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

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