cons of Inpatient Treatment
- Expensive, especially for those without insurance
- Disruptive to work and family life, as patients have to live at the facility
- Limited flexibility, making it difficult for those with responsibilities at home
- Not necessary for everyone, particularly those with mild to moderate addiction
Best for: People with severe addiction, repeated relapses, or those needing a structured environment to recover.
Outpatient Treatment: A Flexible Recovery Option
If inpatient rehab feels too restrictive, outpatient treatment offers a way to receive structured care while continuing daily life.
Outpatient programs vary in intensity, from standard outpatient therapy (a few sessions per week) to intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) or partial hospitalization programs (PHPs) that require multiple hours of treatment each day.
Pros of Outpatient Treatment
- More affordable than inpatient rehab
- Allows people to continue working, going to school, or caring for family
- Can be combined with medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for added support
- Provides access to therapy and support without full hospitalization
Cons of Outpatient Treatment
- Higher risk of relapse, since patients remain in their usual environment
- Less medical supervision, making it harder for those with severe addiction
- Requires strong motivation and support networks to stay accountable
Best for: People with mild to moderate opioid addiction, those with work or family obligations, and those who have completed inpatient rehab and need continued support.
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): A Science-Backed Approach
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) combines FDA-approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapy to help people manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
Unlike inpatient or outpatient programs, MAT allows patients to stay at home, work, and maintain daily routines while still receiving medical support.
Common MAT Medications
- Suboxone (buprenorphine-naloxone) – Helps manage cravings and withdrawal by partially stimulating opioid receptors.
- Methadone – A full opioid agonist that prevents withdrawal symptoms but requires daily visits to a clinic.
- Naltrexone (Vivitrol) – Blocks the effects of opioids and prevents relapse but requires complete detox before starting.
Pros of MAT
- Reduces relapse risk and overdose rates
- Allows people to continue daily life while receiving treatment
- Helps balance brain chemistry, reducing cravings and withdrawal
- More accessible and flexible than inpatient or outpatient rehab
Cons of MAT
- Requires medical supervision, as dosage adjustments may be needed
- Some medications, like methadone, require daily clinic visits
- Not a standalone treatment, as therapy is recommended for best results
Best for: People who want a flexible, long-term solution for managing opioid addiction and those who have relapsed after traditional rehab.
Which Opioid Addiction Treatment Is Right for You?
Choosing the best treatment depends on your individual needs, addiction severity, and lifestyle factors.
| Factor | Best Treatment Option |
| Severe addiction, repeated relapses | Inpatient rehab |
| Need to keep working or caring for family | Outpatient or MAT |
| Struggle with cravings but want to stay home | MAT (Suboxone, methadone, or naltrexone) |
| High risk of relapse, need structure | Inpatient or intensive outpatient (IOP) |
| Prefer a long-term medication-based approach | MAT |
If you’re unsure where to start, talking to a doctor or addiction specialist can help you decide which approach is best.
Get Help Today with QuickMD’s TeleMAT Services for Opioid Addiction Treatment
If you’re considering medication-assisted treatment (MAT) with Suboxone, naltrexone, or another option, QuickMD makes it easier than ever with TeleMAT, a service QuickMD pioneered in 2019 to provide MAT treatment via telehealth.
Why Choose QuickMD’s TeleMAT for Opioid Addiction Treatment?
- Same-day online Suboxone prescriptions, sent directly to your pharmacy
- Licensed addiction specialists available 7 days a week
- Private, virtual appointments—no in-person clinic visits required
- Personalized treatment plans tailored to your recovery needs
With TeleMAT, you can access high-quality opioid addiction treatment from the comfort of home, without the long wait times of traditional clinics.
Final Thoughts on Inpatient vs. Outpatient vs. MAT
- Inpatient rehab provides intensive, structured care for those with severe addiction.
- Outpatient treatment offers flexibility for those who need support but can manage daily responsibilities.
- MAT is a highly effective option that combines medication with therapy to reduce cravings and prevent relapse.
- The best opioid addiction treatment depends on your personal needs, lifestyle, and level of addiction.
If you need immediate support for opioid addiction, QuickMD’s doctors are ready to help.
