Suboxone is a medication that reduces and prevents the standard uncomfortable withdrawals from opioid abuse by reducing relapse and cravings in individuals trying to overcome addiction. Suboxone is two in one medication that involves two substances, naloxone, and buprenorphine. Like other opiates, it binds the same receptors in the brain. The naloxone in the medication plays a significant role as an opioid antagonist by preventing intoxication. The main reason it is used in medication-assisted therapy is that it does not require the patient to visit the clinic daily and has fewer adverse effects. However, as much as the medication is effective, it can not work perfectly on its own hence the incorporation of support groups and other forms of therapy.
Administration of suboxone
As much as the medication is safer compared to other medications, methadone, it is advisable to follow the doctor’s prescription on a daily dose and not deviate from it. In most cases, the medication is prescribed in sublingual tablet form. If suboxone film is administered, it usually is placed under the tongue and given time to melt for it to give the correct dosage. The film may not work fully if chewed or swallowed and at times if the patient talks while it has not dissolved fully.
Fatal suboxone drug combination
When administered alongside it, some herbal remedies and medication may lead to serious adverse side effects. Before starting a suboxone medication, it is crucial to alert the doctor about the existing medications, if any. Such medications include;
- Oral contraceptives
- Cholesterol-lowering medications
- Verapamil
- HIV-treatment drugs
Length of time advisable for one to take suboxone strips and bills
Opioid replacement therapy with suboxone medication can be done either on a long-term or a short-term basis. Every person is treated differently depending on the level of drug and alcohol addiction. For an individual to determine the length of time to use such medication, it is essential to attend inpatient detox for the doctor’s assessment to ensure a smooth process. According to most medical practitioners, the longest time one can use suboxone for opioid replacement therapy is six months to a year.
Side effects associated with suboxone
Compared to side effects of opiates abuse withdrawals, suboxone side effects are relatively minimal, and they include;
- Pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Runny nose
- Difficulties sleeping
- Abdominal pain and constipation
How can one get the best results from suboxone usage during withdrawal and detox?
Suboxone usage in opioid replacement therapy can achieve better results if used in conjunction with the following options;
- In inpatient drug rehab, the medication works well in inpatient surrounding where there is good monitoring by the doctors that can ensure there is no abuse of the medication.
- Counseling; visiting a counselor or a certified therapist during the week can help you learn how to maintain a good routine without skipping the medication.
- Twelve-step programs; using this program helps you to stay sober without having to incur any cost. The members of the program help themselves and the new individual stay sober.
In need of more details about how to use suboxone safely? Visit Skyward Treatment Center in Dallas.
If your loved one would like to know more about the use of suboxone in withdrawal and detox, don’t hesitate to contact and consult our medical professionals at Skyward Treatment Center. They can help you determine whether or not to use medications during detox as part of your treatment.