Substance abuse and addiction are growing problems worldwide. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is an evidence-based approach to treating addiction, and Suboxone is one of the most popular MAT drugs used to treat opioid addiction. But is Suboxone addictive, too? Call 866.693.3871 to speak with someone from Evoke Coconut Creek’s caring and knowledgeable team about Suboxone addiction and ourinpatient drug treatment services that involve Suboxone.
What Is MAT?
MAT combines counseling and behavioral therapy with medications such as buprenorphine, methadone, or naltrexone. These medications help:
- Reduce cravings
- Prevent relapse
- Increase the chance of long-term recovery from substance use disorders (SUDs)
As a result, it has become an increasingly popular form of treatment for those struggling with opioid addiction in particular.
What Is Suboxone?
Suboxone is a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) drug used to treat opioid addiction. Developed by Reckitt Benckiser Pharmaceuticals in 2002, Suboxone is an oral tablet or film strip taken under the tongue that contains two active ingredients—buprenorphine and naloxone. Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist, which binds to the same receptors as opioids like heroin but produces milder effects. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist, which blocks the effects of opioids and prevents abuse of Suboxone. When taken correctly, Suboxone reduces cravings for drugs while minimizing withdrawal symptoms and preventing relapse. It helps people focus on recovery without constantly feeling overwhelmed by their dependence on opioids. This allows them to make better decisions about their health and well-being while in treatment.
Is Suboxone Addictive?
Suboxone itself is not considered an addictive drug because it does not produce a high or euphoric effect when taken as prescribed. However, like any other opioid medication, there are risks associated with taking it—including potential physical dependence if taken over long periods—and it should be monitored closely by medical professionals during addiction treatment.
How Does a Suboxone Addiction Develop?
A person can become physically dependent on Suboxone if they take the drug continually over long periods without monitoring from medical professionals or following instructions from their doctor correctly. This can increase tolerance levels and physical withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly—a condition known as Suboxone addiction, which requires professional medical intervention for successful treatment outcomes.
Additionally, some have been known to abuse Suboxone by injecting or snorting it to experience its effects more quickly than oral ingestion would allow—which increases the risk of addiction even further. This is why Suboxone should only be taken as prescribed and monitored by a medical professional.
How Does Suboxone Treatment Work for Addiction to Other Substances?
In addition to treating opioid addiction, Suboxone has been used successfully in treating addictions to alcohol and other drugs such as cocaine or amphetamines. While not necessarily a cure for these addictions, MAT programs such as those involving Suboxone help individuals regulate their cravings while providing support through counseling sessions explicitly designed for them. Along with Suboxone treatment, other evidence-based approaches to addiction treatment include:
- Behavioral therapies
- Individual and group counseling
- 12-Step programs
- Relapse prevention planning
Suboxone is just one of the many tools available to help someone manage their addiction. Depending on your needs, a combination of these approaches can be used for a more comprehensive approach to addiction treatment. However, if you think you or someone you care about is struggling with Suboxone addiction, it’s vital to let your addiction treatment team know so they can adjust your treatment plan accordingly. The caring and knowledgeable team at Evoke Coconut Creek is available to help you understand your options and move toward long-term sobriety—whether or not Suboxone is part of your recommended addiction treatment plan.
Find Addiction Treatment in Florida at Evoke Coconut Creek
Several factors are at play when considering whether you should use MAT programs, such as those involving Suboxone, when treating addictions. To learn more about the benefits of Suboxone treatment and the dangers of Suboxone addiction, contact Evoke Coconut Creek today at 866.693.3871.
