What to Expect After Your Initial Visit
8737Clinic.com

What to Expect After Starting Treatment

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Starting treatment for opioid dependence is a major step, and our goal is to make the process as simple, structured, and effective as possible. At The Clinic at 8737, we specialize in Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) using buprenorphine to help reduce withdrawal, control cravings, and support long-term recovery.

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Our program is designed to give you consistency, clear expectations, and ongoing support.

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Our Approach to Treatment

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We focus specifically on treating opioid dependence. This includes medications like buprenorphine along with structured follow-up care. We do not provide primary care services such as management of blood pressure, diabetes, or other routine medical conditions, so we recommend that all patients maintain a relationship with a primary care provider.

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Getting Started

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Your first visit is completed in the office and includes a full evaluation and treatment plan. After your initial visit:

• You will be scheduled for a follow-up around one week

• After that, visits occur every 28 days

• Your schedule follows a consistent pattern: in-office visit, then two telehealth visits, then repeat

 

Appointments generally stay on the same day and time to make the process predictable and easier to follow.

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The First Week of Treatment

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During your first week, your medication dose may need adjustment. It is normal to have some mild withdrawal symptoms or cravings early on. Our team will work closely with you to find the right dose and keep you stable.

We stay in closer contact during this first week to make sure you are doing well.

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Medication Expectations

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Buprenorphine is a safe and effective treatment when taken as prescribed. To keep treatment safe and effective:

• Take your medication exactly as directed

• Do not take extra doses unless instructed

• Do not use opioids while on treatment

• Avoid alcohol, benzodiazepines, or other sedating substances

• Store your medication in a secure place

 

What to Do If Problems Come Up

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If you experience withdrawal symptoms, cravings, or feel that your medication is not working properly, contact our office by text so we can guide you.

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If the medication makes you feel worse, contact us before taking additional doses.

For severe symptoms such as trouble breathing or extreme drowsiness, seek emergency care immediately.

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Pharmacy and Prescriptions

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We ask patients to use the same pharmacy whenever possible to avoid delays or confusion.

Prescriptions are timed to your scheduled appointments, not the day you pick them up. Picking up medication late will not extend your supply.

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If your pharmacy does not have your medication available, contact us before leaving so we can help coordinate.

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Refills are tied to appointments. Missing a visit may delay your medication.

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Laboratory Testing

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A baseline lab test (CMP) is required to check liver function, as this medication is processed by the liver. This should be completed before your one-month follow-up visit.

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If you have had recent labs within the past year, we can review those instead.

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Telehealth Visits

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Many follow-up visits are completed by telemedicine for convenience. For these visits:

• You must be physically located in Mississippi

• You must be available at your scheduled time

• Missed telehealth visits may require rescheduling and can affect prescriptions

 

Program Structure and Expectations

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Our program is structured to keep treatment consistent and reduce interruptions:

• Appointments occur every 28 days

• Prescriptions are aligned with your visit schedule

• Pre-visit forms should be completed ahead of time

• Consistent attendance is required to remain in the program

 

Communication

 

Text messaging is the fastest way to reach our office. During your first week, we respond quickly and stay in close contact. After that, messages are typically answered by the end of the next business day.

 

Safety

 

Do not share or sell your medication. Keep it stored securely and out of reach of others.

We strongly recommend keeping naloxone (Narcan) available in case of emergency.

 

Recovery Support

 

Medication is one part of recovery. Counseling, support groups, and lifestyle changes can be helpful and are encouraged based on your goals.

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Our Goal

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Our goal is to provide clear, consistent, and supportive care so you can focus on stabilizing, regaining control, and moving forward.

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If you ever have questions or concerns, reach out. We are here to help.