Case Report: Buprenorphine-A Treatment for Psychological Pain and Suicidal Ideation?

Authors

Ori-Michael Benhamou
Sean Lynch
Lidia Klepacz, New York Medical CollegeFollow

Author Type(s)

Faculty

DOI

10.1111/ajad.13063

Journal Title

The American Journal on Addictions

First Page

80

Last Page

82

Document Type

Case Report

Publication Date

1-2021

Department

Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Buprenorphine is commonly used to manage opioid use disorder; however, the literature describes its potential role in treating treatment-resistant depression.

METHODS: We present a patient with bipolar disorder and opioid use disorder, who presented status post-suicide attempt.

RESULTS: After initiating buprenorphine-naloxone, the patient reported rapid improvement in depressive symptoms, pain, and suicidal ideation.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: This case demonstrates buprenorphine's antisuicidal and mood-stabilizing capabilities, potentially via antagonizing κ-opioid receptors as well as reinstating the balance between reward and antireward circuitry.

SCIENTIFIC SIGNIFICANCE: This case highlights buprenorphine-naloxone as a treatment for both treatment-resistant depression and opioid use disorder, as well as buprenorphine's rapid antidepressant, analgesic, and antisuicidal effects. (Am J Addict 2021;30:80-82).

Recommended Citation

Benhamou, O., Lynch, S., & Klepacz, L. (2021). Case Report: Buprenorphine-A Treatment for Psychological Pain and Suicidal Ideation?. The American Journal on Addictions, 30 (1), 80-82. https://doi.org/10.1111/ajad.13063