Several factors can contribute to an individual overdosing on opioids, and one of the most significant is using opioids without a tapering plan. Buprenorphine can be an essential tool in reducing the chance of overdose by helping individuals stop using opioids slowly and safely. As part of a medication assisted treatment (MAT) program, buprenorphine can help ease withdrawal symptoms and cravings, making it more likely that an individual will successfully quit opioids.
BrightView offers medication assisted treatment to promote comfort and safety during recovery. Contact us today at 888.501.9865 to learn more about buprenorphine and overdose reduction. We can guide you toward wellness and a more fulfilling life.
What Is Buprenorphine?
Buprenorphine is a medication used in medication assisted treatment for opioid addiction. It is a partial opioid agonist, meaning that it binds to the same receptors in the brain as opioids but only activates them partially. This results in a milder effect compared to full opioid agonists like heroin or fentanyl but still reduces withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
Over the years, buprenorphine has proven to be an effective medication for brain stability for those with opioid addiction. Many inpatient drug rehab programs and outpatient addiction treatment providers offer medications containing buprenorphine to patients.
What’s the Purpose of Buprenorphine?
The purpose of buprenorphine is to help individuals with opioid addiction achieve stable recovery. Reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms allows them to focus on building a new, fulfilling life without the need for opioids. Buprenorphine is also less likely to cause respiratory depression than full opioid agonists, making it a safer option in overdose situations.
Buprenorphine is available in several forms: sublingual tablets or film that dissolve under the tongue, buccal film that dissolves in the cheek, and injectable or implantable formulations. The most commonly used form is the sublingual tablet or film, which can be taken at home or under the supervision of a medical professional in an outpatient setting.
Benefits of Buprenorphine
There are numerous benefits to using buprenorphine in addiction treatment. First and foremost, it helps alleviate withdrawal symptoms and cravings, making it easier for individuals to overcome their addiction. By reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms, buprenorphine allows individuals to focus on their recovery and develop healthy coping mechanisms to manage stress and other triggers that may lead to relapse.
Furthermore, buprenorphine is effective in reducing the risk of overdose. Individuals on medication assisted treatment are less likely to relapse and overdose than those who are not. Studies have linked MAT to reduced criminal activity and improved social functioning.
Another benefit of buprenorphine is that it can be prescribed to patients in an outpatient setting. It is an accessible treatment option for individuals who cannot attend an inpatient program. At BrightView Health, patients can receive their buprenorphine prescription on-site. Convenient access is ideal for those who manage busy schedules or may not have reliable transportation.
In addition to its effectiveness in treating opioid addiction, buprenorphine carries a low risk of dependence and abuse. It is a safe option for long-term maintenance therapy. Buprenorphine can positively impact patients’ mental health, improving symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Begin Medication Assisted Treatment Today at BrightView
Recovery is possible, and we can help those affected by addiction start and maintain recovery. From buprenorphine to Vivitrol, we offer a range of medication assisted treatments. We know that not every person will respond to the same treatment in the same way. We also offer counseling and therapy services to help our patients build the skills they need for long-term recovery.
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, please contact us at 888.501.9865 or through our web form. We are here to help.
