- Over time, the brain compensates for the chronic inhibition of norepinephrine by producing higher levels of the enzyme that produces the hormone
Withdrawal symptoms are caused by rebound hyperactivity of the biological systems suppressed by opioids
Watch how LUCEMYRA® helps alleviate symptoms of opioid withdrawal
Opioid use leads to inhibition of an enzyme (adenylyl cyclase) in the brain resulting in reduced levels of norepinephrine1

When opioids are discontinued after chronic use, the inhibitory effect on the enzyme is lost—resulting in excessively high levels of norepinephrine1

- This surge of norepinephrine is what causes the clinical symptoms of withdrawal
LUCEMYRA is a central alpha-2 adrenergic agonist that binds to receptors in the brain2

- This reduces the release of norepinephrine and mitigates the symptoms of noradrenergic hyperactivity (withdrawal symptoms) that occur when the inhibitory effect of opioids is removed following abrupt opioid discontinuation


References:
- Kosten TR, George TP. The neurobiology of opioid dependence: implications for treatment. Sci Pract Perspect. 2002;1(1):13-20.
- LUCEMYRA® (lofexidine) [Prescribing Information]. USWM, LLC; 2020.