Suboxone is a medication that helps people recover from opioid use disorder (OUD). It reduces withdrawal symptoms and cravings, making it easier to focus on healing. Many people take Suboxone for months or even years as part of their recovery plan. If you’re in treatment long-term, though, you might wonder if there are any long-term effects.
Research shows Suboxone is safe and effective for long-term use. It helps people stay in recovery, rebuild their lives, and improve their health. In many cases, extended Suboxone treatment delivers the best results. One study found a much lower risk of adverse outcomes in people who received buprenorphine treatment for over a year, compared to people who discontinued treatment after six to nine months. Buprenorphine is the key active ingredient in Suboxone.
How Suboxone’s effects support long-term recovery
Suboxone contains two main ingredients:
- Buprenorphine — Buprenorphine reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms. It binds to opioid receptors in the brain without making you feel high.
- Naloxone — Naloxone helps prevent misuse by blocking the effects of opioids when they are misused. For example, if someone tries to inject or snort their Suboxone, the naloxone will trigger withdrawal symptoms rather than a high.
Unlike full opioids, the buprenorphine in Suboxone has a ceiling effect. This means that after a certain dose, taking more does not increase its effects. The ceiling effect can lower the risk of overdose and severe respiratory depression. Though the ceiling effect does not eliminate all physical dependence, it does make Suboxone safer than full opioid agonists.
Many studies show that long-term use of Suboxone helps people stay in recovery and avoid using opioids again. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) states that medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD), like Suboxone, reduce the risk of using again and fatal overdoses. They can help people stay in recovery and improve their quality of life.
The long-term benefits of Suboxone
Taking Suboxone for months or years while you’re in recovery can provide many benefits, including:
- Lower risk of using again
One of the biggest benefits of long-term Suboxone use is that it helps prevent a return to opioid use. People who take Suboxone may be less likely to use opioids again during treatment.
Staying on Suboxone gives the brain and body time to heal from opioid use. Over time, cravings become less intense. This can make it easier for you to focus on personal goals and recovery.
- Improved mental health
People in recovery often experience anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns. Suboxone can help by reducing stress related to withdrawal and cravings. Many people report feeling more stable and in control of their emotions while taking Suboxone.
By removing the daily struggle with cravings, Suboxone allows people to:
- Regain self-confidence
- Focus on therapy, work, or family
- Build healthier coping skills for stress
If someone is struggling with mental health symptoms during treatment, their provider can help. For example, the provider may adjust their treatment plan for better results. This might involve incorporating therapy or more group support sessions.
- Increased stability in life
Suboxone helps people regain control over their lives. With fewer cravings and withdrawal symptoms, they can focus on things that matter, like work, school, and relationships.
When people feel stable, they can set and achieve goals that once seemed impossible. A comprehensive treatment plan will often include life-goal assistance. This assistance can help you get a job, find transportation, and access food programs. Assistance can also help you work toward goals that are unique to you. For example, you might get help finding a training program for your desired career. Life-goal assistance can be tailored to your specific practical needs as well as your long-term life goals.
Experience the advantages of long-term Suboxone treatment at Groups
Suboxone is a gold standard treatment for opioid use disorder. Taking it long-term can lower your risk of using opioids again, improve your health, and help you regain control of your life.
There is no set timeline for recovery. Some people take Suboxone for months, while others stay on it for years. What matters most is finding a treatment plan that works for you.
If you or a loved one is considering Suboxone treatment, Groups can help. We offer MOUD, peer support groups, and more. Our care is personalized to help you build the life you deserve. When you’re ready to learn how Suboxone might help you long-term, contact us.
Give our Recovery Support Specialists a call today 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 does not offer treatment in your area, you can locate other treatment options here.
