A Within Subject Comparison of Opioid Withdrawal in Opioid Dependent Individuals

Buprenorphine is an approved medication for the treatment of opioid dependence. It is
typically administered once daily as a sublingual tablet combined with naloxone (i.e.,
Suboxone). Evidence suggests buprenorphine produces relatively low levels of physical
dependence. In addition, some research suggests there is relatively little withdrawal
following cessation of chronically administered buprenorphine. This study will examine the
spontaneous withdrawal associated with abrupt cessation of buprenorphine compared to
morphine in opioid dependent individuals. This study will assess the characteristics and
time course of withdrawal using subject-rated and observer-rated measures of opioid
withdrawal. Physiologic measures and psychomotor performance will be collected during
chronic opioid administration and during placebo administration (i.e., during spontaneous
withdrawal). Particular attention will be paid to the differences (if any) in sleep
disturbances and withdrawal associated hyperalgesia.