Abstract
Long-acting depot buprenorphine is a new treatment option for opioid dependence that avoids the burden of daily dosing seen with sublingual buprenorphine while minimising risk of diversion. GPs need to be aware of potential treatment issues in their patients receiving this therapy.
Article Extract
Almost 50,000 people in Australia are currently receiving opioid pharmacotherapy for opioid dependence.1 When administered in accordance with best practice guidelines, opioid pharmacotherapy reduces mortality and morbidity and improves social functioning of people with opioid dependence. It is recommended by both professional and government authorities.
