Do I Need to Stop Using Suboxone as Part of My Treatment?

Often times, the first question that comes to mind when an individual who has used Suboxone in the past comes in for maintenance treatment is: “Do I need to stop taking Suboxone in order to recover?”

If you’ve been addicted to Suboxone, taken it in manners other than prescribed or otherwise had trouble with a case in which you have abused Suboxone in the past, chances are you will be better of choosing another form of maintenance medication to help you get sober—but only a treatment specialist can safely guide you in this process. For immediate help, call 888-646-0865 (Who Answers?) to speak with a specialist.

Why Did you Abuse Suboxone?

If you abused Suboxone because it didn’t properly treat your withdrawal symptoms, then you may need to switch to methadone.

In some cases, a person will only abuse Suboxone once, as it can precipitate withdrawal very quickly when crushed and injected due to the naloxone in the medication. But if you had been abusing it for a long period of time, it is important to ask yourself why you did so as you seek a treatment option.

If the reason you abused Suboxone is because the medication did not treat your symptoms and, therefore, helped lead you to relapse, it may be necessary for you to begin taking doses of the more powerful methadone. If, instead, you began abusing the drug because of other reasons, it may not need to be replaced as your medication, but you will likely require residential care. It is always important to discuss what your needs are with your doctor and to come to a conclusion that you both feel comfortable with so you can continue your recovery safely and effectively.

Types of Help

If suboxone abuse is a problem, medication maintenance is not out of the question. Methadone and Subutex are two similar medications that are widely prescribed for the treatment of opiate and opioid dependence. Even if you have been using Suboxone incorrectly, with proper treatment and guidance, as well as support, you could take another maintenance medication and get sober.

Alternatives to maintenance medications may include behavioral therapy, support groups such as NA, continued counseling and therapy as well as holistic treatment methods that will help to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms while you are in the early stages of recovery.

If you have more questions about Suboxone or you want to find a treatment program near you, call 888-646-0865 (Who Answers?) .

10 Dangers of Suboxone Abuse You Need to Know