For those battling opioid use disorder, medication assisted treatment (MAT) can be an essential part of a long-term recovery plan. MAT programs combine medications that reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms with therapy and supportive care.
Two of the most well-known medications used in MAT are methadone and Suboxone. Whether you’re researching options for yourself or a loved one, learning about medications and the MAT process can be a helpful first step.
If you’re exploring options like a methadone clinic, understanding the differences between these medications can help you make informed, confident choices.
Understanding methadone
Methadone has been used for decades as a safe and effective treatment for opioid use disorder when prescribed and monitored correctly. It is a full opioid agonist, which means it activates the same receptors in the brain as other opioids but in a controlled and steady way. This helps to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings without the rapid “high” caused by drugs like heroin or prescription painkillers.
Taken daily, typically in liquid form, methadone is administered in a highly regulated clinical setting. Patients often visit a clinic each day for their dose during the early phases of treatment. Over time, some may transition to take-home doses based on progress and stability.
Methadone is especially helpful for those with a long history of opioid dependence or who have not responded well to other medications. The effects of a single dose can last up to 24 hours, allowing patients to focus on therapy, job responsibilities, and rebuilding their lives without the physical disruptions of withdrawal.
What’s the difference between Suboxone and methadone?
Suboxone
Suboxone is another effective option in MAT programs. It contains two medications: buprenorphine and naloxone. Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist, which means it activates opioid receptors in the brain but to a lesser degree than full agonists like methadone. Naloxone, an opioid antagonist, blocks the effects of opioids and helps deter misuse.
Suboxone is a brand name of a buprenorphine/naloxone medication. Other brand names include Sublocade, Brixadi, and Subutex.
Because of its unique formulation, Suboxone is often prescribed for use at home, making it more flexible for many patients. It is typically taken as a dissolvable film or tablet placed under the tongue.
While Suboxone can be an excellent option for some, it may not be suitable for everyone. The choice between methadone and Suboxone depends on many factors, including medical history, severity of substance use disorder, lifestyle, and support systems.
Methadone versus Suboxone
Although both medications can be effective, the difference between methadone and Suboxone is essential to understand when choosing a recovery path. Here are a few of the main distinctions:
- Mechanism of action: Methadone is a full opioid agonist, while Suboxone contains a partial agonist and an antagonist. This changes how each medication interacts with the brain’s opioid receptors and how they affect cravings and withdrawal.
- Administration: Methadone is typically dispensed daily at a clinic, while Suboxone is often prescribed for at-home use.
- Risk of misuse: Because of its partial agonist properties and the inclusion of naloxone, Suboxone carries a lower risk of misuse than methadone.
- Flexibility: Suboxone offers more flexibility for people with stable living situations and reliable routines. Methadone may be a better fit for those who benefit from more structure and daily check-ins.
- Availability: Not all treatment centers offer both options, and some patients may have better access to one medication, depending on their location and insurance.
Both medications are FDA-approved and can be life-changing when used as part of a complete treatment program that includes therapy and support.
Is methadone stronger than Suboxone?
Methadone is generally considered stronger than buprenorphine/naloxone in terms of its effects. Methadone is a full opioid agonist, meaning it fully activates the brain’s opioid receptors. Buprenorphine is a partial agonist, so it activates the receptors to a lesser degree. This creates a ceiling effect—a built-in limit to how much impact the medication can have, which reduces the risk of misuse, overdose, and certain side effects.
While methadone may be more appropriate for people with very high opioid tolerance, buprenorphine-based treatment can also offer adequate support.
Benefits of switching from methadone to Suboxone
Making the switch can offer several advantages, depending on individual needs:
- Fewer side effects: Such as sedation or weight gain, for some individuals
- Greater convenience: Many people can take buprenorphine at home, unlike methadone, which usually requires daily clinic visits.
- Easier to taper: Some find it easier to reduce this medication gradually.
Switching should always be done under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Opioid recovery is more than just medication
While medications like methadone or buprenorphine-based options are powerful tools, true recovery involves more than symptom management. Effective treatment for opioid use disorder includes comprehensive support, such as:
Individual therapy
Personalized counseling helps patients work through the underlying causes of substance use and build coping strategies. Evidence-based modalities such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) promote emotional regulation and healthy thinking patterns.
Group therapy
Sharing experiences in a group setting fosters connection, accountability, and encouragement. Patients can benefit from hearing others’ stories and recognizing they’re not alone.
Family support
Family therapy offers an opportunity for loved ones to heal together. These sessions focus on rebuilding trust, setting boundaries, and educating family members about substance use disorder.
Holistic and supportive approaches
Art therapy, mindfulness, yoga, or peer support groups can enhance recovery by promoting mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
Contact BrightView to start your recovery
If you’re exploring the difference between methadone and Suboxone, the team at BrightView is here to help guide your next steps. Whether you’re looking for help for yourself or someone you care about, our caring professionals are ready to answer your questions and help you find the best path forward.
Call BrightView at 888.501.9865 or start the conversation through our website. With respect, evidence-based care, and a focus on your unique needs, we’re here to help you feel better tomorrow.