Buprenorphine is one of the most frequently used medications for people who want to break an opioid dependency without entering an in-patient program. Addiction medicine specialist Sirisat Khalsa, MD, and the compassionate team at Clarity Medical Group in Sherman Oaks, California, offer comprehensive at-home detox and recovery using buprenorphine as the foundation of your treatment. Whether you’re worried about your opioid use or have cravings signaling a dependency, don’t wait to call the office today or use online booking to schedule an in-person or telehealth appointment.
Buprenorphine was the first opioid use disorder medication that was FDA-approved for doctors to use in outpatient clinics. This significant step means that people with an opioid dependency or addiction can get the treatment they need without spending time in an in-patient treatment center.
Buprenorphine is also important because it has a powerful ability to reduce cravings and prevent withdrawal symptoms. As a result, you can safely detox at home and get the long-term support you need for a successful recovery.
Buprenorphine is available in several forms, including:
Your Clarity Medical Group provider considers your preferences, unique needs, and the severity of your cravings before recommending the medication that’s best for you.
When buprenorphine was approved for at-home detox and recovery, it came with a guideline stating it should be part of a comprehensive medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program.
MAT means you receive outpatient medications together with counseling and behavioral therapies. Buprenorphine supports your physical recovery, while therapy helps you manage the challenges in your life that tempt you to use opioids.
You take your first dose of buprenorphine while in the early stages of withdrawal, which means you need to stop taking opioids for at least 12-24 hours.
Unfortunately, all medications, including buprenorphine, put you at risk for side effects. However, buprenorphine side effects (if they appear) are usually mild and go away, so they don’t affect your ability to use the medication.
You may experience any of the following common side effects:
Buprenorphine may also reduce saliva production, causing dry mouth. Without treatment, dry mouth can affect your dental health.
The only severe reactions associated with buprenorphine occurred when people took it with benzodiazepines or misused it and injected it into their veins.
If you need help with opioid use disorder, don’t wait to schedule an appointment. Call Clarity Medical Group or use online booking today to request an in-person or telehealth appointment.