Suboxone

Suboxone is a prescription medication used to treat OUD. It combines two medicines: buprenorphine and naloxone. It’s typically taken as a sublingual tablet (dissolved under the tongue) or a buccal film (dissolved in the cheek). 

Buprenorphine is a medication that attaches to the same brain receptors as opioids (like heroin or oxycodone) but with a much weaker effect. This helps ease cravings and withdrawal while lowering the risk of misuse. 

Suboxone also contains naloxone, a medicine that blocks opioid effects (called an opioid antagonist). When taken as prescribed, naloxone doesn’t affect how Suboxone works, but it helps prevent misuse. If someone tries to inject or snort it, naloxone can cause sudden withdrawal symptoms. 

Generic forms of Suboxone are available, and other buprenorphine-based options may be used if naloxone isn’t well tolerated, such as during pregnancy or for patients with allergies. 

At BrightView, Suboxone and other opioid treatment medications are prescribed as part of a comprehensive medication assisted treatment (MAT) program that also includes counseling, group therapy, and case management support. Call 888.501.9865 to reach out for more information. 

Suboxone’s active ingredient, buprenorphine, binds strongly to opioid receptors in the brain, blocking other opioids from attaching. This helps: 

• Reduce cravings 
• Prevent withdrawal symptoms 
• Block the euphoric effects of heroin and other opioids 

Because its effects “level off” at higher doses, Suboxone carries less risk of misuse than full opioids. It also stays on receptors for a long time, making it an effective long-acting option for daily treatment. 

That said, Suboxone is still an opioid medication. It must be prescribed and monitored by a licensed provider, and it carries some risk of dependence or misuse if not taken as directed. 

Treatment using Suboxone at BrightView includes three phases: 

Treatment begins after you’ve entered mild to moderate withdrawal. Starting too early can trigger precipitated withdrawal (a sudden worsening of symptoms). Your care team will carefully guide this stage and may use other medications to make you more comfortable. 

Once stabilized, you’ll continue with daily doses. During this time, you’ll also receive individual counseling, group therapy, and case management to address recovery's emotional, social, and practical parts. 

After months or years of stable treatment, some patients may continue on Suboxone long-term. Others may work with their provider to gradually taper off. 

When used as prescribed, Suboxone is generally safe and effective. It’s not appropriate for people with medical conditions such as severe liver disease or those allergic to its ingredients. 

Common side effects 

• Headache 
• Nausea, vomiting, or constipation 
• Pain 
• Insomnia or trouble sleeping 
• Sweating 

Less common but serious risks 

• Dizziness or fainting 
• Dental issues 
• Adrenal insufficiency 
• Liver issues 
• Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) 

Drug interactions 

• Mixing Suboxone with alcohol or other central nervous system (CNS) depressants (like benzodiazepines) can be dangerous, increasing the risk of slowed breathing. 
• Taking other opioids while on Suboxone won’t produce the usual effects and can cause sudden withdrawal symptoms. 

Always talk openly with your provider about your health history and any other medications or substances you use. 

Are you ready to start opioid addiction treatment that works? Find a BrightView location near you, schedule an appointment, or explore insurance and payment options. 

If you or someone you know is struggling with opioid use disorder, please contact us at BrightView today. Our compassionate team is here to help you take back control of your life. We offer local comprehensive outpatient addiction treatment at our outpatient locations.

We welcome weekday walk-ins. Many people begin treatment same-day. Call 888.501.9865, find a location, or complete our online form to begin the healing process. 

Important note: This page is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and should not replace guidance from a licensed healthcare provider. Always consult your physician or another qualified professional before starting, stopping, or changing any treatment or medication.