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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Is Switching From Methadone To Subutex Safe?

I am switching from methadone to subutex, I was on 30mg of done for 3 weeks, I am taking none for 2 days so that I will be in withdrawal before taking my first dose of subutex tomorrow. last night the withdrawal was so bad I took 600 mg of Neurontin and feel so much better. I am scared now that I am not feeling like I am in withdrawal that the subutex will make me feel worse tomorrow.....????
Fri, 12 Jun 2015
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Psychiatrist,  's  Response
Hello, Welcome to Health Care Magic

I can understand your concern. Methadon and Subutex (Buprenorphine) both are used as maintenance treatment of opioid addiction. If you are stable on Methadon and want to switch to Buprenorphine then best option is by cross tapering. Doses of Methadon should be reduced gradually and dose of Buprenorphine should be increased accordingly. Equivalent doses of the drug should be used. Gabapentin or Prgabalin can help to control the withdrawal symptoms.

If on shifting the drug you suffer withdrawal symptoms then Gabapentin can help. For pain symptoms medicines like Diclofenac, Paracetamol can help. Consult your doctor for prescription.

Thanks, Hope this helps you.

Take care
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Is Switching From Methadone To Subutex Safe?

Hello, Welcome to Health Care Magic I can understand your concern. Methadon and Subutex (Buprenorphine) both are used as maintenance treatment of opioid addiction. If you are stable on Methadon and want to switch to Buprenorphine then best option is by cross tapering. Doses of Methadon should be reduced gradually and dose of Buprenorphine should be increased accordingly. Equivalent doses of the drug should be used. Gabapentin or Prgabalin can help to control the withdrawal symptoms. If on shifting the drug you suffer withdrawal symptoms then Gabapentin can help. For pain symptoms medicines like Diclofenac, Paracetamol can help. Consult your doctor for prescription. Thanks, Hope this helps you. Take care