This article contains general information about Suboxone, a drug that is used in combination with medication-assisted treatment and other comprehensive programs to help patients overcome opioid dependence. The information in this article cannot be used as medical advice, but rather as a general overview of Suboxone, its side effects, dosages, and uses.
What is Suboxone?
Suboxone is a brand name prescription drug, which is actually a combination of two drugs – buprenorphine and naloxone. These work together to decrease the severity of withdrawal symptoms as well as reducing a patient’s dependence on opioids in the future.
Looking at them individually, buprenorphine is used as an opioid partial antagonist, which produces effects like euphoria or respiratory depression at low doses. It’s much weaker than full opioid antagonists such as methadone and heroin. Naloxone is used to prevent suboxone itself from being abused.
Side Effects of Suboxone
The most common side effects of Suboxone are headache, diarrhea, constipation, and nausea. The manufacturer of Suboxone also includes these side effects:
- Vomiting
- Sweating
- Numb mouth
- Painful tongue
- Dizziness
- Problems with concentration
- Irregular heartbeat
- Insomnia
- Blurry vision
- Back pain
- Drowsiness
It’s important to speak openly with your provider about any side effects. Some symptoms can be managed with dosage adjustments or lifestyle modifications as part of your treatment plan.
Dosage
Suboxone typically comes in four strengths and is typically prescribed as a film or tablet placed under the tongue or inside the cheek. They are as follows:
- 2 mg buprenorphine / 0.5 mg naloxone
- 4 mg buprenorphine / 1 mg naloxone
- 8 mg buprenorphine / 2 mg naloxone
- 12 mg buprenorphine / 3 mg naloxone
Dosage depends on many factors, including:
- How long it’s been since your last opioid use
- Type of opioid previously used (short-acting vs. long-acting)
- Severity of physical dependence
- Overall health status
Your healthcare provider will monitor your response and may adjust the dosage over time to align with your recovery goals.
When is Suboxone Used?
Suboxone is most effective when it is one part of a comprehensive care plan, which may include:
Outpatient Programs
Suboxone is primarily used as an FDA-approved drug to treat opioid dependence. Outpatient programs allow individuals to continue working or caring for family while receiving structured support. In this instance, it’s primarily used as part of a longer-term outpatient program such as the ones that IHAT offers.
Detoxification Support Programs
Inpatient treatment is a short-term plan especially during the early stages of recovery when withdrawal symptoms are most intense.
Long-term stabilization
Individuals typically deal with pain and depression known as the maintenance phase, Suboxone is the medication that helps reduce cravings and relapse risk
Phases of Treatment
People going through opioid dependence are generally treated in two phases: induction and maintenance. Suboxone is used in both.
During induction, Suboxone fights withdrawal symptoms that occur when opioid use is decreased. It is used for people dependent on short-acting opioids such as heroin, codeine, or morphine. Suboxone usage generally begins when the effects of these opioids have begun to wear off and withdrawal symptoms present themselves.
During maintenance, Suboxone is used at a stable dosage for an extended period, keeping withdrawal symptoms and cravings in check. This phase can last several months to a year, coming to an end with a slow dosage taper.
Does Suboxone Cause Dependence and Withdrawal?
It’s important to understand that while Suboxone may result in physical dependence when used long-term, it is not the same as harmful substance use. Medical dependence is a common and manageable part of many chronic conditions—including opioid use disorder.
With proper oversight, many individuals taper off Suboxone gradually and safely when ready. Open, ongoing communication with your care team is essential to making the right decision for your future.
Longer-term use of Suboxone can cause physical and psychological dependence. This is why it is best slowly tapered off with the help of your doctor. Withdrawal symptoms may include:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Irritability
Does Inspiration Health Addiction Treatment Center Include Medication-Assisted Treatment Options Like Suboxone?
Yes we do. You may learn more by visiting our Services page. Suboxone plays a critical role in our outpatient program, but not every patient will require it. Individual needs vary. Please contact us for additional information.
Suboxone is not a cure—but it’s an effective tool on the path toward wellness. When combined with therapy, peer support, and whole-person care, it can help individuals regain stability, reconnect with their goals, and feel empowered in their recovery journey.
