Suboxone

What is Suboxone?

Suboxone is a prescription medication FDA-approved to treat opioid use disorder, also called opioid addiction. It’s a combination drug that contains buprenorphine and naloxone.

Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist and is the active ingredient in Suboxone. Buprenorphine is the active ingredient of most other drugs used to treat opioid use disorder, like Subutex®, Subclade®, and Zubsolv®.

Suboxone comes as a tablet or sublingual film that dissolves in the mouth under the tongue. Zubsolv contains the same ingredients as Suboxone but is given by injection.

Subutex and Subuclade only contain buprenorphine.

How does Suboxone and buprenorphine work?

These and other drugs that treat opioid use reduce drug cravings and withdrawal symptoms to support the transition to a drug-free lifestyle. 

Buprenorphine acts on the same receptors in the brain as the opioids but to a lesser extent. It also has a ceiling effect, so taking more won’t make you feel more euphoric. 

Naloxone is an opioid antagonist that blocks the opioid receptors in the brain, reversing any euphoric feelings you may have from buprenorphine or any other opioid. 

Naloxone also reduces the risk of misuse of opioids and relapse. When you inject any opioid while taking Suboxone, the naloxone causes immediate withdrawal. It’s used to reverse an opioid overdose. 

When should I consider Suboxone treatment?

Suboxone is part of the medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program for opioid addiction at Magnolia Medical Group. The team may recommend Suboxone to help you transition to your drug-free lifestyle while participating in substance use counseling. 

The team also uses Suboxone to prevent life-threatening withdrawal symptoms in those with a severe opioid addiction. It reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making it easier for you to stop using. It also makes you more open to what you learn in addiction therapy.

The licensed professionals at Magnolia Medical Group specialize in medication-assisted treatment for opioid use disorder and can help you get on the dose that provides the best relief from your drug cravings.

The team also ensures you continue to get your medication for as long as you need. You can safely take Suboxone for the rest of your life, or wean off the medication when you’re ready. 

Call Magnolia Medical Group today or use the online booking button to schedule your Suboxone consultation.