What is Suboxone?
There are many ways to treat addictions, one of which is through medication. Suboxone is a type of medication used to help those with opioid addiction through their recovery. Helping to ease withdrawal symptoms and reduce dependency, it can help those suffering from addiction alongside other treatments and therapies.
In this article, we’ll discuss what Suboxone is and how it is used to treat addiction. We’ll also discuss some of the effects of Suboxone and what you can do if you or someone you care about is showing signs of Suboxone abuse.
What is Suboxone?
Suboxone is a type of medication that helps to treat opioid addiction. It contains buprenorphine and naloxone, two medications that when used together can provide an effective addiction treatment.
- Buprenorphine is known as a partial opioid antagonist, binding to receptors in the brain that blocks the person taking it from experiencing the same effects as they usually would taking other opioids. This helps to ease cravings while alleviating withdrawal symptoms.
- Naloxone is a full opioid antagonist, helping to block the effects of opioids and prevent someone from overdosing on buprenorphine by itself. It helps to minimize the effects of opioids, allowing people to wean themselves off of opioids and further ease withdrawal symptoms.
What is Suboxone used for?
The primary purpose of Suboxone is to help reduce cravings and alleviate withdrawal symptoms that come with opioid addiction. It can help people balance their brain chemistry, reducing the effects of opioids to help sufferers stand a better chance of recovery and reduce the risk of relapse. Unlike other treatments, such as methadone, Suboxone has a lower risk of dependency, which can reduce the risk of overdose and other potentially serious consequences.
How should Suboxone be taken?
Suboxone should always be taken as prescribed by a medical professional. One of the safest ways to take Suboxone is in a safe setting under supervision. This can help professionals monitor the effects of Suboxone to ensure it is safe before allowing the individual to self-administer the medication at home. It’s important that the correct dose is taken at the right frequency to help reduce the risk of ill effects and that individuals are monitored regularly to establish if any changes to dosage are needed.
What are the side effects of Suboxone?
Suboxone has many positive benefits for those suffering from opioid addiction but can also have some side effects. Some people may experience nausea, headaches, vomiting, constipation, sweating, dizziness, numb mouth, and problems focusing. Others may also experience allergic reactions.
Things to avoid doing on Suboxone
For Suboxone to be effective, it needs to be taken according to directions. There are some behaviors that individuals should stay away from to help avoid any ill effects, including:
- Drinking alcohol: Combining Suboxone with alcohol could induce heavy sedation, leading to an overdose or even respiratory depression.
- Taking sedatives: Like alcohol, sedatives can also lead to a potential overdose.
- Taking certain medications: Care teams are made aware of any medications currently being taken in case they interfere with the effects of Suboxone.
- Changing the prescribed dosage: It’s essential to follow all guidance related to dosage, as any changes could prolong recovery or increase the chance of a relapse.
What are the signs of Suboxone abuse?
While Suboxone is used as a successful treatment to help many people with opioid addiction, it is possible to misuse or abuse Suboxone. Some of the key signs of Suboxone addiction or abuse include:
- Taking a higher dosage than prescribed. Any changes to your dose should be discussed with a professional.
- Combining Suboxone with other types of substances recreationally.
- Obtaining Suboxone illegally.
- Significant behavioral changes, including becoming withdrawn, result from Suboxone use.
- Experiencing cravings for Suboxone.
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of Suboxone abuse, getting help and support is crucial to overcome your addiction. Signs of Suboxone abuse may appear gradually, but the sooner you seek help, the sooner you can regain your focus on your health and well-being.
Need help dealing with Suboxone? Reach out to Peaks Recovery
Suboxone abuse can impact your life and health, but support is available to give you the help you need. At Peaks Recovery, we provide a comprehensive treatment program to help our clients address their Suboxone issues and focus on recovery. With the help of our professional teams, we can support you or your loved one through this challenging time and provide the most appropriate treatment for your needs.
Please find out more about our treatment programs, or contact us today to see how we can help you.
Medical Disclaimer: Peaks Recovery Centers uses fact-based content about recovery treatment, addiction medicine, and behavioral health conditions to improve the quality of life for those struggling with drug and alcohol addiction or mental health disorders. This information is not intended to replace professional medical guidance, diagnosis, care, or treatment. This information should not be used as a substitute for advice from a qualified healthcare provider and/or your physician.