Suboxone is a prescription medication that provides pain relief and helps opiate addicts recover from opioid addiction. Some people may also use suboxone as a form of treatment for addiction to medicines, alcohol, or illicit drugs. It is approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat opioid addiction (under the supervision of a doctor). This medication is mainly used in patients addicted to various opioids, including heroin, codeine, morphine, hydrocodone, or oxycodone. The manufacturer of this medication also markets it for the relief of Type 1 diabetes mellitus symptoms.
Suboxone contains naloxone, which is an opioid antagonist. It works by blocking the effects of other opiates within the central nervous system. However, suboxone’s primary function is to assist in the withdrawal from opiates. If someone stops using Suboxone cold turkey, they will experience withdrawal symptoms. Doctors are therefore advised to taper patients off of this medication slowly when trying to quit using it. Over time, the level of naloxone that is found in the body will become lower and lower, which then results in fewer withdrawal symptoms
Suboxone’s short-term use is intended to last for no more than 12 to 24 hours. It is generally dispensed as a film over four days, followed by a seven-day break before reuse. However, you can take this medication continuously without any issues. Suboxone can be used in either short-term or long-term treatment for opiate addiction. The longer the patient takes this medication, the less likely they will feel abnormal withdrawal symptoms when trying to stop using suboxone.
Suboxone is an opioid medication that is made available by prescription. This medicine is used in opioid replacement therapy, a form of treatment that helps people withdraw from opioids. However, because of the high risk of abuse and addiction associated with this medication, doctors should only prescribe it to those patients who have a history of drug abuse or chronic pain. Patients may be given suboxone for short-term treatment, which is considered to be three weeks or less.
Suboxone is dosed every 24 hours. The medication comes in a sublingual film that dissolves under the tongue, which makes it convenient to use. Suboxone starts working within 15 minutes of being taken, but it is recommended that patients wait at least eight hours before taking another dose. This form of treatment has minimal side effects, but sometimes individuals may experience mild nervous system symptoms, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, or anxiety. These side effects usually subside within 24 hours.
Suboxone also comes in the form of an oral film. This form is meant for long-term treatment, which means that if patients are taking this medication for more than three weeks, they may need to switch to another form of opiate replacement therapy. Suboxone is also available as a film injection, administered by a doctor using specialized equipment. Some patients may also receive their medication in the form of a tablet or an oral solution.
Before taking suboxone, individuals should consult their doctor to ensure that they are not allergic to any of its ingredients. The drug is usually reserved for adults but may be given to children who weigh more than 45 pounds. It is important that individuals only use the recommended dose because the risk of overdose may be high if too much medication is given. Patients should not stop taking suboxone unless they are instructed to do so by their doctor. Individuals who are presently taking other medications should inform their doctor because the drug may negatively interact with other medications. Patients should avoid drinking alcohol when taking this medication. Also, if patients begin to experience constipation, they may take over-the-counter laxatives to relieve themselves. Furthermore, if they have any questions about taking this medication, they should contact their doctor before taking the medication.
Individuals who are addicted to opioids and interested in treatment options can find help from a drug addiction rehabilitation program. Inpatient treatment utilizing chemical detoxification may be recommended for patients due to the high risk of overdose when individuals stop taking opiates. Some patients will also want to attend a partial hospitalization or residential rehab program because inpatient care enables patients the freedom to leave when necessary. Outpatient treatment will enable patients to work and proceed with their daily activities, but some individuals may not leave the facility. Aftercare treatment is another effective way for patients to continue their recovery after completing a drug addiction treatment program.
Conclusion
For those struggling with opioid addiction, suboxone may be a helpful form of treatment. However, people should not take this medication as a substitute for conventional opiate replacement therapy, which will help them become sober and prevent drug addiction.
For more information about suboxone, call us today at 302-842-2390. Our counselors are available 24 hours a day to assist you.
