Buprenorphine (Suboxone®) is an oral prescription medication for the treatment of heroin and opiate pain medication dependence. Buprenorphine can prevent withdrawal symptoms from opiates, such as; pain, chills, nausea, and cravings. There are two phases of buprenorphine treatment. The first is induction and stabilization onto the medication and the second is maintenance. In most cases patients are able to gradually taper off buprenorphine without any significant problems.
Buprenorphine may be prescribed by qualified physicians in a private practice setting and should be used as part of a complete treatment plan to include counseling and support.
