What is Brixadi prescribed for?
Brixadi is indicated for the treatment of moderate to severe opioid use disorder in patients who have initiated treatment with a single dose of a transmucosal buprenorphine product or who are already being treated with buprenorphine.
What is the name of the drug and what does it do?
Brixadi, pronounced brix-a-dee, (generic name: buprenorphinei) is a medication approved for treating moderate to severe opioid use disorder (OUD).
It contains buprenorphine, a partial opioid agonist, which means it activates the same brain receptors as other opioids but produces a lesser effect.
This helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms associated with opioid dependence.
How does it work?
Brixadi works by partially stimulating special proteins in the brain called opioid receptors, which help control pain and feelings of pleasure.
This action helps to curb cravings and withdrawal symptoms without producing the full euphoric effect that other opioids might.
This partial activation also helps in reducing the potential for misuse, a common risk associated with full opioid agonists like morphine or heroin.
What did the research discover?
Clinical trials found that Brixadi is effective in maintaining sobriety in individuals with opioid dependence when used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes counseling and psychosocial support.
The medication is administered as a subcutaneous injection, meaning it is injected under the skin, which provides a slow release of the medication over time, either weekly or monthly depending on the formulation.
What are some of the side effects?
The side effects listed are from the product manufacturer. As health scientists, we share this information to keep you informed without causing undue worry. Many side effects diminish over time, and not all patients experience them. If prescribed medication, take it as directed and consult your healthcare professional if you have any concerning side effects.
- Injection site pain
- Headache
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Insomnia
What are the dosage recommendations and how is it prescribed?
Brixadi is available in two formulations: weekly and monthly injections, which should not be used interchangeably.
The initial dose and frequency of administration depend on the patient’s current treatment status and medical history.
Only healthcare providers should prepare and administer Brixadi, and it should be injected into the buttock, thigh, abdomen, or upper arm. It’s important to rotate the injection site with each dose to prevent complications.
Source:
Highlights of Prescribing Information for BRIXADI. Available from: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2023/213829s000lbl.pdf. Accessed 11 July 2024.
