FAQ’s
Frequently asked questions
Buprenorphine is used to treat Opioid Use Disorder. It helps to prevent withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, and partially blocks the effects of other opioids.
There are no known cures for addiction, so most patients with Opioid Use Disorder will take Buprenorphine (Suboxone) as a long term maintenance therapy until a better treatment is discovered; in some ways like insulin is used for diabetes. There is no maximum duration for Suboxone treatment in an MAT program.
Sublingual Buprenorphine is available in a tablet or film form. Some versions, such as Suboxone films, Subxone Tabs, and Zubsolv Tabs also contain a medicine called Naloxone. The form of Naloxone in Suboxone is not absorbed if taken under your tongue or swallowed. It’s there to deter patients from abusing the medication through injection.
Buprenorphine, like any opioid, can make you constipated. This can be managed with hydration, dietary changes, and/or simple fiber supplementation. Some patients report increased sweating, which can be reduced with gradual weaning to lower doses. Rarely, patients report feeling sleepy, but this usually resolves after a few doses, and many patients actually report having more daily energy with Buprenorphine than without it. Most patients report few or no side effects.
Buprenorphine is absorbed into the veins in your mouth, but it is not absorbed in your stomach. To minimize saliva production, do not eat or drink anything 30 minutes before, anytime during, or 15 minutes after each dosing. Place the film or tablet at the base of your tongue on one side (or both sides if taking more than one at a time) and do not open your mouth or talk until the medicine has completely dissolved. (Effective dosing time varies, but 15-20 minutes is common).. Do not take more than 2 tablets or films at a time. As soon as the tablets/films have dissolved, you may take more if your dosing requires. Nicotine temporarily shrinks vessels and may impair medication absorption. Do not smoke tobacco 60 minutes prior to dosing, anytime during, and 15 minutes after. Do not use oral tobacco products 2-3 hours prior to dosing.
Long-term use of Buprenorphine is considered very safe. Patients with severe active liver disease need to be monitored while taking this medication. The long-term health risks associated with active opioid use are significantly higher compared to long-term Buprenorphine use.
Prescription costs for Buprenorphine can be a concern, but almost all insurance companies cover some version of the medication. For those without insurance, there are programs available to help reduce the cost.
Acknowledging the need for help is crucial. Research suggests early intervention and seeking help can significantly improve long-term treatment outcomes.
Withdrawal from methamphetamine can be challenging. Studies indicate that depression during methamphetamine withdrawal is a common symptom, occurring in about 90% of individuals undergoing detoxification.
Family involvement can significantly improve recovery outcomes. Family therapy, for example, has been found to increase treatment retention rates and reduce relapse..
Incorporating healthy lifestyle habits is essential. A study published in the Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment found that regular exercise could reduce cravings and improve overall mental health in individuals recovering from addiction.
Although there is no cure for addiction, full recovery is achievable. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, about one-third of people who are treated for addiction have no relapses, while another one-third experience fewer relapses than before treatment.
Recognizing triggers and employing coping strategies are key. Research shows that mindfulness-based interventions can significantly reduce cravings and improve emotional regulation in individuals with substance use disorders.
Counseling is vital. According to a study in Addiction Science & Clinical Practice, counseling combined with MAT significantly increases the likelihood of successful recovery from opioid addiction. Similar support for counseling has also been demonstrated for other addictions.
Counseling is vital. According to a study in Addiction Science & Clinical Practice, counseling combined with MAT significantly increases the likelihood of successful recovery from opioid addiction. Similar support for counseling has also been demonstrated for other addictions.
Secure a private space without distractions, and prepare any questions or topics for discussion. Telehealth has been shown to be as effective as in-person treatment for many problems, especially for addiction and mental health consultations.
Long-term recovery is linked to improved life quality and reduced healthcare costs. Studies indicate that sustained recovery reduces the risk of certain diseases and enhances social functioning.
We rigorously follow HIPAA guidelines to ensure patient information is secure. Patient confidentiality is fundamental to our practice, because it fosters trust and safety.
Our patient-centric model contrasts with corporate-driven approaches, because we practice relationship based care, emphasizing respect and compassion. Studies show that patient-centered care models can lead to higher patient satisfaction and better health outcomes.
Our approach includes ongoing support and resources for maintaining sobriety. Research underscores the importance of continuous care in addiction treatment, indicating that longer durations in treatment correlate with better outcomes.