Introduction

Overcoming opioid addiction can be an incredibly challenging journey, especially when attempted alone. At Solstice Health & Wellness, we understand the difficulties and offer professional guidance on buprenorphine treatment for opioid addiction. Many individuals who try to quit opioids “cold turkey” often relapse, but with the right support and medication, recovery is possible.

What is Buprenorphine?

Buprenorphine is an FDA-approved medication used to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). It is effective for those addicted to prescription opioids (pain medications) and heroin.

Buprenorphine treatment has numerous benefits, including blocking the effects of other opioids, alleviating cravings, and preventing withdrawal symptoms such as pain, nausea, and vomiting.

FDA Approved Buprenorphine Products for OUD

Several buprenorphine products are approved for treating opioid addiction:

• Generic Buprenorphine/naloxone sublingual tablets

• Buprenorphine sublingual tablets (Subutex)

• Buprenorphine/naloxone sublingual films (Suboxone)

• Buprenorphine/naloxone sublingual tablets (Zubsolv)

• Buprenorphine/naloxone buccal film (Bunavail)

• Buprenorphine extended-release injection (Sublocade)

• Buprenorphine extended-release injection (Brixadi)

Naloxone is often added to buprenorphine formulations like Suboxone to prevent misuse by injection. When taken under the tongue, naloxone is poorly absorbed and inactive. However, if injected by someone dependent on opioids, it can induce withdrawal, thereby deterring abuse.

How Does Buprenorphine Treatment Work?

Buprenorphine treatment provides a crucial lifeline for individuals battling opioid use disorder. By binding to the same opioid receptors in the brain as drugs like heroin or prescription painkillers, it exerts a milder effect, resulting in less euphoria and a lower risk of misuse. This medication effectively alleviates withdrawal symptoms, curbs cravings, and blocks the pleasurable effects of opioids, making relapse less likely.

A notable advantage of buprenorphine is its ceiling effect, which limits the impact of higher doses, thus significantly reducing the risk of overdose compared to full opioid agonists. Consequently, individuals on buprenorphine can pursue healthier lifestyles, fully participate in therapy, and engage in work, education, and other life activities.

Determining the Right Dose of Buprenorphine

Finding the correct dose of buprenorphine is crucial for effective treatment.  Buprenorphine provides dose-dependent benefits, with 12 to 20 mg per day effectively relieving opioid withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Higher doses, ranging from 24 to 32 mg, further reduce the rewarding effects of opioids like fentanyl, decrease illicit drug use, and improve retention in treatment programs.

Patients can usually be inducted onto buprenorphine/naloxone and stabilized within a few days, though it might take a few weeks to find the optimal dose. During this period, the buprenorphine level might fluctuate, causing withdrawal symptoms or sleep disturbances. Keeping track of symptoms can help doctors adjust the dosage accurately.

Precautions While Taking Buprenorphine

Safety Measures

• Driving and Operating Machinery: Use caution, as buprenorphine can cause dizziness or drowsiness.

• Over-the-Counter Medications: Consult your doctor before taking any medication for cold, cough, or pain, as they may contain narcotics or alcohol.

• Narcotics and Alcohol: Avoid using narcotic drugs or alcohol while on buprenorphine.

• Dosage: Do not take more buprenorphine than prescribed. If symptoms persist, contact your provider.

• Dependency: Buprenorphine can be habit-forming. Do not stop suddenly; your provider may want to gradually reduce the dose.

How to Start Buprenorphine Treatment?

Before prescribing buprenorphine, your doctor will perform a history and physical evaluation, obtain lab results, and provide education on its use. During your consultation, the frequency of follow-up visits will be determined. If you have any concerns about symptoms while on buprenorphine, do not hesitate to reach out to us.

At Solstice Health & Wellness, we tailor opioid addiction treatment to fit each patient’s lifestyle and health needs, providing a safe and supportive environment for recovery.

Conclusion

Buprenorphine treatment offers a promising path to recovery for those struggling with opioid addiction. With professional guidance and a personalized approach, Solstice Health & Wellness ensures you receive the support you need to reclaim your life.

REFERENCES

1. Shulman, M., Wai, J.M. & Nunes, E.V. Buprenorphine Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder: An Overview. CNS Drugs 33, 567–580 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40263-019-00637-z
2. NIDA. 2024, May 8. How do medications to treat opioid use disorder work?. https://nida.nih.gov/publications/research-reports/medications-to-treat-opioid-addiction/how-do-medications-to-treat-opioid-addiction-work
3. Grande, L. A., Cundiff, D., Greenwald, M. K., Murray, M., Wright, T. E., & Martin, S. A. (2023). Evidence on Buprenorphine Dose Limits: A Review. Journal of addiction medicine, 17(5), 509–516. https://doi.org/10.1097/ADM.0000000000001189