Suboxone, which consists of a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone, is a medication commonly used to treat opioid addiction. It is used to help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms and can help prevent relapse by blocking the effects of other opioids.
Doctors prescribe Suboxone as part of a patient’s comprehensive addiction treatment, and dosages are gradually tapered off as the patient progresses in their recovery.
When misused, such as when using it for non-medical purposes or taking higher-than-prescribed dosages, Suboxone can lead to addiction and physical and psychological dependence.
If you or someone you love is struggling with a Suboxone addiction, seeking professional help is crucial. Buena Vista Recovery offers a comprehensive, personalized approach that can provide support and guidance for those overcoming Suboxone addiction.
Below is a list of Suboxone facts, including commonly asked questions and signs of addiction.
Quick Suboxone Facts and Statistics
- Drug overdoses have quintupled since 1999, with nearly 75% of the overdose deaths in 2020 involving opioids.
- Medications for substance use disorders, including Suboxone, have been shown to increase a patient’s treatment retention, improve survival, decrease illegal opiate use, and lessen the risk of contracting hepatitis C and HIV.
Commonly Asked Questions
How long does Suboxone stay in your system?
While the effects of Suboxone last for about 24 hours, the drug can remain in a person’s system for up to eight days in healthy people and up to 14 days in patients with severe liver disease.
What is Suboxone used for?
Suboxone is primarily used to treat opioid addiction. The medication combines the drugs naloxone and buprenorphine, which helps with opioid dependence by reducing withdrawal symptoms, suppressing cravings, and blocking the euphoric effects of other opioids to help prevent relapse. However, like any medication, it carries the potential for misuse and addiction.
Suboxone vs. Methadone
Both drugs are successful in addiction treatments. Suboxone requires higher dosages and may be less effective at preventing opioid relapse. However, Suboxone is less addictive than methadone, so it’s less likely to be misused, and overdose is less common.
Can you overdose on Suboxone?
Yes, it is possible to overdose on Suboxone. However, overdose is more likely in people who have never taken opioids before, seniors, or those who take the medication with alcohol or other drugs. Overdose symptoms are similar to other opioid-related overdoses, including abdominal pain, shallow breathing, seizures, and slowed heartbeat.
The Short and Long-Term Effects of Suboxone
Review these fast Suboxone facts to learn more about the short and long-term effects of Suboxone.
| Short-Term Effects | Long-Term Effects |
|---|---|
| Reduced cravings | Maintenance of recovery |
| Reduced opioid withdrawal symptoms | Reduced cravings and illicit drug use |
| Headaches | Potential withdrawal symptoms if treatment is discontinued |
| Constipation or diarrhea | Possible liver damage with long-term use |
| Nausea or dizziness | Potential dependence |
| Insomnia | |
| Muscle pain | |
| Difficulty concentrating |
Suboxone Addiction and Treatment
Like many medications, Suboxone can be abused and lead to addiction. If you or someone you love is struggling with Suboxone addiction, Buena Vista can help. We understand the complexities of Suboxone addiction and offer an individual approach to treatment programs to help you overcome addiction and achieve lasting recovery. Our compassionate team provides personalized care and support throughout the recovery journey.
Contact Buena Vista Recovery today for more information about Suboxone addiction or to get help on the road to recovery.
