What Is Buprenorphine?

The recovery process from opioid addiction can be challenging, and individuals may experience various obstacles along their journey. Different treatment options are available, including buprenorphine. Some people are unfamiliar with buprenorphine, so it is essential to be informed about its potential uses.

This article will focus on buprenorphine, how to take it, and avoid misuse.

What Is Buprenorphine? 

Buprenorphine is a medication used to help individuals suffering from opioid addiction manage their symptoms and cravings. The FDA approved it for treating opioid dependence in 2002. It is an opioid itself but has a lower risk of addiction and overdose than other opioids.

It is the first medication approved for the treatment of opioid addiction that a physician can prescribe. It can be used long-term to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms while allowing individuals to focus on other aspects of their recovery, such as counseling or lifestyle changes.

Buprenorphine is one of the ingredients of Suboxone, which is a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone, an opioid antagonist. Naloxone blocks the effects of opioids on the brain and can prevent overdose if an individual takes too much buprenorphine. It can prevent individuals from becoming dependent and abusing the medication.

How Buprenorphine Works?

Buprenorphine is an opioid partial agonist. While opioids cause euphoria and respiratory depression, buprenorphine produces weaker effects than complete narcotics like heroin and methadone.

That means buprenorphine can reduce cravings and withdrawal symptomswithout producing the same level of intoxication or euphoria as other opioids. It also has a ceiling effect, meaning it does not produce any additional effects when taken in higher doses.

When taken under proper medical supervision, buprenorphine can be an effective tool that can help:

• Reduce opioid dependency

• Reduce or eliminate opioid cravings

• Decrease the risk of overdose and death from opioids

• Increase chances for a successful recovery from addiction

Buprenorphine can be a valuable aid in the addiction recovery process. Still, it is only one piece of a comprehensive treatment plan that should include counseling and lifestyle changes.

Side Effects of Buprenorphine 

Like all medications, buprenorphine can cause side effects. Common side effects include:

• Nausea and vomiting

• Headache

• Dizziness

• Constipation

• Insomnia

• Itchiness

• Sweating

These side effects are generally mild and do not last for long. Other more severe side effects are:

• Respiratory distress

• Overdose

• Adrenal insufficiency

• Dependence

• Withdrawal

• Itching, pain, swelling, and nerve damage (implant)

• Pain at the injection site (injection)

• Neonatal abstinence syndrome (in newborns)

If the patient experiences more severe side effects, they should seek medical attention immediately.

Buprenorphine Misuse Potential

It is crucial to note that buprenorphine has the potential for misuse. Using without medical supervision can lead to addiction and other health problems. Individuals taking buprenorphine should only take the prescribed dose and use it according to their doctor’s instructions.

People who do not have opioid dependency should not take buprenorphine as it can lead to dependence and addiction. In the worst-case scenario, individuals can suffer from an overdose of buprenorphine, which requires medical attention. Naloxone is an opiate antagonist that can minimize the likelihood of buprenorphine misuse.

Buprenorphine Safety

It is essential to talk to a doctor before taking buprenorphine to make sure it is the right option for you. Individuals with an underlying medical condition or who are pregnant should not take buprenorphine without consulting their doctor. Buprenorphine is also not recommended for children under the age of 16.

It is essential to use buprenorphine correctly and only as directed by a medical professional to avoid any misuse or potential side effects. With that, never take medication without consulting a doctor, and always follow the prescribed dose.

The use of drugs and alcohol that can slow breathing should be avoided while taking buprenorphine, as it can increase the risk of severe side effects. Additionally, individuals should not take other opioid drugs (e.g., heroin and methadone) while taking buprenorphine, as this increases the chance of an overdose or respiratory depression.

If you have liver-related problems, you should disclose this to your doctor before taking buprenorphine, as it can cause liver damage in some individuals. Your doctor should closely monitor you and assess whether it is safe to take this medication.

Buprenorphine should always be securely stored and disposed of properly when no longer needed. Proper safety precautions should be taken to ensure that it is not used or misused by anyone other than the person prescribed.

Treatment With Buprenorphine

Buprenorphine is a powerful medication, but it should not be used as the sole treatment for opioid addiction. Though it can truly help individuals in recovery, it should be used in combination with other therapies to ensure the best possible outcomes.

This type of plan aims to help the individual attain long-term sobriety and prevent relapse. A doctor or certified opioid treatment specialist (OTS) can provide more information about buprenorphine and its potential benefits as a treatment option for opioid addiction.

Individuals must develop strategies to cope with cravings and manage stress without relying on drugs or alcohol. A professional can provide support and guidance to help them make lasting lifestyle changes and maintain sobriety. Individuals can overcome addiction for good with the right kind of help and support.

Schedule an Appointment

In conclusion, buprenorphine is an effective medication for treating opioid addiction. However, it is not the only treatment option and should be used in conjunction with other therapies.

If you or someone you know is struggling with opioid addiction, SuboxoneDoctor.com can help you find a qualified doctor to discuss buprenorphine as a treatment option. Visit our website to learn more and schedule an appointment today.

By taking the necessary steps and seeking the right kind of help, individuals can break free from opioid addiction and regain control of their life. Together we can make a difference and help individuals in recovery achieve long-term sobriety.

Learn more about buprenorphine at SuboxoneDoctor.com and find a doctor to discuss this treatment option today. We are available with telehealth services and can connect you with doctors across the United States.