Single Post

Healthcare professionals who treat those suffering from an opiate addiction have the option of utilizing medication to assist in treatment. One of the most common medications used in the treatment of opiate dependence is Suboxone. It helps to stop withdrawal symptoms from opiate drugs like heroin, codeine, morphine, Vicodin, and OxyContin.

What is Suboxone?

Suboxone is a prescription medication that is used to treat adults who are dependent on or addicted to opiates, either opiates obtained by prescription or illegally. The two active ingredients in this medication are buprenorphine and naloxone. This medication is meant to be used as part of a complete treatment plan for opiate dependence, which includes both counseling and psychosocial support.

How does Suboxone work?

Suboxone works by binding to the opioid receptor in the brain, which is the same receptor that opiate drugs such as morphine and heroin bind to. Suboxone is a partial opiate agonist, which means that in low doses it is the same in suppressing pain as other opiates. However, when the dosage increases, it blocks the opioid receptor, preventing it from being stimulated. The naloxone combination makes it more difficult to for individuals to abuse Suboxone. In addition, patients taking Suboxone will not feel the effects (or get high) from opiates while taking the medication.

How is Suboxone used at substance use treatment facilities?

When an opiate user abruptly stops using opiates, he or she may experience withdrawal symptoms within just a few hours. These symptoms include sweating, nausea, muscle pain, irregular heartbeat, severe anxiety, and an inability to sleep. When the user enters a substance use treatment facility, chances are that they have recently stopped using opiates and may start to experience mild withdrawal symptoms.

After assessing the patient, a physician may prescribe Suboxone to aid in the detox process. When Suboxone is prescribed, the medication is given to the patient once mild withdrawal symptoms start to develop. The dosage is adjusted within the first day in order to suppress withdrawal symptoms. The length of time that a person takes the medication will depend on their history with opiate use. Studies have shown that Suboxone is often more effective than other available treatments in managing withdrawal symptoms from opiates.

Drug Addiction Treatment and Recovery in Southwest Florida

Are you or someone you know suffering from an addiction to opiates? Crossroads offers a wide range of substance use services for adults, including inpatient detoxification, residential, intensive outpatient treatment and aftercare services. The compassionate staff at our facility addresses the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of those suffering from addiction with a blend of traditional treatment services combined with holistic and complementary services.

For more information or a confidential assessment, contact us now through our website or call us 24/7 at (239) 354-1428.