Suboxone® Treatment Clinic in Austin, TX

Suboxone® is a medication that is used for the treatment of opioid dependence. One of the active ingredients in Suboxone®, buprenorphine, is a partial opioid agonist, meaning it activates opioid receptors in the brain but produces a weaker effect compared to full agonists like heroin or prescription painkillers. This helps to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms without producing the same high, making it easier for individuals to stop using opioids.

The other active ingredient, naloxone, is included to prevent the misuse of Suboxone®. If Suboxone® is injected rather than taken sublingually, naloxone blocks the effects of buprenorphine and induces withdrawal symptoms.

Suboxone® treatment is used to support individuals who are managing opioid dependence, as it reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms. It is typically used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, alongside behavioral therapies.

Suboxone® is a highly effective approach to treating opioid addiction. This treatment alleviates withdrawal symptoms with less risk of dependency compared to other treatment options.

Research has demonstrated that Suboxone® is as effective as methadone in reducing illicit opioid use and retaining patients in treatment. As buprenorphine has a ceiling effect, Suboxone® offers a reduced risk of misuse and overdose, making it a safe option for long-term treatment.

The effectiveness of Suboxone® is enhanced when combined with behavioral therapies and counseling. This comprehensive strategy addresses the psychological and social aspects of addiction, providing a holistic treatment approach.

Suboxone® is administered as a sublingual film or tablet, which means it is placed under the tongue to dissolve. The medication is absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the tissues under the tongue. The medication may take 15 to 30 minutes to fully dissolve in the mouth.

During Suboxone® treatment, healthcare providers start by prescribing a lower dose, which is gradually increased under medical supervision. The goal is to find the minimum effective dose that controls withdrawal symptoms and cravings.

Once an effective dose is established, Suboxone® is taken as a single daily dose. The exact dosage and duration of treatment will depend on the individual’s needs and response to the medication.

Suboxone® should only be taken as prescribed by a healthcare professional. Throughout recovery, regular follow-up appointments are important for monitoring progress and adjusting the dosage if needed to ensure the best outcomes from treatment.

Suboxone® can cause mild to serious side effects. If you experience any of the following, it’s important to let your healthcare provider know. Some of the most frequently reported side effects of Suboxone® include:

● Headaches – One of the most common side effects of Suboxone® treatment is headaches.

● Constipation – The medication can slow down bowel movements and cause constipation.

● Sweating – Increased sweating is a frequently reported side effect of Suboxone®.

● Insomnia – Difficulty sleeping or disrupted sleep patterns may occur due to Suboxone®.

● Mouth numbness or redness – Suboxone® can cause numbness, redness, or irritation in the mouth where the medication is placed.

In addition to mild side effects, Suboxone® may also cause serious concerns, although these aren’t common. These include:

● Breathing problems – Severe respiratory depression may occur, especially if Suboxone® is taken with other central nervous system depressants, such as alcohol or benzodiazepines.

● Hormone problems – Suboxone® treatment can affect hormone levels and may lead to certain conditions, such as adrenal insufficiency.

● Allergic reaction – Though uncommon, allergic reactions to Suboxone® may occur and result in symptoms such as hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, and difficulty breathing.

● Liver damage – Mild-to-severe liver issues can occur due to Suboxone® use. Your healthcare provider may recommend regular liver function tests during Suboxone® treatment.

Furthermore, if Suboxone® is abruptly discontinued, withdrawal symptoms such as muscle aches, sweating, anxiety, and agitation may occur. Due to this, it is very important to follow your healthcare team’s guidance when stopping the medication.

To learn more about this treatment approach and whether it’s right for you, schedule an appointment at MAPS for Recovery in Austin, Texas. For more information, contact us today or schedule an appointment online. We serve patients from Austin TX, Georgetown TX, Leander TX, Jonestown TX, Cedar Park TX, Round Rock TX, Rollingwood, TX, Bluff Springs TX, Del Valle TX, and surrounding areas.