Probuphine

Probuphine is a slow-release treatment that is implanted under the skin, releasing a version of the opioid buprenorphine. It is _TYPICALLY IMPLANTED IN THE ARM_ and will release the drug into the system for six months. Taking this drug during recovery will negate much of the severe withdrawal symptoms that would be experienced in the early stages of a user’s recovery from opioid addiction. There are several brand names for buprenorphine, including Subutex, Sublocade, and Buprenex.

 

Long Term Outcomes

 

Users undergoing traditional medical detox, following _OPIOID DISORDERS _have a relatively high relapse rate. Those individuals using buprenorphine have been shown to have a greater success rate. Note: an opioid disorder is a form of substance abuse or addiction, that occurs when a choice to abuse opioids has been made.

 

The treatment has been reviewed in _THERAPEUTIC ADVANCES IN PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY_ and they concluded that “_BUPRENORPHINE HAS PROVED TO BE VERY SUCCESSFUL IN TREATING WITHDRAWAL SYMPTOMS FROM OPIOIDS._”

 

How Probuphine works

 

Following an implant being placed under the skin by a physician (usually the arm), the medication is gradually released and enters the bloodstream. Once in the bloodstream, it travels to the brain. Once there it blocks the typical withdrawal symptoms from opioid drugs. It also has the effect of reducing the desire for opioids. It may require the use of further medications to fully stop the cravings. The implant will remain in the arm for six months, after which a further implant may be put in place if required.

 

Does the Implant Cure Addiction?

 

Addiction cannot be cured by this type of treatment, and that is not the point of inserting the implant. An implant is a tool for assisting someone in recovery and the matter of addictive behaviors has to be tackled in parallel. The medication should be used in combination with behavioral therapy to be an effective long-term solution.