Suboxone is the gold-standard medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD). People generally achieve the best results in recovery when they receive MOUD, but it may not be the best choice for everyone. It’s also important that people take an active role in their care decisions. This means that they should understand their full range of options and what they can expect with each.
At Groups, we typically prescribe Suboxone for our members. In this article, we’ll get into the reasons why people often prefer this medication over other MOUD. We’ll also address some of the myths you may have heard about Suboxone treatment. Importantly, we’ll help you understand how to know if Suboxone treatment is right for you.
How do I know if Suboxone is right for me?
Working with a qualified health care provider can help you find the right OUD treatment for you. Your life goals and your medical history are important factors. Tell your provider about any medical conditions you have and any medications and supplements you’re taking. Learning about Suboxone and how it compares to other MOUD can help you make a well-informed decision.
In general, Suboxone helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms while recovering from OUD. People who take Suboxone say it helps them feel more like their “normal.” It’s safe to take it for long periods of time, and many people keep taking it indefinitely.
Who qualifies for Suboxone treatment?
Most people who are recovering from OUD can take Suboxone. It’s safe to take during pregnancy. Elderly people can take the full dosage. It’s also safe in people with mild to moderate liver impairment and renal failure, even during dialysis.
If you are allergic to one of the ingredients, it may not be the right choice for you. There are some medications and medical conditions that can interact with Suboxone.
What benefits can Suboxone provide?
Suboxone is considered safer than methadone and other MOUD for a few different reasons. It doesn’t make people feel a significant high if they’re used to taking stronger opioids, though some people may experience a mild sense of well-being. It actually makes it harder to get high on any type of opioid. It also has fewer drug interactions than other opioids.
Suboxone protects against overdose in a couple of different ways. The main ingredient, buprenorphine, has a ceiling effect. This means its effects won’t increase at higher doses. It also contains naloxone, which discourages people from misusing their Suboxone or other opioids. It’s only activated in these situations, and when this happens, the naloxone triggers intense withdrawal symptoms.
In summary, here are the benefits you can expect when taking Suboxone:
- Lower risk of opioid misuse
- Protects against overdose
- No euphoria or very mild euphoria
- Safe to take for long periods of time
- Few drug interactions
- Safe to take during pregnancy
- Safe for the elderly and those with liver problems
What are the risks of taking Suboxone?
There are some risks to be aware of before taking Suboxone. Overdose while on Suboxone is still possible, though much less likely than with other opioids. It’s more common among those who don’t have OUD, and other drugs like benzodiazepines or alcohol are usually involved. Those who take buccal or sublingual strips can develop dental problems. It’s very important to take Suboxone exactly as directed. Swish some water in your mouth after the strip dissolves and avoid eating for 30 minutes. Don’t brush your teeth for an hour after taking one. Avoid smoking, alcohol, and sugary or acidic foods. Following these instructions helps ensure optimal absorption and minimizes local irritation.
Suboxone can cause side effects and a serious allergic reaction called anaphylaxis, which is rare. This can involve redness, puffiness, or swelling around the eyelids or the eyes, face, lips, or tongue. If you experience any unusual or severe reactions to Suboxone, you should seek medical care.
Some potential side effects of Suboxone include:
- Headache
- Sweating
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Swelling in arms and legs
- Insomnia
- Mouth or tongue numbness, burning, and redness
Talk with a prescriber about Suboxone treatment
The only way to really know if Suboxone is right for you is by talking with a qualified prescriber. You should work with a care provider you trust, who respects your treatment goals. Learning everything you can about OUD treatment and Suboxone will help you make the best decisions.
While it’s an important component of recovery, medication is not the only type of care you can receive. At Groups, treatment includes medication management as well as counseling and peer support groups. Hear what our members have to say about their treatment.
Are you ready to start the conversation about Suboxone? Give our Recovery Support Specialists a call today for more information or to begin your recovery. We look forward to meeting you.
If Groups doesn’t offer treatment in your state, you can locate other treatment options here.
