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Suboxone Facts

Suboxone is a drug that helps opiate and opioid addicts through withdrawals and eliminates cravings. The drug is prescribed by doctors during rehabilitation. Patients take the pill once a day, and the drug's active compounds attach to receptors in the brain.

  1. Buprenorphine

    • Buprenorphine is a partial agonist of pain receptors. The chemical attaches to the same receptors as opioids, blocking the drug activity. Because it is a partial agonist, it limits cravings but does not give the addict a high.

    Naloxone

    • Naloxone is used to deter addicts from injecting the pill. If addicts inject Suboxone, the naloxone bumps the buprenorphine off the pain receptors, sending the addict directly into withdrawal.

    Side Effects

    • Side effects are similar to opiates. Patients feel tired and drowsy and may experience vomiting.

    Other Drugs

    • Alcohol and other depressant drugs shouldn't be taken with Suboxone. Taking Suboxone with these drugs can cause breathing problems.

    How to Take Suboxone

    • Suboxone is taken sublingually. Place the pill under the tongue and let it fully dissolve.

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