Individuals who are addicted to heroin or opiate (painkilling) drugs often need pharmaceutical help, as well as counseling. Since 2003, the drug commonly used most often to help those addicts recover on an outpatient basis is SUBOXONE®, one of the drugs approved for this purpose.
One of the most significant advantages of using SUBOXONE to aid in opiate withdrawal is that it is possible to supervise the withdrawal on an outpatient basis. Many locations have no inpatient rehabilitation programs nearby. Also, many patients have no insurance or personal financial means to take advantage of inpatient programs. Other patients must work and cannot take off the weeks or months that detoxification usually demands.
The drug SUBOXONE is one of the primary pharmaceuticals used to help persons addicted to opiate painkillers or heroin. It is available as a film, which is taken orally. The drug melts within the mouth. The treatment begins in a physician’s office and then is continued at home as an outpatient.
Not just any doctor can prescribe SUBOXONE. Physicians must have special training to be certified to prescribe SUBOXONE. There are nearly 13,000 qualified practitioners in the U.S. To find a qualified physician, call 866-973-HERE (4373) or visit the SUBOXONE manufacturer’s site to find a physician.
At the proper dose, the drug reduces physical symptoms and cravings, as well as any mental and emotional symptoms. It is important to note that the manufacturer of SUBOXONE highly recommends that, in addition to taking SUBOXONE, it is important that the patient be concurrently involved in a one-on-one counseling program.
Even though the use of the opiate or heroin has stopped, the cravings can last for months or years. It may be necessary to remain on SUBOXONE for an extended period to ensure that opioid use is permanently stopped. It is important that the patient be closely followed by their physician to monitor their progress and their further need for SUBOXONE to ensure a successful conclusion.
The addiction may be a condition that is managed rather than completely cured. The manufacturer has an ongoing Here to Help® Program treatment-plan/patient-support that provides online, self-guided support.
SUBOXONE has a range of dose strengths available. The doctor can prescribe the exact dose needed using only one or two films. The film comes in 2 mg, 4 mg, 8 mg and 12 mg unit dose packaging.
If you or someone you know needs help with addiction or finding an opiate detox, we can help: Call Today (800) 305-3417