Doctors: Is Your Patient Addicted to Suboxone?

Suboxone is a drug containing a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone that is often used to treat addiction to and withdrawal from other opiates. Suboxone is supposed to be easier to stop taking, as it is less potent than other opiates. However, users often become addicted. As a doctor who may be treating a patient for an initial addiction, it is important that you know the signs of addiction and some possible ways to deal with a patent who has developed a Suboxone addiction.

Physical Signs of Suboxone Addiction

When deciding if a patient has become addicted to Suboxone, it is important to know the difference between regular symptoms of Suboxone use and the signs of withdrawal which point to addiction. Regular side effects of Suboxone use can include the following:

• Headache
• Pain
• Problems sleeping
• Nausea
• Sweating
• Stomach pain
• Constipation

Withdrawal symptoms are a sign of dependence and occur when users miss a dose or attempt to end use. Suboxone withdrawal symptoms may include the following:

• Anxiety
• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Sneezing
• Runny nose
• Abnormal skin sensations
• Vomiting
• Rigid muscles
• Rapid heartbeat
• Shivering
• Tremors
• Insomnia

Behavioral and Psychological Signs of Suboxone Addiction

Observe your patient on an emotional, psychological and behavioral level. Patients who seem preoccupied with obtaining more Suboxone could be addicted. In particular, addicts may be insistent that they need more of the drug, because their current dose is not enough or is not working. While this behavior may be the result of a desire to “hoard” pills, it can also be true, as after tolerance develops users will need to take more Suboxone to achieve the same effects.

Because most Suboxone users are recovering from a previous opiate addiction, Suboxone addicts may exhibit a great anxiety about relapse. This concern can contribute to psychological dependence on Suboxone.

Talk to a Patient about Suboxone Addiction

If you believe that your patient has developed an addiction to Suboxone, it is important to approach them in the appropriate way. As a doctor, you have a unique opportunity to speak to a patient and explain the medical side of addiction. Have a calm and non-accusatory conversation with your patient and explain the signs of addiction you see and how your patient can get help.

Get Help for Suboxone Addiction

If your patient is addicted to Suboxone, you are in a unique position to help them. If you need assistance approaching your patient or would like to provide them with information about recovery and treatment, we can help. Call our 24 hour toll-free helpline and learn more about what you can do for your patients. Be a part of the recovery process.