Buprenorphine rescue from naltrexone-induced opioid withdrawal during relatively rapid detoxification from high-dose methadone: a novel approach.

This small series of case reports illustrates a significantly faster and well tolerated method for a relatively rapid detoxification from high-dose methadone as compared to traditional methadone detoxification regimens. After inducing a withdrawal state using oral naltrexone, the patients were quickly "rescued" with buprenorphine (a combination of buprenorphine/naloxone). By administering a medication that attenuates withdrawal symptoms, patients immediately began to feel better and were better able to invest themselves in the overall treatment. The patients were then able to taper off opioids in a matter of days with minimal discomfort. The average length of stay was seven days, and no patients left before completing the program.