The Progression of Suboxone Addiction

Suboxone is a synthetic opiate that is used as a replacement drug to help people addicted to opiates like heroin, opium and morphine. It is functionally similar to methadone but preferred by some doctors because it can be administered in a doctor’s office instead of a specialized clinic and offers various other treatment advantages. Suboxone satisfies the brain’s need for opiates without the intense euphoria associated with these other substances. Unfortunately, Suboxone itself is addictive, and some addicts are simply trading an illegal addiction for a legal one.

The Development of Suboxone Addiction

A person seeking help with their opiate addiction sees their doctor and gets a prescription for Suboxone. The drug has the desired effect of allowing the addict to stop taking their previous opiate of choice, and their hopes for a drug-free future are raised. Unfortunately, when they try to wean themselves off of Suboxone, they face the same harsh withdrawal symptoms that they did when they tried to quit oxycodone. Opiate withdrawal symptoms include the following:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever, chills and flu-like symptoms
• Diarrhea
• Intense cravings and anxiety
• Sleeplessness
• Muscle, joint and bone pain
• Nightmares
• Depression
• Suicidal thoughts or actions

The onset of these symptoms may trigger feelings of hopelessness or even a desire to return to the original opiate they were trying to quit. Some people will resort to mixing drugs or will overdose. In some cases people have come across Suboxone on the street and have started taking it as a recreational drug. This type of use allows Suboxone to act as a gateway drug that leads people to try stronger opiates.

Help for Suboxone Addiction Recovery

Getting clean from Suboxone is like getting clean from any opiate. There are both physical and psychological components to the addiction that will require help for long-term recovery. Specially trained experts can help with both the detox process and long-term rehabilitation. Medical supervision during detox can help relieve certain withdrawal symptoms without using addictive substances and trading one dependency for another. Dual Diagnosis treatment can identify any underlying or co-occurring disorders that may be exacerbating the addiction problem as well. Then, a holistic and integrated approach to rehabilitation will help the patient conquer their psychological or emotional addiction to Suboxone. The most successful rehab centers will offer the following programs:

• Group and individual counseling
• Empowering education
• 12-step programs
• Spiritual and emotional care
• Healthy food and activities
• Practical preparation for life after treatment

Find the Right Help for Suboxone Addiction Today

If you or someone you know is struggling with Suboxone, call our toll-free helpline today. We are available 24 hours a day to help you find the recovery resources you need. You have nothing to lose but your Suboxone addiction. Make the call today!