Seeking Suboxone Addiction Treatment for a Loved One

Suboxone is a semi-synthetic opiate used in recovery treatment that has its own addictive qualities. When it comes to Suboxone and other addictions, family members and friends must often encourage their loved ones to seek help.

What Is Suboxone?

Suboxone helps taper opiate use while minimizing withdrawal symptoms. It produces a less euphoric sensation, making it easier to quit, and blocks the euphoric effects of other drugs. Despite its medical use, however, Suboxone is still an opiate and is often abused. Ironically, people take Suboxone for opposite reasons, some to get high or others to stop getting high, but both can lead to a serious, potentially fatal addiction. Your loved one might justify his or her actions by saying it’s a milder opiate or that it helped kick a heroin habit, but that does not mean Suboxone addiction is not present.

Signs of a Suboxone Addiction

An obvious sign of Suboxone addiction is a person’s preoccupation with obtaining the drug, especially if it’s being secured outside a doctor’s supervision. If the person misses a dose or is without the drug temporarily, you can also watch for withdrawal signs, which can include the following:

• Abnormal skin sensations
• Sweating
• Rapid heartbeat
• Rigid muscles
• Insomnia
• Diarrhea, vomiting and nausea
• Headaches
• Cold or flu symptoms
• Restless leg syndrome
• Shivering
• Tremors
• Anxiety
• Mood swings
• Loss of appetite

In addition to identifying withdrawal symptoms, it’s important to monitor your loved one for signs of overdose, which include the following:

• Loss of consciousness
• Fainting
• Shallow breathing
• Extreme weakness
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Clammy skin
• Tiny pupils
• Seizures

Intervention for Suboxone Addiction

Interventions can be an important tool in getting your loved one the Suboxone addiction treatment they need. Professional guidance during the intervention process is important, because the family needs to make changes as a unit to help the loved one successfully recover. Once the person agrees to seek treatment, there are many quality recovery options available, and you can help your loved one answer questions like the following:

• Should you enter an impatient facility or utilize a more flexible outpatient program?
• Would you benefit from a customized program that addresses specific needs, preferences or beliefs?
• Do you need medical assistance in dealing with withdrawal symptoms?
• How can we best address the psychological and behavioral aspects of the addiction?

Helping a Loved One with Suboxone Addiction

Many addicts need family and friends to prompt their recovery, and we’re here to help. Our caring staff is available 24 hours a day with information on identifying addiction, finding the right treatment and effectively approaching a loved one. Even if you simply suspect an addiction, don’t hesitate to call our toll-free number. We are here for you and your loved one.