Posted by Elizabeth on August 9, 2001, at 17:13:03
In reply to buprenorphine, posted by desertflower on August 9, 2001, at 16:18:48
> We just moved back to the states from France, where my husband gradually got clean using Subutex. It is fantastic, and reduces all the painful withdrawal symptoms and cravings one would have. His doctor would prescribe it to him-now that we are here, doctors have never heard of it. We are worried. Does anyone know where it can be found? (Pacha?)Thank you.
Subutex isn't available in the U.S. We do have buprenorphine, but only in a solution intended for IM or IV injection, and it's labelled for pain but not for addiction. It's mainly used in hospitals.
At present, it's not legal for doctors in the U.S. to prescribe opioid agonists for treatment of opioid addiction except in the setting of a special clinic (methadone is the main drug used for this purpose; I think that LAAM might be used as well in some cities). Although it is only in Schedule V (minimal abuse potential), buprenorphine is considered an opioid for this purpose.
Sorry to be the bearer of bad news. I hope the info helps you figure out what to do, at least.
-elizabeth
poster:Elizabeth
thread:74353
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20010809/msgs/74362.html