Rapid detoxification of heroin dependence by buprenorphine
Abstract
AIM: To evaluate the clinical efficacy of buprenorphine (Bup) in treatment of
acute heroin withdrawal.
METHODS: Bup was given sublingually daily to 60 cases of heroin addicts in 3
groups: low, medium, and high doses. Withdrawal signs and symptoms of heroin were
rated by Clinical Institute Narcotic Assessment. Craving for heroin during
detoxification was assessed by Visual Analogue Scale. The side effects of Bup was
assessed by Treatment Emergent Symptom Scale.
RESULTS: The mean daily consumption of Bup in low, medium, and high group was
2.0, 2.9, and 3.6 mg, respectively. Bup not only suppressed objective signs and
withdrawal symptoms for heroin withdrawal, but also reduced the duration for
heroin detoxification over 7-8 d.
CONCLUSION: Bup is an effective and rapid detoxification agent with fewer side
effects for treatment of acute heroin withdrawal.
Keywords:
acute heroin withdrawal.
METHODS: Bup was given sublingually daily to 60 cases of heroin addicts in 3
groups: low, medium, and high doses. Withdrawal signs and symptoms of heroin were
rated by Clinical Institute Narcotic Assessment. Craving for heroin during
detoxification was assessed by Visual Analogue Scale. The side effects of Bup was
assessed by Treatment Emergent Symptom Scale.
RESULTS: The mean daily consumption of Bup in low, medium, and high group was
2.0, 2.9, and 3.6 mg, respectively. Bup not only suppressed objective signs and
withdrawal symptoms for heroin withdrawal, but also reduced the duration for
heroin detoxification over 7-8 d.
CONCLUSION: Bup is an effective and rapid detoxification agent with fewer side
effects for treatment of acute heroin withdrawal.