How to Start Buprenorphine (Bup/Suboxone/Subutex) On Your Own
Concurrent Opioid Use Micro-Induction
“Micro-dosing” is a way to start Buprenorphine without getting sick.
How does micro-dosing work?
- You can start buprenorphine without having to stop using opioids like heroin, methadone, or fentanyl first.
- Micro-dosing starts buprenorphine slowly so that your body doesn’t feel it.
- You don’t have to be sick (in withdrawal) to start. You can keep using opioids while you’re getting to the right dose.
How to take our medicines:
- Keep buprenorphine under your tongue until fully dissolved.
- Do not eat or drink while it is dissolving.
Time to start:
Use 2mg on days 1-5
Day 1
Morning dose: Take 0.5mg
Day 2
Morning dose: Take 0.5mg
Evening dose: Take 0.5mg
Day 3
Morning dose: Take 1mg
Evening dose: Take 1mg
Day 4
Morning dose: Take 2mg
Evening dose: Take 2mg
Day 5
Morning dose: Take 2mg and 1mg
Evening dose: Take 2mg and 1mg
Days 6-8
Use 8mg on days 6-8
Day 6
Morning dose: Take 4mg
Evening dose: Take 4mg
Day 7
Morning dose: Take 8mg
Evening dose: Take 8mg
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- Stop taking all opioids by the end of the day
- Start taking comfort medications as prescribed by your provider
Day 8 and onward
Take fully prescribed dose