The country has made enormous progress in caring for individuals suffering from opioid use disorder. Treatment methods and resources have grown tremendously — partially highlighted by the increased use of Suboxone to reverse the effects of certain opioids. But, as with almost all drugs, there are tradeoffs. What are the side effects of Suboxone and can they lead to Suboxone addiction?
Suboxone consists of substances that work to limit someone’s urges and stop the progress of opioid addiction. In the end, Suboxone, a brand name, helps prevent withdrawal symptoms. Ironically, the side effects of Suboxone have their own problems. If not taken as prescribed, with careful supervision from doctors, you can find yourself in need of Suboxone detox.
What Is Suboxone?
Suboxone is available only by prescription. The drug offers a combination of two ingredients: buprenorphine and naloxone. As envisioned, the two substances help someone step down their addiction by limiting their urges while also blocking the impact of opioids on your brain.
It’s important to view Suboxone not as a treatment unto itself, but as part of a comprehensive recovery program. The medication does not make all your problems go away. But when combined with detox, counseling, and aftercare, Suboxone can contribute to a solution.
Suboxone is considered a depressant and should only be taken as directed by a doctor. Depressants lower the activity of your central nervous system. The side effects of Suboxone can be substantial, leading to problems with Suboxone addiction. Some people require Suboxone detox separate from their initial drug rehab.
Side Effects of Suboxone
Every drug, when absorbed into the body, has side effects. Suboxone is no different. It’s important to watch for and report any side effects of Suboxone. Based on how your body is responding, doctors may want to adjust the amount you take.
Some of the side effects reported from Suboxone include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Sweating
- Numbness in the mouth
- Constipation
- Dizziness
Some of these side effects of Suboxone require medical attention right away. The most serious include fainting, shallow breathing, accelerated heartbeat, and excessive drowsiness.
Additional Elements of Treatment
Suboxone is intended to be one part of a larger treatment program. It’s also important to note that Suboxone is not your only choice for addiction medication. You will hear discussions about compounds such as methadone and naltrexone. Doctors and counselors in treatment programs such as those offered by Summit Detox will work with you to find the right solution.
In addition to medication-assisted treatment, you should also expect a more fully integrated treatment plan. Your plan is based on a comprehensive assessment of your condition and situation.
After the assessment, you can expect to spend time in detox, where doctors manage your condition through counseling and therapy to help reshape your mind to address future temptations. If appropriate, you may also be asked to participate in group therapy, family therapy, or other complementary forms of counseling assistance.
Aftercare is the final phase, which involves taking advantage of resources such as additional counseling or 12-step anonymous programs to prevent a relapse.
Find Treatment for Suboxone Addiction at Summit Detox
It sounds alluring – a pill to end my addiction to opioids? Except it doesn’t work like that. Medication-assisted treatment with compounds such as Suboxone is meant to complement an addiction treatment center. You have to be careful because the side effects of Suboxone are substantial. Get the help you need from Summit Detox. Our counselors and clinicians will serve as your partners in your recovery from substance abuse. Our safe and secure 20-bed inpatient detox facility offers you focused attention. Our staff is experienced in evidence-based care and will stand with you at every step in this difficult journey. We also offer our experience to help with detox from opioids and other substances. Reach a counselor at Summit Detox today by calling us at (888) 995-5265.
