Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD)

Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) services offered in Gig Harbor, WA

Opioid use disorder can feel overwhelming, but effective treatment is available. At Andrew’s Compassionate Legacy, board-certified nurse practitioner Dr. Gina Hardage-Athetis, MSc, FNP-CB, Psy-D, PhD, offers medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) through convenient and confidential telehealth appointments across Washington State or office based treatment dependent on individual needs assessment. MOUD is an evidence-based treatment that helps reduce cravings, ease withdrawal symptoms, and support long-term recovery. When combined with counseling and behavioral therapy, MOUD can significantly improve recovery outcomes and help you regain stability and confidence in your daily life.

Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) Q&A

What are medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD)?

Medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) are FDA-approved medications that help treat opioid dependence by reducing withdrawal symptoms and cravings. These medications work by stabilizing brain chemistry and reducing the physical symptoms of withdrawal, so you can focus on recovery without constant discomfort or intense urges to use.

MOUD is considered the gold standard for treating opioid use disorder and is most effective when combined with counseling, behavioral therapy, and ongoing support.

What are the benefits of MOUD?

MOUD provides several important benefits that support long-term recovery and overall health, including:

  • Reducing opioid cravings
  • Preventing or easing withdrawal symptoms
  • Lowering the risk of relapse
  • Reducing the risk of overdose
  • Improving daily functioning and stability
  • Supporting long-term recovery

By stabilizing withdrawal symptoms and reducing cravings, MOUD helps create a more stable foundation so you can focus on rebuilding your health, relationships, and daily routine.

What medications are used for opioid use disorder?

Common medications used in MOUD include:

  • Buprenorphine – Reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms without producing the same high as opioids
  • Suboxone® (buprenorphine/naloxone) – Helps prevent misuse while reducing cravings and withdrawal
  • Naltrexone – Blocks the effects of opioids and helps prevent relapse

Dr. Hardage-Athetis will work with you to determine which medication is appropriate based on your medical history, substance use history, and recovery goals.

What happens during MOUD treatment?

MOUD treatment begins with a comprehensive telehealth evaluation to understand your medical history, substance use history, and treatment goals. Once treatment begins, Dr. Hardage-Athetis monitors your progress, adjusts medications as needed, and provides ongoing support through regular telehealth visits.

Your treatment plan may also include counseling and behavioral therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), to help address the emotional and behavioral aspects of recovery.

MOUD is not replacing one drug with another; it is a medically supervised treatment that helps stabilize your body so you can focus on recovery and long-term healing.

Recovery is possible, and you don’t have to go through it alone. Schedule a confidential telehealth appointment with Andrew’s Compassionate Legacy today to learn if MOUD is right for you.