Conclusion:  These results suggest that immunization with a novel vaccine is an effective means of inducing a morphine‐specific antibody response that is able to attenuate the behavioral and psychoactive effects of heroin. (Source: Journal of Neurochemistry)

Abstract: Background: This series of studies examines the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic interactions between buprenorphine, an opioid partial agonist increasingly used in treatment of opioid dependence, and rifampin, a medication used as a first line treatment for tuberculosis; or rifabutin, an alternative antituberculosis medication.Methods: Opioid-dependent individuals on stable doses of buprenorphine/naloxone underwent two, 24-h blood sampling studies: (1) […]

Source: Drug and Alcohol Dependence Area: Evidence > Medicines Management > References Background: These studies compared the diversion and injection of buprenorphine-naloxone (BNX), buprenorphine (BPN) and methadone (MET) in Australia. Methods: Surveys were conducted with regular injecting drug users (IDUs) (2004-09, N = 881 to 943), opioid substitution treatment (OST) clients (2008, N = 440) […]

Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine have found that opioid-dependent patients treated with Lexapro (escitalopram) had reduced pain severity and pain interference during the three months of their treatment. The study participants, who were beginning treatment with buprenorphine/naloxone for their opioid dependence, were placed in one of two groups:  escitalopram or placebo.  Changes in […]