Buprenorphine: Not the Silver Bullet Doctors Hoped for
A recent article in the New York Times about the opioid buprenorphine told two stories about those who used it.
One was about Shawn Schneider who became addicted to pain killers after a work-related injury. He had hit a bottom and was fortunately saved by his father just before overdosing on sleeping pills. Finding himself in drug treatment, Shawn found the drug buprenorphine and was prescribed it to help him overcome his addiction. Two years later, Shawn has a job, his career and his family back and he says he owes it all to his prescription to buprenorphine.
The other was about Miles Malone who tried “bupe” for the first time recreationally with friends one night while they were hanging out. Miles died later that night from buprenorphine poisoning. The friend that provided the drug said he didn’t know that the drug could be dangerous and they were just hanging out with friends; when they all went to sleep, Miles didn’t wake up.
Buprenorphine was created for the same reasons as methadone – to help addicts stop using. It’s intended as a long-term treatment for opioid addiction. It can produce euphoria and cause dependency, but because the effects are milder and plateau overdose is less likely, the drug is considered less deadly than others of its type. It is only available by prescription by federally authorized doctors with strict patient loads.
But the restrictions have caused a volatile subculture in which the drug has gone underground and has attracted unscrupulous doctors and street cash-only clinics where anyone can purchase it. Responsible for a large number of deaths, “bupe” is not the clean success that creators were hoping for.
At Cliffside Malibu, we do not prescribe this drug for long term use. There is no need for anyone to depend on long term “maintenance” medication when a completely drug free recovery is possible. Long term buprenorphine use simply trades one addiction for another. Real recovery awaits – recovery in which maintenance drugs are not required.
When you recognize harmful patterns and seek treatment, you can increase your chances of leading a healthier life. Cliffside Malibu is here to support you in your search for an alcohol-free life. We believe you deserve to have a private, comfortable and luxurious environment as you navigate your journey to a sober life. Our center allows you to explore your mental health needs, creates a treatment plan that is unique to you and allows you to discover beneficial coping skills. To learn more about alcohol treatment at Cliffside Malibu, call (855) 403-5641.