Buprenorphine is a medication that is used to help people overcome addiction to opioids. It can be administered in different ways, including a sublingual tablet, film, or strip. It can be used to treat opioid addiction without causing the same level of dependence and withdrawal symptoms that are seen with other opioids. In spite of its benefits, there are still some misconceptions about Buprenorphine that need to be debunked. In this article, we will discuss three common myths about Buprenorphine and provide the facts to dispel them.
1. Buprenorphine is just another opioid
This is one of the most common myths about Buprenorphine. People often think that because Buprenorphine is used to treat opioid addiction, it must be an opioid itself. However, this is not the case. Buprenorphine is actually an opioid partial agonist, which means that it activates the opioid receptors in the brain to a lesser degree than other opioids. This allows Buprenorphine to provide pain relief and other effects without causing the same level of dependence and withdrawal symptoms.
2. Buprenorphine prescriptions for those with Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) switch one addiction for another
This is simply not true. Buprenorphine does not produce the same “high” that other opioids do, so it is not addictive in the same way. In fact, it is often used as a medication to help people wean off of other opioids. It is also important to note that Buprenorphine is only prescribed by a certified physician who has undergone specific training. This ensures that the medication is used correctly and that the patient is being monitored for any potential side effects. It will also help if you know the differences between Methadone and Buprenorphine, as it will give you a better understanding of each medication and its purposes.
3. You can go into withdrawal if you only take Buprenorphine
It is important to note that Buprenorphine can cause withdrawal if it is not used correctly. However, this only happens if the medication is taken too soon after last using opioids. If a person with opioid dependence takes Buprenorphine too soon, they will go into precipitated withdrawal. And precipitated withdrawal is an aggressive state of acute withdrawal that happens when the Buprenorphine—which binds powerfully to the brain’s opioid receptors—knocks out all of the other opioids but can’t fill the receptors themselves.
To Conclude
There are many misconceptions about Buprenorphine, but it is important to remember that this medication can be a life-saving tool for those struggling with opioid addiction. If you or someone you know is considering buprenorphine treatment, it is important to consult with a certified physician for Buprenorphine-Naloxone in Fort Lauderdale to ensure that the medication is used correctly.
