Through the years, there has been an ongoing debate on the best way to treat those struggling with addiction. Some say abstinence is the only way, while others argue that harm reduction is key. There is a third way. However, that seems to be gaining more traction in recent years: medication-assisted treatment (MAT).
This approach is highly effective at treating addiction, and Northpoint Washington is at the forefront of this movement. Our team of professionals is highly trained in helping those struggling with addiction, and we are proud to offer an evidence-based alternative to suboxone addiction treatment, Vivitrol, to our patients.
One important question remains, though: “What is Suboxone?” Keep reading to learn more about this medication and how it can help you or a loved one on the road to recovery.
What Is Suboxone?
Suboxone is a medication that is used in medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for addiction. It is a combination of the opioid buprenorphine and naloxone, a medication used to reverse the effects of opioids if the medication is crushed and ingested.
Buprenorphine is a partial agonist at the mu-opioid receptor, producing some of the same effects as other opioids, but to a lesser degree. Naloxone is an antagonist at the mu-opioid receptor, which means that it reverses the effects of opioids if Suboxone is crushed,
The combination of buprenorphine and naloxone in Suboxone helps to reduce the risk of abuse and overdose. Suboxone is a Schedule III controlled substance, meaning it has a lower potential for abuse than other opioids. This allows patients to safely detox from opioids without experiencing the same intense cravings or withdrawal symptoms or causing intoxication and euphoria.
Is Suboxone Addictive?
Knowing that we answered the question “What is Suboxone” it’s important to know if Suboxone is addictive. Suboxone treats addiction in patients with opioid use disorder when used as prescribed. However, like any opioid used in maintenance therapy, it is possible to develop a physical dependence on Suboxone. This means that you may suddenly experience withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking the medication.
It is important to work with your doctor to slowly taper off Suboxone if you decide to stop taking the medication. Stopping Suboxone suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, sweating, shaking, and anxiety.
Suboxone is an important tool for many people in the treatment of addiction. It can help people detox from street opioids and prevent relapse.
Suboxone Side Effects
Suboxone is usually prescribed for people who have a high tolerance to opioids, so the side effects are typically milder than with other opioids. The most common Suboxone side effects are:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Sweating
- Itching
- Dry mouth
- Difficulty urinating
- Decreased appetite
- Fatigue
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Decreased sex drive
Suboxone is a safe and effective medication when used as directed. However, as with any medication, potential risks should be considered before starting treatment.
Addiction Treatment at Northpoint Washington
Suboxone is an effective treatment for opioid addiction but is not a cure. It is important to remember that addiction is a chronic disease, and relapse is always possible. If prescribed Suboxone, take it as directed and attend all counseling and therapy appointments.
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, we can help. Northpoint Washington offers medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for addiction, including Vivitrol treatment. Vivitrol is a long-acting injectable form of naltrexone, an opioid blocker, that can help prevent relapse. This type of alternative treatment is becoming increasingly popular and can be effective for some people. One advantage of Vivitrol is that it has been shown to work for alcohol and opioid addiction.
We understand that addiction is a complex disease, and we are here to help you every step of the way. Contact us today at 888.450.2153 to talk to one of our addiction specialists and learn more about our treatment options. Here you can get the help you need to start on the road to recovery.