Methadone and buprenorphine for managing opioid dependence
Summary
Methadone and buprenorphine (given as a tablet or a liquid)
are recommended as treatment options for people who are
opioid dependent.
A decision about which is the better treatment should be made on
an individual basis, in consultation with the person, taking into
account the possible benefits and r ...
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Methadone and buprenorphine (given as a tablet or a liquid)
are recommended as treatment options for people who are
opioid dependent.
A decision about which is the better treatment should be made on
an individual basis, in consultation with the person, taking into
account the possible benefits and risks of each treatment for that
particular person. If both drugs are likely to have the same benefits
and risks, methadone should be given as the first choice.
Different people will need different doses of methadone or
buprenorphine. People should take methadone or buprenorphine
daily in the presence of their doctor, nurse or community pharmacist
for at least the first 3 months of treatment and until they are able to
continue their treatment correctly without supervision.
Treatment with methadone or buprenorphine should be given as
part of a support programme to help the person manage their
opioid dependence.
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Implementing this guidance
Other information
We will consult on our review plans for this guidance in March 2010
