Lucemyra (Lofexidine): Opioid Withdrawal Medication

A doctor is treating a patient to represent using Lucemyra for withdrawal syptoms in addiction recovery.

Updated August 21, 2023

Authored By:

Joe Gilmore

Edited By

Amy Leifeste

Medically Reviewed By

Javier Rodriguez-Winter

Authored By:

Joe Gilmore

Edited By

Amy Leifeste

Medically Reviewed By

Javier Rodriguez-Winter

A doctor is treating a patient to represent using Lucemyra for withdrawal syptoms in addiction recovery.

Lucemyra (lofexidine), is a new opiate withdrawal medication. The non-opioid medication works by blocking the release of norepinephrine, a hormone associated with the development of symptoms of opioid withdrawal. The main objective of Lucemyra is to provide relief from the symptoms associated with opioid withdrawal that occur when opioid use is abruptly discontinued.

This non-opioid treatment for opioid withdrawal is not intended for the treatment of opioid addiction. Instead, the administration of Lucemyra may make dealing with opiate withdrawal less aggravating and uncomfortable.

What is Lucemyra Used For?

Lucemyra medication is prescribed to alleviate the symptoms experienced during acute withdrawal from opioids and to aid in the successful completion of opioid discontinuation treatment. Lofexidine is not a controlled substance, but it is not possible to purchase Lucemyra over the counter. Lucemyra for withdrawal is available only with a supporting Lucemyra prescription.

The Lucemyra drug is the first non-opioid medication approved by the FDA for managing the symptoms associated with opioid discontinuation. Opioid withdrawal syndrome is a distressing consequence of opioid dependence, characterized by a range of unpleasant symptoms that can persist for several days. Opioid withdrawal symptoms include:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Dilated pupils
  • Excessive sweating and tearing
A person shakes out Lucemyra into their hand to represent the question, "What is Lucemyra?".

Lucemyra Benefits

Lucemyra offers several benefits for individuals undergoing opioid withdrawal.

  • Symptom relief: Lucemyra reviews and clinical research indicate that the medication helps alleviate the discomfort associated with opioid withdrawal. By blocking the release of norepinephrine, Lucemyra can significantly reduce the severity of these withdrawal symptoms.
  • Non-opioid treatment option: Unlike many other medications used in opioid addiction treatment, Lucemyra is a non-opioid medication. This can be especially beneficial for those looking to avoid the use of opioids during their recovery process.
  • Facilitation of treatment completion: Lucemyra can assist in the successful completion of opioid discontinuation treatment. By managing withdrawal symptoms, it provides the support needed for individuals to navigate the challenging process of opioid withdrawal and increases the likelihood of treatment completion.
  • FDA-approved: Lucemyra has received approval from the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) specifically for the management of opioid withdrawal symptoms. This approval demonstrates its effectiveness and safety in addressing withdrawal symptoms associated with opioid dependence.
  • Individualized treatment approach: Lucemyra dosing can be tailored to meet the needs of each individual. Dosage adjustments can be made based on the severity of withdrawal symptoms, ensuring that the medication is optimally effective for each person who engages with treatment.

It is imperative to consult with a healthcare professional to determine if Lucemyra is a suitable option for managing opioid withdrawal symptoms.

Lucemyra Side Effects

The most common side effects of Lucemyra include:

  • Low blood pressure
  • Dizziness (especially upon standing)
  • Drowsiness
  • Dry mouth

In the event of an allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing, hives, or swelling of the face, throat, lips, or tongue, seek immediate medical assistance

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms:

  • Slow heartbeats
  • Severe dizziness
  • Extreme drowsiness,
  • Feeling light-headed to the point of potentially fainting

Lucemyra FAQs

How does Lucemyra help with withdrawals?

Lucemyra helps with withdrawals by reducing the severity of symptoms like anxiety, agitation, muscle aches, and sweating associated with opioid detox.

What is the difference between clonidine and Lucemyra?

While both clonidine and Lucemyra are used to alleviate opioid withdrawal symptoms, lofexidine is specifically approved by the FDA for this purpose and has a more targeted mechanism of action, leading to a preference of Lucemyra vs clonidine.

Does Lucemyra really work?

Lucemyra has been shown to be effective in clinical trials for reducing opioid withdrawal symptoms, but individual experiences may vary.

How long does Lucemyra take to work?

Lucemyra typically starts working within a few hours of the first dose, with its peak effect occurring within 3 to 7 days of continuous use.

How does Lucemyra make you feel?

Lucemyra may cause drowsiness, dizziness, and low blood pressure, but its overall impact on how a person feels can vary depending on individual responses and the severity of withdrawal symptoms.

A woman sits on a hillside at sunset to represent the question, "Lucemyra vs Clonidine?".

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Jenni Bussi

Jenni Busse MS, LPCC

Jenni Busse MS, LPSS is the Clinical Director at Gratitude Lodge. Jenni oversees the clinical program and the clinical team at Gratitude Lodge as a whole. Jenni has worked in treatment for almost 14 years. Her background as a licensed therapist and her passion for helping others intersected with addiction recovery when she started working primarily in detox residential treatment.
Joe Gilmore

Joseph Gilmore

Joseph Gilmore has been working in the addiction industry for half a decade and has been writing about addiction and substance abuse treatment during that time. He has experience working for facilities all across the country. Connect with Joe on LinkedIn.

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