What medication is used to suppress heroin use in addicted individuals?

Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist that is effectively used in the treatment of opioid addiction, including heroin use. It works by binding to the same opioid receptors in the brain as heroin, but it activates them less intensely. This property helps to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and cravings, allowing individuals to stabilize and engage in recovery efforts without experiencing the euphoric effects of full agonists like heroin. Additionally, due to its ceiling effect, buprenorphine carries a lower risk of overdose compared to other opioids, making it a safer option for those in recovery.

In contrast, clonidine primarily addresses symptoms such as anxiety, agitation, and sweating during withdrawal but does not directly suppress heroin cravings or use. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist used to reverse overdoses and does not have a role in managing addiction or cravings. Morphine, being a full opioid agonist, can lead to the same issues associated with heroin use rather than helping to suppress it. Thus, buprenorphine is the most appropriate choice for suppressing heroin use in individuals with addiction.