Buprenorphine

Buprenorphine is an FDA-approved medication for the treatment of opioid dependence. It is the only opioid that can be prescribed for the outpatient treatment of addiction outside the setting of a traditional Methadone Maintenance Program. It can be used for detoxification (inpatient or outpatient) as well as maintenance (short or long-term).

Core Program
Induction
The conversion from other opioid to buprenorphine. This is a complex procedure that can be done as inpatient or outpatient under physician guidance.

Stabilization
Establishing a buprenorphine dose that prevents withdrawal symptoms to allow participation in therapy and return to work. This can be done over weeks to months.

Detoxification
Gradual tapering to abstinence from buprenorphine performed under physician guidance.

Naltrexone
After abstinence is obtained, further use of opioids can be blocked by naltrexone.

Maintenance
After induction and stabilization, patients can be referred back to a physician who holds the special license to prescribe buprenorphine.

For Information Contact
David Lehman, M.D.
(212) 523-6481

For evaluation appointments and/or additional information, please call Access Center at (212) 523-6491.