suboxone treatment

Medication Assisted TreatMENTs

What are my treatment options for opioid dependence?

Buprenorphine (Subutex) is a medication prescribed by specially trained doctors who see patients in their normal office setting. This medication is a replacement therapy, meaning that the buprenorphine acts like an opioid to prevent the physical withdrawal symptoms. Buprenorphine has special properties which make it a good choice for replacement therapy.

Suboxone is the brand name of a medication which combines buprenorphine with naloxone to improve the safety of the medication and avoid misuse. Carolina Psychiatry has doctors that are qualified to prescribe you this medication if they think it is a good choice for you.

Methadone is another replacement opioid therapy. It is prescribed through special programs; most are prescribed at clinics which require daily attendance. CP does not prescribe methadone.

Naltrexone is a medication which blocks opioids so that if you use an opioid it will have no effect. This medication can be a good choice for someone who has not used opioids for a longer period of time, or for someone who has recently tapered off replacement therapy but wants to reduce their risk of relapse. Naltrexone is available in pill form or as a once-monthly shot. CP doctors can prescribe you the pill form or administer the shot form of this medication.

VIVITROL is a treatment offered at CP which helps with opioid dependence and alcohol dependence.

Here are some frequently asked questions about our program:

> Am I a good candidate for VIVITROL ?

You might be a good candidate for VIVITROL injections if…

1) You have been sober from opioids or alcohol but struggle with cravings.

2) Are recently sober from opioids and worried about impulsive opioid use.

3) Have been taking naltrexone pills but would like a monthly option.

4) Have psychological benefit from knowing you are “blocked” from opioids.