How do Subutex and Suboxone Work to Treat Opioid Addiction

Opioids are creating havoc in the U.S. and have claimed about 70,601 lives in 2021. Under such circumstances Subutex and Suboxone, being opioid antagonists, work as catalysts to ward off this issue. Subutex is a brand name for the drug buprenorphine while Suboxone is a combination of both buprenorphine and naloxone. While the chemistry may differ, both drugs intend to serve the same purpose of treating opioid use disorder. Subutex and Suboxone are the prime components of a medication-assisted treatment program. This article will discuss in detail how these drugs work in the brain.  

How Does Subutex and Suboxone Work to Alleviate Opioid Addiction?

Subutex and Suboxone are medications used to alleviate the symptoms of opioid addiction. Both of these medications contain buprenorphine, which is a partial opioid agonist. Buprenorphine is a type of opioid that binds to the same receptors in the brain as other opioids but with less potency and produces a milder effect. It is often used to help individuals who are struggling with addiction to opioids such as heroin, fentanyl, or prescription painkillers like oxycodone.

Buprenorphine works by binding to the same receptors in the brain that are activated by opioids. However, unlike full opioid agonists such as heroin or morphine, buprenorphine only partially activates these receptors. This means that it produces a milder effect and reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms associated with opioid addiction.

Subutex vS. Suboxone

Subutex contains only buprenorphine, while Suboxone contains both buprenorphine and naloxone. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist, which means it blocks the effects of opioids by binding to the same receptors but not activating them. It is commonly used to reverse opioid overdoses. The addition of naloxone in Suboxone is to discourage misuse of the medication by injection. When taken orally as directed, the naloxone has no effect, but if the medication is injected, the naloxone can cause sudden withdrawal symptoms.

Administration Routes for Subutex and Suboxone

Both Subutex and Suboxone are typically administered sublingually, which means they are placed under the tongue to dissolve. This method of administration helps to reduce the risk of abuse and addiction to the medication. When taken as prescribed, Subutex and Suboxone can help to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings associated with opioid addiction.

The use of buprenorphine in treating opioid addiction has been found to be highly effective. It is less likely to cause overdose, and it helps to prevent relapse. Additionally, the use of buprenorphine has been found to improve treatment retention rates and reduce the risk of contracting HIV and other blood-borne diseases associated with intravenous drug use.

One of the key advantages of using Subutex and Suboxone is that they can be prescribed in an office-based setting, which means that individuals can receive treatment without having to go to a specialized clinic or hospital. This is especially important for individuals who may be hesitant to seek treatment due to the stigma associated with addiction or who may have limited access to specialized treatment facilities.

However, it is important to note that Subutex and Suboxone are not a cure for opioid addiction. They are a tool that can be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes behavioral therapy, counseling, and support groups. These medications should be used as part of a long-term treatment plan to help individuals achieve and maintain recovery from opioid addiction.

Role of Subutex and Suboxone in Medication-Assisted Treatment Program

Subutex and Suboxone are important medications used in medication-assisted treatment programs for opioid addiction. These medications are designed to help individuals manage:

• Withdrawal symptoms
• Cravings associated with opioid addiction
• Long-term recovery for opioid use disorder

What is a Medication-Assisted Treatment Program?

A medication-assisted treatment program involves the use of:

• Medications
• Counseling
• Behavioral therapy
• Support groups

The goal of these programs is to help individuals achieve and maintain recovery from opioid addiction.

Effectiveness of Suboxone and Subutex in MAT

Subutex and Suboxone are considered to be highly effective in medication-assisted treatment programs. When used as part of a medication-assisted treatment program, Subutex and Suboxone can help individuals achieve the following:

• Manage withdrawal symptoms
• Reduce cravings
• Improve treatment retention
• Prevent relapse

According to a study, Suboxone treatment has an improved rate of retention as compared to methadone, another medication for the treatment of opioid use disorder. Likewise, 75% of Subutex users were seen to adhere to Subutex treatment, which shows that it is very effective in treating opioid use disorder. 

Potential Side Effects of Subutex and Suboxone and How to Overcome Them

Like all medications, Subutex and Suboxone come with potential risks and side effects. It is important to discuss these risks and side effects with a healthcare professional before starting treatment.

Here are some of the risks and potential side effects of Subutex and Suboxone:

Addiction and dependence: Subutex and Suboxone contain buprenorphine, which is an opioid medication. While the risk of addiction and dependence is lower with buprenorphine compared to other opioids, it is still possible to become addicted to or dependent on these medications. Therefore, the best thing to do to get the best out of recovery is to not take a dose more than prescribed. 

Respiratory depression: Like all opioids, Subutex and Suboxone can cause respiratory depression, which is a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when breathing slows or stops. While the risk is low, it is important to inform your doctor if anything feels different.

Misuse and overdose: Misuse of Subutex and Suboxone can lead to overdose, which can be fatal. It is important to follow the prescribing instructions carefully and never take more than the prescribed dose.

Nausea and vomiting: Subutex and Suboxone can cause nausea and vomiting, which can be bothersome but usually resolve on their own within a few days.

Headache: Headache is a common side effect of Subutex and Suboxone. Drinking plenty of water and resting can help alleviate this side effect.

Constipation: Opioid medications can cause constipation, which can be managed with increased fluid and fiber intake or over-the-counter stool softeners.

Insomnia: Subutex and Suboxone can cause difficulty falling or staying asleep. This side effect can be managed with good sleep hygiene practices and by discussing the issue with a healthcare professional.

Liver damage: In rare cases, Subutex and Suboxone can cause liver damage, particularly if taken in high doses or with other medications that can harm the liver.

Note: Seek immediate medical attention if experiencing severe side effects or if there are concerns about addiction or dependence. A healthcare professional can help manage side effects and adjust medication dosages as needed to ensure safe and effective treatment.

Importance of Seeking Professional Help

Opioid addiction is a serious and complex medical condition that requires professional help. Many people who struggle with opioid addiction try to quit on their own, but this can be dangerous and ineffective. Seeking professional help is essential for achieving and maintaining recovery.

Here are some reasons why seeking professional help is important for opioid addiction:

• Opioid withdrawal can be very uncomfortable and can cause serious health complications. Seeking professional help ensures that individuals can detox from opioids safely and comfortably under medical supervision.

• Professional help can provide access to a range of evidence-based treatments, including medication-assisted treatment, counseling, behavioral therapy, and support groups.

• Professional help can offer a supportive community of healthcare professionals, peers, and loved ones who can provide encouragement and support throughout the recovery journey.

• Regular appointments with healthcare professionals and participation in support groups can provide structure and accountability that can be helpful in maintaining recovery.

• It can help reduce the risk of relapse. Professional treatment can help individuals identify and address underlying issues that may contribute to addiction, and can provide tools and strategies to help individuals cope with triggers and cravings.

It is important for individuals to remember that recovery is possible and seeking professional help is the first step towards achieving and maintaining a healthy and fulfilling life in recovery.

Choosing the Correct Treatment

No one treatment can be the answer for all individuals in recovery, choosing the correct treatment requires careful consideration of the individual's medical history, substance use, and personal circumstances. A professional doctor will evaluate a patient's individual needs to determine which medication is appropriate. Factors such as the severity of addiction, history of relapse, and medical conditions will be taken into account when making treatment decisions. By tailoring treatment plans to individual needs, patients can receive the most effective and personalized care possible. 

Wrap-up

In conclusion, Subutex and Suboxone are medications used to alleviate the symptoms of opioid addiction. They contain buprenorphine, which is a partial opioid agonist that reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms associated with opioid addiction. The addition of naloxone in Suboxone helps to reduce the risk of abuse and addiction to the medication. These medications are typically administered sublingually and can be prescribed in an office-based setting. While highly effective, they should be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes behavioral therapy, counseling, and support groups.