Methadone | - Under the supervision of a physician and dispensed from regulated clinics
- Pill and liquid forms
- Taken once daily
- Lessens the symptoms of opiate withdrawal and blocks the euphoric effects of opiates
| - Approved for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding**
- Do not take methadone with any other medication before checking with your doctor or health care provider
| - Can be started immediately
- Safe for long term use as maintenance therapy
- Length of program should be a minimum of 12 months and can last years*
- Gradually reduce dosage or possibility of withdrawal symptoms when stopped
| - Difficulty or shallow breathing
- Feel lightheaded or faint
- Experience hives or a rash; swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Chest pain
- Experience a fast or pounding heartbeat
- Hallucinations or confusion
|
Buprenorphine (Suboxone, Subutex) | - Can be provided at a variety of settings
- Film or pill form
- Taken daily
- Lessens withdrawal and blocks euphoric effects of opiates
- Less abuse potential than methadone
| - Do not take other medications without first consulting your doctor
- Do ensure that a physician monitors any liver-related health issues that you mayhave
| - Must wait 12-24 hours after last use before beginning program
- Safe for long term use
- Recommended to gradually reduce dosage or will experience withdrawal symptoms
| - Nausea, vomiting, and constipation
- Muscle aches and cramps
- Cravings
- Inability to sleep
- Distress and irritability
- Fever
|
Naltrexone | - Administered in pill or injectable form
- Long acting injectable is effective for 30 days
- Blocks opiates from having an effect on the brain and helps stop cravings
| - Lowered tolerance to opioids increases overdose risk if relapse occurs
- Liver damage is possible at high doses, must consult with a physician
| - Must wait 7-10 days after last use before beginning program.
- Length of treatment should be individualized
| - Upset stomach or vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Nervousness
- Sleep problems/tiredness
- Joint or muscle pain
- Liver injury
- Injection site reactions
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