Buprenorphine Medical Service
J-CAP’s Article 28 Medical Unit has recently introduced a new medical service using buprenorphine, a synthetic opiate that rapidly alleviates the effects of withdrawal. Supervised by J-CAP’s medical team, this service is appropriate for individuals who are dependent on prescription opiate drugs (i.e. oxycodone, codeine, and morphine) as well as illegal street drugs such as heroin.
The benefits to using buprenorphine for detoxification include: less severe withdrawal symptoms, few side effects, the stability to think clearly and have better control while re-adjusting one’s lifestyle, and a reduction in health problems such as HIV, hepatitis B and C viruses, skin infections and vein problems. Clients are medically assessed, treated and monitored daily by J-CAP medical and nursing staff specially trained in the use of buprenorphine. Mental health status is also evaluated. Once buprenorphine therapy is completed, J-CAP again assesses the client to determine if further treatment is necessary to address the psychological and social issues associated with drug addiction and will make a referral for a residential or outpatient drug treatment program if appropriate.
The benefits to using buprenorphine for detoxification include: less severe withdrawal symptoms, few side effects, the stability to think clearly and have better control while re-adjusting one’s lifestyle, and a reduction in health problems such as HIV, hepatitis B and C viruses, skin infections and vein problems. Clients are medically assessed, treated and monitored daily by J-CAP medical and nursing staff specially trained in the use of buprenorphine. Mental health status is also evaluated. Once buprenorphine therapy is completed, J-CAP again assesses the client to determine if further treatment is necessary to address the psychological and social issues associated with drug addiction and will make a referral for a residential or outpatient drug treatment program if appropriate.
