Indianapolis–The FDA has approved the first-ever implant to help in the battle of addiction to opiates. These drugs, which can include painkillers like Vicoden and Oxycodone and other drugs in the same class, such as heroin, have become a national concern, given the soaring the numbers of people addicted and/or dying of accidental overdoses.
In order to receive the implant, those seeking treatment must first meet criteria by having been stabilized on the pill form of the drug Buprenorphine. The implant will then be delivered and administer appropriate doses for up to six months. Current forms of medication treatment include the use of Methadone, which can only be dispensed in government approved clinics, the use of the oral form of buprenorphine, or the monthly injection of Vivitrol.