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Buprenorphine dosing regime in the management of out-patient heroin withdrawal.

Authors :
Lintzeris N
Source :
Drug and alcohol review [Drug Alcohol Rev] 2002 Mar; Vol. 21 (1), pp. 39-45.
Publication Year :
2002

Abstract

This study aimed to establish a buprenorphine regime suitable for the short-term management of out-patient heroin withdrawal using an open-label, single-group case series. Eighteen dependent injecting heroin users underwent an 8-day withdrawal episode with supervised dosing of sublingual Subutex tablets. Buprenorphine doses were titrated daily over a 5-day period. Fifteen subjects (83%) completed the 5-day regime, and 14 (78%) completed the 8-day withdrawal episode. The mean doses ((SD) were 6.1 (1.2) mg on day 1; 9.6 (1.7) mg on day 2; 10.1 (1.9) mg on day 3; 8.9 (2.0) mg on day 4; 4.1 (1.5) mg on day 5; and a total regime dose of 38.9 (5.8) mg. Withdrawal severity was mild, with minimal rebound upon the cessation of dosing. Five subjects reported no heroin use, and five subjects reported using on only one occasion during the 8 days. An out-patient buprenorphine regime is recommended.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
0959-5236
Volume :
21
Issue :
1
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
Drug and alcohol review
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
12189003
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1080/09595230220119309