Suboxone is a medication that treats opioid dependence. It greatly reduces the side effects that usually happen in opioid withdrawal, such as:

• Abdominal cramps
• Irritable mood
• Insomnia
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Muscle pain

The symptoms of opioid withdrawal can be nearly intolerable and quite dangerous, making them a common reason for relapse. When Suboxone removes these hurdles, you can focus on learning a new lifestyle without discomfort or stress.

Suboxone contains two medications:

Buprenorphine

About 80% of Suboxone is buprenorphine, an opioid that works in a more targeted way within your brain than other opioids. It keeps a steady level of opioids in your body, essentially acting as a substitute for the opioid you’re dependent on. But buprenorphine helps eliminate withdrawal side effects without causing the same highs as other opioids. 

Naloxone

The remaining 20% of Suboxone is naloxone, an opioid-blocking medication. It’s normally inactive, but if Suboxone is misused or supplemented with other opioids, the naloxone activates and blocks the opioid high.

The combination of these two medications can help you have a comfortable recovery experience with a reduced risk of relapse. 

Suboxone is for people who struggle with opioid dependence or opioid use disorder (OUD). You could be a good candidate for this type of treatment if you’re struggling with drugs such as:

• Heroin
• Hydrocodone
• Oxycodone
• Morphine
• Codeine
• Fentanyl

At Pulse Healthcare Solutions, doctoral-prepared nurse practitioner Dr. Banor evaluates your situation, performs a physical exam, and determines whether Suboxone is a good fit for your recovery needs. 

If you qualify, you can start treatment after you discontinue drug use (generally 12-48 hours into withdrawal, depending on the specific drug).

Dr. Banor provides detailed instructions for Suboxone use. The drug comes in films that dissolve under your tongue. Over the first few days, your dosage changes until you arrive at the ideal maintenance dosage. 

You can then continue your maintenance dosage for a few months to a few years, based on your unique situation. 

Most patients combine Suboxone with psychotherapy. If you need another medication, for example, antidepressants, Dr. Banor prescribes one that’s safe, effective, and free from drug interactions. 

To learn more about how Suboxone can help you recover without pain and stress, call Pulse Healthcare Solutions or click on the online scheduler now. 

*Suboxone is FDA-approved for opioid use disorder.