Suboxone Abuse : Withdrawal

Posted by Son Parkhill on August 3rd, 2021

If you are a Suboxone patient currently receiving treatment, it is important to be aware of the potential dangers of Suboxone withdrawal. While Suboxone is used primarily as an opioid replacement therapy for heroin addicts, it has also been used to effectively curb substance addictions such as prescription drug addiction, cocaine addiction, and marijuana addiction. Suboxone, which acts as an opioid receptor blocker, is usually prescribed as an outpatient medication due to its fast action and lack of addiction associated with long term use. In most cases, the withdrawal signs of Suboxone are mild and moderate and subside within days of cessation of treatment.

Signs of Withdrawal There are several symptoms of suboxone withdrawal that should be aware of. The most notable physical symptom is muscle ache. This is particularly common in the thighs, but can spread to the buttocks and stomach area. You may also notice increased appetite loss, weight loss, insomnia, restlessness, cold flashes, nausea, and vomiting. These are the most severe side effects of this drug and can lead to a significant decline in the patient's confidence level. In some cases, patients may experience tremors, seizures, hallucinations, agitation, and heart palpitations.

In addition to the above mentioned symptoms, people may also develop severe anxiety, panic attacks, and depression. Although these feelings are typically associated with substance abuse and not medication dependence, anyone experiencing them should consult their doctor to rule out possible substance abuse. If a medical evaluation shows a drug or alcohol dependency, then these should be treated through the proper channels.

Psychological Treatments When symptoms of suboxone withdrawal are treated correctly, patients are able to manage them appropriately. One of the best ways to manage them is through the use of psychological treatments. Many people find comfort in discussing their issues with support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous. In addition to therapy sessions, you may want to consider joining local groups and/or online forums to discuss your feelings and obtain additional support.

Behavioral Therapy Behavioral therapies treat suboxone withdrawal by helping patients identify triggers, which in turn help them avoid the situations that result in feelings of anxiety. The American Journal of Drug Treatment reports that this therapy is most effective for people with long-term substance abuse issues. Antidepressant medications and anti-anxiety medications are also effective for combating these symptoms. Medications are given only after the appropriate psychological treatments have been identified. However, if you are struggling with an addiction, you should definitely contact your doctor or mental health professional before stopping your medications.

The American Journal of Drug Treatment reports that tapering typically occurs in four to seven days, though people may experience longer than usual withdrawal symptoms. This is usually a normal part of any detox process. If you begin to notice symptoms that may seem like Tapering, call your doctor immediately. It is important to stay active during the detox period, as the faster you begin to detox, the faster your body will begin to heal. People may experience feelings of fatigue, anxiety, cravings, difficulty sleeping, headaches, moodiness, restlessness and difficulty concentrating during the tapering stage.