Suboxone Treatment from Home

What is Suboxone?

Suboxone is a common brand name for a specific medication: buprenorphine/naloxone. Buprenorphine/naloxone is also available under the brand names Zubsolv and Bunavail, as well as generics. Buprenorphine is one of only three FDA-approved medications for opioid use disorder. This medication works in the brain to alleviate dependence on heroin, fentanyl, and other prescription pain relievers.

How does Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone) work?

Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone) works in the brain in a way similar to other opioids which cause addiction, like heroin and pain pills. This means it helps with withdrawal and cravings caused by opioid addiction but is safer to take since it has a low potential for misuse. Many people say Suboxone and other forms of buprenorphine/naloxone help them get their life back while dealing with an opioid use disorder. This makes it easier for an individual to break their addictive habits without feeling sick or having cravings. Learn more: How does Suboxone work?

Can I get addicted to Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone)?

Any drug, or really anything that affects your brain chemistry, has potential to be addictive. Suboxone’s potential for misuse, or abuse is lower than that of other opioids when taken as directed under medical care and coupled with a counseling program. When on the right dose of Suboxone (or another buprenorphine/naloxone medication), most individuals find that they no longer have the cravings or obsession which typically defines addiction to other drugs. Read more: Is Suboxone an Opiate?

Will Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone) show up on a drug test?

The short answer: It depends on the type of drug test! If it’s a standard drug test (like the type an employer might use), it typically won’t show up on a drug panel. However, if you are being tested at a Suboxone program, they may be testing you specifically to ensure you’re taking the medication that they’re prescribing. In this case, they may be testing you specifically for the buprenorphine in Suboxone. Read more: Suboxone might show up on a drug test.

How long do I have to be on Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone)? Will I need it long-term?

The length of your Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone) treatment is entirely up to you and your medical care team. You should look for a Suboxone doctor/addiction medicine provider who listens to your requests and honors your needs to either continue or change your medications. But the evidence does show that long-term Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone) treatment can be beneficial.

What are the risks and concerns about Suboxone?

Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone) is indicated for the treatment of opioid dependence in adults. Suboxone should not be taken by individuals who have been shown to be hypersensitive to buprenorphine or naloxone as serious adverse reactions, including anaphylactic shock, have been reported. Taking Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone) with other opioid medicines, benzodiazepines, alcohol, or other central nervous system depressants can cause breathing problems that can lead to coma and death. Other side effects may include headaches, nausea, vomiting, constipation, insomnia, pain, increased sweating, sleepiness, dizziness, coordination problems, physical dependence or abuse, and liver problems. For more information about Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone) see Suboxone.com, the full Prescribing Information, and Medication Guide, or talk to your healthcare provider. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.