April 25, 2025
Learn more about what to expect about how this life-saving medication will impact your recovery journey.
People receiving medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder often take prescription Suboxone. It is a medicine that can help minimize the discomfort of opioid withdrawal and reduce cravings long-term. Suboxone is FDA-approved and has helped countless individuals regain control over their lives from addiction.
While Suboxone is an opioid itself, it is a partial agonist. That means it does not produce the intense euphoria associated with more potent opioid drugs like heroin or fentanyl. The effects of the medication allow the patient to focus on their recovery and manage their opioid addiction safely.
If you are struggling with opioid dependency and are curious about MAT programs, you should consider Suboxone treatment. Keep reading to learn about what to expect when starting Suboxone and how it can help.
It is vital to know how Suboxone affects the body if you are considering taking the medication. Suboxone comes in two forms: a sublingual tablet or film. A medical provider who prescribes this medication will assess a patient’s Suboxone dosage based on unique criteria. This usually includes a person’s health history, current opioid usage and overall physical wellness.
Starting this medication can prevent or ease opioid withdrawal symptoms that occur when stopping opioids abruptly. While unmedicated abstinence from opioid use is almost unbearable for many, Suboxone treatment makes the idea of recovery seem possible. Keeping these symptoms and cravings at bay is a powerful tool for long-term MAT success.
The buprenorphine in Suboxone binds to the opioid receptors in the brain. It provides cravings relief and eases the sickness that withdrawal can cause. With its ceiling effect, it can be taken safely by those with opioid use disorder. It prevents extreme highs or severe respiratory depression, reducing the potential for overdose.
Naloxone, an opioid antagonist, is the other active ingredient in Suboxone. It works to block or reverse the effects of opioids in the body when ingested. This component of the medication is a misuse deterrent for those in treatment. It will cause instant withdrawal symptoms in the body if other opioids are present while taking the drug.
If you believe Suboxone is the best outpatient addiction treatment for you, you are probably wondering what to expect once you start. Rest assured, Suboxone is a safe opioid treatment. Under medical supervision, you will quickly learn to adjust your lifestyle.
For your Suboxone induction, you will need to be in a state of acute opioid withdrawal. You can do this process at home or your medical provider’s office. Your first dose should provide relief, although sometimes it may take several adjustments to get the dosage just right. Within a couple of days, all withdrawal symptoms should dissipate.
You will receive a script for your Suboxone prescription that you can fill at any pharmacy of your choice. Then, you can dispense the medication at home daily or within the time span recommended by your provider. You will have regular “check-ins” to receive refills, opioid recovery support and help with managing side effects.
One of the greatest benefits of Suboxone is that you do not need to visit a clinic every day. You can take your medication at home and refill it at a regular pharmacy. This leaves you plenty of time to focus on your recovery and rebuilding your life after addiction.
Just like all opioids, Suboxone carries some common side effects. However, its medicinal benefits far outweigh the mild discomfort some may face when first starting their prescription.
Some Suboxone side effects include:
Other side effects are less common, and Suboxone complications are rare and treatable. With continual and clear communication between the patient and their medical provider, many have great success with this medication.
Some allergic side effects from Suboxone can occur. A patient allergic to Suboxone may experience rashes, hives, itching or wheezing due to anaphylaxis. In rare cases, this can cause blood pressure to drop suddenly, leading to fainting. Emergency medical attention is imperative in these instances.
Other allergic reactions to look for are acute stomach cramping, diarrhea, lip and tongue swelling, throat swelling and difficulty breathing. If you are allergic to Suboxone, do not panic. There are other recovery mediation options available that work just as efficiently.
Suboxone should not pose any threat to someone with a healthy liver. However, many with opioid use disorder are affected by hepatitis and other illnesses that cause liver damage. Your medical provider can perform tests and liver screenings before prescribing the medication.
Some patients may develop liver complications that can induce jaundice, abdomen pain, nausea and changes in stool or urine. Alert a medical provider immediately if these symptoms are present. Thankfully, the liver is a highly regenerative organ in the human body. There are many options for recovery and treatment.
Suboxone is a revolutionary medication that has helped countless individuals struggling with opioid use disorder nationwide. At Middlesex Recovery, our experienced staff and medical providers are committed to supporting the local community in combating the persistent opioid crisis. Medication-assisted treatment with Suboxone may be the key to breaking free from opioid addiction.
Our administrative staff is prepared to answer any questions or concerns you may have about enrolling in Middlesex outpatient programs. Check out our handy guide, or contact us today to get started.
If opioid addiction is impacting your life or the life of someone you care about, reach out to our treatment center. We are here to provide the support and care you need to take the first step toward recovery.
Call 781.303.9936