When opioid withdrawal hits, it can feel overwhelming. The muscle aches, anxiety, and intense cravings are more than just uncomfortable—they’re the body’s response to dependence.
For anyone struggling with opioid use disorder (OUD), these symptoms make it incredibly difficult to even consider recovery.
The good news is that effective treatment exists to help manage withdrawal symptoms safely and effectively. Buprenorphine is a medication commonly used to ease withdrawal and reduce cravings, and has become a cornerstone of opioid use disorder treatment. And now, it’s more accessible than ever through online treatment programs like Eleanor Health.
Buprenorphine is an FDA-approved medication used to treat opioid use disorder. It works by partially activating the same receptors in the brain that other opioids effect, but in a more controlled way. As a result, it diminishes the effects of physical dependency like withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
When someone stops using opioids, the body can go into a withdrawal response,, creating uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms that make quitting extremely difficult.. Buprenorphine can help by binding to opioid receptors without producing the same level of euphoria as full opioids, which may reduce cravings and help stabilize symptoms.
Buprenorphine gives many people the breathing room they need to focus on recovery—because they’re not battling severe withdrawal symptoms and cravings every hour of the day.
One reason buprenorphine is considered safer than many opioids is its ceiling effect. After a certain dose, increasing the amount doesn’t increase opioid effects, which significantly reduces the risk of misuse or overdose. Learn more about buprenorphine treatment for opioid use disorder.
Online buprenorphine treatment typically includes three phases: an initial assessment, medication start (induction), and ongoing support.
Getting started begins with a virtual consultation with a healthcare provider. During this telehealth appointment, the provider will ask about medical history, current substance use, symptoms, and any other health conditions.
This isn’t about judgment; it’s about building complete picture so you and your care team can begin a treatment plan that is safe and effective.
To begin buprenorphine, patients typically need to wait until they are in the early stages of withdrawal. This timing is important: starting buprenorphine too soon can trigger precipitated withdrawal, which is a sudden, intense onset of symptoms that’s much worse than gradual withdrawal.
The provider will guide the timing carefully and may monitor the first dose through virtual follow-ups. Many people begin to feel relief relatively quickly, though individual response time varies.
After the initial start, treatment continues with regular virtual check-ins. The provider will fine-tune the medication dose based on symptoms, side effects, and progress.These visits also create a space to talk through how things are going emotionally and practically.
Online programs like Eleanor Health often combine medication support for buprenorphine with counseling and peer support. Therapy can help address underlying triggers and build coping skills, while peer support can offer connection and encouragement from people who truly understand the recovery journey.
Want support beyond medication? Eleanor Health combines medication treatment with counseling and peer support—so you’re not doing this alone.
Online buprenorphine treatment offers flexibility that traditional clinic-based care can’t always match. Virtual visits can happen from wherever feels most comfortable, whether that’s home, a parked car, or even during a lunch break.
After the initial assessment, some online programs can schedule the first medical appointment within a few days, depending on provider availability and location. During that appointment, your provider builds a customized treatment plan.
If buprenorphine is appropriate, your prescription may be sent to a local pharmacy for pickup (based on clinical decision-making and state requirements).
Follow-up appointments happen virtually on a schedule that matches individual needs, often starting more frequently at first, then spacing out as stability improves. At Eleanor Health, this includes access to licensed counselors, peer recovery specialists, and ongoing medication management through secure video sessions.
Buprenorphine works well for many people with opioid use disorder, but it’s not the only option. Some people may benefit from other medications like naltrexone or methadone. Others may have medical conditions that make buprenorphine less suitable.
The key is having an honest conversation with a healthcare provider about goals, medical history, and what treatment might look like. Some questions to consider:
There’s no single “right” answer—what matters is finding an opioid use disorder treatment plan that fits your needs and goals.
Research consistently shows that medication-assisted treatment with buprenorphine reduces illicit opioid use, increases treatment retention, and improves overall outcomes compared to treatment without medication.
This is particularly important given the current state of the opioid crisis. Provisional data from the CDC indicate there were an estimated 80,391 drug overdose deaths in the United States during 2024—a decrease of 26.9% from 2023. While this represents meaningful progress, expanding access to effective treatments like buprenorphine remains essential.
For too long, stigma and logistical barriers have kept people from accessing care. Online buprenorphine treatment can reduce some common obstacles:
Virtual appointments can happen in a private setting.
People in rural areas, or those without reliable transportation, may be able to access quality care more easily.
Appointments can be scheduled around work, childcare, and other responsibilities
For many, accessing treatment online feels less stigmatizing than visiting a specialized clinic
Eleanor Health operates in 15 states (Colorado, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Missouri, Montana, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Washington) providing fully online services as well as in-person options at select locations.
While buprenorphine can be a powerful tool for managing withdrawal and cravings, recovery usually involves more than medication alone.
The most effective treatment programs often include:
Online programs can deliver all these services virtually, making comprehensive care more accessible than ever.
One common question that patients often ask is how long they’ll need to take buprenorphine as part of their opioid use disorder treatment.
The honest answer is: it depends. The length of time a patient receives buprenorphine is tailored to individual needs, and in some cases, may be used long-term.
Some people stay on buprenorphine for months, others for years, and some choose longer maintenance based on what supports stability best.
Research suggests that staying on medication-assisted treatment for longer periods can lead to better outcomes. For people who do want to eventually taper off buprenorphine, this should always happen gradually and under medical supervision.
Research shows that telehealth for substance use disorder treatment can be effective and may produce outcomes comparable to traditional in-person care for many patients. The convenience and reduced barriers also improve follow-through and consistency.
Online treatment programs typically have protocols in place for urgent situations. Providers can be reached between appointments, and emergency services should always be contacted for life-threatening situations. Having a treatment team who knows your history means better coordination of care if emergency services are needed.
For life-threatening symptoms or emergencies, always call 911 or seek emergency care immediately.
Some online programs use at-home testing kits that can be supervised via video call. This helps providers monitor progress while maintaining the convenience of remote care.
If cravings feel unmanageable or previous attempts to quit haven’t worked, online buprenorphine treatment may help.
Eleanor Health offers judgment-free, comprehensive care, and appointment flexibility may include same-day or next-day options (depending on location and provider scheduling). Recovery is possible—with the right support and medication, those first difficult days become manageable.
To learn more, call (877) 759-5017 or visit eleanorhealth.com/get-help.
CDC. “U.S. Overdose Deaths Decrease Almost 27% in 2024.” NCHS Pressroom, 21 May 2025, www.cdc.gov/nchs/pressroom/releases/20250514.html.
SAMHSA. “What Is Buprenorphine? Side Effects, Treatment & Use.” Samhsa.gov, 2024, www.samhsa.gov/substance-use/treatment/options/buprenorphine.
Thomas, Scot, et al. “Suboxone Precipitated Withdrawal: When to Take Suboxone.” American Addiction Centers, americanaddictioncenters.org/suboxone/precipitated-withdrawal.
