Loading...
Despite buprenorphine treatment, opiate-dependent individuals are at risk for relapse, particularly during stressful periods. In a study based on animal models showing that α-2 adrenoceptor agonists helped to block stress-induced reinstatement of drug seeking, investigators enrolled 118 heroin-dependent individuals (mean age, 39; men, 78%; black, 60%). They were randomized to 20 weeks of add-on clonidine (dose gradually increased from 0.1 mg to 0.3 mg daily and adjusted as needed) or placebo.
Participants had used heroin or prescription opioids for a mean of 12 years (poly-substance abusers, 17%) and were currently drug-free and maintained on 8 mg to 24 mg buprenorphine daily. They were prompted at random intervals to record ongoing cravings…