Medication‑Assisted Recovery (MAR)
The United States is in the midst of an opioid overdose crisis. If you or someone you love needs help, effective, evidence‑based treatment is available—and it can save lives.
Medication‑Assisted Recovery (MAR) is part of our comprehensive Substance Use Disorder (SUD) services at Pillars Community Health. MAR combines FDA‑approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies to treat substance use disorders. Recognized and endorsed by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and other leading health authorities, MAR is one of the most effective treatments for opioid use disorder and alcohol dependence.
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Who Can Benefit?
MAR is designed for individuals seeking help with:
- Prescription pain medications (opioids)
- Heroin or fentanyl
- Alcohol use disorder
Opioid addiction affects millions of Americans. In 2021 alone, 75.4% of the nearly 107,000 drug overdose deaths in the U.S. involved opioids. Whether you’re struggling yourself or worried about someone else, you are not alone—and help is available. Learn more about our full range of substance use treatment options.
Why Choose Medication-Assited Recovery
Research shows MAR:
- Improves survival rates
- Reduces illicit opioid use and overdose deaths
- Enhances social functioning and retention in treatment
- Decreases criminal activity and disease transmission
- Improves outcomes for opioid‑dependent pregnant people and their babies
- Increases employability and job retention
Medications Used in MAR
MAR employs FDA-approved medications to reduce withdrawal and cravings or to block the effects of opioids and alcohol. These medications include agonists like methadone, antagonists such as naltrexone and naloxone, and partial-antagonists like buprenorphine.
Behavioral Treatment: A Crucial Component
Medication alone is not enough. MAR pairs these medications with evidence‑based therapies to support long‑term recovery, such as:
- Cognitive‑behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Family Therapy
- Motivational interviewing
- Sober Supports
- Ongoing counseling and support services
These approaches help you address underlying issues, recognize triggers, and build coping strategies for lasting success.
Dispelling Misconceptions
A common myth is that MAR simply replaces one drug with another. In reality, medications like buprenorphine do not induce intoxication. Instead, they stabilize brain chemistry, reduce cravings, and allow you to focus on healing.
Take the First Step
If you or someone you know is ready to overcome opioid or alcohol addiction, call us today.
Call 708-PILLARS (708-745-5277)
Ask to schedule an intake or learn more about psychiatric services.
Explore more about our Substance Use Disorder program and the other ways Pillars Community Health provides comprehensive, whole‑person care across medical, dental, behavioral health, substance‑use recovery, and domestic and sexual violence support services throughout La Grange, La Grange Park, Berwyn, Western Springs, Hinsdale, Brookfield, Riverside, Hickory Hills and Chicago’s western and southwestern suburbs.