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Suboxone Medical Definition

According to Drugs.com, Suboxone is a drug primarily used to treat addiction to opiates such as morphine, heroin and codeine. It is administered as tablets that are dissolved under the tongue.

  1. Function

    • Suboxone contains two chemicals: buprenophrine and naloxone, according to Drugs.com. Buprenophrine is an opiate but produces a much less euphoric "high" than heroin, codeine and morphine, while naloxone blocks the effects of opiates. Suboxone is easier to stop taking compared to traditional opiates.

    Side Effects

    • Some people may experience side effects when taking Suboxone.. Common side effects of Suboxone include: headache, nausea, insomnia, constipation and excess sweating.

    Interactions

    • According to Drugs.com, Suboxone is known to interact with certain medications, including: Biaxin, Norvir, Tegretol and barbiturates. Doctors may adjust the dosage of Suboxone if it is to be taken in conjunction with any other medications.

    Overdose

    • A Suboxone overdose can be fatal. Signs of a Suboxone overdose include: seizures, slow breathing, dizziness, confusion, clammy skin and fatigue.

    Pregnancy

    • Drugs.com cautions that taking Suboxone while pregnant can cause opiate withdrawal symptoms in a newborn baby. Suboxone can also pass into breast milk and cause harm to a baby that is nursing.

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