Buprenorphine in the Emergency Department

Buprenorphine in the Emergency Department: Buprenorphine Versus Clonidine for Opioid Withdrawal

This is a pilot randomized control trial randomizing patients presenting in opioid withdrawal to the emergency department to receive either one of clonidine (usual standard of care) or buprenorphine for their opioid withdrawal. Primary treatment outcome is attendance at a rapid access addiction medicine clinic within a few days of emergency room presentation. Secondary treatment outcome is treatment status with respect to opioid agonist treatment at one month post emergency room visit.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Presenting to the ED in opioid withdrawal or soon to be in withdrawal
2. Minimum age 16
3. English speaking
4. Active phone number
5. Ontario Health Insurance Program card

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Pregnant
2. Currently enrolled in a methadone or buprenorphine maintenance
3. Benzodiazepine addiction (or taking >50mg of valium equivalent/day)
4. Acute hepatitis or liver failure