Can A Pill Solve Prescription Drug Abuse?

In The Battle Against Drug Addiction, An Unlikely Breakthrough

(CBS)  “They make you feel great; I'm not going to lie, you take a couple pills, you feel relaxed, you don't feel nervous, you have the weight of the world off your shoulders,” said one young man named Brian who would not let CBS News reveal his identity.

But, as CBS News contributor Dr. Sanjay Gupta reports, he’s willing to talk about how prescription painkillers took over his life: Ten OxyContin pills a day, costing up to $12,000 a month.

"You know I just couldn't stop taking them; my body just craved them,” he said.

Prescription drug addicts like Brian have unique problems beating their habit because they see themselves as different from street junkies. Often because of the stigma attached to methadone clinics, they resist traditional treatment.

Brian felt helpless. He felt out of control. Until one day, he heard a commercial on his car radio.

“By the grace of God, I say it was a higher power. This ad came on the radio,” he said. “I called the next day and two days later I was in the study.”

Has he had any use of prescription painkillers since he started the study?

"None," he said.

“I didn't know how bad being on opiates affected me,” he said.

Patients in the trial are given counseling as well as a new kind of anti-addiction drug called Suboxone. It's an orange pill that's dissolved under the tongue.

Here's how it works: When people are addicted, new receptors are created in the brain, which crave opioids. If left unsatisfied, the receptor sends pain signals to the brain - this is withdrawal. If the receptor is satisfied with drugs, the withdrawal symptoms stop and the person gets high.

Suboxone works by taking the place of the opioids in the receptor - not only shutting off withdrawal symptoms but also blocking the effects of any new drugs.

"It can be quite powerful when people begin to use it. They say, ‘oh, I feel regular!’” explained Dr. Marc Gourevitch. “The brain chemistry has been stabilized to some extent.”

Gourevitch believes that we can now revolutionize the treatment of drug addiction.

Unlike methadone, Suboxone can be prescribed by any doctor, even a family physician, so treatment for addicts can now be convenient and discreet.

"When you're taking Suboxone, you're not high, you're not in withdrawal, you're at work, you're dealing with your loved ones, you're having regular interactions...you're going about your life,” Gourevitch said.

For Brian, life now involves not only counseling and but a personal inventory as well.

“I didn't want to wake up every morning and chop up OxyContin, sniff it again during the day. I mean, that's a terrible way of life,” he said. “The Suboxone got me far enough away to look and say ‘wow, look at your life. Let's address what's going on.”

The hope is one day that Suboxone can do for painkiller addiction that drugs like Prozac did for depression: convince the public that addiction is a brain disease, not a character flaw.

---

For more information about the drug Suboxone:

Check out the national study here.

The site Turn to Help provides information and resources about treatment for opioid dependence, including a drug dependence questionnaire, a physician locator and a personalized confidential support program via email.

Click here to check out the National Alliance of Advocates for Buprenorphine Treatment.

For MySpace users, check out the site’s Addiction 411.

---

UPDATE: Suboxone has been FDA approved since 2002, but it also currently being tested in the clinical trial specifically for prescription painkiller addiction; which is what our piece is about.


© MMVII, CBS Interactive, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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by waismann-2009 November 29, 2007 7:18 PM PST

"Suboxone works by taking the place of the opioids in the receptor - not only shutting off withdrawal symptoms but also blocking the effects of any new drugs."
What does that mean? Suboxone IS AN OPIATE....is like giving whiskey to someone that is dependent on Vodka...Obviously they will not withdrawal?
The questions is....for such a new drug, how many patients have become dependent on it and cannot stop due to terrible withdrawals?

Reply to this comment

by bobmeixsell November 29, 2007 7:29 PM PST

I''m Pat Meixsell, Nazareth, PA. I was on Vicodin, Oxy-Contin, morphine and myriad of other drugs for severe pain for over five years. I had surgeries and after the surgeries I was still on all the drugs and I had absolute no life. Finally along came suboxone. My Drs. thought to try it for me in 2005-2006. I just want to say that I have my life back. I have pain yet but I am totally prescription drug free. I am glad they are doing the trials because I was at my wits end. Thank you for airing the piece on suboxone. It should give so many thousands hope. Thank you. Pat Meixsell

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by rweltner November 29, 2007 7:33 PM PST

I saw the news about htis and I want to say the not all doctors can perscribe this medication we have try this with my husband and he has call many so you need to do more reseach on this topic.
Thack you
Rhonda Weltner

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by scott3323 November 29, 2007 7:39 PM PST

As grateful as I was to finaly see a story on buprenorphine (AKA Suboxone), I was rather disturbed by some misleading information in your story. Most specifically, the way Katy''s question at the end of the piece was answered. She had asked the doctor if Suboxone were available only in a clinical trial setting, to which his reply was insufficient.

I, personally, have been on Suboxone for over 4 1/2 years in this country and had taken it before in Europe. I had formerly been on methadone, which was still available almost strictly through the clinic system. Now, even that can be precribed by doctors for pain or addiction. I mention this because the piece stated otherwise.

I appreciate your efforts to enlighten the public about both problems and resources, but I don''t understand why every drug story I read, see or hear is filled with misinformation. Next time you do a story on drug abuse, feel free to email me. For better or worse, this is one of the few subjects on which I am an authority.

Sincerely,

Scott B.

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by mikells43 November 29, 2007 7:50 PM PST

please say report that suboxone/ and subutex is ava NOW and NOT A CLINICAL TRIAL ONLY DRUG. the way addiciton is today how can u say such a thing. ive been on bupe for 14 months. need a forum to go to go to www.opiateaddicts.com its a community for us opiate addicts.

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by lparsons6 November 29, 2007 8:07 PM PST

I congratulate CBS in choosing to air a segment about Suboxone. However, as a board certified psychiatrist and addictiion certified physician, by the American Society of Addiction Medicine, I was disappointed that you misreported some clinical information. First, Suboxone cannot be prescribed by any physician. A physician who prescribes Suboxone for opiate dependence must first attain a special DEA waiver which requires special training. Secondly, although Suboxone may be in certain clinical trials, your story implied it was still only in the research phase. In fact, suboxone has been FDA approved for several years for the treatment of opiate dependence. Finally, your story implied that treating opiate dependence might be as simple as taking a pill. Psychosocial rehabilitation continues to be a mainstay of treatment for those with chemical dependency, even with the availability of effective medication. It may have been even more informative for people to hear that there are several biological (medication) treatments for opiate dependence, not just Suboxone.

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by hollidolli1 November 29, 2007 8:17 PM PST

This pill is already being abused by addicts. Some rehab units will not accept a patient using suboxone to control thier cravings. The report also suggests that addiction is a brain disorder and not a personality disorder which I think suggests that psychological counseling is not needed, even though counseling was included with the trial of the drug. There is no doubt that addicts watching this will now use their brain disorder as an excuss for the substance abuse.

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by nellyblu November 29, 2007 8:17 PM PST

I have been on opiates for over 40 years. In fact, because of opiates I have done over 12 years in prison. If this new pill can actually help me get off opiates once and for all, I would go as far as to beg for it-There isn''t much I wouldn''t do to get a drug that could help me with this problem.
Can I get this drug from my regular Dr.? And just as inportant to me is how much does this drug cost?

Reply to this comment

by bostonnama November 29, 2007 8:22 PM PST

You are wrong doctors have to take a special course to give this drug and many of them will only take cash to help these patients, which is most states is against the law. Also methadone used correctly does not make patients high. Suboxone is a great drug for many people but far from the cure, it has been used in detoxes for over 12 years.
ph

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by feelnormal November 29, 2007 8:24 PM PST

Anyone looking for a doctor near them that can prescribe SUBOXONE goto www.naabt.org/local

Or if you just want information to learn about it:
www.FeelNormal.org

It works!!

Reply to this comment

by bostonnama November 29, 2007 8:30 PM PST

SUBOXONE IS A GREAT DRUG AND HAVE BEEN ON IT FOR A FEW MONTHS AND FEEL GREAT, HAVE TO SAY THOUGH MRTHADONE SAVED MY LIFE AND NEVER GOT ME HIGH. TRY YO FIND A DOCTORS WHO CAN GIVE YOU SUBOXONE IS VERY HARD TO DO AND MANY OF THEM DO NOT KNOW ENOUGH ABOUT ADDICTION AND ARE DOING THIS BECAUSE. THE KNOW PEOPLE WILL GIVE THEM CASH BECAUSE MOST PATIENTS DO NOT KNOW THAT IT IS COVERED BY MOST INSURANCES. DOCTORS MANY OF THEM NOT ALL FEEL THIS IS A WAY TO GET CASH AND NOT HAVE TO DEAL WITH INSURANCE COMPANIES THAT WILL PAY THEM. I THINK IF THE STATES WOULD FINE THESE DOCTORS FOR TAKING CASH WHEN THEY COULD BILL INSURANCE WOULD HELP MANY PATIENTS AFFORD THIS TREATMENT
BOSTON PATIENT

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by feelnormal November 29, 2007 8:36 PM PST

SUBOXONE

Free downloads

Discussion board

Doctor list

www.NAABT.org non-profit patient education site

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by Redoubt November 29, 2007 9:07 PM PST

Here we go again blaming an inanimate object for poor human behavior. Just so you don''t miss the point...

Prescription drugs are not eeville. It takes a human being to abuse them... it takes a human to disobey doctor''s orders. Most drugs, by themselves, never harmed a soul. In fact, if you had them over for dinner, you''d never know they were subject to being vilified by the media.

Yes, it''s true. Guns do not kill people and prescription drugs do not abuse themselves. No free rides for those too weak willed to follow dosing instrcutions or those who hold a treat a loaded gun like a toy.

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by jazzygirl11 November 29, 2007 9:08 PM PST

Oh, that wat a load of *** on that segment. They totally neglected to tell you that the Suboxone is as addicting as the opiates, if not more, and I have been trying to get off the Suboxone for 6 months already! Also, I was under the impression that only certain Doctors could prescribe Suboxone, but apparently this is a great way for the drug companies to make money by letting any doctor prescribe it

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by stevenyhc November 29, 2007 9:09 PM PST

Just like to say i have archived this for any future lawsuits.

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by bostonnama November 29, 2007 9:10 PM PST

Suboxone treatment needs to become more available the poor, while medicaid covers it most private doctors will only accept cash even though they are medicaid providers. In Massachusetts many community health are helping to fill the void of doctors who continue to violate medicaid and medicare regulations. My suggestion to people in Massachusetts is to go to the dept of public health web site and look to see if they have a list of Suboxone providers.
Suboxone saved my life and has made my life of one of staying alone in one room to being a working member of society. Addiction is a brain disease but people still treat us like we are bad people. Would a person with high blood pressure be treated like this. I am lucky to live in a state that believes in medication assisted drug treatment, they believe in it because it works and it is science based. Call the Dept of public healths helpline if you need help with your opioid addiction. Also methadone also does a great job for patients if they are in a clinic that has enough medical personel to monitor patients and get them on a dose that works for them. We need to support science based treatment
Paul B

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by bostonnama November 29, 2007 9:10 PM PST

Suboxone treatment needs to become more available the poor, while medicaid covers it most private doctors will only accept cash even though they are medicaid providers. In Massachusetts many community health are helping to fill the void of doctors who continue to violate medicaid and medicare regulations. My suggestion to people in Massachusetts is to go to the dept of public health web site and look to see if they have a list of Suboxone providers.
Suboxone saved my life and has made my life of one of staying alone in one room to being a working member of society. Addiction is a brain disease but people still treat us like we are bad people. Would a person with high blood pressure be treated like this. I am lucky to live in a state that believes in medication assisted drug treatment, they believe in it because it works and it is science based. Call the Dept of public healths helpline if you need help with your opioid addiction. Also methadone also does a great job for patients if they are in a clinic that has enough medical personel to monitor patients and get them on a dose that works for them. We need to support science based treatment
Paul B

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by melis11577 November 29, 2007 9:22 PM PST

Methadone is now the #2 Killer Drug in the U.S. Methadone is more addictive then any other pain medication including heroin and because of it%u2019s extremely long half life, cardio toxic risks, numerous fatal drug interactions, dosages based on tolerance, and small margin of error.

Every day 10.9 people die from Methadone (according to 2004 stats, not including car accident deaths caused by drivers under the influence of Methadone)

www.HARMD.org
Helping America Reduce Methadone Deaths

Reply to this comment

by melis11577 November 29, 2007 9:25 PM PST

We cannot continue to allow a legal medication to be killing more people then the illegal drugs. Our government cannot be allowed to use tax dollars to fund their legal drug dealing operations.

It must be mandatory that all doctors be certified and trained in the pharmacology of methadone; inpatient stays must be required during induction to methadone; all staff be extensively trained in monitoring methadone patients for symptoms of toxicity. Clinic patients should be tested weekly for legal and illegal drugs that are taken with methadone to get %u201C high%u201D or experience %u201Ceuphoria%u201D such as benzodiazepines, alcohol, cocaine, heroin, marijuana etc%u2026 and face severe consequences or mandatory detoxification from the methadone program after 3 dirty urines. Selling of take home doses must result in termination from methadone program permanently throughout the U.S. When presenting inebriated at clinic, clinic should also document such activity as well as prevent client from driving. Take home doses for all patients receiving methadone should be eliminated thus preventing the risk of diversion or precautions such as pill safe should be implemented.

www.HARMD.org
Helping America Reduce Methadone Deaths

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by melis11577 November 29, 2007 9:27 PM PST

Current statistics show that nearly 4000 people a year die from methadone. These deaths are mostly happening to pain management and detoxification patients%u2019 within the first 10 days of taking initial dose. Most of these deaths are related to methadone prescribed with other medications that react as additives with the methadone. Diversion of methadone is a serious problem because it lands this most deadly drug on streets. Statistics also state that methadone is contributing to more deaths nationwide then heroin and only second to cocaine deaths.

The potential of abuse, diversion, and overdose to new patients being prescribed methadone is overwhelming. The unique properties of methadone, it''s long half life, and it''s negative interaction with numerous drugs make it an optimal choice as a last result treatment for chronic pain and addiction.

Melissa Zuppardi
Helping America Reduce Methadone Deaths
www.HARMD.org

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by rivertown22 November 29, 2007 9:49 PM PST

It''s important to understand that Suboxone is addictive too, and must be tapered off within 14 days. The FDA needs to regulate Oxycontin and require it be administered in clinical settings only, and absolutely cannot be sold over the counter with a triplicate prescription or any other way. That drug is wiping out more people than anyone realizes. In our city we have lost many young adults to overdoses, and hundreds more are addicted. Kids that were on honor rolls,athletes, kids from doctors, lawyers, judges, and working class families. These kids were planning lives, going to college etc.

People go to doctors complaining of pain and are prescribed the Oxy, they then resell it to kids because it so lucrative. The kids (and adults too) become addicted. Realizing they are hooked, they go online to find help, and end up trying to self medicate with Methadone, not knowing the dangers. Most of them need a clinical detox, but it''s not available, especially for adolescents.

PLEASE KATIE, SHINE SOME LIGHT ON THIS SUBJECT. THE GREED OF THE PHARMACEUTICAL COMPANY THAT KNOWS WHAT IS HAPPENING BUT DOESN''T CARE IS IMMORAL.

go to www.oxykills.com

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by feelnormal November 29, 2007 10:08 PM PST

%u201CIt''''s important to understand that Suboxone is addictive too, and must be tapered off within 14 days.%u201D%u2014last poster

VERY few people become addicted to Suboxone, and there is NO rule that it must be taper off of in 14 days that is a complete fabrication and contrary to the science. 6 months to 1 year is a more appropriate timeframe.

SUBOXONE is a partial agonist (unlike Oxys or all other opioids) and has a ceiling to its effects making overdoses impossible and addiction unlikely. Learn the facts.

Why is this treatment not switching one addiction for another?
http://naabt.org/faq_answers.cfm#33

I. Addiction:
Addiction is a primary, chronic, neurobiologic disease, with genetic, psychosocial, and environmental factors influencing its development and manifestations. It is characterized by behaviors that include one or more of the following: impaired control over drug use, compulsive use, continued use despite harm, and craving.

II. Physical Dependence:
Physical dependence is a state of adaptation that is manifested by a drug class specific withdrawal syndrome that can be produced by abrupt cessation, rapid dose reduction, decreasing blood level of the drug, and/or administration of an antagonist.
III. Tolerance:

Tolerance is a state of adaptation in which exposure to a drug induces changes that result in a diminution of one or more of the drug%u2019s effects over time.


see www.naabt.org for facts and references.

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by newman4good November 29, 2007 10:13 PM PST

been on suboxone for four months,was taking 10 to 15 lora tabs a day eight ball of coke a day and 2 to four oxys 80mg a day for over three yrs,once i found out about suboxone,i went in to doctors office and got treatment and been clean ever since,id rather be on suboxone and stright and clean with my family the to be back in the cave i lived in for three yrs,
i am a new person for it,thank god,also i turned my sisterinlaw on to suboxone and she since been on it for three months been clean,she has been a life long drug addict for over 40 yrs,,need i say more

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by kimmielo2 November 29, 2007 10:56 PM PST

First of all, not just "any doctor" can subscribe the medication. The DEA requires that physicians who write prescriptions for the suboxone treatment attend a special training course, and receive a supplemental DEA number. There are very many stringent requirments that the DEA require and the physicians are limited in how many patients that they may treat for the first year. (only 30). After the first year, they can increase their total suboxone patient load to 100. Most physicians are not informed on this type of medication and are not willing to jump through all the hoops that the DEA require to allow this into their practice. Any violations on the record keeping have HUGE fines and many pharmacies have been hit with $25,000 fines for minor errors in DEA audits.

I have stated and find it very ironic that the DEA (a branch of the DOJ) has such huge problems witha drug that has so much good with it, and has fought it every step of the way. Isnt it strange how they dont have any problems with the Methodone clinics (and those are government/state funded). HMMMMMMMM.

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by lillianne2 November 29, 2007 10:57 PM PST

Can anyone tell me why such addictive pain killers are even prescribed? And do people understand that they can be addictive, before taking them?

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by thomprentice November 29, 2007 11:04 PM PST

Virtually NOTHING in the story nor NOTHING in the comments speak to the ACTUAL newsworthiness of the drug Suboxone: the fact it can and is being used for PAIN rather than addiction.

Suboxone is, in fact, being used for both.

The application to pain (chronic pain, Fibromyalgia, etc.) is within the past year. I switched to Suboxone at my physician''s suggestion from using Methadone (for PAIN not ADDICTION) after having previously changed from expensive Oxycontin to less expensive Methadone for PAIN CONTROL, not addiction.

My physician is one of a handful approved by the FDA to use Suboxone FOR PAIN, NOT DRUG ADDICTION. Most of his patients have switched to Suboxone with no interference from other prn drugs such as hydrocodone.

The chronic pain of Fibromyalgia or cancer is bad enough without being also assumed to be a drug addict simply because medicine developed to help drug users get off drug addition is ALSO apparently being discovered to be an even better agent for pain. ''Tis for me.

Plus it doesn''t stop up the bowels as Oxycontin and Methadone and hydrocodone all do.

Reply to this comment

by feelnormal November 30, 2007 1:59 AM PST

"My physician is one of a handful approved by the FDA to use Suboxone FOR PAIN..." -last poster

There is NO such FDA approval, ANY doctor can prescribe it off label for pain, they must have the DEA waiver to prescribe it for opioid dependence.

Learn the facts at:

www.NAABT.org

Find help for someone you love who is addicted. The best way you can help is to educate yourself about all available treatments.

Replace myth and rumor with education..

Reply to this comment

by feelnormal November 30, 2007 2:11 AM PST

Here''s a list of Doctors that can prescribe SUBOXONE now! It is NOT still in trials it is in the pharmacies now!! It was approved in 2002.

www.NAABT.org/local

Get all the facts, new breakthroughs in science can make ending an addiction possible.

SUBOXONE works for Heroin addiction too!!

Reply to this comment

by jjp735i November 30, 2007 6:12 AM PST

What was left out of the story. Yes,Suboxone does stop the with draw, but try getting it. In the Pittsburgh area drug addicts who use it have to first find a doctor who can perscribe it because they say they need a special license, then the doctors charge the regular examination fee plus another $100.00 to 200.00 per vist for a two week script. They over charge the patient for the Suboxone perscription. But the worst part is the addicts then sell have the script for $10.00 to $15.00 per pill to other users. They use them when they have not had time to rob someone to keep from getting sick. Once they have money on hand they stop taking the Suboxone and do back to their drug of choice. I see it every day.

Tell the full story next time. Do not make it sound like Suboxone is a cure. It''s not.

Reply to this comment

by sept19571 November 30, 2007 6:59 AM PST

oh my gosh, i had no idea how sick i was. just like everyone else i started pain pills because they made me feel better, then oxy cotin took over my life. i started the suboxone program and have been drug free for 5 months, saved $27.000, have my life back..it''s wonderful. the people that talk bad about suboxone is the drug dealers. it really works only if you want it to. do it..and good luck.

Reply to this comment

by sept19571 November 30, 2007 6:59 AM PST

oh my gosh, i had no idea how sick i was. just like everyone else i started pain pills because they made me feel better, then oxy cotin took over my life. i started the suboxone program and have been drug free for 5 months, saved $27.000, have my life back..it''s wonderful. the people that talk bad about suboxone is the drug dealers. it really works only if you want it to. do it..and good luck.

Reply to this comment

by sept19571 November 30, 2007 7:07 AM PST

after reading the post from jjp75i i realize so many have trouble finding doctors. keep trying and keep positive, you have to want this. i went to a clinic that was so helpful, if it doesnt feel right to you it probally isn''t the right doctors for you..keep trying to find help. we tried for days to make the right decision for treatment. and really got lucky!

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by bostonnama November 30, 2007 7:55 AM PST

Please go to www.methadone.org for the correct information reqarding the mis information that has been posted her about methadone use. Methadone saves lives and it saved mine. I think we need to stop the myths and get to the facts.
P.B. Methadone saves lives methadone.org

Reply to this comment

by mmayog November 30, 2007 9:25 AM PST

hey...Suboxone can help many people...here is a link to the study they were talking about...and where its being run

http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct/show/NCT00316277?order=1

Reply to this comment

by feelnormal November 30, 2007 11:11 AM PST

YouTube video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=na5V6xtNY7A

Public service announcement

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by levenger-2009 November 30, 2007 11:53 AM PST

Suboxone tends to be effective in the short term. Long term is useless.

Reply to this comment

by valeriavegas November 30, 2007 1:14 PM PST

Finding a doctor who is certified to dispense buprenorphine (AKA Suboxone) is difficult if you''re confining yourself locally. Meditox (www.meditox.com) provides you with a medical team with certified medical professionals who determine whether or not a Suboxone treatment will work for you and, if so, help you develop a personalized treatment plan. You don''t switch one addiction for another but step down to a less harmful drug that allows you to safely and efficiently detox completely. It really couldn''t be easier and it''s completely confidential. Check it out at www.Meditox.com.

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by leslienyu November 30, 2007 1:31 PM PST

Please note that Suboxone is NOT currently in clinical trials, it is already an FDA approved medication. The study that is being referenced is about different behavioral interventions in combination with Suboxone and is sponsored by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, with 11 sites across the nation.

For more information:
Prescription Opioid Addiction Treatment Study (POATS)
NIDA %u2013 Clinical Trials Network

Bellevue Hospital, New York, NY:
Leslie Wright [phone]

St. Luke%u2019s Roosevelt Hospital, New York, NY:
Eva Kourniotis [phone]

Long Island Jewish Medical Center, New York, NY:
Megan Ghiroli [phone]

McLean Hospital %u2013 Alcohol & Drug Abuse Treatment Program, Belmont, MA
Megan Johnson [phone]

Chestnut Ridge Hospital, Morgantown, WV:
Lyn McCracken [phone]

Behavioral Health Services of Pickens County Pickens, SC:
Elizabeth Chapman [phone]

East Indiana Treatment Center, Lawrenceburg, IN: Krista Tevar [phone]

Integrated Substance Abuse Programs (ISAP), Los Angeles, CA:
Vanessa De Guzman [phone]

San Francisco General Hospital, San Francisco, CA: Jamie Grace [phone]

Alcohol & Drug Abuse Prevention & Treatment (ADAPT), Roseburg, OR:
Linda Clary [phone]

Providence Behavioral Health Services, Everett, WA: Dan Fischer [phone]

Reply to this comment

by feelnormal November 30, 2007 2:28 PM PST

Here''''s a list of Doctors that can prescribe SUBOXONE now! It is NOT still in trials it is in the pharmacies now!! It was approved in 2002.

www.NAABT.org/local

Get all the facts, new breakthroughs in science can make ending an addiction possible.

SUBOXONE works for Heroin addiction too!!

Reply to this comment

by lhoward8 November 30, 2007 3:35 PM PST

CBS had the opportunity to draw attention to the epidemic of prescription drug abuse and educate the American public about addictive disease. Unfortunately, some of the language that CBS chose to use in this series was stigmatizing and inaccurate. "Focusing on the subtle meaning of words%u2013rejecting some while embracing others%u2013is far more than a matter of shallow political correctness. It is about changing the way addicted and recovering people see themselves and are seen be others." (1)
People who suffer from addictive disease are not "beating their habit" they are in treatment for a chronic, progressive life threatening disease. People do not "get clean," they are living a life of recovery. "Gettting clean" implies that someone with addictive disease was dirty; what other chronic disease do we ascribe this negative stereotypical language? Diabetes? Hypertension?
People with addictive disease do not "fail at rehab." It is true some people who have the disease of chemical dependence relapse; it is a feature of the disease. It does not mean that they have failed. What it more accurately means is that we, as a society, as professionals in health and human service systems are not providing systems of care that are appropriate for supporting people to manage their chronic, life-long neurobiological disease. Learn more about reframing our addiction and recovery language, (1)"The Rhetoric of Recovery Advocacy:An Essay On the Power of Language" William White 2002

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by random_radar November 30, 2007 3:41 PM PST

"Ten OxyContin pills a day, costing up to $12,000 a month."

If I had that kind of money to spend on a drug habit, I wouldn''t need drugs. I would be so happy and carefree that escaping the world through drugs would never occur to me.

I am always amazed at people who are spending thousands of dollars a month supporting a drug habit. Maybe money doesn''t buy happiness, but that kind of money could certainly make life worth living.

But I am not tempted to take drugs despite being a thousandaire and having plenty of problems of my own, so I guess I am okay.

Reply to this comment

by November 30, 2007 3:50 PM PST

The spreading of drugs must be a dream come true for Big Pharma. They have spent some much time and money they are be rewarded in the billions of dollars monthly.

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by dkb218-2009 November 30, 2007 4:20 PM PST

So, to get off pills, I should take pills? O-Tay!

Reply to this comment

by dkb218-2009 November 30, 2007 4:20 PM PST

So, to get off pills, I should take pills? O-Tay!

Reply to this comment

by bostonnama November 30, 2007 4:41 PM PST

I am on suboxone and I have been able to go to thanksgiving dinner for the first time in 5 years with my family because I have gotten my life back, and family back too. Medication Assisted Treatment works and people need to be educated about it before they make silly coments about it. Walk the walk and then talk.
Thanks Suboxone and thanks to my family who never gave up on me.
Paul B

Reply to this comment

by feelnormal November 30, 2007 4:51 PM PST

Words like Junky, habit, addict, kick, fix, have no place in Addiction medicine and no place in a professional news report. Just like we don%u2019t call people retards or cripples we have to look at the stigmatizing language associated with this disease state.

Just like an elderly white man would sound ridicules using adolescent urban rapper jargon, so do professionals using street slang instead of appropriate medical terminology.

To change the stigma we must change the language.

Addiction-Survivors.org

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by feelnormal November 30, 2007 5:17 PM PST

CBS- Thanks for the above resource links and update!

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by dkb218-2009 November 30, 2007 5:22 PM PST

Paul B, isn''t it just changing one addiction for another? Or is this a case of the lesser of two evils? And by the way - welcome back to the world! I mean that sincerely and family is a beautiful thing.

Reply to this comment

by june0001 November 30, 2007 5:39 PM PST

Glad I saw a link to this article at www.polijam.com This is truly ironic. The cure to addiction to one type of pill, is another pill which has less onerous side effects, and is a legal drug. Trust Big Pharma to come up with a pill for everything.

Some day I''m sure we''ll find out that this new pill causes some other health effects which will in turn require yet another pill.

Reply to this comment

by mjkelley50 November 30, 2007 6:31 PM PST

as a current user of suboxone, in coujunction with therapy, I have been able to deal not only with addiction, but underlying psychological problems many addicts have but self-medicate to avoid. Suboxone works by not only stopping withdrawal symptoms, but by creating a "ceiling effect" whereby it becomes pointless to try to abuse the drug. This combination truly puts one as close to being drug-free as possible, allowing treatment to work much more quickly than with traditional methods such as methadone. I would only stress the need for a qualified therapist or psychiatrist is essential.
Suboxone can''t effect a cure, but allows a window of time for treatment to work.

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[waismann-2009]

"Suboxone works by taking the place of the opioids in the receptor - not only shutting off withdrawal symptoms but also blocking the effects of any new drugs."
What does that mean? Suboxone IS AN OPIATE....is like giving whiskey to someone that is dependent on Vodka...Obviously they will not withdrawal?
The questions is....for such a new drug, how many patients have become dependent on it and cannot stop due to terrible withdrawals?

[bobmeixsell]

I''m Pat Meixsell, Nazareth, PA. I was on Vicodin, Oxy-Contin, morphine and myriad of other drugs for severe pain for over five years. I had surgeries and after the surgeries I was still on all the drugs and I had absolute no life. Finally along came suboxone. My Drs. thought to try it for me in 2005-2006. I just want to say that I have my life back. I have pain yet but I am totally prescription drug free. I am glad they are doing the trials because I was at my wits end. Thank you for airing the piece on suboxone. It should give so many thousands hope. Thank you. Pat Meixsell

[rweltner]

I saw the news about htis and I want to say the not all doctors can perscribe this medication we have try this with my husband and he has call many so you need to do more reseach on this topic.
Thack you
Rhonda Weltner

[scott3323]

As grateful as I was to finaly see a story on buprenorphine (AKA Suboxone), I was rather disturbed by some misleading information in your story. Most specifically, the way Katy''s question at the end of the piece was answered. She had asked the doctor if Suboxone were available only in a clinical trial setting, to which his reply was insufficient.

I, personally, have been on Suboxone for over 4 1/2 years in this country and had taken it before in Europe. I had formerly been on methadone, which was still available almost strictly through the clinic system. Now, even that can be precribed by doctors for pain or addiction. I mention this because the piece stated otherwise.

I appreciate your efforts to enlighten the public about both problems and resources, but I don''t understand why every drug story I read, see or hear is filled with misinformation. Next time you do a story on drug abuse, feel free to email me. For better or worse, this is one of the few subjects on which I am an authority.

Sincerely,

Scott B.

[mikells43]

please say report that suboxone/ and subutex is ava NOW and NOT A CLINICAL TRIAL ONLY DRUG. the way addiciton is today how can u say such a thing. ive been on bupe for 14 months. need a forum to go to go to www.opiateaddicts.com its a community for us opiate addicts.

[lparsons6]

I congratulate CBS in choosing to air a segment about Suboxone. However, as a board certified psychiatrist and addictiion certified physician, by the American Society of Addiction Medicine, I was disappointed that you misreported some clinical information. First, Suboxone cannot be prescribed by any physician. A physician who prescribes Suboxone for opiate dependence must first attain a special DEA waiver which requires special training. Secondly, although Suboxone may be in certain clinical trials, your story implied it was still only in the research phase. In fact, suboxone has been FDA approved for several years for the treatment of opiate dependence. Finally, your story implied that treating opiate dependence might be as simple as taking a pill. Psychosocial rehabilitation continues to be a mainstay of treatment for those with chemical dependency, even with the availability of effective medication. It may have been even more informative for people to hear that there are several biological (medication) treatments for opiate dependence, not just Suboxone.

[hollidolli1]

This pill is already being abused by addicts. Some rehab units will not accept a patient using suboxone to control thier cravings. The report also suggests that addiction is a brain disorder and not a personality disorder which I think suggests that psychological counseling is not needed, even though counseling was included with the trial of the drug. There is no doubt that addicts watching this will now use their brain disorder as an excuss for the substance abuse.

[nellyblu]

I have been on opiates for over 40 years. In fact, because of opiates I have done over 12 years in prison. If this new pill can actually help me get off opiates once and for all, I would go as far as to beg for it-There isn''t much I wouldn''t do to get a drug that could help me with this problem.
Can I get this drug from my regular Dr.? And just as inportant to me is how much does this drug cost?

[bostonnama]

You are wrong doctors have to take a special course to give this drug and many of them will only take cash to help these patients, which is most states is against the law. Also methadone used correctly does not make patients high. Suboxone is a great drug for many people but far from the cure, it has been used in detoxes for over 12 years.
ph

[feelnormal]

Anyone looking for a doctor near them that can prescribe SUBOXONE goto www.naabt.org/local

Or if you just want information to learn about it:
www.FeelNormal.org

It works!!

[bostonnama]

SUBOXONE IS A GREAT DRUG AND HAVE BEEN ON IT FOR A FEW MONTHS AND FEEL GREAT, HAVE TO SAY THOUGH MRTHADONE SAVED MY LIFE AND NEVER GOT ME HIGH. TRY YO FIND A DOCTORS WHO CAN GIVE YOU SUBOXONE IS VERY HARD TO DO AND MANY OF THEM DO NOT KNOW ENOUGH ABOUT ADDICTION AND ARE DOING THIS BECAUSE. THE KNOW PEOPLE WILL GIVE THEM CASH BECAUSE MOST PATIENTS DO NOT KNOW THAT IT IS COVERED BY MOST INSURANCES. DOCTORS MANY OF THEM NOT ALL FEEL THIS IS A WAY TO GET CASH AND NOT HAVE TO DEAL WITH INSURANCE COMPANIES THAT WILL PAY THEM. I THINK IF THE STATES WOULD FINE THESE DOCTORS FOR TAKING CASH WHEN THEY COULD BILL INSURANCE WOULD HELP MANY PATIENTS AFFORD THIS TREATMENT
BOSTON PATIENT

[feelnormal]

SUBOXONE

Free downloads

Discussion board

Doctor list

www.NAABT.org non-profit patient education site

[Redoubt]

Here we go again blaming an inanimate object for poor human behavior. Just so you don''t miss the point...

Prescription drugs are not eeville. It takes a human being to abuse them... it takes a human to disobey doctor''s orders. Most drugs, by themselves, never harmed a soul. In fact, if you had them over for dinner, you''d never know they were subject to being vilified by the media.

Yes, it''s true. Guns do not kill people and prescription drugs do not abuse themselves. No free rides for those too weak willed to follow dosing instrcutions or those who hold a treat a loaded gun like a toy.

[jazzygirl11]

Oh, that wat a load of *** on that segment. They totally neglected to tell you that the Suboxone is as addicting as the opiates, if not more, and I have been trying to get off the Suboxone for 6 months already! Also, I was under the impression that only certain Doctors could prescribe Suboxone, but apparently this is a great way for the drug companies to make money by letting any doctor prescribe it

[stevenyhc]

Just like to say i have archived this for any future lawsuits.

[bostonnama]

Suboxone treatment needs to become more available the poor, while medicaid covers it most private doctors will only accept cash even though they are medicaid providers. In Massachusetts many community health are helping to fill the void of doctors who continue to violate medicaid and medicare regulations. My suggestion to people in Massachusetts is to go to the dept of public health web site and look to see if they have a list of Suboxone providers.
Suboxone saved my life and has made my life of one of staying alone in one room to being a working member of society. Addiction is a brain disease but people still treat us like we are bad people. Would a person with high blood pressure be treated like this. I am lucky to live in a state that believes in medication assisted drug treatment, they believe in it because it works and it is science based. Call the Dept of public healths helpline if you need help with your opioid addiction. Also methadone also does a great job for patients if they are in a clinic that has enough medical personel to monitor patients and get them on a dose that works for them. We need to support science based treatment
Paul B

[bostonnama]

Suboxone treatment needs to become more available the poor, while medicaid covers it most private doctors will only accept cash even though they are medicaid providers. In Massachusetts many community health are helping to fill the void of doctors who continue to violate medicaid and medicare regulations. My suggestion to people in Massachusetts is to go to the dept of public health web site and look to see if they have a list of Suboxone providers.
Suboxone saved my life and has made my life of one of staying alone in one room to being a working member of society. Addiction is a brain disease but people still treat us like we are bad people. Would a person with high blood pressure be treated like this. I am lucky to live in a state that believes in medication assisted drug treatment, they believe in it because it works and it is science based. Call the Dept of public healths helpline if you need help with your opioid addiction. Also methadone also does a great job for patients if they are in a clinic that has enough medical personel to monitor patients and get them on a dose that works for them. We need to support science based treatment
Paul B

[melis11577]

Methadone is now the #2 Killer Drug in the U.S. Methadone is more addictive then any other pain medication including heroin and because of it%u2019s extremely long half life, cardio toxic risks, numerous fatal drug interactions, dosages based on tolerance, and small margin of error.

Every day 10.9 people die from Methadone (according to 2004 stats, not including car accident deaths caused by drivers under the influence of Methadone)

www.HARMD.org
Helping America Reduce Methadone Deaths

[melis11577]

We cannot continue to allow a legal medication to be killing more people then the illegal drugs. Our government cannot be allowed to use tax dollars to fund their legal drug dealing operations.

It must be mandatory that all doctors be certified and trained in the pharmacology of methadone; inpatient stays must be required during induction to methadone; all staff be extensively trained in monitoring methadone patients for symptoms of toxicity. Clinic patients should be tested weekly for legal and illegal drugs that are taken with methadone to get %u201C high%u201D or experience %u201Ceuphoria%u201D such as benzodiazepines, alcohol, cocaine, heroin, marijuana etc%u2026 and face severe consequences or mandatory detoxification from the methadone program after 3 dirty urines. Selling of take home doses must result in termination from methadone program permanently throughout the U.S. When presenting inebriated at clinic, clinic should also document such activity as well as prevent client from driving. Take home doses for all patients receiving methadone should be eliminated thus preventing the risk of diversion or precautions such as pill safe should be implemented.

www.HARMD.org
Helping America Reduce Methadone Deaths

[melis11577]

Current statistics show that nearly 4000 people a year die from methadone. These deaths are mostly happening to pain management and detoxification patients%u2019 within the first 10 days of taking initial dose. Most of these deaths are related to methadone prescribed with other medications that react as additives with the methadone. Diversion of methadone is a serious problem because it lands this most deadly drug on streets. Statistics also state that methadone is contributing to more deaths nationwide then heroin and only second to cocaine deaths.

The potential of abuse, diversion, and overdose to new patients being prescribed methadone is overwhelming. The unique properties of methadone, it''s long half life, and it''s negative interaction with numerous drugs make it an optimal choice as a last result treatment for chronic pain and addiction.

Melissa Zuppardi
Helping America Reduce Methadone Deaths
www.HARMD.org

[rivertown22]

It''s important to understand that Suboxone is addictive too, and must be tapered off within 14 days. The FDA needs to regulate Oxycontin and require it be administered in clinical settings only, and absolutely cannot be sold over the counter with a triplicate prescription or any other way. That drug is wiping out more people than anyone realizes. In our city we have lost many young adults to overdoses, and hundreds more are addicted. Kids that were on honor rolls,athletes, kids from doctors, lawyers, judges, and working class families. These kids were planning lives, going to college etc.

People go to doctors complaining of pain and are prescribed the Oxy, they then resell it to kids because it so lucrative. The kids (and adults too) become addicted. Realizing they are hooked, they go online to find help, and end up trying to self medicate with Methadone, not knowing the dangers. Most of them need a clinical detox, but it''s not available, especially for adolescents.

PLEASE KATIE, SHINE SOME LIGHT ON THIS SUBJECT. THE GREED OF THE PHARMACEUTICAL COMPANY THAT KNOWS WHAT IS HAPPENING BUT DOESN''T CARE IS IMMORAL.

go to www.oxykills.com

[feelnormal]

%u201CIt''''s important to understand that Suboxone is addictive too, and must be tapered off within 14 days.%u201D%u2014last poster

VERY few people become addicted to Suboxone, and there is NO rule that it must be taper off of in 14 days that is a complete fabrication and contrary to the science. 6 months to 1 year is a more appropriate timeframe.

SUBOXONE is a partial agonist (unlike Oxys or all other opioids) and has a ceiling to its effects making overdoses impossible and addiction unlikely. Learn the facts.

Why is this treatment not switching one addiction for another?
http://naabt.org/faq_answers.cfm#33

I. Addiction:
Addiction is a primary, chronic, neurobiologic disease, with genetic, psychosocial, and environmental factors influencing its development and manifestations. It is characterized by behaviors that include one or more of the following: impaired control over drug use, compulsive use, continued use despite harm, and craving.

II. Physical Dependence:
Physical dependence is a state of adaptation that is manifested by a drug class specific withdrawal syndrome that can be produced by abrupt cessation, rapid dose reduction, decreasing blood level of the drug, and/or administration of an antagonist.
III. Tolerance:

Tolerance is a state of adaptation in which exposure to a drug induces changes that result in a diminution of one or more of the drug%u2019s effects over time.


see www.naabt.org for facts and references.

[newman4good]

been on suboxone for four months,was taking 10 to 15 lora tabs a day eight ball of coke a day and 2 to four oxys 80mg a day for over three yrs,once i found out about suboxone,i went in to doctors office and got treatment and been clean ever since,id rather be on suboxone and stright and clean with my family the to be back in the cave i lived in for three yrs,
i am a new person for it,thank god,also i turned my sisterinlaw on to suboxone and she since been on it for three months been clean,she has been a life long drug addict for over 40 yrs,,need i say more

[kimmielo2]

First of all, not just "any doctor" can subscribe the medication. The DEA requires that physicians who write prescriptions for the suboxone treatment attend a special training course, and receive a supplemental DEA number. There are very many stringent requirments that the DEA require and the physicians are limited in how many patients that they may treat for the first year. (only 30). After the first year, they can increase their total suboxone patient load to 100. Most physicians are not informed on this type of medication and are not willing to jump through all the hoops that the DEA require to allow this into their practice. Any violations on the record keeping have HUGE fines and many pharmacies have been hit with $25,000 fines for minor errors in DEA audits.

I have stated and find it very ironic that the DEA (a branch of the DOJ) has such huge problems witha drug that has so much good with it, and has fought it every step of the way. Isnt it strange how they dont have any problems with the Methodone clinics (and those are government/state funded). HMMMMMMMM.

[lillianne2]

Can anyone tell me why such addictive pain killers are even prescribed? And do people understand that they can be addictive, before taking them?

[thomprentice]

Virtually NOTHING in the story nor NOTHING in the comments speak to the ACTUAL newsworthiness of the drug Suboxone: the fact it can and is being used for PAIN rather than addiction.

Suboxone is, in fact, being used for both.

The application to pain (chronic pain, Fibromyalgia, etc.) is within the past year. I switched to Suboxone at my physician''s suggestion from using Methadone (for PAIN not ADDICTION) after having previously changed from expensive Oxycontin to less expensive Methadone for PAIN CONTROL, not addiction.

My physician is one of a handful approved by the FDA to use Suboxone FOR PAIN, NOT DRUG ADDICTION. Most of his patients have switched to Suboxone with no interference from other prn drugs such as hydrocodone.

The chronic pain of Fibromyalgia or cancer is bad enough without being also assumed to be a drug addict simply because medicine developed to help drug users get off drug addition is ALSO apparently being discovered to be an even better agent for pain. ''Tis for me.

Plus it doesn''t stop up the bowels as Oxycontin and Methadone and hydrocodone all do.

[feelnormal]

"My physician is one of a handful approved by the FDA to use Suboxone FOR PAIN..." -last poster

There is NO such FDA approval, ANY doctor can prescribe it off label for pain, they must have the DEA waiver to prescribe it for opioid dependence.

Learn the facts at:

www.NAABT.org

Find help for someone you love who is addicted. The best way you can help is to educate yourself about all available treatments.

Replace myth and rumor with education..

[feelnormal]

Here''s a list of Doctors that can prescribe SUBOXONE now! It is NOT still in trials it is in the pharmacies now!! It was approved in 2002.

www.NAABT.org/local

Get all the facts, new breakthroughs in science can make ending an addiction possible.

SUBOXONE works for Heroin addiction too!!

[jjp735i]

What was left out of the story. Yes,Suboxone does stop the with draw, but try getting it. In the Pittsburgh area drug addicts who use it have to first find a doctor who can perscribe it because they say they need a special license, then the doctors charge the regular examination fee plus another $100.00 to 200.00 per vist for a two week script. They over charge the patient for the Suboxone perscription. But the worst part is the addicts then sell have the script for $10.00 to $15.00 per pill to other users. They use them when they have not had time to rob someone to keep from getting sick. Once they have money on hand they stop taking the Suboxone and do back to their drug of choice. I see it every day.

Tell the full story next time. Do not make it sound like Suboxone is a cure. It''s not.

[sept19571]

oh my gosh, i had no idea how sick i was. just like everyone else i started pain pills because they made me feel better, then oxy cotin took over my life. i started the suboxone program and have been drug free for 5 months, saved $27.000, have my life back..it''s wonderful. the people that talk bad about suboxone is the drug dealers. it really works only if you want it to. do it..and good luck.

[sept19571]

oh my gosh, i had no idea how sick i was. just like everyone else i started pain pills because they made me feel better, then oxy cotin took over my life. i started the suboxone program and have been drug free for 5 months, saved $27.000, have my life back..it''s wonderful. the people that talk bad about suboxone is the drug dealers. it really works only if you want it to. do it..and good luck.

[sept19571]

after reading the post from jjp75i i realize so many have trouble finding doctors. keep trying and keep positive, you have to want this. i went to a clinic that was so helpful, if it doesnt feel right to you it probally isn''t the right doctors for you..keep trying to find help. we tried for days to make the right decision for treatment. and really got lucky!

[bostonnama]

Please go to www.methadone.org for the correct information reqarding the mis information that has been posted her about methadone use. Methadone saves lives and it saved mine. I think we need to stop the myths and get to the facts.
P.B. Methadone saves lives methadone.org

[mmayog]

hey...Suboxone can help many people...here is a link to the study they were talking about...and where its being run

http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct/show/NCT00316277?order=1

[feelnormal]

YouTube video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=na5V6xtNY7A

Public service announcement

[levenger-2009]

Suboxone tends to be effective in the short term. Long term is useless.

[valeriavegas]

Finding a doctor who is certified to dispense buprenorphine (AKA Suboxone) is difficult if you''re confining yourself locally. Meditox (www.meditox.com) provides you with a medical team with certified medical professionals who determine whether or not a Suboxone treatment will work for you and, if so, help you develop a personalized treatment plan. You don''t switch one addiction for another but step down to a less harmful drug that allows you to safely and efficiently detox completely. It really couldn''t be easier and it''s completely confidential. Check it out at www.Meditox.com.

[leslienyu]

Please note that Suboxone is NOT currently in clinical trials, it is already an FDA approved medication. The study that is being referenced is about different behavioral interventions in combination with Suboxone and is sponsored by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, with 11 sites across the nation.

For more information:
Prescription Opioid Addiction Treatment Study (POATS)
NIDA %u2013 Clinical Trials Network

Bellevue Hospital, New York, NY:
Leslie Wright [phone]

St. Luke%u2019s Roosevelt Hospital, New York, NY:
Eva Kourniotis [phone]

Long Island Jewish Medical Center, New York, NY:
Megan Ghiroli [phone]

McLean Hospital %u2013 Alcohol & Drug Abuse Treatment Program, Belmont, MA
Megan Johnson [phone]

Chestnut Ridge Hospital, Morgantown, WV:
Lyn McCracken [phone]

Behavioral Health Services of Pickens County Pickens, SC:
Elizabeth Chapman [phone]

East Indiana Treatment Center, Lawrenceburg, IN: Krista Tevar [phone]

Integrated Substance Abuse Programs (ISAP), Los Angeles, CA:
Vanessa De Guzman [phone]

San Francisco General Hospital, San Francisco, CA: Jamie Grace [phone]

Alcohol & Drug Abuse Prevention & Treatment (ADAPT), Roseburg, OR:
Linda Clary [phone]

Providence Behavioral Health Services, Everett, WA: Dan Fischer [phone]

[feelnormal]

Here''''s a list of Doctors that can prescribe SUBOXONE now! It is NOT still in trials it is in the pharmacies now!! It was approved in 2002.

www.NAABT.org/local

Get all the facts, new breakthroughs in science can make ending an addiction possible.

SUBOXONE works for Heroin addiction too!!

[lhoward8]

CBS had the opportunity to draw attention to the epidemic of prescription drug abuse and educate the American public about addictive disease. Unfortunately, some of the language that CBS chose to use in this series was stigmatizing and inaccurate. "Focusing on the subtle meaning of words%u2013rejecting some while embracing others%u2013is far more than a matter of shallow political correctness. It is about changing the way addicted and recovering people see themselves and are seen be others." (1)
People who suffer from addictive disease are not "beating their habit" they are in treatment for a chronic, progressive life threatening disease. People do not "get clean," they are living a life of recovery. "Gettting clean" implies that someone with addictive disease was dirty; what other chronic disease do we ascribe this negative stereotypical language? Diabetes? Hypertension?
People with addictive disease do not "fail at rehab." It is true some people who have the disease of chemical dependence relapse; it is a feature of the disease. It does not mean that they have failed. What it more accurately means is that we, as a society, as professionals in health and human service systems are not providing systems of care that are appropriate for supporting people to manage their chronic, life-long neurobiological disease. Learn more about reframing our addiction and recovery language, (1)"The Rhetoric of Recovery Advocacy:An Essay On the Power of Language" William White 2002

[random_radar]

"Ten OxyContin pills a day, costing up to $12,000 a month."

If I had that kind of money to spend on a drug habit, I wouldn''t need drugs. I would be so happy and carefree that escaping the world through drugs would never occur to me.

I am always amazed at people who are spending thousands of dollars a month supporting a drug habit. Maybe money doesn''t buy happiness, but that kind of money could certainly make life worth living.

But I am not tempted to take drugs despite being a thousandaire and having plenty of problems of my own, so I guess I am okay.

The spreading of drugs must be a dream come true for Big Pharma. They have spent some much time and money they are be rewarded in the billions of dollars monthly.

[dkb218-2009]

So, to get off pills, I should take pills? O-Tay!

[dkb218-2009]

So, to get off pills, I should take pills? O-Tay!

[bostonnama]

I am on suboxone and I have been able to go to thanksgiving dinner for the first time in 5 years with my family because I have gotten my life back, and family back too. Medication Assisted Treatment works and people need to be educated about it before they make silly coments about it. Walk the walk and then talk.
Thanks Suboxone and thanks to my family who never gave up on me.
Paul B

[feelnormal]

Words like Junky, habit, addict, kick, fix, have no place in Addiction medicine and no place in a professional news report. Just like we don%u2019t call people retards or cripples we have to look at the stigmatizing language associated with this disease state.

Just like an elderly white man would sound ridicules using adolescent urban rapper jargon, so do professionals using street slang instead of appropriate medical terminology.

To change the stigma we must change the language.

Addiction-Survivors.org

[feelnormal]

CBS- Thanks for the above resource links and update!

[dkb218-2009]

Paul B, isn''t it just changing one addiction for another? Or is this a case of the lesser of two evils? And by the way - welcome back to the world! I mean that sincerely and family is a beautiful thing.

[june0001]

Glad I saw a link to this article at www.polijam.com This is truly ironic. The cure to addiction to one type of pill, is another pill which has less onerous side effects, and is a legal drug. Trust Big Pharma to come up with a pill for everything.

Some day I''m sure we''ll find out that this new pill causes some other health effects which will in turn require yet another pill.

[mjkelley50]

as a current user of suboxone, in coujunction with therapy, I have been able to deal not only with addiction, but underlying psychological problems many addicts have but self-medicate to avoid. Suboxone works by not only stopping withdrawal symptoms, but by creating a "ceiling effect" whereby it becomes pointless to try to abuse the drug. This combination truly puts one as close to being drug-free as possible, allowing treatment to work much more quickly than with traditional methods such as methadone. I would only stress the need for a qualified therapist or psychiatrist is essential.
Suboxone can''t effect a cure, but allows a window of time for treatment to work.