Microdosing, also called the Bernese method, is an alternative way to start buprenorphine that avoids the need for abstinence and eliminates the risk of precipitated withdrawal. Instead of waiting until you are in withdrawal, you start at a very small dose of buprenorphine (0.5 mg) while continuing your current opioid, then gradually increase the buprenorphine dose over 7 days until you reach a therapeutic level. At that point, you stop the full opioid.
Microdosing may be a good option if:
- You have been using fentanyl, which is harder to clear from your system
- You have experienced precipitated withdrawal before
- You are concerned about going through a long abstinence period before starting
Contact our Patient Support team if you need further assistance.