Posted by desertflower on August 10, 2001, at 20:56:24
In reply to Re: France vs. USA: no contest » desertflower, posted by Elizabeth on August 10, 2001, at 17:17:11
> > Today we talked to his primary care physician who said he can't even give him bupe for depression, and the only alternative is to go into a methadone clinic.
>
> "Can't" is a strong word. "Won't" would be more accurate -- a doctor *can* prescribe buprenorphine for any condition *except* opioid dependence. It's arguable, though, that your husband is being treated for opioid dependence.Exactly- he is seeking treatment,the only one he knows, for maintenance. I would honestly say, though, that though his dosage was minimized gradually over time, he has a bit of a psychological addiction to it.
>
> That said, a GP is very unlikely to prescribe buprenorphine for depression. You might have more luck with a psychiatrist. Take a look at the following article:
>
> http://balder.prohosting.com/~adhpage/bupe.html
>
> The primary author is the doctor who originally suggested buprenorphine to me.Yes, I will speak to a psych. about this next Thursday.
>
> > I told him my husband is not using drugs, and a methadone clinic is not what he needs.
>
> Well, he is being treated for opioid addiction, so I can see their point. The question is, if he went off buprenorphine, became depressed, and sought treatment without a relapse of his former addiction, would it be reasonable to reinstate the buprenorphine treatment?
>
> It's a curious situation. I'll ask my ethics consultant. < VBG >
>
> -elizabethFor some reason, I am guessing you are either a med student, or a doctor interning-your knowledge is impressive!
desertflower
poster:desertflower
thread:17065
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20010809/msgs/74551.html