A comparative study on opium withdrawal of Buprenorphine and Clonidine

Abstract Background: Opium abuse and addiction is a worldwide problem and application of a method, both cost effective and with less side effect, to shorten the opioid detoxification period is on increasing demand. Objective: To compare the efficacy of Buprenorphine and Clonidine in treatment of opium withdrawal. Methods: This study was a randomized, double blind, parallel group, clinical trial performed on out-patients referred to either psychiatric ward at Amirkabir hospital or private clinics in 2005. The patients, initially divided into two groups of 38 members, were assessed for both the efficacy and side effects. Statistical analysis was performed using descriptive statistical tests, 2 test, and also the correlation severity by relative risk analysis (R.R.) Findings: Thirty six (94.8%) subjects in Buprenorphine group and 32 (84.3%) in Clonidine group completed the detoxification program, successfully. Relapses were observed in 2 and 6 cases of Buprenorphine and Clonidine groups, respectively. The difference was statistically insignificant (p=0.13). The side effects including hypotension, headache, sedation, dizziness, dry mouth, nausea, and constipation during the 10-day detoxification periods in Clonidine group was more severe and intolerable than in Buprenorphine group. Conversely, the sweating, as another side effect, was found to be more pronounced in Buprenorphine group than in Clonidine group. Conclusion: Buprenorphine and Clonidine showed similar effects in managing opium withdrawal, yet the withdrawal symptoms of opium was found to be more tolerable with Buprenorphine than Clonidine. Also, less side effects were observed with Buprenorphine.