 Yes, I am licensed to treat clients who want to get off opioids (heroin, fentanyl, oxycodone, etc.). There are a few options but the most common and comfortable way to transition off regular opioid use is to prescribe buprenorphine (Suboxone). Suboxone is a combination of drugs that prevent severe withdrawal and promote transition to a safer, more regulated opioid.
That’s right. Buprenorphine (Suboxone) is an opioid. A much less potent one than heroin or fentanyl. Yes, it sounds counterproductive and there have been criticisms of opioid replacement therapy. However, the benefits of switching to buprenorphine have been proven, especially in people who have difficulty stopping regular use. One of the best benefits of buprenorphine treatment is that it prevents full blown withdrawal and reduces cravings (Mosel, 2022). Due to its chemical makeup, it is unable to produce the euphoric feeling that illicit opioids produce (Grinspoon, 2021; SAMHSA, 2023). Like needle exchanges, buprenorphine is not a magic bullet. It is considered a tool for harm reduction, meaning, less overdoses and blood borne diseases from sharing needles. So will I have to wean off buprenorphine? Ideally, yes, eventually. Many clinicians suggest treatment for at least a year, some think even longer use is best (Grinspoon, 2021). This gives clients time to reflect, create better coping skills, return to work, repair relationships and make new ones apart from old friends they associate with drug use. What are some tools or resources to help me? SMART Recovery is a good resource for people who are turned off by the religious aspect of groups like Alcoholics Anonymous. They provide free meetings online and in person. Their website also has videos and other tools to explain the cycle of addiction and introduce better coping skills. https://www.smartrecovery.org/ This article from Harvard Medical School is also great at addressing some of the myths about Suboxone and opioid replacement therapy. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/5-myths-about-using-suboxone-to-treat-opiate-addiction-2018032014496 References:
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