What is an example of a drug that is used in combination with methadone for treating opioid dependence?

Buprenorphine is a partial agonist at the mu-opioid receptor and is often used in combination with methadone for treating opioid dependence. This combination can be beneficial because buprenorphine can help alleviate withdrawal symptoms and cravings while having a ceiling effect that reduces the risk of overdose, making it a safer alternative.

The use of buprenorphine alongside methadone can also allow for a smoother transition for patients who may be stabilizing on methadone. Additionally, buprenorphine's long half-life makes it suitable for managing dependency effectively. This combined approach can enhance the overall treatment outcomes by providing a multifaceted approach to opioid addiction management, promoting recovery while minimizing the risks of relapse.

Other options, such as clonidine, while useful for managing withdrawal symptoms, do not address opioid dependence in the way that buprenorphine does. Similarly, hydromorphone and oxycodone are full agonist opioids and are not appropriate choices in the treatment of opioid dependence due to their potential for abuse and addiction.