Substitute Prescribing is a highly specialised service and treatment should only be initiated by those who have the appropriate training and expertise. National and local protocols/ guidelines should be used when providing this service. It is good practice to involve Opioid Substitution Treatment (OST) services / Addiction Services.
Key resources:
- “Drug Misuse and Dependence – Guidelines on Clinical Management” (Department of Health, 2017)
- See ‘Harm Reduction Services’ on BSO website for further information e.g. supplementary guidance for community pharmacists and information on Take Home Naloxone
Notes on the most commonly used drugs for ongoing substitute prescribing treatment are included for information purposes only. Detailed prescribing guidance is outside the scope of the NI Formulary