Suboxone is a medication that is commonly used in the treatment of opioid addiction. It is a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone, which work together to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. While Suboxone has been shown to be effective in helping people overcome opioid addiction, it is important to understand that it can also have side effects. Call Northpoint Washington today at 888.450.2153 to learn more about our Suboxone addiction treatment program and explore some of the common Suboxone side effects and what you can do to manage them.
Suboxone Abuse: Is Suboxone Addictive?
Suboxone, a medication commonly prescribed to treat opioid dependence, consists of two key components, buprenorphine and naloxone. The drug is designed to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings for opioids. The partial agonist nature of buprenorphine enables it to alleviate cravings without producing the same high as full opioid agonists. Moreover, the naloxone component, an opioid antagonist, is meant to deter misuse by inducing withdrawal symptoms when taken inappropriately. Because of this, Suboxone abuse is extremely rare. Despite these safety measures, Suboxone remains a medication that should be used with caution, as its misuse could require a comprehensive treatment plan for recovery.
Understanding Suboxone Side Effects
One of the most common side effects of Suboxone is nausea and vomiting. This can be particularly problematic for people who are already struggling with addiction, as it can make it difficult to keep the medication down. If you experience nausea and vomiting after taking Suboxone, there are a few things you can do to manage the symptoms.
First, try taking the medication with food. This can help to reduce the likelihood of nausea and vomiting. You may also want to try taking the medication at a different time of day, as some people find that taking it in the morning is more effective than taking it at night. Here are some other common suboxone side effects:
- Constipation
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Insomnia (trouble sleeping)
- Sweating
- Swelling of the hands or feet
- Redness, itching, or irritation at the application site (for the sublingual film)
- Dry mouth
- Blurred vision
- Mild itching or rash
- Decreased libido or sexual performance
This is not an exhaustive list. If you or someone you know is experiencing any side effects from Suboxone or other medications, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
Managing Suboxone Side Effects
In addition to medication, there are several lifestyle changes that can help manage suboxone side effects. These include:
- Eating a healthy diet – A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help manage constipation and nausea
- Drinking plenty of water – Staying hydrated can help manage constipation and sweating
- Exercising regularly – Exercise can help manage constipation and sweating
- Getting enough sleep – Getting enough sleep can help manage headaches and dizziness
- Avoiding alcohol and drugs – Alcohol and drugs can interact with Suboxone and increase the risk of side effects
It is important to remember that suboxone side effects are usually mild and temporary. However, if the side effects persist or become severe, it is important to consult a doctor. A doctor may adjust the dosage or prescribe medication to manage the side effects.
Treat Suboxone Side Effects at Northpoint Washington
Suboxone can be effective in helping people overcome opioid addiction. However, it is important to understand that it can also have side effects. If you experience any of the common Suboxone side effects, such as nausea and vomiting, headaches, insomnia, or constipation, there are a few things you can do to manage the symptoms. Talk to your doctor about adjusting your dosage or prescribing medication to help manage the symptoms. With the right support, you can overcome these side effects and stay on track with your recovery journey. Contact Northpoint Washington today at 888.450.2153 to learn more.