Buprenorphine is a key ingredient in a number of treatments for opioid addiction. If you’re looking into treatment options for opioid use disorder (OUD), you may have come across medications like Belbuca and Suboxone, but you may not be sure what makes these medications different from each other. Understanding the differences can help ensure that you find the treatment that matches your needs.
Belbuca is a brand name for buprenorphine buccal film. This medication is prescribed for severe, persistent pain that requires long-term opioid treatment. It contains buprenorphine, which is a partial opioid agonist. Belbuca works by attaching to opioid receptors in the brain and reducing pain signals. Unlike stronger opioids, buprenorphine doesn’t produce a strong “high,” though it can still relieve pain and provide long-lasting relief. Belbuca is commonly prescribed for chronic pain. It comes in the form of a buccal film, which is a small strip that is placed inside the cheek. The film dissolves and slowly releases the medication into the bloodstream. This delivery method allows for steady pain relief throughout the day.
Suboxone is a medication primarily used to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). Like Belbuca, it contains buprenorphine. Suboxone also includes an additional ingredient called naloxone. Naloxone is an opioid blocker. It helps prevent misuse by stopping the effects of opioids if Suboxone is taken in ways other than as prescribed (e.g., by injection). Suboxone comes in the form of a sublingual tablet or film, meaning it dissolves under the tongue. It helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. This makes it easier for people recovering from opioid addiction to avoid using again.
Belbuca vs. Suboxone: Dosing and other differences
While Belbuca and Suboxone both contain buprenorphine, they serve different purposes. There are important differences in how they work, how they’re prescribed, and how they’re taken. Here are some key differences to know:
- Dose size — Belbuca and Suboxone have different dosing guidelines. This is because they are designed to treat different conditions and come in different forms. Suboxone comes in four main dose sizes. These range from 2 to 12 milligrams (mg) of buprenorphine. The typical dose varies depending on the stage of treatment. Your provider might prescribe 2 mg to 4 mg doses at first. As your treatment continues, your dosage may gradually increase. Belbuca comes in seven dose strengths, starting at 75 micrograms (mcg) and going up to 900 mcg. Dosage may be increased to relieve pain. Belbuca dosage is based on pain levels, while Suboxone dosage is based on recovery progress. Suboxone doses often change as someone moves through treatment phases.
- Dosage process — Belbuca and Suboxone are not taken the same way. Suboxone tablets or film dissolve under the tongue. Belbuca is a buccal film; it slowly dissolves against the inside of the cheek. The dissolution process usually takes about 30 minutes, according to Cleveland Clinic. The way a medication is administered has an impact on its effects. Slow absorption may mean a medication takes longer to start working and lasts longer in a person’s system. Quick absorption can translate to more immediate effects.
- Purpose — A key difference between Belbuca and Suboxone is their intended usage. Belbuca is mainly used for pain relief. Despite containing buprenorphine, it is not FDA approved for OUD treatment. Belbuca is typically prescribed for people who need long-term pain relief. It can be a good option if you want to avoid the risks of full opioids like morphine or oxycodone. Suboxone is mainly prescribed for OUD. Its main purpose is to help people stop using opioids safely. It works by reducing withdrawal symptoms and cravings. If you’re seeking pain relief, Belbuca may be a better option. If you’re working on recovering from opioid addiction, Suboxone may help you.
Can Belbuca be taken with Suboxone?
In most cases, Belbuca and Suboxone are not taken together. Both medications contain buprenorphine, and taking them at the same time could lead to too much buprenorphine in your system. This may increase the risk of side effects, such as drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, or even respiratory problems.
Buprenorphine already has a ceiling effect — taking more won’t necessarily increase its benefits. However, it could increase the risk of harmful side effects. Buprenorphine is typically safe at prescribed doses. One study found that buprenorphine was involved in a very small proportion of drug overdose deaths. Always follow professional advice if you’re considering switching between these medications.
You may want to switch to Belbuca due to chronic pain. If you’re experiencing pain while in OUD recovery, talk to your provider. They can help you find a pain management solution that doesn’t conflict with your OUD treatment journey.
Is Belbuca the same as Suboxone?
No, Belbuca and Suboxone are not the same. They do share some similarities, though. Both medications contain buprenorphine. This helps manage either pain or withdrawal symptoms, depending on the condition being treated. However, these medications differ in many areas. They have different ingredients, dose guidelines, and treatment purposes.
Suboxone is designed for addiction recovery and has safeguards to prevent misuse. Belbuca is designed for long-term pain relief. If you’re unsure which option is right for your situation, a health care professional can guide you based on your health needs and treatment goals.
Positive outcomes of Suboxone treatment
Suboxone is a medication that helps people recover from opioid use disorder (OUD). It does more than manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings. It gives people a chance to rebuild their lives. With a proper dosage, alongside other forms of support, Suboxone can help people feel more in control as they stay in recovery. Some of the key intended positive outcomes of Suboxone treatment include:
- Reduced symptoms — One of the most immediate benefits of Suboxone is how it helps with cravings and withdrawal symptoms. When someone stops using opioids, they can feel sick, anxious, and in pain. These withdrawal symptoms often cause people to return to opioids. Suboxone works by reducing these symptoms, making it easier to stay focused on recovery.
- Regained control — When someone is experiencing addiction, daily life can feel like it’s falling apart. Suboxone helps people regain control and return to their usual routines. Treatment can help improve focus and restore structure to your life. With professional support, you may start reconnecting with loved ones. This can help repair relationships and strengthen your support network.
- Long-term success — Recovery is a journey. Along your journey, you may be tempted by detours that take you back the way you came. Suboxone can help reduce cravings, making it easier for you to stay on your recovery path and avoid using again. It can also set you up for long-term success, giving you the ability to build the life you want.
Groups offers Suboxone prescriptions and tailored support
Choosing between Belbuca and Suboxone depends on your specific health needs. If you’re managing chronic pain and want a solution with less risk than full opioids, Belbuca may be the right fit. If you’re recovering from OUD, Suboxone is designed to support that process.
Talking to a specialist can help you figure out which option is right for you. At Groups, we offer personalized treatment plans for OUD recovery. Our members get access to Suboxone, support groups, life-goal assistance, and more. If you’re ready to take the next step toward recovery, we’re here to help.
Give our Recovery Support Specialists a call today for more information or to begin your recovery. If Groups doesn’t offer treatment in your state, you can locate other treatment options here.
