Suboxone to Treat Opioid Drug Dependence

Opioid addiction is a difficult condition to overcome. However, suboxone has proven to be a helpful part of the treatment plan. This medication is a method that helps your body and mind gently wean off the intense addiction that opioids cause. It’s not an actual opioid, but it impacts the body in a similar way which helps ease the symptoms of withdrawal. 

Let's discuss what you need to know about using this medication to treat opioid dependence. We'll review what suboxone is, how opioid withdrawal happens, and how to use this medication properly. 

The chemical itself

This medication contains buprenorphine and naloxone. Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist because it acts similarly to how opioids do in the human body, meaning the parts of buprenorphine bind to the same neurological receptors that actual opiates do. It plugs some of the opioid receptors so that the second compound can do its job.

Naloxone is an actual opioid agonist that does not simply plug the opioid receptors in the brain but can also cause the release of the same neurochemicals that opioids do. It results in a milder effect on the brain thanks to the buprenorphine plugging some opioid receptors.

How opioid withdrawal takes place

Opioids trigger the release of several pleasure neurochemicals and hormones in the human body. Over time and with repeated use, the opioid receptors in the body become greater in number and lead to an increased need and effect for the drug.

If one tries to quit their opioid usage all at once, they become afflicted with some life-altering conditions like anxiety, insomnia, and flu-like symptoms, to name a few. For this reason, people who try to quit opiates cold turkey have a very low success rate.

How to use suboxone

This medication is an oral pill to be dosed appropriately by a psychiatrist or other medical professional. The amount you take and the schedule you are weaned will depend on your history with opiates and your specific body chemistry. Although it may feel like the user is getting high, distinct differences separate it from hard opiates. Make sure to take it at the correct time of day to avoid the awful withdrawal symptoms and optimize your level of functionality.

Avoid abuse 

You should always take suboxone as directed by your psychiatrist. Improperly taking it will alter the level of the drug’s bioavailability in your system. You could also put yourself at risk for overdose. Do not take it at irregular intervals or in conjunction with actual opiates. These drugs can interact and complicate the already delicate situation.

Learn more about suboxone

Suboxone is a completely legitimate method to treat opioid dependence. However, you should only use it in its intended way and with the oversight of a psychiatrist. Doing so will get you on the right path toward recovery. 

Request an appointment here: https://futurepsychsolutions.com or call Future Psych Solutions at (803) 335-5232 for an appointment in our Columbia office.

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