Question

Which drug is used in the maintenance phase of opioid withdrawal?

• A. Buprenorphine
• B. Disulfiram
• C. Butorphanol
• D. Clonidine

Hint:

For opioid withdrawal, buprenorphine is commonly used for maintenance therapy due to its partial agonist activity on opioid receptors.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Buprenorphine is used in the maintenance phase of opioid withdrawal. It is a partial opioid agonist, which helps to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms by partially activating opioid receptors. It is often combined with naloxone to reduce misuse potential and is commonly used as part of a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program for opioid use disorder.
- Disulfiram is used for alcohol dependence and works by causing unpleasant reactions when alcohol is consumed, but it is not relevant to opioid withdrawal.
- Butorphanol is a mixed opioid agonist-antagonist, but it is not typically used for opioid maintenance therapy. - Clonidine can help manage opioid withdrawal symptoms such as sweating, anxiety, and agitation, but it is not used as a maintenance treatment for opioid dependence.
Thus, buprenorphine is the correct drug for opioid withdrawal maintenance.