Buprenorphine

Buprenorphine is an opioid medication approved by the FDA. It’s used to treat both pain and OUD. For severe pain, it’s prescribed when other options have failed. But for OUD, buprenorphine is considered a first-line treatment. It reduces opioid cravings and withdrawal symptoms, allowing patients to focus on recovery. 

Buprenorphine is available in generic form and under several brand names: 

• Buprenorphine/naloxone (Suboxone): Suboxone is a 4:1 combination of buprenorphine and naloxone. Naloxone is inactive when taken as directed but triggers withdrawal if misused. 
• Extended-release buprenorphine injection (Sublocade): Sublocade is a monthly injection administered in a healthcare setting. 
• Extended-release buprenorphine injection (Brixadi): Brixadi is similar to Sublocade but is available weekly or monthly to provide more flexibility. 
• Buprenorphine (Subutex): This is a buprenorphine-only product that may be used for patients allergic to naloxone or for pregnant women under medical supervision. 

Buprenorphine products are FDA-approved, but they carry risks if misused. Only a licensed prescriber can determine if buprenorphine is appropriate as part of a medication assisted treatment (MAT) plan. 

Buprenorphine works by attaching to opioid receptors in the brain. It activates them just enough to ease withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings, but not enough to cause the full “high” of opioids like heroin or oxycodone.  

Because its effects level off at a certain dose, it carries a lower risk of misuse than other opioids. Buprenorphine also stays in the body longer, providing relief for 24–36 hours and helping patients feel more balanced. 

However, taking it too soon after using other opioids can cause precipitated withdrawal: sudden, intense withdrawal symptoms that happen when buprenorphine rapidly displaces other opioids in the brain. This is why following medical guidance is critical. 

When beginning treatment with buprenorphine, your provider will guide you through a process called induction. This is the first stage of treatment, where your body begins adjusting to the medication safely and comfortably. There are two main ways to start: 

You stop taking opioids for 12-24 hours and begin buprenorphine once mild withdrawal symptoms appear.

You start with small doses of buprenorphine while continuing your current opioid use for a few days. This gradual approach helps you avoid going into full withdrawal before starting treatment.  

Your provider will review your situation carefully and help you understand the best method for you. 

Because buprenorphine is poorly absorbed in the digestive tract, it’s usually taken as daily sublingual (placed under the tongue) tablets or films, or as extended-release injections that vary in frequency. 

Your provider will determine the proper form and dose for you and monitor your response to buprenorphine medication carefully. 

When taken as directed, buprenorphine is a generally safe and effective opioid use disorder treatment. Still, it’s an opioid and can cause misuse or overdose if not managed properly.  

Common side effects include: 

• Nausea or diarrhea 
• Loss of appetite 
• Restlessness or anxiety 
• Sleep problems 
• Sweating or shivering 
• Fatigue or weakness 

Less common but more serious risks include: 

• Respiratory depression (slowed breathing) 
• Liver problems 
• Precipitated withdrawal 
• Overdose, usually from misuse or combining with other substances 
• Dangerous interactions with alcohol, benzodiazepines, or other central nervous system depressants 

To reduce risks, always be honest with your provider about your health conditions, other medications you are taking, and substances you are using. 

At BrightView, we know overcoming opioid use disorder takes more than just medication. We offer buprenorphine treatment as part of a comprehensive outpatient program that includes: 

• Counseling: One-on-one therapy in a supportive environment to explore the root causes of opioid use and build coping skills 
• Group therapy: A supportive community where patients share experiences and learn from one another 
• Case management: Help with housing, employment, insurance applications, and other essential recovery supports 
• Aftercare: Ongoing resources to maintain progress, reduce return to use, and provide a quick path back to treatment in case of a lapse 

With our outpatient locations, we provide same-day appointments and weekday walk-ins.  

Buprenorphine is a proven treatment for opioid dependence and is effective as part of a treatment plan. If you’re ready to take back control of your life with outpatient opioid treatment, BrightView can help. We offer 24/7 phone support to make treatment for opioid addiction as accessible as possible. Call us today at 888.501.9865, schedule an appointment online, or walk in to a location near you.  

Important note: This page is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and should not replace guidance from a licensed healthcare provider. Always consult your physician or another qualified professional before starting, stopping, or changing any treatment or medication.