Suboxone: Frequently Asked Questions
Are you looking for a way to beat your opioid dependence? If so, your doctor may suggest Suboxone treatment.
There is no better way to learn more about this medication than by discussing the finer details with your healthcare professional. No matter what is on your mind, this is your time for asking questions and getting answers. The last thing you want to do is get involved with Suboxone treatment, not really knowing what it means to you, your health, and your future.
A growing number of people with an opioid addiction are relying on Suboxone to kick this problem to the curb. Those who have successfully completed this treatment can look back and realize that it was the right choice. However, if you are just now considering this option the thought of moving forward can be scary.
Suboxone FAQs
To better understand what Suboxone treatment is all about, here are five frequently asked questions along with detailed answers:
How can I find a doctor who is able to prescribe Suboxone for the treatment of opioid addiction?
This is a question that many people have on their mind, since they have no clue where to turn for assistance.
The first thing you can do is visit your primary care physician, sharing information on your addiction and letting them give you advice on what to do next. Don’t be shy about suggesting Suboxone treatment, as this is something that a growing number of people are turning to.
There are doctors in each state who have the waiver needed to prescribe Suboxone for the treatment of opioid addiction. You can get started with your search by visiting the SAMHSA Buprenorphine Physician Locator web site.
Is the use of Suboxone going to lead to another addiction?
Since it is possible to become addicted to Suboxone after prolonged use, many people believe they are simply trading one addiction for another. While this is a valid concern, it is important to note that this is not what is happening.
With Suboxone treatment, the many traits of opioid addiction are going to be pushed out of your life. At that point, you are in position to taper off the use of Suboxone with the assistance of your medical professional.
You may face some withdrawal symptoms as you taper the use of Suboxone, but these can be controlled medically and resolved in a quick and efficient manner.
What are the most common side effects associated with Suboxone?
Every person going through this treatment will have a unique experience. Here are some of the most common side effects:
- Sweating
- Cough
- Hoarse voice
- Feeling of extreme heat
- Dizziness
- Chills or fever
- Redness of the skin, particularly on the neck and face
- Headache
- Lower back pain
- Side pain
- Pain during urination
While these side effects are most common and easy to control, there are others that require immediate medical attention:
- Sense of confusion
- Blurred vision
- Dizziness
- Difficulty breathing
- Drowsiness (feeling of being drunk)
- Fast or slow breathing
- Pale or blue lips
- Relaxed feeling
- Sleepiness
- Unusual weakness
Before you begin Suboxone treatment, discuss the potential side effects with your doctor as well as how you can control any condition you are faced with.
What drugs are opioids? What type of drug addiction can be addressed by Suboxone treatment?
There are many types of opioids, with the most common including:
- Methadone
- Morphine
- Hydrocodone
- Buprenorphine
- Oxycodone
- Heroin
Many people are under the impression that Suboxone can treat an addiction unrelated to an opioid, but this is not true. Some of these drugs include: cocaine, ecstasy, methamphetamines, GHB, LSD, and Ketamine.
What is Suboxone Film?
The FDA approved Suboxone tablets in 2002 for the treatment of opioid dependence. While this is still a common form of the drug, Suboxone Film has become increasingly more popular over the past few years.
Suboxone Film was approved by the FDA in 2010, and provides the user with many benefits when compared to the pill version.
For example, the film is meant to dissolve faster than the tablet. Additionally, each one is wrapped in its own pouch that is simple to transport while also being child proof.
While not important to everybody, Suboxone Film has an above average taste rating with roughly 71 percent of people giving the taste a score of neutral or better.
Suboxone Film and Suboxone tablets are interchangeable under the direction of your doctor.
Have more Questions? Ask your Doctor
These five frequently asked questions should help you better understand Suboxone treatment. If you have any additional questions or believe this treatment is right for your opioid addiction, contact your doctor as soon as possible.
