Patients can safely take their prescribed MAT medication for however long both patient and medical provider feel is most beneficial. Although experts indicate that successful recovery is much more likely for patients who remain in MAT for at least one year, every patient’s journey is different. Some patients choose to finish their treatment and taper off medication to continue to work on recovery and attend substance use counseling. Other patients, especially those who struggle with chronic relapse, may decide to remain on medication for an undetermined length of time.