Subutex v. Suboxone Abuse Liability:
A study by investigators at Columbia University that seems to have received inadequate attention appeared in 2002. Bottom line: “... results demonstrate that both [Subutex and Suboxone] served as re-inforcers … and that they may have similar [intravenous] abuse liability in recently detoxified individuals who abuse heroin.” (Comer and Collins. 2002. J Pharmac Exp Therap 303(2):695-703)
We’re unaware of any data in the USA regarding the actual parenteral misuse of either medication (or, for that matter, misuse by oral consumption), but these findings would suggest that the primary consideration in deciding whether to use Subutex or Suboxone should be price.
posted by RGNewman, MD @ 9:12 AM
4 comments
4 Comments:
That's a very interesting study. Thanks!
"We’re unaware of any data in the USA regarding the actual parenteral misuse of either medication (or, for that matter, misuse by oral consumption)"
The data may not be in journals however if you speak to diversion investigators you will find sufficient information that speaks to abuse/misuse of buprenorphine.
Buprenorphines affinity for the opiate receptors is much stronger than naloxone. This being the case after a few hours of ingestion it doesn't matter if naloxone is in the mix or not, it's ineffective. I've known many people that said they were able to use opiates ontop of their buprenorphhone dose.
This is a very thought-provoking article, good job!
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