What Is the Success Rate of Suboxone?

Suboxone is a prescribed medication that treats adults who are dependent or addicted to opioids. It comes in the form of a dissolvable oral film that is then placed under the tongue or in between the gums and cheek to dissolve. Suboxone has two main ingredients, which include:

1. Buprenorphine
This ingredient treats opioid addiction and works by eliciting some of the similar euphoric effects as opioids do, to a much lesser degree.
 
2. Naloxone
This ingredient is an opioid antagonist which blocks the effects of opioid drugs. The sole purpose of naloxone in suboxone treatment is to reduce the risk of misuse and abuse of opioids.
 
Suboxone treatment is an FDA-approved treatment for opioid dependence and addiction. It is a part of medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for individuals dealing with substance abuse disorders, it is combined with medication and behavioral therapy or counseling to help treat the addiction and prevent a relapse.
 
A few of the signs and symptoms we look for if you may be addicted to opioids include:
 
• Uncontrolled cravings for opioids
• Withdrawal symptoms occurring when attempting to quit opioid usage
• Inability to control your opioid use
• Sleep habits changing
• Lack of personal hygiene
• Financial issues
• Isolated from your family and friends
 
Before we approve anyone as a good candidate for Suboxone treatment, we much conduct a comprehensive evaluation. During the development of the treatment plan, we always take into consideration each patient’s health goals, as well as their medical history.

A doctor would prescribe Suboxone as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for opioid use disorder (OUD) to help individuals manage their addiction, reduce cravings, and minimize withdrawal symptoms. Suboxone contains two key ingredients: buprenorphine and naloxone. Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist, meaning it activates opioid receptors in the brain but to a much lesser degree than full opioids like heroin or prescription painkillers. This helps reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings without producing the intense euphoria that can lead to abuse. Naloxone, on the other hand, is an opioid antagonist. It is included in Suboxone to prevent misuse, as it blocks the effects of opioids if the medication is injected or misused.

Suboxone is commonly prescribed to individuals who have completed the initial detoxification or withdrawal phase and are seeking long-term maintenance therapy. One of the significant benefits of Suboxone is its ability to provide a steady and controlled release of medication, which helps individuals stay stable and focused on their recovery. By reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms, Suboxone makes it easier for patients to maintain their sobriety and avoid relapse.

In addition to its role in physical stabilization, Suboxone is often used alongside counseling and behavioral therapy as part of a holistic approach to addiction recovery. This combination addresses both the physical dependence on opioids and the psychological factors that contribute to addiction. Dr. Jonathan Hall, MD, at Ascension Solutions Treatment, ensures that each patient receives a treatment plan tailored to their specific needs. Through the use of Suboxone and supportive therapies, individuals can regain control over their lives, break the cycle of addiction, and work toward lasting recovery.

 Suboxone (buprenorphine–naloxone) is widely considered one of the most effective medications for treating opioid use disorder (OUD). While “success rate” can vary depending on how success is defined—such as reduced opioid use, improved retention in treatment, or long-term recovery—research consistently shows that Suboxone significantly increases a person’s chances of staying in treatment and avoiding relapse compared to counseling alone. Many studies show that people on Suboxone are several times more likely to remain engaged in treatment, which is one of the strongest predictors of long-term recovery.

In clinical research, treatment retention rates for Suboxone often range from about 50–80% over several months—far higher than non-medication approaches. Continued use of the medication also reduces overdose risk, improves stability, and decreases withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Some studies show that when taken as prescribed, Suboxone can reduce illicit opioid use by more than half. It is important to note that outcomes vary based on factors such as dosage, duration of treatment, access to counseling or behavioral support, and the individual’s overall stability and environment.

Success with Suboxone increases when treatment is long-term and combined with supportive services like therapy, peer support, and harm-reduction practices. People who stay on the medication for at least 12 months typically have the best outcomes. Ultimately, Suboxone is not a “cure,” but it is a powerful, evidence-based tool that helps many individuals achieve stability, reduce harm, and build a foundation for lasting recovery.

At Ascension Solutions Treatment, individuals receiving Suboxone benefit from a compassionate, structured, and evidence-based approach designed to support long-term recovery. The clinic combines medication-assisted treatment with counseling, personalized care plans, and ongoing monitoring to help each person achieve stability at their own pace. With a focus on dignity, support, and lasting change, Ascension Solutions Treatment works to give every patient the tools and guidance needed to succeed on their recovery journey.

The length of time a person should stay on Suboxone depends on several factors, including the severity of their opioid addiction, their progress in recovery, and their overall treatment plan. Typically, Suboxone is used as part of a long-term treatment strategy for opioid use disorder (OUD), combining medication with counseling and behavioral therapy. The goal is to help individuals stabilize, reduce cravings, and avoid relapse while working toward sustained sobriety.

In the initial stages of recovery, patients may remain on Suboxone for several months or longer, depending on their response to the medication. It is often recommended that patients stay on Suboxone for at least 12 months, as research shows that longer treatment durations improve recovery outcomes. Studies indicate that staying on Suboxone for a year or more significantly reduces the likelihood of relapse and opioid overdose. Some individuals may continue Suboxone treatment for several years to maintain stability and reduce the risk of returning to opioid use, especially if they have a history of multiple relapses.

Eventually, the goal is for the patient to taper off Suboxone, but this should be done gradually under medical supervision. Tapering too quickly can lead to withdrawal symptoms and an increased risk of relapse. The decision to stop Suboxone should be made collaboratively with a healthcare provider, such as Dr. Jonathan Hall, MD, at Ascension Solutions Treatment. Dr. Hall ensures that patients receive personalized care, monitoring their progress and adjusting the treatment plan as necessary.

Some individuals may remain on Suboxone indefinitely, particularly if they find that ongoing treatment helps them maintain their recovery and manage cravings effectively. The duration of Suboxone treatment ultimately depends on the individual’s recovery needs and goals.

Dr. Jonathan Hall, MD, assesses the success rate of Suboxone in opioid addiction treatment by closely monitoring each patient’s progress throughout their recovery journey. Success is measured not only by the reduction in opioid use but also by the patient’s ability to remain in treatment, manage cravings, and avoid relapse. Dr. Hall takes a personalized approach, tailoring treatment plans to each individual’s needs and adjusting medication dosages as necessary to ensure the best outcomes. He also incorporates ongoing counseling and therapy, which are key components of a comprehensive treatment plan, to address the psychological aspects of addiction and support long-term recovery.

Dr. Hall’s success metrics go beyond just the physical aspects of addiction. He evaluates overall improvements in the patient’s quality of life, mental health stability, and engagement in recovery-focused activities. With Suboxone, patients often experience significant reductions in opioid cravings and withdrawal symptoms, which leads to higher retention in treatment and a lower risk of overdose. Dr. Hall works with each patient to monitor these indicators of success, ensuring that they receive the necessary support to achieve lasting sobriety. By combining Suboxone with a holistic treatment plan, Dr. Hall helps patients make lasting changes and achieve long-term recovery.

Do not hesitate to contact us today or request an appointment online. We are conveniently located in Peachtree Corners GA and Asheville NC. 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.