In a groundbreaking treatment expansion, the FDA-approved Probuphine (Buprenorphine) implants have been administered by A Better Today Recovery Services for the first time in Arizona to help combat opiate abuse. The FDA approved the implants for treatment of opioid dependence in May.

According to ABTRS Medical Director, Michael Carlton, M.D., “Probuphine implants are a safe and effective medication for helping people achieve abstinence so as they work for recovery.”

Many people have difficulty taking medications correctly and consistently. The use of implants averts the need to take daily medication and helps guarantee that people are receiving the beneficial effects of buprenorphine.

In a study by the National Institute of Drug Abuse, researchers found that 49 percent of participants reduced prescription painkiller abuse while on Suboxone (a medication that combines Buprenorphine and Naloxone). Once the people in the study stopped taking Suboxone the rate dropped to 8.6 percent.

Buprenorphine blocks the effects of opiates, which serves as a major tool for preventing relapse. Additionally, Buprenorphine helps allow the brain to repair itself by maintaining suitable levels. “One of the reinforcing properties of opiates is that they are eliminated from the body quickly, causing the individual to crave additional doses,” said Carlton.

“They come in and they go out, Probuphine doesn’t do that … with the implant you get a nice, smooth, consistent and even level. This allows people to stay involved on a therapeutic level … it also allows the brain to repair itself.”

The implants are injected under the skin within the fold between the muscle in the arm. They are soft and flexible, so they won’t irritate the skin and can last up to six months in one arm.

Carlton has over 25 years of experience as a medical practitioner and is the leading addictionologist in Arizona.

“What we know is that when you look at people who take medications and combine that with smart recovery, 12-step programs, seeing a counselor, seeing a therapist…you get outcomes that are 100 to 400 percent better when people use medications in addition to their treatment,” Carlton said.

Staying at the forefront of drug and alcohol treatment ensures a higher quality of care. This level of care offers client’s state-of-the-art medical options to ensure a higher success rate upon completing a treatment program.