This guide is intended to provide nurses (including Registered Nurses (RNs), Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), and Nurse Practitioners (NPs)) with general information about buprenorphine products-Suboxone(R) (buprenorphine and naloxone) and Subutex(R) (buprenorphine)-for the pharmacological treatment of opioid addiction. The guide can also serve as a resource to help nurses working with community physicians to improve treatment outcomes for individuals receiving office-based treatment for opioid addiction. Providing comprehensive services in conjunction with medication is the most effective method of treating opioid addiction. It is important that buprenorphine be administered in conjunction with behavioral therapy and psychosocial support to ensure medication compliance and to increase patient functioning (NAADAC, 2002). The ultimate success of buprenorphine will depend on its integration into a broader continuum of health care services that includes counseling for patients with substance use disorders.