Why does a professional supervise drug replacement therapies?

They can cause dependency,

Take the example of Buprenorphine High Dosage (BHD)

Therapeutic compliance and limitation of misuse are highly dependent on the quality of management during treatment induction. To achieve these goals, a therapeutic alliance must be built between the patient, his doctor and his pharmacist.

The first intake of treatment will be at the appearance of weaning signs. Depending on the product, they take place between 8 and 48 hours after the last dose.

Frequent contacts and close prescriptions increase the chances of successful treatment.

During the first month of treatment, it is recommended to prescribe for a maximum of 7 days.

Gradually, the prescription period may be up to 28 days, given the observance and absence of signs of misuse. The prescription of HDB must be made by secure prescription (Appendix 3). It is desirable that the word "first month of treatment" be written on the prescription during this initial period.

The daily delivery by the pharmacist is recommended the first 14 days with, if possible, a take-up at the pharmacy.

Gradually, and in an individualized way, the deliveries will be less frequent but without exceeding 7 days.