Recently at the Addictions Foundation of Manitoba’s (AFM) River Point Centre in Winnipeg I was pleased to announce that Manitobans recovering from opioid addictions will receive new support; the addition of suboxone to the Manitoba Pharmacare Program. Suboxone is an opioid replacement therapy seen by medical experts to improve the likelihood of recovery from an opioid addiction and a better alternative than other treatments.
We know opioids like fentanyl are affecting our communities and families, which is why we are enhancing access to suboxone. This means more Manitobans will be able to access coverage for this opioid replacement option if they need it, and will help Manitobans with opioid addictions recover and lead healthier lives.
Pharmacare is a drug benefit program for eligible Manitobans, regardless of disease or age, whose income is seriously affected by high prescription drug costs. Criteria that limited coverage for suboxone have now been removed, making it easier for eligible patients to access coverage for the drug. Suboxone is used to decrease cravings and relieve withdrawal symptoms for people recovering from opioid addictions. Like all areas of health care, opioid addiction treatment continues to be an evolving process. Suboxone, with its overall safer medical profile, can provide a great alternative for many patients. For more information on fentanyl and other opioids in Manitoba, visit: www.gov.mb.ca/fentanyl.
