Re:Massachusetts Chief’s Tack in Drug War: Steer Addicts to ...
by s_q_b on Monday January 25, 2016 @06:38AM
(#10966618)
Suboxone for heroin addicts is like benzodiazepines for alcohol withdrawal. It should only be used in the initial withdrawal period for a short period of time.
The proper protocol is to substitute the short-acting heroin for the longer half-life Suboxone. This stabilizes the blood levels, thereby eliminating inter-dose withdrawal symptoms.
The dose is supposed to be titrated to zero over a few weeks. Otherwise you'll just end up swapping on addiction for another.
It's a shame, because Buprenorphine is a really good medication when used properly.
After I went to an inpatient treatment center and learned from the professionals there that kicking subs was way harder then heroin, and saw with my own eyes a few people there who were having a bitch of time.
I ended up telling her this, and strongly advised her to get back on heroin for a week and then kick...she followed my advice and thanked me for profusely as she tried the sub detox taper and couldn't make it work.