Opioid addiction is a serious challenge, but with the right treatment, recovery is possible. Suboxone and methadone are two medications commonly used in medication for addiction treatment (MAT) for opioid addiction. Opioid addiction can include being addicted to drugs like heroin, prescription painkillers or fentanyl. Both medications can help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making it easier for people to stay in recovery. However, despite having a similar purpose, there are some important differences between the two.
What is Suboxone?
Suboxone is a combination medication that contains buprenorphine and naloxone.
Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist. It activates the opioid receptors in the brain, but not as strongly as full opioid agonists like heroin or prescription painkillers. This helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist, which means it blocks the effects of opioids.
The naloxone in Suboxone is added to help prevent misuse of the medication. If anyone tries to inject Suboxone or take it in a way that isn’t prescribed, the naloxone will block the opioid effects and trigger withdrawal symptoms. This helps make it less likely to be misused. When Suboxone is taken as prescribed, the naloxone part of the medication is inactive and will not trigger withdrawal symptoms.
Suboxone is typically taken as a film or tablet that dissolves under the tongue. It’s often prescribed in an outpatient setting and is usually taken once a day.
What is methadone?
Methadone is a full opioid agonist. It activates the opioid receptors in the brain in a similar way to heroin or prescription painkillers. However, methadone has a longer duration of action than other opioids, making it safer. This long-acting nature can help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms by keeping a steady level of opioids in the body. Methadone doesn’t produce the high associated with illicit drug use.
Methadone is usually taken in a liquid or tablet form, and the dosage is adjusted to meet each person’s unique individual needs. It’s often prescribed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, which includes counseling and therapy. It’s typically administered through specialized clinics.
Similarities between Suboxone and methadone
Suboxone and methadone have several similarities, including:
- Treating opioid use disorder
- Reducing cravings
- Easing withdrawal symptoms
- Helping people maintain long-term recovery
- Helping people avoid dangerous and harmful effects of illicit drug use
They both can be used as a part of medications for addiction treatment (MAT) approach, which combines medication with therapy to address both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction. They both allow people to regain control of their lives by being a part of their long-term recovery plan. This can help prevent the cycle of addiction and help them focus on rebuilding their health, relationships and careers.
Differences between Suboxone and methadone
While Suboxone and methadone have some similarities, they also have key differences, including:
- Mechanism of action — Suboxone contains buprenorphine, which is a partial agonist, and naloxone, which is an inactive antagonist when used properly. Methadone is a full agonist. This means Suboxone doesn’t activate opioid receptors as strongly as methadone, which may reduce the risk of misuse.
- Risk of misuse — Methadone has a higher potential for misuse because it’s a full opioid agonist, as mentioned above. This means it creates a stronger effect on the brain. Suboxone has a lower potential for misuse due to the component of naloxone, which blocks the high if the medication is misused.
- Administration — Suboxone is typically taken at home, once a day, and dissolved under the tongue. Suboxone can be picked up from the pharmacy like any other medication. Methadone, on the other hand, is usually given at specialized clinics. It can be given daily, where it’s often given in liquid form under supervision.
- Side effects — Methadone’s full agonist properties can make it more likely to cause side effects. Suboxone has a lower risk of these side effects because of its partial agonist action. However, it can still cause side effects.
- Withdrawal symptoms — Withdrawal from methadone can be more intense and last longer than Suboxone withdrawal. This is because methadone is a long-acting medication. Suboxone has a shorter half-life, which means its effects wear off more quickly.
Risks and side effects of Suboxone and methadone
Both Suboxone and methadone can cause side effects, though the severity can vary from person to person.
Side effects of Suboxone may include:
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation
- Sweating
Side effects of methadone may include:
- Drowsiness or fatigue
- Constipation
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sweating
- Weight gain
Both medications can cause respiratory distress. This distress can happen when either medication is taken in high doses or combined with other substances like alcohol or benzodiazepines. It’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and not take more than the prescribed amount to avoid serious health risks.
Withdrawal effects of Suboxone and methadone
Withdrawal from both Suboxone and methadone is possible if the medication is stopped suddenly or reduced too quickly. However, the withdrawal effects from methadone tend to be more severe and longer lasting due to its longer half-life.
Suboxone withdrawal symptoms can include:
- Anxiety
- Irritability
- Insomnia
- Muscle aches
- Sweating
- Cravings
Methadone withdrawal symptoms can include:
- Intense cravings
- Anxiety
- Irritability
- Diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Muscle pain and cramps
Gradually tapering off these medications under a doctor’s supervision to minimize withdrawal symptoms is essential.
How to use Suboxone or methadone safely
It’s possible to take Suboxone or methadone safely by taking steps such as:
- Following your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully
- Never taking more than the prescribed dose
- Not mixing these medications with alcohol, benzodiazepines or other opioids
Regular follow-up visits with your healthcare provider are essential to monitor your progress, adjust dosages and address any concerns you may have. Additionally, combining medication with therapy and support groups can provide a more well-rounded approach to recovery.
Recovery is possible, and Groups Recover Together is here to help
At Groups, we believe that everyone deserves a chance to recover and build a better life free from the grip of opioid addiction. Whether it’s through Suboxone or other forms of treatment, we are committed to helping people find the right path to lasting recovery. With our personalized treatment plans, we ensure that each person receives the support, care and guidance they need to succeed. Recovery is a journey, and at Groups Recover Together, we’re here every step of the way to help you achieve lasting change and a healthier future.
Give our Recovery Support Specialists a call today for more information or to begin your recovery.
