Many of our patients express concerns about being judged by others for using Suboxone (buprenorphine and naloxone) to help overcome their opioid addiction. Unfortunately, this stigma often discourages people from seeking the help they need. Understanding why this stigma exists and knowing the facts about Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) is crucial to helping others better understand and accept it.
The Stigma of Opioid Use Disorder and MOUD
Opioid use disorder (OUD) carries a significant stigma. People often judge those with OUD, and instead of acknowledging their efforts to get help, they criticize them for using MOUD treatments like Suboxone instead of choosing complete abstinence.
Despite substantial evidence that MOUD is effective and safe, many individuals, including some healthcare professionals, stigmatize those using it to overcome addiction.
Certain organizations, such as Narcotics Anonymous (NA), further deter individuals from seeking MOUD treatment. NA considers MOUD a form of drug use, meaning those on MOUD cannot be regarded as abstinent in their programs. Patients entering 12-step programs should work with advisors who understand how buprenorphine works.
Where Does This Stigma Come From?
Researchers Yngvild Olsen and Joshua Sharfstein cite four factors contributing to the stigma around OUD and its treatment:
- Moral Weakness Label: OUD is often labeled as a “moral weakness” rather than a medical illness.
- Separation in Healthcare: The healthcare system tends to separate OUD from other health issues, often attributing non-opioid disorder symptoms to OUD.
- Judgmental Language: Terms like “clean/dirty,” “detox,” and “junkie” perpetuate negative perceptions.
- Criminal Justice System: The system fails to rely on medical judgment in treating OUD, rarely providing buprenorphine in prisons as they would other medications.
A common argument against MOUD is that it trades one drug for another. However, understanding how buprenorphine works helps dispel this myth.
Can Buprenorphine Be Abused/Misused?
Buprenorphine, a partial opioid agonist, is designed to eliminate withdrawal symptoms rather than create euphoria. While it has some opioid activity, its anti-opioid (opioid antagonist) activity prevents overdoses and getting “high.” Most MOUD patients seek freedom from opioids, not the sensation associated with misuse.
Is Buprenorphine Dangerous?
There is a misconception that MOUD treatment could lead to death from opioids. However, buprenorphine has been shown to decrease overdose and death rates when trying to take other opioids. Overdosing on buprenorphine rarely leads to death unless combined with other substances.
Why Is Buprenorphine Diverted?
While diversion does occur, it often aims to help others wanting to recover from OUD but lacking access to MOUD. Factors include limited availability of trained physicians, financial constraints, state-imposed duration limits, and mandatory, less effective treatments before buprenorphine.
What Do Doctors Say About Buprenorphine?
Most physicians support MOUD due to its effectiveness. Support from other MOUD patients and progress tracking can help mitigate the stigma. Each patient’s decision to enter a MOUD program is personal, and overcoming OUD with MOUD proves that stigma should be eliminated.
Where Can I Find MOUD Treatment?
QuickMD is the largest tele-MOUD provider in the United States, treating thousands of patients with OUD every month without stigma or judgment. Get in touch with a QuickMD provider to discuss your tele-MOUD options.
Conclusion: Overcoming the Stigma of MOUD Treatment
Entering a MOUD program is a courageous step toward recovery, and it’s essential to understand and combat the stigma surrounding it. By educating ourselves and others about the facts and benefits of MOUD, we can support those on their journey to sobriety.
Get in Touch
If you’re struggling with opioid use disorder and want to explore your treatment options, contact QuickMD for compassionate and stigma-free care.
