Treatment programs offering Suboxone can help individuals struggling with opioid use disorders find relief and long-term recovery. It is an evidence-based form of medication for addiction treatment (MAT) designed to reduce cravings, manage withdrawal symptoms, and improve overall quality of life.
What is Suboxone? Suboxone is the brand name of a buprenorphine/naloxone medication. Other brand names include Sublocade, Brixadi, and Subutex. Medication assisted treatment may prove integral to helping people who struggle with opioid use disorder (OUD) get sober and lead a more fulfilling life.
At BrightView, we specialize in offering medication assisted treatment programs that combine medicine with counseling services and other support strategies to help individuals confidently achieve sustained recovery. If you’re looking for a treatment center with Suboxone, our medication assisted treatment clinic can help. Call 888.501.9865 to learn more.
What Is Suboxone Used For?
Suboxone is a prescription medication that combines buprenorphine and naloxone. Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist, meaning it activates the same receptors in the brain as opioids but does so at a slower rate, reducing the risk of misuse. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist that blocks the effects of opioids if they are used while taking naloxone. This combination of medications helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms and can be prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider for individuals struggling with opioid use disorder.
What Is a Treatment Program with Suboxone?
A treatment program offering Suboxone typically includes a combination of medication, therapy, and support services. The goal is to address both the physical and psychological aspects of substance use disorder and provide individuals with the tools they need to maintain long-term recovery. A comprehensive treatment program with Suboxone may include:
- Initial induction – During the initial phase, your provider may use buprenorphine/naloxone and another medication to manage withdrawal symptoms, making detox from opioids safer and more comfortable. Your prescribing provider will perform a review of your medical history and an exam with you to help you reach the correct dose.
- Outpatient treatment – After detox, your provider will ensure you have no adverse side effects from taking medication for addiction treatment. They will also work with you to gauge how effectively the medication controls your cravings. You’ll also complete one-on-one counseling, group therapy, and case management as part of your treatment program.
- Medical taper – A medical taper can help patients after several months or years of treatment. If medically indicated, your provider may continue prescribing the medication in progressively smaller doses to help you wean off drugs and achieve full recovery.
Treatment with Suboxone is not just about prescribing medication. It also includes access to support services such as case management, which can help you navigate other areas of your life that may have been affected by SUD.
FAQ About Suboxone
The following are some frequently asked questions about Suboxone and treatment programs:
How Long Is Treatment with Suboxone?
Length of treatment varies depending on the individual’s needs, but it typically lasts at least 12 months. In some cases, treatment may continue for several years, depending on the severity of the substance use disorder and the progress made in recovery.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
Individuals should take Suboxone as prescribed. If you miss one dose, take only one dose at a time. Simply continue your dosing on schedule and talk to your prescribing provider as soon as possible if you miss a dose. Taking the right amount at the right time will ensure you don’t experience sudden cravings that might result in a relapse.
Is Suboxone Habit-Forming?
When used according to a prescription, Suboxone is difficult to misuse due in part to the naloxone, which blocks the desired effects of opioids. However, since it does contain an opioid agonist (buprenorphine), you should take it with care and only as prescribed. While rare, it’s possible to develop a dependency on Suboxone.
Does Suboxone Stop Withdrawal Symptoms?
While Suboxone can help manage withdrawal symptoms at an addiction treatment center, it may not eliminate them. Your medical provider will work with you to adjust the dose appropriately to help manage withdrawal symptoms as much as possible. The medication helps reduce cravings and makes it easier for patients to focus on overcoming the underlying causes of substance use disorder.
Call Today to Enter the Treatment Program at BrightView
If you or someone you know is struggling with opioid use disorder, please contact us at BrightView today. Our compassionate team is here to help you take back control of your life through evidence-based MAT solutions. Call 888.501.9865 or complete our online form to take that first healing step.