Suboxone is a prescription medication used to help men and women overcome potentially life-threatening cases of opioid abuse and dependence. Despite much controversy surrounding this particular medication, Suboxone has proven to be an effective part of many early recovery programs when coupled with intensive behavioral therapy and other treatment methods. Evoke Wellness believes in the benefits of medication-assisted treatment when medication is administered in a closely monitored environment and used as part of a more comprehensive treatment program.
Can Suboxone Be Addictive?
However, it is important to understand that Suboxone alone is not a standalone treatment option. It is not an adequate replacement for the intensive behavioral therapy and the 12-step model of addiction recovery. When it comes to determining whether or not Suboxone is a good option for you, you must communicate with a team of medical professionals and addiction specialists. This is why entering into a medically monitored detox program is so important. Attempting to take Suboxone without medical supervision is never a good idea, resulting in Suboxone abuse and dependence. Yes – Suboxone can be habit-forming when it is used other than as prescribed. What makes Suboxone potentially addictive, and what substances can be found in Suboxone pills?
There Are Two Substances in a Suboxone Pill
What substances can be found in Suboxone pills? The same substances can be found in all types of Suboxone, whether the medication comes in pill form, liquid, or sublingual strip. For example, buprenorphine and naloxone, two drugs that are opioid antagonists, combine to form Suboxone. Suboxone is available as a sublingual tablet or pill that contains 2 mg of buprenorphine and 5 mg of naloxone, or 8 mg of buprenorphine and 2 mg of naloxone. The dosage you take will depend entirely on how severe your substance abuse disorder is and what your team of medical professionals recommends.
Suboxone Abuse and Withdrawal Symptoms
Because Suboxone can be addictive, it is not recommended for everyone. For example, some people have abused Suboxone in the past – these people are not going to be prescribed this medication as part of their comprehensive treatment program. If you have been struggling with Suboxone abuse or addiction, there is a good chance that you will experience withdrawal symptoms once you stop using the medication. Symptoms of Suboxone withdrawal include:
- General feelings of physical discomfort
- Disrupted sleep cycles and insomnia
- Persistent headaches
- An inability to pay attention or concentrate for an extended period
- Night sweats and profuse sweating
- Muscle aches and pains
- Stomach cramping
- Nausea and vomiting
- Mood swings, typically characterized by increased agitation and irritability
- A loss of appetite
These symptoms mimic heroin or prescription opioid withdrawal symptoms, though they tend to be somewhat less severe. In most cases, symptoms of Suboxone withdrawal can be remedied in between 1 and 2 weeks. To learn more, contact us today.
Evoke Wellness and Opioid Abuse Recovery
Some of our clients come to us with a Suboxone abuse disorder. Other clients come to us with a severe and life-threatening heroin abuse disorder. This is why providing individualized treatment is so essential to long-term recovery. The methods of treatment that work for one client do not necessarily work for another. Evoke Wellness remains dedicated to providing the most focused and personalized care available. Upon your admission to our treatment program, we conduct a personalized assessment that helps our clinical team determine which treatment options are the best for you.
Get Help For Opioid Addiction at Evoke Wellness
For example, suppose we believe that Suboxone will help you stay sober and help you focus more on your early recovery experience. In that case, we might prescribe the medication to be taken for a short period. But, of course, if you are struggling with a mild or moderate opioid disorder, this type of medication-assisted treatment is generally unnecessary. To learn more about the services we provide or to learn more about the role of Suboxone in some addiction opioid treatment programs. Our addiction specialists are available around the clock, ready to answer any questions and all calls are free and confidential. It is time to get the help you need.