SUBOXONE INFORMATION FOR PATIENTS AND FAMILY MEMBERS
What is an opioid?
An opioid is a substance that blocks the receptors in the brain responsible for pain. These substances include prescription medications such as Codeine, Vicodin, Demerol, Dilaudid, Morphine, Oxycontin, and Suboxone. Opioids can also increase the feelings of reward. The euphoria opioids give when misused is the reason why most people misuse and abuse these substances.
Why are opioids used to treat addiction?
Prescribing Suboxone is not just substituting one addiction for another, it is blocking the opioid sites in the body and preventing any response to opioids taken.
What is the correct dose of Suboxone?
The correct dose of Suboxone is the dose that prevents any response to opioids and may vary from patient to patient.
How can the family support treatment?
Maintenance treatment for opioid addiction works, however, it is not a cure by itself. This means that patients may continue to need the blocking opioid dose of Suboxone with regular monitoring by our clinic. This is comparable to other chronic diseases such as diabetes, asthma, or hypertension. The best way to help support the patient is to encourage regular medical care and keep them on track with their medication. It is our goal to encourage the patient to learn to live independently of Suboxone, however, this will take counseling, time, and support.
Regular Medical Care:
Most patients will be required to see us for ongoing Suboxone treatment every 2 to 4 weeks once stabilized. If a patient misses a scheduled appointment, he/she may not be able to refill their medication on time and may even go into withdrawal. Patients will be asked to bring their medication and prescription bottles/boxes to the office on regular visits. Patients will also be required to complete a urine drug screen during every visit.
Special Medical Care:
Some patients may also need care for other medical conditions such as diabetes or hypertension. These conditions will need to be addressed by their primary care physician.
Counseling:
Patients who are recovering from addiction also need counseling. We require patients to attend regular therapy sessions. Our goal is sustained recovery from addiction which is achieved more often when counseling is attended in conjunction with Suboxone treatment.
In Summary:
Suboxone can be a very successful treatment, especially when integrated with counseling and family support. It is our hope that we can assist patients in becoming drug and addiction free. Please call one of our clinics about Suboxone treatment pricing and to schedule an appointment with Dr. Rosati.