We are aware of the terrible effects that an opioid addiction may have on a person’s life. As part of our comprehensive range of health services, we offer medication-assisted treatment to help patients struggling with opioid dependency.

One of the medications we may use in this process is Suboxone, which is specifically designed to manage and treat opioid addiction. Suboxone contains two active ingredients, buprenorphine, and naloxone, which combined lessen the symptoms of withdrawal and guard against drug abuse.

Buprenorphine interacts with the opioid receptors in the brain to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms but without the strong “high” or risky side effects connected to complete opioid agonists like heroin or methadone.

Conversely, naloxone functions as an antagonist to opioids. It inhibits the brain’s opiate effects and triggers withdrawal symptoms if opioids are still present in the body. This dual function discourages misuse of the medication.

Suboxone functions through a unique mechanism to help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. It comprises two different drugs: buprenorphine and naloxone.

Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist. It attaches itself to the brain’s same receptors as opioids do but does not fully activate these receptors. This essentially tricks the brain into thinking it has received the opioids it’s craving while reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms without triggering the intense pleasure response or harmful side effects associated with opioid abuse.

Naloxone serves as an opioid antagonist. It blocks the effects of opioids in the brain, preventing Suboxone from being abused. When someone tries to inject or snort Suboxone without authorization, the naloxone will cause immediate and severe withdrawal symptoms, acting as a deterrent against misuse.

Suboxone also has a unique ‘ceiling effect’. The effects of the medication stop increasing beyond a certain point when more of it is taken, thereby reducing the risk of dependency and overdose. Furthermore, suboxone can block the effects of other opioids. If an individual on Suboxone treatment tries to use opioids, the naloxone component will bind to the opioid receptors and cause withdrawal symptoms, discouraging simultaneous opioid use and lowering the risk of overdose.

The effectiveness of Suboxone can typically be felt within 30 to 60 minutes of administration. However, several variables, including dosage, metabolism, and the intensity of the addiction, might affect the precise beginning time. The effects of Suboxone are long-lasting, potentially ranging from 24 to 72 hours, although this duration can also vary from person to person.

We advise our patients to use Suboxone under our direct supervision to ensure safety and effectiveness. Starting the treatment too soon after using other opioids can trigger withdrawal symptoms. Hence, we usually recommend our patients start taking Suboxone when moderate to severe withdrawal symptoms have occurred, which is typically 12 to 24 hours after the last opioid use.

We want to emphasize that while Suboxone is instrumental in managing withdrawal symptoms, it is not a quick fix. Overcoming opioid addiction is a long-term process that requires a comprehensive treatment program. We not only provide medical treatment but also offer counseling and support groups to ensure our patients receive the holistic care they need in their journey toward recovery.

We have seen how Suboxone can reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, promote stability and recovery, and lower the risk of overdose and death related to opioid use. By helping patients manage their physical symptoms, Suboxone allows them to focus on addressing underlying mental health issues, building support systems, and pursuing vocational goals.

If you or a loved one are considering Suboxone for long-term management of opioid addiction, our healthcare providers are available to discuss the potential benefits and limitations. We think that collaborating with our patients is important to develop an individualized treatment plan that suits their unique needs and circumstances.

Remember, suboxone can assist in managing cravings and withdrawal symptoms, but it ought to be applied in conjunction with a thorough treatment strategy that also addresses the psychological aspects of addiction. It is not a one-size-fits-all solution or a cure for opioid addiction. Its usage should be closely monitored by our healthcare professionals due to the potential risk of misuse and dependency. We urge individuals considering Suboxone as a long-term treatment option to carefully weigh the potential benefits and limitations, consult with their healthcare providers, and explore alternative treatment options as needed.

The buprenorphine in Suboxone partially activates the opioid receptors in the brain, helping to decrease withdrawal symptoms and cravings associated with opioid addiction. It’s a long-acting agent, which means that its effects can last for a day, making once-daily dosing possible. This high affinity for receptors counteracts the full effects of other opioids, discouraging illicit use.

Naloxone attaches to opioid receptors and blocks them, preventing any effects from other opioids. This crucial ingredient deters misuse of Suboxone. Naloxone will cause withdrawal symptoms if a patient tries to inject the drug in an attempt to get high.

We understand that overcoming addiction requires more than medication. That’s why we incorporate Suboxone into a comprehensive treatment strategy that includes counseling and behavioral therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing. By treating addiction’s psychological and physical components, we can enhance our treatment outcomes.

Suboxone allows our patients to concentrate on underlying issues and develop coping mechanisms. Its maintenance characteristics help prevent relapse and promote long-term stability. By managing withdrawal, reducing cravings, preventing overdoses, and integrating with behavioral therapy, Suboxone supports a patient’s transition to recovery.

It’s important to note that while Suboxone is a powerful medication and needs to be taken under the supervision of our healthcare providers, it’s not a cure for opioid addiction. The road to recovery is a complex, long-term process that requires commitment, support, and a comprehensive treatment plan. Suboxone is a crucial part of this plan, providing a safer, controlled way to transition from opioid dependency. It allows for a gradual, more manageable recovery process, and because it can be taken at home as a sublingual film or tablet, it allows our patients the convenience and privacy to maintain their daily routines, work, and family life while undergoing treatment. For more information, please contact us or book an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 3117 Military Road Suite 2, Niagara Falls, NY 14304. We serve patients from Niagara Falls NY, Lewiston NY, Sanborn NY, Walmore NY, Tonawanda NY, Model City NY, and Grand Island NY.