Buprenorphine for Outpatient Treatment of Opioid  Dependence (A Clinical Review)

Dr. Sanjay Kukreja; Dr. Avinash De Sousa

Volume : II, Issue : VIII, August - 2013

Buprenorphine for Outpatient Treatment of Opioid Dependence (A Clinical Review)

Dr. Sanjay Kukreja, Dr. Avinash De Sousa

Abstract :

Opioid dependence is a complex health condition that often requires long–term treatment and care. The treatment of opioid dependence is important to reduce its health and social consequences and to improve the well–being and social functioning of people affected. The ultimate achievement of a drug– free state is the ideal and ultimate objective but this is unfortunately not feasible for all individuals with opioid dependence, especially in the short term. Relapse following detoxification alone is extremely common, and therefore detoxification rarely constitutes an adequate treatment of opioid dependence on its own. This makes opioid maintenance treatment an essential component of an effective treatment system for people with opioid dependence. Currently, opioid maintenance treatments like methadone can be dispensed only in a limited number of clinics that specialize in addiction treatment. There are not enough addiction treatment centers to help all patients seeking treatment. Buprenorphine is the first narcotic drug available under the Drug Abuse Treatment Act (DATA) of 2000 that can be prescribed in a doctor�s office for the treatment of opioid dependence. This provides more patients the opportunity to access treatment.