Suboxone is the brand name for a medication that contains buprenorphine and naloxone. It is commonly prescribed to treat opioid addiction and has been instrumental in helping many individuals overcome opioid dependence. However, like any medication, Suboxone comes with its own side effects and risks.

Understanding Suboxone

Suboxone is a medication designed to alleviate the withdrawal symptoms and cravings associated with opioid addiction. It is often prescribed during detox because it can make withdrawal more manageable and is continued throughout treatment and early recovery to reduce opioid cravings. When combined with a complete treatment program, Suboxone can increase treatment retention and reduce relapse rates.

Suboxone contains two active ingredients:

• Buprenorphine – This is a partial opioid agonist, which means it activates opioid receptors in the brain but to a lesser degree than full agonists like heroin or oxycodone. It helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms by tricking the brain into thinking it is receiving opioids.
• Naloxone – This is an opioid antagonist, which means it blocks the effects of opioids. Naloxone is included in Suboxone to deter misuse; if someone attempts to inject or misuse the medication, the naloxone can precipitate withdrawal symptoms.

Suboxone comes in the form of a sublingual or buccal film that dissolves in the mouth and is absorbed into the bloodstream.

Common Side Effects of Suboxone

Many people experience mild to moderate side effects when taking Suboxone. It is common for side effects to lessen after a few days as the body gets used to the medication. It is important to note that some people may experience mild opioid withdrawal symptoms while taking Suboxone, which can be mistaken for medication side effects.

Some of the unique side effects of Suboxone include:

• Constipation – Opioid medications, including the buprenorphine in Suboxone, often lead to constipation. Staying hydrated, eating fiber-rich foods, and exercising can help manage this side effect and promote healthy bowel movements.
• Sleep disturbances – Suboxone can affect sleep patterns, leading to insomnia or unusual and vivid dreams.
• Mouth irritation – Some people experience redness, tingling, and irritation in their mouth, gums, and tongue shortly after taking Suboxone. This side effect often resolves within a couple of hours.
• Mood Changes – Some individuals may experience mood swings, anxiety, or depression while taking Suboxone.

Other common side effects of Suboxone are:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Sweating
• Dizziness
• Poor concentration
• Irregular heartbeat
• Blurry vision
• Back pain
• Drowsiness
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Nervousness

Be sure to discuss any side effects with your healthcare provider.

Serious Side Effects of Suboxone

While most side effects of Suboxone are mild and manageable, there are some serious risks associated with its use. Serious side effects of Suboxone are rare, but may include:

• Respiratory depression: Like other opioids, buprenorphine in Suboxone can slow down breathing and heart rate. This risk is higher when Suboxone is misused or combined with other central nervous system depressants like alcohol or benzodiazepines.
• Allergic reactions: In rare cases, individuals may experience severe allergic reactions to Suboxone. Allergic reactions are characterized by symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing. You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms or suspect an allergic reaction.
• Hormonal changes – Long-term use of Suboxone can affect hormonal balance, potentially leading to issues like decreased testosterone levels in men or menstrual irregularities in women.
• Physical dependence and withdrawal – While Suboxone is often used to help individuals taper off opioids, it can itself lead to physical dependence after long-term use. This means that stopping Suboxone abruptly can result in withdrawal symptoms. Be sure to talk with your doctor before stopping the use of Suboxone so they can slowly reduce your dose and help you avoid withdrawal.

In the past, Suboxone was thought to increase the risk of liver problems. However, this is only observed in people with pre-existing liver issues. People who have liver problems may experience increased liver enzymes while taking Suboxone, so their liver function should be monitored regularly, or they should consider an alternative treatment medication.

How to Manage the Side Effects and Risks of Suboxone

If your doctor prescribes Suboxone, it is because the benefits outweigh the risks. Suboxone can help you beat opioid addiction, which can improve your overall health. However, there are steps you can take to mitigate potential side effects.

First, it is crucial that you follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully. Do not take more Suboxone than prescribed because doing so can increase the risk of side effects. You should also maintain regular appointments with your doctor to monitor your progress, discuss any side effects you are experiencing, and address any additional concerns you may have.

Additionally, you should avoid alcohol and illicit drugs. Mixing Suboxone with alcohol, opioids, or benzodiazepines can be extremely dangerous as it can increase the risk of respiratory depression and overdose. It is also important to tell your healthcare provider about all over-the-counter drugs, prescription medications, and supplements you are taking so you can avoid accidental drug interactions.

Finally, when you are ready to discontinue Suboxone treatment, work closely with your healthcare provider to develop a safe tapering plan to minimize withdrawal symptoms.

Is Suboxone Treatment Right For Me?

Suboxone may not be right for everyone, but if it isn’t right for you there are alternative treatment medications available that can accomplish the same goals Suboxone can. Whether you’re interested in starting addiction treatment with Suboxone or would like to discuss your other treatment options, please contact Arise Treatment Center today. Using an individually tailored approach, our dedicated addiction specialists can evaluate your needs and help you choose the right program for you. Call now to get started.

References:

1. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): (Buprenorphine/Naloxone) Suboxone, Retrieved September 2023 from https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Treatments/Mental-Health-Medications/Types-of-Medication/Buprenorphine/Buprenorphine-Naloxone-(Suboxone)
2. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): Buprenorphine, Retrieved September 2023 from https://www.samhsa.gov/medications-substance-use-disorders/medications-counseling-related-conditions/buprenorphine
3. National Library of Medicine: Suboxone: Rationale, Science, Misconceptions, Retrieved September 2023 from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5855417/