Is Buprenorphine (Suboxone) Maintenance Right for Me?

Ongoing buprenorphine (Suboxone) therapy is the gold standard office-based treatment for both prescription opioid, heroin, and fentanyl use disorders. While many treatment providers prescribe patients short tapers of buprenrophine or no medication at all, the research is unambiguous: Patients who start buprenorphine therapy, stabilize on a therapeutic dose, and take their medication daily have better outcomes than patients who complete a short taper or attempt "abstinence-based" treatment. 

What is Buprenorphine?

Buprenorphine is the primary active ingredient in Suboxone Films. By attaching to the same receptors as prescription opioids, heroin, and fentanyl it helps to prevent withdrawal symptoms and cravings. With cravings well-managed, patients are able to focus on their day-to-day lives. Unlike heroin, fentanyl, and prescription opioids, buprenorphine is only a "partial agonist". That partial agonism is important for two reasons: 

1) buprenorphine is not intoxicating for persons with opioid dependence;
2) it has a very low risk for fatal overdose unless it is combined with other drugs. 

Cost of Treatment

Suboxone Treatment at Plan Your Recovery requires monthly visits with a nurse practitioner. The cost of these visits is $99/month. Medication is generally covered by insurance.

Click here for more detailed information about the research supporting buprenorphine treatment.