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Suboxone Film
Opioid dependence affects many people in the US. Unfortunately, people who struggle with opioid dependence may be reluctant to ask for help because of the stigma attached to the notion of "drug dependence." Opioid dependence is a complex health condition with many elements that are caused or made worse by continued opioid use. Key elements include social, psychological, and biological components.
It is possible to get on the path to recovery. IPS offers an office based medication assisted treatment in which prescription medications are used, in combination with behavioral therapies, to provide a whole patient approach to the treatment of substance use disorders.
One type of medication-assisted treatment is SUBOXONE Film. It is a prescription medicine used to treat adults who are addicted to or dependent on opioid drugs. SUBOXONE Film, which contains buprenorphine and naloxone, may be recommended to help you begin and maintain continuity of treatment.
The following are potential stages of treatment with SUBOXONE Film. Only your IPS healthcare provider can decide what is an appropriate treatment plan for you.
The following are potential stages of treatment with SUBOXONE Film. Only your IPS healthcare provider can decide what is an appropriate treatment plan for you.
1. Induction - You begin your treatment (or restart it if you've relapsed) under the supervision of an IPS healthcare provider. For your first dose, you must be in a moderate state of withdrawal. You work with your IPS healthcare provider to reach a dose of SUBOXONE Film that works for you.
2. Maintenance - Your IPS healthcare provider will help you to transition to the maintenance phase of treatment when you:
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Are no longer experiencing withdrawal symptoms
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Have minimal to no side effects
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Do not have uncontrollable cravings
In the maintenance phase, you may be taking your medication regularly as prescribed. You should comply with all of the elements in your treatment plan including responsibly handling the medication, staying free from illicit drug use, and seeking counseling and/or psychosocial support.
3. Medical taper - The decision to discontinue therapy with SUBOXONE Film after a period of maintenance should be made as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. It is important that you work with your IPS doctor, nurse practitioner or physician assistant to determine when the time is right to slowly lower your dose, taking care to minimize withdrawal symptoms. Throughout treatment, you should discuss any concerns you have about relapse with your IPS healthcare provider.
Know that you are not alone. Opioid dependence is a chronic disease that can affect anyone. It could be a friend, a co-worker, a spouse, a brother, a sister, or a parent. If you or someone you know may be dependent on opioids, contact IPS today.