Specialized Kadian® Treatment for Severe Opioid Addiction

A specialized second-line treatment option for patients with severe opioid use disorder who require an alternative approach.

About Kadian®

What is Kadian®?

Kadian® is a slow-release oral morphine formulation (also known as SROM – Slow Release Oral Morphine) designed specifically for treating severe opioid addiction. Unlike immediate-release morphine, Kadian® provides:

Once-Daily Dosing

Extended-release action with once-daily dosing for most patients.

Controlled Delivery

Controlled delivery over 24 hours providing therapeutic stability.

Therapeutic Stability

Steady blood levels prevent the peaks and valleys of shorter-acting opioids.

Supervised Care

Medical-grade formulation prescribed under strict physician supervision.

Second-Line Treatment: Kadian® is typically reserved for patients who have not responded adequately to first-line treatments like Suboxone® or methadone. If you haven't tried these options first, we'll discuss them at your assessment.

Kadian specialized treatment
Patient Selection

Who is Kadian® For?

Kadian® is a specialized treatment not suitable for everyone. Our physicians carefully assess each patient to determine if Kadian® is the appropriate choice.

Ideal Candidates

  • Long-term, high-dose opioid use with strong physical dependence
  • Failed previous treatments — have not succeeded with Suboxone® or methadone
  • Severe withdrawal symptoms that persist despite other treatments
  • Complex pain and addiction — co-occurring chronic pain may be a factor
  • High tolerance requiring specialized medication management
  • Willing to comply with strict program monitoring requirements

Not Recommended For

  • First-time treatment seekers — should try Suboxone® or methadone first
  • Patients with unstable housing or lifestyle circumstances
  • Those unwilling to attend frequent monitoring appointments
  • Patients who currently use benzodiazepines (dangerous interaction)
  • Those unable to comply with strict program policies

Unsure if Kadian® is right for you? Contact us for a confidential assessment — our physicians will recommend the most appropriate treatment.

Requirements

Program Requirements

Due to the nature of Kadian® treatment, strict compliance is required. These requirements are in place to ensure your safety and maximize the success of your treatment.

  • Regular physician appointments — Initially weekly, minimum monthly thereafter
  • Observed medication administration — May be required at pharmacy or clinic
  • Urine drug screening — Frequent testing to monitor progress
  • Pill counts — Random or scheduled counts to prevent diversion
  • Stable lifestyle — Secure housing and commitment to treatment program
  • No benzodiazepine use — Due to dangerous interaction risks
  • Informed consent — Understanding and agreement to all program policies
Medical supervision
Why These Requirements?

Kadian® is a full opioid agonist with no ceiling effect — close monitoring ensures your safety, prevents diversion, and optimizes your treatment outcomes. Our physicians provide supportive, non-judgmental oversight throughout your care.

Comparison

Kadian® vs. Methadone vs. Suboxone®

Understanding the key differences helps you and your physician make the best treatment choice for your situation.

Feature Kadian® Methadone Suboxone®
Medication TypeFull agonist (SROM)Full agonistPartial agonist
Dosing FrequencyOnce or twice dailyOnce dailyOnce daily
Starting RequirementNo withdrawal requiredNo withdrawal requiredRequires mild withdrawal first
Typical UseSecond-lineFirst/Second-lineFirst-line
Take-Home DosesLimited, strict criteriaProgressive earningEarlier access
Monitoring LevelVery StrictStrictModerate
Stabilization SpeedVariable2–4 weeks typicallyUsually within 1 week
Overdose RiskHigher (full agonist)Higher (full agonist)Lower (ceiling effect)

Let our physicians guide you. The right medication depends on your individual history, health status, and treatment goals. Call us at 647-748-1337 for a confidential assessment.

Fill Your Prescription the Same Day — After your appointment, your Kadian® prescription is sent electronically to the pharmacy of your choice. There is also a pharmacy in the same building if you would like to fill it the same day, making your transition into treatment seamless and stress-free.

Is Kadian® Right for You?

Our experienced addiction physicians will assess your complete history and recommend the most appropriate treatment. Confidential assessments available Monday evenings.

Request Assessment 647-748-1337

Need to talk to someone now? ConnexOntario is free, confidential and available 24/7 at 1-866-531-2600. If someone is in immediate danger or may be overdosing, call 911. Ontario's Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act gives legal protection to people who call for help.

Questions

Common Questions

Kadian is a long-acting, extended-release oral morphine capsule. In Ontario, some physicians prescribe it as part of opioid agonist therapy for people with severe opioid addiction who haven't responded well to, or can't tolerate, methadone or Suboxone. It's taken once or twice daily under medical supervision, with your dose adjusted gradually by your doctor over time.

The doctor visits needed to assess, prescribe, and monitor Kadian treatment are covered by OHIP if you have a valid Ontario health card. The medication itself is filled at the pharmacy of your choice, and what you pay there depends on your drug plan, such as ODB, private insurance, or the Trillium Drug Program. Ask your pharmacist about your specific costs.

Kadian, methadone, and Suboxone are all used in opioid agonist therapy but work differently. Methadone and Kadian are full opioid agonists, while Suboxone combines a partial agonist with naloxone. A doctor may consider Kadian if methadone or Suboxone haven't controlled withdrawal symptoms or cravings, or caused side effects. The right choice depends on your health history and is made together with your doctor.

Related Information

Methadone Treatment
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Suboxone® Treatment
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About the Clinic
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