Michigan in the past year saw 2385 overdose deaths with 78 percent of those resulting from opioids, according to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics.
Opioids such as OxyContin, Vicodin, codeine, morphine, methadone and fentanyl are highly addictive and even used short-term can sometimes lead to addiction and, too often, overdose. These drugs activate a powerful reward center in the brain and trigger the release of endorphins, sending a temporary yet false sense of pleasure and feel-good sensation to the brain.
Most people are prescribed opioids to reduce moderate to severe pain following surgery, injury, or diagnosis of certain health conditions. However, between 8 to 12 percent of people prescribed opioids for pain develop an opioid use disorder (OUD) according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. Of those numbers, very few are able to recover on their own.
Treatment for OUD includes a comprehensive treatment plan that incorporates multiple methods for a whole-person approach. Those methods can include behavioral therapies, counseling and, in recent years, medication.
Suboxone (Buprenorphine/naloxone) is a fixed dose medication, approved by the FDA, to treat OUD and reduce opioid related deaths, such as fatal overdoses, by 50 percent. This prescription medication is used in treating those addicted to opioids, both illegal or prescription. It contains ingredients that partially blocks the opiate receptors and reduces a person's urge for drug use and can stabilize someone going through withdrawals.
“We understand opioid recovery can be very challenging, and we want to do whatever we can to help our patients on the route to recovery. Suboxone can make it easier,” said Jason Bombard, DO, Psychiatrist at Aspirus Health.
Suboxone is the first medication to treat OUD and can be prescribed or dispensed in a certified provider’s office.
Aspirus is pleased to report they offer certified Suboxone prescribers who are able to assist patients overcome OUD and set them up with a medication-assisted and comprehensive treatment plan. Those providers are Dr. Jason Bombard and Ms. Kimberly Traczyk, PA-C at the Aspirus Ironwood Clinic, as well as Mr. John Friedli, PA-C at our Aspirus Hurley Clinic.
To learn more about treatment for OUD or Suboxone, talk to your primary care doctor or schedule an appointment today by visiting aspirus.org