Buprenorphine/Naloxone for Opioid Use Disorder
Buprenorphine/naloxone contains an opioid used to treat opioid dependence. Unlike other opioids, it lasts longer in the body to help prevent cravings and discomfort of withdrawal. The risk of overdose is lower than with methadone, but buprenorphine/naloxone must still be taken properly to ensure patient safety.
Seeking help for your opioid dependence is a wise and important step in your road to recovery. There are people who can help you to develop goals and support you along the way. Talk to your healthcare provider about your support options.
To learn more about buprenorphine/naloxone, you can read the leaflet that answers common questions.
This information is brought to you in partnership between ISMP Canada and the Saskatchewan Ministry of Health, the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Saskatchewan's Opioid Agonist Therapy Program, Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health, the Saskatchewan Health Authority, Patients for Patient Safety Canada along with support from Canadian Patient Safety Institute (now HEC). It has been reviewed by Canadian Society of Hospital Pharmacists, the Nurse Practitioner Association of Canada, the College of Family Physicians of Canada, the Canadian Pharmacists Association and the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction.
For additional resources, visit the Institute for Safe Medication Practices Canada website.