Can Suboxone Become Addictive Even If It’s Used To Treat Addiction?
Suboxone is a drug commonly prescribed for those who need medication as part of their addiction recovery plan. Suboxone has helped many not only recover from lifestyles of addiction but has allowed them to remain sober long-term.
While Suboxone’s chemical makeup does pose challenges to an individual becoming addicted to Suboxone itself, it is always important to know the signs and be alert for withdrawal symptoms.
What is Suboxone?
Suboxone is a prescription medication (made up of a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone) used to treat opioid addiction.
According to the Addiction Center, “Buprenorphine, a partial opioid agonist, blocks the opioid receptors in the brain that help to reduce significant withdrawal symptoms from opioid detox and can help reduce a person’s urges for opioids in recovery when used under medical supervision. The second ingredient, naloxone, was created to reverse the dangerous symptoms of opioid overdose. The inclusion of naloxone with buprenorphine is to assist with long-term recovery goals by making it difficult to abuse as a substance.”
Suboxone is administered sublingually (under the tongue) as a film or tablet. The inclusion of naloxone is intended to prevent misuse by injection; if the medication is injected, naloxone will precipitate withdrawal symptoms in those dependent on opioids.
Suboxone is often used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes counseling and holistic treatment methods to help those in recovery achieve and maintain sobriety. As with any medication, it should be used under the supervision of a healthcare provider who is knowledgeable and experienced in the treatment of opioid dependence.
What are the signs someone may be addicted to Suboxone?
Addiction to Suboxone, while less common than addiction to full opioids, can still occur, significantly if the medication is misused or taken in a manner not prescribed by your doctor. Signs someone might be struggling with a dependence or addiction to Suboxone may include:
- Increased tolerance – Needing higher doses of Suboxone to achieve the same effects that lower doses were previously able to elicit
- Withdrawal symptoms – Experiencing symptoms like anxiety, insomnia, muscle aches, sweating and cravings when one tries to stop taking Suboxone suddenly
- Compulsive use – Using Suboxone more frequently or in more significant amounts than prescribed or using it in a way not directed by one’s doctor
- Loss of control – Inability to cut down or control the use of Suboxone despite wanting to do so
- Neglecting responsibilities – Failing to fulfill obligations at work, school or home due to the use of Suboxone
- Social isolation – Withdrawing from friends, family and activities that were once enjoyable
- Continued use despite problems – Continuing to use the drug even when it is causing or worsening physical, psychological or social issues
- Doctor shopping – Visiting multiple healthcare providers to obtain additional prescriptions for Suboxone or other opioids
- Using other substances – Combining Suboxone with other substances which can increase the risk of overdose and other adverse outcomes
- Mood changes –– Experiencing significant mood swings, irritability or anxiety related to the use or withdrawal from Suboxone
If you recognize multiple or frequent presence of these signs, it may be time to seek help from a healthcare professional. They can provide guidance and support for managing addiction and exploring treatment options.
What are the signs of Suboxone withdrawal?
Withdrawal symptoms from Suboxone can occur if someone who is physically dependent on the medication suddenly reduces their dose or stops taking it altogether. They are likely to crave the drug in addition to other symptoms. The symptoms can vary in severity and duration depending on factors such as the length of use, dosage and individual differences in health.
Common withdrawal symptoms may include psychological symptoms like anxiety, depression, irritability, mood swings, insomnia, or sleep disturbances. You are also likely to notice physical symptoms like muscle aches and pains; flu-like symptoms including sweating, chills or goosebumps, and a runny nose; GI upset in the form of nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal cramps; and fatigue, lethargy, or yawning.
The onset and duration of withdrawal symptoms can vary. Symptoms may begin within 24 to 72 hours after the last dose of Suboxone and can last for several days to weeks, with some symptoms potentially lingering longer.
If someone is experiencing withdrawal symptoms from Suboxone or is considering stopping their use, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional. They can provide guidance on tapering the medication safely and may recommend supportive treatments to manage withdrawal symptoms effectively.
Seeking help for addiction?
If you or a loved one is struggling with prescription misuse or addiction – to Suboxone or some other medication – help is available. To contact someone who can help today, contact October Road via our online contact form or call our offices anytime at 888-201-5086.
