Suboxone is commonly used to treat opioid dependence and abuse. It is prescribed by a doctor and contains the active ingredients naloxone and buprenorphine. These block the bodies’ opioid receptors and prevent opioid effects from being experienced. They also prevent usually prevent suboxone abuse. However, for some people who stop using suboxone, side effects are an issue. If you have questions about suboxone effects, please reach out to Bayview Recovery at 855.478.3650.
Minor Suboxone Side Effects
Suboxone can cause side effects for some users. As a partial opioid, it has few alternatives. The primary alternative to Suboxone is methadone. Of course, methadone is a full opioid and has greater potential for abuse. Suboxone can also be addictive, which may cause serious side effects.
Likewise, side effects can be similar to other opioids but at a lower intensity. Some minor side effects will go away in a few days. If side effects persist, these need to be discussed with a doctor or pharmacist. In some cases, they will recommend a specialized treatment program, like this medication-assisted treatment in Tacoma, WA.
For example, minor side effects of Suboxone can include:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Constipation
- Painful urination
- Back pain
- Difficulty sleeping
These can be easy to deal with on your own. However, more intense side effects may require treatment.
Major Suboxone Side Effects
As a partial opioid agonist, in some cases, Suboxone can cause a decreased amount of oxygen in the body. This, in turn, may lead to shallow breathing. This condition is known as respiratory depression and is one potential major side effect of suboxone. Around 1 in 10 suboxone users will experience respiratory depression.
Also, users may also experience the following major suboxone side effects:
- Mental confusion
- Blurred vision
- Dizziness or fainting
- Depression or anxiety
- Hallucinations
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s often a good idea to seek treatment.
Withdrawal From Suboxone
Some users of Suboxone may experience a mild euphoria. This can cause misuse of suboxone and potentially addiction. These, as well as long-term users of Suboxone, may suffer withdrawal symptoms similar to the cessation of other opioids. Moreover, the severity of withdrawal symptoms will depend on the dose and length of time used.
Additionally, these withdrawal effects can include abdominal pain, severe nausea, confusion, and sweating, amongst others. These may cause other pre-existing conditions such as depression to become worse. This can further complicate the situation. If withdrawal symptoms become too severe, it may trigger a spiral into suboxone abuse, leading to dependency.
How To Treat Suboxone Abuse
Withdrawal from Suboxone can be a major challenge. It is possible to detox from suboxone at home. However, it is much more comfortable to experience it under medical care. This will include a managed process to reduce any symptoms and problems from withdrawal.
Furthermore, by easing the physical symptoms, it allows the patient to focus almost entirely on the psychological aspect of recovering from suboxone abuse. Again, depending on individual circumstances and needs, an inpatient or outpatient treatment program may be recommended. Each patient’s recovery will be different. Therefore it’s always advisable to seek a professional, medical opinion.
Seek Treatment at Bayview Recovery
At Bayview Recovery, we’re committed to providing the support and care our patients need to overcome substance abuse. Whether you’re addicted to suboxone or another drug, we can help provide a way forward. We offer a wide range of addiction treatment programs, including:
- Substance abuse treamtent
- Partial hospitalization programs
- Intensive outpatient treatment
- Dual diagnosis treatment
- Addiction therapy programs.
In short, you do not need to deal with the effects of Suboxone withdrawal alone. Our experienced staff can assist you at every step on your road to recovery. Contact us at 855.478.3650 to learn more about our program options for suboxone abuse and Suboxone side effects.