How Is Suboxone Misused

In the battle against opioid addiction, medications like Suboxone have emerged as powerful tools to help individuals break free from dependence. Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2002, Suboxone is a combination medication that contains buprenorphine and naloxone, which work together to suppress withdrawal symptoms and cravings, allowing individuals to focus on their recovery. While Suboxone has undoubtedly played a crucial role in countless success stories, it is not immune to misuse, highlighting the complexity of the opioid crisis and the challenges faced in combating addiction.

What Is Suboxone: Quick Facts

Suboxone contains two active ingredients: buprenorphine and naloxone. Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist that helps reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist that blocks the effects of other opioids and deters misuse. In addition to that, Suboxone:

• typically takes the form of a sublingual film that dissolves under the tongue or as a sublingual tablet.
• should be used as part of a comprehensive treatment program that includes counseling and psychosocial support.
• has long-lasting effects, which allows for once-daily or every-other-day-dosing.
• can be a safer alternative than methadone because of its lower risk of overdose and potential for abuse.
• misuse can lead to various negative consequences, including addiction, diversion to the illicit market, and adverse side effects such as respiratory depression.
• misuse can include taking higher doses than prescribed, using it without a prescription, or using it in combination with other substances.

Medical supervision is essential during Suboxone treatment because healthcare professionals can assess the individual’s progress, adjust dosages, and provide necessary support and counseling. Additionally, proper medical supervision ensures that Suboxone is used safely and effectively, maximizing its benefits and minimizing risks.

How Is Suboxone Commonly Misused?

Even though Suboxone is quite effective, the medication is commonly misused. Some of the most prevalent ways people misuse Suboxone include:

• Obtaining Suboxone Without a Prescription. Obtaining Suboxone without a prescription is illegal and dangerous. It may involve purchasing it on the black market or acquiring it from others prescribed the medication.
• Sharing Suboxone With Others. Sharing Suboxone with individuals not prescribed the medication is also considered misuse, which can lead to improper dosing and potential harm to the recipient.
• Seeking a Euphoric High. Some individuals misuse Suboxone to seek a euphoric high. Using Suboxone for recreational purposes is illegal and risky; it can be unpredictable and lead to adverse reactions.
• Combining Suboxone With Other Substances. Sometimes, individuals may misuse Suboxone by combining it with other substances, such as benzodiazepines or alcohol, to enhance the effects or mitigate the side effects of other drugs. This practice is highly dangerous and increases the risk of respiratory depression, overdose, and other life-threatening complications.
• Self-Administering Suboxone To Manage Opioid Withdrawal Symptoms. Some individuals may self-administer Suboxone to manage opioid withdrawal symptoms without proper medical supervision.
• Using Suboxone to Prevent or Delay Withdrawal Between Opioid Use. In an attempt to avoid or delay withdrawal symptoms during opioid use, individuals may misuse Suboxone. This practice can perpetuate a cycle of dependence and hinder progress in recovery.

Consequences Of Suboxone Misuse

Misusing Suboxone can lead to many consequences that extend beyond the immediate health risks. While Suboxone has proven effective as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, its misuse can lead individuals down a perilous path, amplifying the complexities of addiction and hindering recovery. Some of the most significant consequences include:

• Respiratory Depression and Overdose Potential. Misusing Suboxone, especially by taking higher doses than prescribed or combining it with other depressants, can lead to respiratory depression. This can cause shallow or slowed breathing, potentially resulting in an overdose, coma, or even death.
• Increased Risk of Cardiovascular Complications. Misuse of Suboxone, particularly in combination with other substances, can increase the risk of cardiovascular complications. This includes heart problems, such as irregular heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and increased strain on the cardiovascular system.
• Legal and Social Consequences. Obtaining Suboxone without a prescription or sharing it with others can result in legal consequences. Possessing or distributing Suboxone without a valid prescription is against the law and may lead to fines, imprisonment, or other legal penalties.
• Strained Relationships and Social Isolation. Misusing Suboxone can lead to a breakdown of trust, conflicts, and social isolation, including personal and social connections.
• Reinforcement of Addiction: Misusing Suboxone can perpetuate and reinforce addictive behaviors. Taking higher doses or using it in ways not prescribed can lead to continued dependence on opioids and hinder progress toward recovery.
• Diversion to the Illicit Market: Suboxone misuse often involves obtaining the medication illegally or selling it to others. This diversion to the black market fuels the illicit drug trade and denies those in genuine need of access to appropriate treatment.
• Increased Risk of Overdose: Misuse of Suboxone, particularly when combined with other substances like alcohol or benzodiazepines, can heighten the risk of respiratory depression, central nervous system depression, and overdose.
• Impaired Cognitive and Physical Functioning: Inappropriate use of Suboxone can cause impaired cognitive function, decreased alertness, and diminished physical coordination. These effects can impact daily functioning, increase the risk of accidents, and hinder overall quality of life.

How Is Suboxone Misuse Treated?

Treating Suboxone misuse requires a comprehensive approach that addresses addiction’s physical and psychological aspects. Key components include:

• Medical Supervision: Healthcare professionals can provide guidance on appropriate tapering schedules, dosage adjustments, and closely monitor the individual’s progress.
• Counseling and Behavioral Therapies: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and contingency management can help individuals explore underlying issues, develop coping skills, and modify maladaptive behaviors.
• Peer Support: Connecting with individuals who have experienced similar struggles can help reduce feelings of isolation and provide ongoing encouragement throughout the recovery journey.
• Addressing Co-Occurring Disorders: Integrated treatment that addresses substance use and mental health issues is crucial for successful recovery.
• Harm Reduction Strategies: Providing education on safer use, overdose prevention, and harm reduction practices can help mitigate the risks associated with continued Suboxone use.
• Ongoing Monitoring and Support: Regular monitoring and follow-up appointments with healthcare professionals are essential to evaluate progress, adjust treatment plans as needed, and provide ongoing support.

Our comprehensive treatment programs, which include those key components, help individuals overcome Suboxone misuse.

Treatment You Can Trust In The Midwest

As a reputable rehab center in the Midwest, we have witnessed firsthand the impact of Suboxone misuse and the profound importance of effective treatment strategies. Our commitment to helping individuals overcome addiction extends to addressing the complexities surrounding Suboxone misuse and supporting individuals in their journey toward lasting recovery. Contact us today to learn more.

Reviewed and Assessed by
Taylor Brown, B.A.Com., CADC
Tim Coleman, M. of Ed.