What Is Subutex Used for?

Subutex (or Buprenorphine) is a prescription medication that's used to treat narcotic addictions and dependence. It's a long-acting opiate similar to codeine, heroin and morphine. Subutex falls under the treatment class categories of Analgesics, Central Nervous System Agents, Narcotic Addiction or Analgesics Symptoms and Prevention of Opiate Drug Abuse.

Intent

• Subutex is only intended to be part of a comprehensive drug dependence treatment and recovery strategy.

Effects

• Subutex acts by attaching to different receptors within the brain and nervous system in an effort to avert withdrawal symptoms that can occur in a person who has stopped narcotic usage.

Benefits

• Subutex is generally preferred by doctors for patients who are using this type of medication for the first time, as it doesn't contain the additive Naloxone which is in Suboxone.

Warning

• Although Naloxone was initially added to prevent the abuse of Suboxone, it can provoke symptom withdrawal or even result in immediate withdrawal if misused.

Sublingual Dosage

• Subutex is mainly administered in the form of a pill, which is placed under the tongue to dissolve (not swallowed).

Dosage & Administration

• Subutex tablets come in either a 2 mg or 8 mg base of Buprenorphine, and dosages alter between 12 to 16mg per day.