Suboxone Withdrawal Symptoms: What to Expect & How to Taper Safely

Today, Suboxone is one of the most widely used medications for treating opioid addiction. It’s a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone, and is sold under several brand names, including Subutex, Sublocade, and Brixadi.

Although using a medication to treat drug addiction might seem counterintuitive, Suboxone is a highly effective and safe tool for managing opioid dependence. However, like many medications, stopping Suboxone abruptly can lead to withdrawal symptoms. Understanding these symptoms is important for anyone considering or currently starting Suboxone treatment because it can help them make informed decisions about their recovery journey.

If you or someone you love is ready to learn more about addiction treatment programs, call BrightView Health today. Our outpatient clinics nationwide provide medically assisted treatment (MAT), and we accept Medicare and Medicaid coverage. Call us now at 888.501.9865 to speak with our intake specialists and learn how we can help you change your life.

What Is Medication for Addiction Treatment for Opioid Recovery?

Opioid use over time causes long-lasting changes in brain chemistry, leading to physical dependence. When someone tries to stop or reduce their opioid use, withdrawal symptoms can appear quickly—and often persist for weeks or even months. These symptoms can be so uncomfortable that people return to using opioids just to feel “normal” again. This where Suboxone can help.

Prescribed for over 20 years, Suboxone is a trusted medication for easing opioid withdrawal and reducing the risk of relapse. It combines two key ingredients:

• Buprenorphine – A partial opioid agonist that binds to opioid receptors in the brain, producing milder effects than full opioids. It helps reduce cravings and withdrawal without producing a strong “high.”
• Naloxone – An opioid antagonist that blocks the effects of opioids and helps prevent misuse.

Used under medical supervision, Suboxone allows people to manage their symptoms and focus on long-term recovery, especially when combined with counseling and behavioral therapy.

Understanding Suboxone Withdrawal Symptoms

Suboxone is generally safe for long-term use and has a lower risk of misuse than other opioids. That’s because the naloxone component causes unpleasant effects if someone tries to inject or misuse the drug.

However, withdrawal can still occur—especially if the medication is stopped suddenly. As the body readjusts, individuals may experience uncomfortable symptoms such as:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Headaches
• Muscle and joint pain
• Insomnia
• Fatigue or lethargy
• Digestive issues
• Anxiety or depression
• Irritability
• Fever, chills, and sweating

These symptoms are most intense during the first 72 hours after stopping Suboxone.. For most people, withdrawal peaks in the first 2–3 days and gradually improves over 1–2 weeks. Some may experience mild lingering symptoms (like sleep problems or mood changes) for a few weeks. However, they are generally less severe than withdrawal from heroin or full opioid agonists

The best way to avoid intense withdrawal symptoms is to taper Suboxone slowly under medical supervision, which is a key part of many professional treatment plans.

Start Outpatient Treatment Today

For many, Suboxone is a life-changing medication that provides the stability needed to focus on recovery. While withdrawal is possible, the benefits of treatment far outweigh the risks of continued opioid use. If you’re ready to take the next step, contact a local addiction treatment provider to learn more about your options.

Learn More About Addiction Treatment at BrightView

At BrightView, we believe that accessible treatment leads to lasting recovery. That’s why we offer:

• Walk-in appointments
• Care for uninsured patients
• On-site Suboxone prescriptions and dispensing
• Treatment in under four hours

We’re here to support you every step of the way – you are not alone. Call us today at 888-501-9865 or visit our website to learn how BrightView can help you or a loved one start feeling better soon.

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