4 Questions to Ask About Suboxone Therapy

Suboxone, a brand name for the combination of two drugs, buprenorphine, and naloxone, is commonly used as a medication to treat opioid addiction. Suboxone works by occupying the same receptors in the brain as other opioids, preventing opioids from causing more intense psychotropic effects. Suboxone is known as a partial opioid agonist, meaning that it performs the same function in the brain as other opioids but is weaker and causes fewer side effects. Because of its effects as an opioid agonist, it is used to help people manage their opiate cravings and reduce the likelihood of relapse. Suboxone is also commonly used to treat opioid overdoses due to the way it interferes with the effects of opioids in the brain and central nervous system.

In most cases, Suboxone is prescribed for a period of six to twelve months, although some individuals will need to take it for a longer duration. The normal length of Suboxone therapy generally lasts for a year, but many doctors realize that treating addiction is a long-term goal and therefore longer periods may be necessary for some situations. It is more important to prevent relapse and future opioid use than it is to adhere to a specific schedule and treatment duration.

Because its effects are relatively mild, buprenorphine has become the leading choice for the treatment of opioid use disorder. However, upon cessation of buprenorphine, many users report going through withdrawal symptoms similar to other opioids, such as irritability, nausea, sweating, and muscle weakness. Nevertheless, as the effects are generally far less severe, the vast majority of users who experienced the withdrawal symptoms still recommend its use. Short-term side effects of buprenorphine include dry mouth, constipation, and sweating.

Due to its relatively short time on the market, the long-term effects of buprenorphine have not been extensively studied; however, some researchers suggest that they may be similar to those of other opioids. Upon cessation, some long-term effects of buprenorphine may persist, including common side effects such as depression, fatigue, insomnia, and less commonly nausea, confusion, and physical weakness.

Suboxone treatment programs have specific requirements that must be met for a patient to receive this type of treatment. These include:

• Understanding of the guidelines for treatment
• Commitment to treatment for opioid addiction
• Following through with the doctor’s scheduled visits
• Not using any alcohol, opioids, or benzodiazepines
• Must participate in random screenings
• Cannot request an early refill
• Cannot request a refill without an appointment
• Must take medication as prescribed

Suboxone programs have strict requirements due to their potential for abuse; the monitoring physician will provide the specific details required for program adherence.

If you or someone you know is struggling with opioid use disorder, come to Ascension Solutions Treatment today for professional care. Call us to book an appointment with our Suboxone treatment specialist, or visit our clinic conveniently located in Asheville NC and Peachtree Corners GA. We serve patients from Peachtree Corners GA, Asheville NC, Swannanoa NC, Johns Creek GA, Woodfin NC, Biltmore Forest NC, Fairview NC, Roswell GA, Dunwoody GA, Pittsburg GA, Western North Carolina and the surrounding areas.