Buprenorphine is a long-acting medication that blocks the effects of other opioids yet also rapidly relieves withdrawal symptoms and eases cravings. As a long-acting medication, buprenorphine therapy replaces the extreme highs and lows of illegal drug use. After stabilization has been reached (usually within a few days to a week) a patient will no longer experience euphoric effects from illicit drugs.
Buprenorphine has been found to have an antidepressant effect. [2] Depressed patients who have been self-medicating with illicit opioids may find buprenorphine particularly useful in assisting in their recovery.