Currently published information on buprenorphine-naloxone withdrawal recommends a gradually decreasing dosage over weeks to months. In this case report, abrupt cessation of buprenorphine/naloxone at various doses, and after variable durations of treatment, resulted in mild opiate withdrawal lasting over approximately 1-2 days that did not require additional opioid medication or only specific symptom-relieving, non-opioid, medications. Lengthy withdrawal regimens might prolong withdrawal symptoms unnecessarily, perhaps increasing the risk of re-addiction. Controlled studies of buprenorphine/naloxone withdrawal regimens over varying time frames would help to illuminate the most effective means of opioid discontinuation and inform clinical care.
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