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8
OPIOID ADDICTION MEDICATION
Methadone and buprenorphine are the most effective treatments
available for active opioid addiction. Naltrexone is an effective
treatment for preventing a relapse in patients who are no longer
physically dependent on opioids. Most treatment plans will
include medication. The type of medication chosen depends on
a number of factors including the severity of the patient's illness,
any co-occurring illnesses, access to different forms of treatment,
and individual preferences.
• All FDA approved medications—including methadone,
buprenorphine and naltrexone—for the treatment of opioid
use disorder should be available to all patients.
• Counseling is recommended with the use of any of these
medications. However, counseling should not be required in
order to receive treatment with medication.
• Patient preferences, history, and illness severity should all be
considered when deciding which medication is best for each
patient.
• Each medication works in a different way and has its own risks
and benefits. Once started, these medications can be safely
taken for years. The clinician and the patient should review
together the risks and benefits of each medication.
• When used properly, these medications help restore balance to
the parts of the brain that are impacted by addiction, helping
patients to manage their addiction so they can recover.
• There is no typical timeline for use of medication. It differs for
each patient. Some patients may need medications for many years.
• Some people have special situations such as pregnancy, mental
health issues, pain, or criminal justice system involvement.
They should discuss these issues with their clinician to find
the right medication for their needs.
• Adolescents and their caregivers should also discuss
medication options with their clinicians.
If the first medication selected does not work well, the
patient should discuss with the clinician a change to
a different medication that may be more effective for
addressing the patient's needs.
