Taking that first step to seek professional help for substance addiction can be a difficult, vulnerable, and emotional experience. The good news is that you’re not alone, and help is available.
When it comes to treating substance addiction, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is the gold standard of care. It’s a proven approach, and when combined with counseling and behavioral therapy, it offers a comprehensive solution for patients who are on their path to recovery.
Suboxone is a highly effective medication used in MATs. But first: What is Suboxone treatment? Find out more below.
What Is Suboxone and how does it work?
Suboxone is a combination of two drugs: buprenorphine and naloxone. Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist and activates the receptors that block pain in the brain. This unique mechanism satisfies opioid cravings without producing strong feelings of euphoria, resulting in a more balanced approach to managing the addiction. On the other hand, naloxone is an opioid antagonist, which effectively blocks the effects of opioids.
The combination of buprenorphine and naloxone in Suboxone lessens the withdrawal symptoms and physical cravings. This way, patients can go back to a sense of normalcy and undergo counseling and therapy to address the underlying causes of their addiction. This dual-action approach aims to create a supportive environment for individuals on their journey towards recovery.
Suboxone has a “ceiling effect”
As a partial opioid agonist, the buprenorphine component in Suboxone has a “ceiling effect.” This means taking an increased dose will not create an increased high or greater relief, making Suboxone a medication with a controlled and predictable response. This “ceiling effect” makes Suboxone effective in managing opioid dependence, while reducing the risk of misuse.
Despite the life-saving benefits of Suboxone, it’s worth noting that its buprenorphine component is still an opioid. Just like any other medication, taking Suboxone comes with potential risks and side effects. If injected at a higher dosage or taken without a prescription, the naxolone component of Suboxone blocks the opioid receptors to prevent the euphoric high from occurring, causing precipitated withdrawal.
When taken under proper medical supervision, the risk of addiction to Suboxone is low. Maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider is extremely important to ensure its safe and effective use in your journey towards recovery.
Suboxone comes in two forms
Wondering how to use Suboxone? The medication can be taken in two forms: through an oral film placed inside the cheek (buccal) or under the tongue (sublingual), or through an oral tablet that can be dissolved sublingually. Both methods of administration enable the medication to enter the bloodstream efficiently. It’s important that the patient follows the prescribed instructions for the chosen form to maximize its use.
Suboxone is part of a comprehensive treatment plan
To make Suboxone more effective, it should be part of a holistic approach that includes substance abuse counseling, behavioral therapy, and psycho-social support. These provide patients with coping strategies and emotional support to prevent relapses and maintain their recovery. By combining these different interventions, the patient is able to address the root cause of addiction.
By incorporating Suboxone into a broader treatment framework, patients benefit from a more well-rounded and supportive approach to overcoming opioid dependence. This holistic strategy not only addresses the immediate challenges of withdrawal, but also empowers them to work towards long-lasting recovery.
Seeking professional help for your substance addiction is a sign of strength. Suboxone — when combined with counseling, therapy, and psychological support — serves as a valuable tool in managing opioid dependence.
If you or someone you know is considering Suboxone treatment, getting in touch with an online addiction center such as Klinic is an important first step. These online treatment centers provide a compassionate and supportive environment needed for a successful recovery journey, especially if you live in a remote or rural area, or have mobility issues that prevent you from visiting a clinic in person. You deserve a life of well-being, and with the right resources, recovery is not only possible but entirely achievable.
This story originally appeared on Upscalelivingmag
