Many people in recovery wonder if it’s safe to use cannabis while taking Suboxone for opioid use disorder. Research shows mixed results, so understanding its potential side effects is important. A systematic review from 2020 examined studies on medications for opioid use disorder, including buprenorphine, the main ingredient in Suboxone, found that cannabis use generally didn’t make outcomes worse.
However, other research suggests there could be risks. One small study found that people on buprenorphine who had used cannabis had blood levels of buprenorphine that were 2.7 times higher than those who didn’t use cannabis. This can increase the risk of side effects like sedation, drowsiness, and slowed breathing.
At Groups, we believe in the principles of harm reduction, so full abstinence is not required for treatment. Being open and honest with your care team about your use is highly encouraged. This can help us monitor your treatment closely, watch for side effects, and support you throughout your recovery.
Keep reading to find important facts about using weed while taking Suboxone, so you can make informed decisions for your well-being.
5 facts about using weed while taking Suboxone
Many people taking Suboxone wonder how cannabis use might affect their treatment. Research is limited and shows mixed results. But knowing the potential effects can help you make safer choices.
Here are five important facts about using weed while taking Suboxone:
1. Cannabis may affect how Suboxone works in your body.
Cannabis can boost blood levels of buprenorphine, the main ingredient in Suboxone. This may lead to stronger side effects of the medication, such as sedation, nausea, or dizziness. Higher buprenorphine levels can also change how effectively Suboxone manages withdrawal symptoms or cravings.
Since this affects everyone differently, monitoring your symptoms and communicating with your care team is important.
2. Combining weed and Suboxone can affect alertness and coordination.
Using cannabis while taking Suboxone may make you feel more sleepy, slow your reflexes, or impair judgment. This can make it riskier to perform tasks like driving, operating machinery, or making important decisions. Knowing the risks can help you plan your day accordingly.
3. Side effects may vary.
Not everyone will experience the same side effects or risks from using Suboxone and weed. Your dose, frequency of use, and metabolism factor into how you may react.
Some common side effects may include:
- Sedation or extreme drowsiness
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Nausea
- Mood changes or irritability
- Slowed breathing
When a person’s breathing slows significantly, it could lead to a coma or even death. If you experience serious side effects using weed while taking Suboxone, seek immediate medical attention.
4. Cannabis use affects recovery differently for everyone.
Everyone’s body and recovery experience is unique. Some people find that cannabis helps with anxiety, stress, or sleep. Others find that it can make it more difficult to focus or stay motivated. In treatment, you can learn many different coping skills to help ease stress and cravings without turning to cannabis. Whether you want to cut back or stop entirely, our team is here to support you.
5. Sharing openly about your cannabis use may help your recovery.
At Groups, we encourage open discussion so your care team can monitor your treatment, watch for side effects, and help guide you toward your recovery goals. We can give you personalized support and adjust your treatment as needed to help you have the best outcome.
Being upfront about your cannabis use allows your care team to:
- Change your Suboxone dose, if appropriate
- Teach coping strategies tailored to your needs
- Identify triggers that may be impacting your recovery
- Provide the support you need
At Groups, we maintain a judgment-free environment where you can feel safe to communicate with us. We’re here to support you no matter where you are in your recovery process.
Harm reduction strategies
Research on the safety of weed and Suboxone is limited and conflicting. Everyone’s body and recovery is different, which makes it hard to predict how you may respond to this combination. At Groups, we use a harm reduction approach focused on your individual goals. Using harm reduction strategies can help keep you safe, reduce side effects, and support your recovery goals.
Here are some practical tips you can try if you’re using cannabis while taking Suboxone:
1. Start low and go slow.
If you choose to use weed, begin with a low dose. This can help you gauge how your body responds. If you feel OK, you can continue to use it. However, if you experience worrisome side effects like extreme drowsiness, dizziness, or slowed breathing, you should stop and seek medical attention.
2. Don’t use cannabis alone.
If you use weed, it’s best to have someone you trust with you. This is especially important if you’re trying a new type of cannabis or want to increase how much you use. Having support can help you if you experience worsening or severe side effects. They can help you reach out to a provider if you need immediate treatment.
3. Be honest with your care team.
Many people are afraid to tell their provider about their cannabis use, but keeping them updated can be beneficial for your well-being. Open, honest communication can help them tailor your treatment accordingly. This lets your care team monitor how you’re doing and make adjustments as needed. At Groups, we’re here to support you throughout your recovery with personalized guidance.
How Groups can support you
Traditional recovery programs may tell you to completely abstain from substance use, including cannabis. But at Groups, we take a different approach. If you use cannabis, we won’t turn you away from treatment. You’ll be welcomed to a judgment-free environment where your care team can develop a recovery plan based on your needs.
Our treatment includes:
- In-person and virtual group therapy options
- Personalized care planning to help you with your goals
- Fast access to Suboxone if you need it
Whether you’re managing cravings, identifying triggers, or building new coping skills, your care team is here to guide you throughout your recovery. At Groups, you can join a supportive community in days, not weeks. Together, we can focus on recovery strategies that work best for you.
Not sure if your drug use is a problem? Feel free to take our two-minute quiz. The results can help guide you toward the next step to take.
Groups can help you navigate weed and Suboxone safely
We currently treat cannabis use disorder at our Iowa location only, but we’re working to expand this treatment across the country. Groups is also actively expanding treatment for stimulant and alcohol use disorders. Even if you don’t live near one of our locations, you can reach out to us, and we can recommend treatment options in your area.
Give our Recovery Support Coordinators a call today at 888-858-1723 for more information or to begin your recovery. We provide treatment across the country — and we’re always expanding. See if we offer care in your state, either online or at one of our 130+ local offices. If Groups doesn’t offer treatment in your area, you can locate other treatment options here.
