Suboxone
Additional Information
When the Right Choice is Buprenorphine for Opioid Addiction Rehabilitation
What is buprenorphine?
Buprenorphine, aka as Suboxone or Subutex, is a FDA-approved that is a highly studied and regulated medication used to help individuals recover from opioid addiction. It acts as a stabilizer in the body rather than as a narcotic. When taken as prescribed, buprenorphine helps patients function physically, emotionally and intellectually without impairment. Furthermore, it helps patients engage in counseling to set goals and achieve positive health, mental and behavioral outcomes. 8
Suboxone or Subutex, sticks to the opioid receptors in the brain, so those who take other opioids while on buprenorphine will not experience a high. This is because there are so few open brain receptors for them to bind with. When taken as directed and not combined with other drugs like benzodiazepines, buprenorphine reduces withdrawal symptoms and cravings, and carries a low risk of overdose.
Also, the effects of Suboxone level off at a moderate dose, so there is little incentive to take more. Doctors call this a ceiling effect.
Who should consider buprenorphine for treatment?
Suboxone or Subutex, is best suited for patients that are addicted to prescription painkillers for less than a year. Individuals must stop using opioids for 12 to 24 hours and be in mild opioid withdrawal before starting buprenorphine.
How is buprenorphine prescribed?
Suboxone or Subutex should be started only once the symptoms of withdrawal have begun by one of our specialized doctors. For longer term treatment of addiction, a combination formula of buprenorphine and naloxone is recommended.
How is buprenorphine taken?
Suboxone or Subutex is available in a number of different formulations, including tablets and a film that dissolves under the tongue or inside the cheek. It is also available in extended-release implants or monthly injections.
What are the common side effects of buprenorphine
Suboxone or Subutex has been found to be safe and effective in treating opioid use disorder. Some patients have reported side effects like sleep disturbances, nausea, constipation, vomiting, dizziness, headache and muscle aches. Often these side effects decrease with time. Please feel free to talk to one of our specialized doctors about side effects.
What is Suboxone?
Suboxone is the commercial name for buprenorphine when it is combined with naloxone for the treatment of opioid addiction. Although naloxone is mostly used for overdoses, it is also added to buprenorphine formulations to deter misuse and prevent the buprenorphine from being inappropriately used.
For More Information on Suboxone
If you think Suboxone treatment would be a good solution for your rehabilitation, contact a Mountain State Recovery Center treatment provider at 304-233-3200.
Suboxone film