Suboxone is a prescription medication used to treat opioid use disorder as part of a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program. While it can be effective in reducing cravings and opioid withdrawal symptoms, concerns remain about the potential for addiction or misuse.
Understanding how this works, its risks, and safe use is essential for those considering or currently taking it.
What Is Suboxone?
Suboxone is a combination of two active ingredients: buprenorphine and naloxone, which is commonly used in medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for OUD. Buprenorphine, a partial opioid agonist, activates opioid receptors in the brain to a much lesser degree than drugs like heroin or oxycodone, helping to control symptoms without producing a strong high.
Naloxone serves as a safeguard against misuse by counteracting opioid effects if it is injected. When used as prescribed within a MAT program, suboxone treatment can stabilize brain chemistry, making recovery from opioid addiction more manageable.
Can You Become Addicted to Suboxone?
Suboxone can be addictive, though the risk is generally lower than with full opioid agonists. Dependence occurs when the body adapts to the presence of the medication, leading to withdrawal symptoms if use is stopped abruptly. Addiction, however, involves compulsive use despite negative consequences.
Some individuals may misuse it by taking higher doses than prescribed, combining it with other substances, or using it without medical supervision. These behaviors increase the risk of developing an addiction.
Signs of Suboxone Abuse
Recognizing the early warning signs can help prevent a full-blown addiction. Common indicators include:
- Using the medication for non-medical purposes, such as to experience euphoria
- Unexplained weakness, accelerated heart rate, or changes in appetite
- Physical signs such as slurred speech, blurred vision, or sleepiness
- Visiting multiple healthcare providers to obtain additional prescriptions
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when attempting to reduce or stop use
Withdrawal symptoms can include muscle aches, anxiety, nausea, abdominal cramping, insomnia, and irritability. While these effects are generally less severe than withdrawal from stronger opioids, they can still be physically and emotionally challenging without proper medical support.
Risk Factors for Suboxone Misuse
Although this medication is designed to support recovery from opioid addiction, misuse can result in what’s often referred to as “addiction substitution.” This highlights the need for careful medical oversight during treatment. Long-term or unsupervised use of suboxone may make tapering off more difficult, and combining it with other depressants—such as alcohol or benzodiazepines—can lead to severe respiratory complications.
Misusing this medication undermines its role in recovery and can raise the risk of relapse to other opioids. Ongoing education and regular medical monitoring play a critical role in preventing misuse. Active participation in therapy and open communication with healthcare providers are key to minimizing the risks.
Safe Use of Suboxone in Recovery
To reduce the risk of addiction, Suboxone should be taken exactly as prescribed and as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes counseling, behavioral therapy, and peer support for relapse prevention. Gradual tapering under medical supervision is recommended when it’s time to stop taking the medication.
This approach helps minimize suboxone withdrawal symptoms and supports long-term recovery. For individuals who have developed dependence on the medication, structured addiction treatment and medical care may be necessary to discontinue use safely.
Final Thoughts from Mile High Recovery
Suboxone is a prescription medication used to treat opioid addiction that can lead to dependence, but it is far less addictive than the drugs it’s used to treat. With proper oversight, it remains a valuable tool in recovery rather than a source of harm.
At Mile High Recovery, we provide safe, structured Suboxone treatment in Denver, CO as part of comprehensive addiction care. Our team understands the signs of substance abuse and works closely with clients to create personalized plans that address both opioid use disorder and long-term recovery goals.
