If you’re taking Suboxone and having trouble sleeping, you’re not alone. Sleep problems are common for people in recovery from using opioids, especially in the early stages. Suboxone is a commonly used medication that supports your recovery, but it can take some time for your body and brain to fully adjust. That adjustment can affect your sleep.
The good news is that there are safe ways to help you manage it. You may find that your sleep will improve with time, healthy habits, and carefully chosen sleep aids when needed. You deserve rest. Let’s help you get it safely and calmly.
Why Suboxone may make it hard to sleep
Suboxone is a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone that helps people stop using opioids by easing cravings and withdrawal symptoms. It works by affecting the same brain receptors that opioids used to impact. While this is a good thing, it also means your brain is going through a big change.
When your body is adjusting to life without full opioids, you may notice:
- Trouble falling asleep
- Waking up during the night
- Having restless legs
- Experiencing vivid dreams
- Feeling tired during the day
You may also be dealing with anxiety, depression, or physical discomfort, all of which can affect your sleep. It can feel frustrating, but this can be a common part of recovery, and often improves within a few weeks or months.
7 sleep aids you can consider
When we talk about sleep aids, it’s about finding things that can help your body and mind relax and get ready for sleep. It’s essential to remember that the most important thing is to always talk to your doctor or health care provider before trying any new medication, supplement, or even a new habit. They know your health history and can tell you what’s safe and best for you while you’re on Suboxone.
Here are some sleep aids that may be considered safer when prescribed and monitored by your healthcare provider. Never start any medication or supplement without discussing it with your care team first:
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Melatonin
Melatonin is a natural hormone your body makes to help control your sleep-wake cycle. You can also take it as a supplement. It’s gentle and nonaddictive. Many people on Suboxone find that melatonin can be helpful for falling asleep.
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Trazodone
Trazodone is a prescription antidepressant that’s often used in low doses for sleep. It’s not a controlled substance and has a lower risk of misuse. Some doctors may prescribe it to people taking Suboxone because it works differently from sedatives.
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Hydroxyzine
This is an antihistamine sometimes used to treat anxiety or help with sleep. It’s not addictive and doesn’t slow your breathing the way other sedatives can.
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Magnesium supplements
Some people take magnesium at night to help with muscle relaxation and sleep. It may also help reduce restless legs.
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Valerian root
Valerian is an herbal supplement used for relaxation and sleep. Some people may find it helpful, but it can interact with other medications. Always talk to your health care provider before taking any herbal supplements.
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Diphenhydramine
This is found in many over-the-counter sleep aids. While it can make you sleepy, it may also make you groggy or confused, especially when combined with Suboxone. These should only be used under regular medical advice and not for a long time.
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Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I)
This isn’t a medicine; it’s a type of psychotherapy, or talk therapy, that teaches you skills to help improve your sleep. It can be very effective, especially for people in recovery, and it doesn’t involve any drugs.
Some sleep aids can interact with Suboxone in dangerous ways, especially those that cause sedation or slow breathing. Some medications to avoid taking while on Suboxone include:
- Benzodiazepines like Xanax, Valium, or Klonopin
- Prescription sleep medications like Ambien, Lunesta, or Restoril
- Muscle relaxers like Soma or Flexeril
- Alcohol or any substances that slow your breathing
These can increase the risk of sedation, breathing problems, and even overdose. Never mix these substances with Suboxone unless your doctor gives you very clear instructions and is monitoring you closely.
Tips for improved sleep
Beyond specific medications, there are many things you can do to help get your body and mind ready for a good night’s sleep. These are often called sleep hygiene tips, and they can be helpful tools for everyone.
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Stick to a schedule
Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This can help set your body’s natural clock, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up. Even small, gradual changes, like going to bed 15 minutes earlier each night, can make a big difference.
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Create a relaxing bedtime routine
About 30 minutes to an hour before bed, start winding down. This could include:
- Taking a warm bath or shower — The warmth can help relax your muscles and signal to your body that it’s time to rest.
- Reading a book — Choose something calm and enjoyable, and not on a screen.
- Listening to calming music or guided meditation — Many free apps and videos offer gentle music or guided meditation for sleep.
- Doing gentle stretches or yoga — You don’t want to do vigorous exercises right before bed, but some light stretching can help ease tension.
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Make your bedroom a sleep haven
A comfortable sleep space makes a big difference. Make sure your room is:
- Dark — Make your room as dark as possible. Use blackout curtains, close blinds, and turn off all lights, even small indicator lights on electronics.
- Cool — Most people sleep best in a cool room, around 65 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Quiet — Use earplugs or a white noise machine if your environment is noisy.
- Comfortable — Make sure your bed, pillows, and blankets are all comfortable.
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Watch what you eat and drink
Certain foods and beverages can have an impact on your quality of sleep.
- Avoid caffeine — Limit your caffeine intake, especially in the afternoon and evening. This includes coffee, tea, energy drinks, and some sodas.
- Limit alcohol — Alcohol can make you feel drowsy at first, but it actually disrupts your sleep later in the night. It’s also important to avoid alcohol while on Suboxone due to serious interactions.
- Eat light before bed — Avoid heavy or spicy meals close to bedtime, as they can cause indigestion and make it hard for you to fall asleep. If you’re hungry, eat a light snack with carbohydrates and protein, like cereal with milk.
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Get regular exercise
Being active during the day can help you sleep better at night. Even a brisk walk can make a difference. Just try to avoid doing too intense of a workout, as it can energize you.
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Manage stress
Stress and worry can make it hard for you to sleep well. Finding ways to manage your stress during the day can help improve your sleep at night.
- Journaling — Writing down your thoughts and feelings before bed can help clear your mind.
- Mindfulness and meditation — Learning to be present and calm your mind through practices like deep breathing can be very effective for improving sleep.
- Talk it out — If you’re feeling overwhelmed, talking to a trusted friend, family member, or counselor can help.
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Limit screen time
The blue light from phones, tablets, and computers can mess with your body’s natural sleep signals. Try to avoid screens for at least an hour before bed.
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Don’t toss and turn
If you can’t fall asleep after about 20 minutes, get out of bed and do something calming until you feel tired again.
When to talk to your provider
If sleep problems last more than a few weeks or are getting in the way of your recovery, daily life, or mood, talk to your doctor or recovery care team. They can help you:
- Adjust your Suboxone dose or schedule
- Try different, safe sleep aids
- Check for other issues like anxiety, depression, or sleep apnea
- Refer you to CBT-I or another therapy
Never feel ashamed to bring it up. Sleep is an important part of healing, and your care team wants to support you.
Find sleep support with Groups
Poor sleep doesn’t mean you’re doing recovery wrong. It just means your body is healing. With time, good habits, and support from your Groups care team, sleep usually improves. Many people who struggled with sleep early on while taking Suboxone now sleep well, and you can too.
At Groups, we know recovery is more than stopping opioids; it’s about healing your whole self. That includes your sleep, your mind, and your overall wellness. We’ll help you find safe ways to manage sleep issues and feel better overall. Whether you’re new to treatment or have been on Suboxone for a while, you’re not alone, and we’re here to help.
Give our Recovery Support Specialists a call today 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.
