Written and medically reviewed by Dorcas Morak, Pharm.D
Suboxone is a prescription medication commonly used to treat opioid addiction. It contains two active ingredients: buprenorphine, a partial opioid agonist, and naloxone, an opioid antagonist. Buprenorphine helps reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings by partially activating opioid receptors in the brain, while naloxone blocks the euphoric effects of opioids, discouraging misuse. Suboxone is a controlled substance and should be used strictly under medical supervision to avoid the risks of addiction, overdose, or death.
How Suboxone Works
Suboxone combines buprenorphine and naloxone to effectively manage opioid addiction:
- Buprenorphine: This partial opioid agonist attaches to the same receptors in the brain that opioids do, but it activates them less intensely. This reduces withdrawal symptoms and cravings without producing the same high as full opioids, helping to stabilize patients.
- Naloxone: This opioid antagonist blocks the effects of opioids at the receptor sites. When taken as prescribed, naloxone has minimal effect. However, if Suboxone is misused (e.g., injected), naloxone will precipitate withdrawal symptoms, discouraging misuse.
Is There a Generic Version of Suboxone?
Yes, a generic version of Suboxone, called buprenorphine HCl-naloxone HCl, is available, and is significantly more affordable. Patients should consult their healthcare provider or pharmacist to see if the generic version suits their treatment plan. Suboxone and its generics are available at discounted rates through the programs on RxLess.
Are There Alternatives to Suboxone?
Alternatives to Suboxone for treating opioid use disorder include:
- Dolophine (Methadone Oral tablets)
- Sublocade (Buprenorphine Subcutaneous injection)
- Probuphine (Buprenorphine Implant)
- Bunavail (Buprenorphine and Naloxone Sublingual film)
- Lucemyra (Lofexidine Oral tablets)
- Vivitrol (Naltrexone Intramuscular injection)
For opioid overdose emergencies, naloxone is available as a nasal spray (Narcan, Kloxxado) or injection. Buprenorphine is also used for severe pain management in forms like Buprenex (IM Injection), Belbuca (Sublingual Film), and Butrans (Transdermal Patch).
What Doses of Suboxone Are Available?
Suboxone is available in several dosages, tailored to meet the needs of individuals undergoing treatment for opioid dependence. The available dosages are:
Suboxone Sublingual Film:
- 2 mg buprenorphine / 0.5 mg naloxone
- 4 mg buprenorphine / 1 mg naloxone
- 8 mg buprenorphine / 2 mg naloxone
- 12 mg buprenorphine / 3 mg naloxone
Suboxone Sublingual Tablets (less commonly used but available in similar dosages):
- 2 mg buprenorphine / 0.5 mg naloxone
- 8 mg buprenorphine / 2 mg naloxone
These dosages allow healthcare providers to customize the treatment based on the patient's specific needs, including the severity of opioid dependence and response to treatment
Who Should Not Take Suboxone?
Suboxone is not suitable for everyone. Those who should avoid taking Suboxone include:
- Individuals with severe liver impairment.
- People allergic to buprenorphine, naloxone, or any other ingredients in Suboxone.
- Patients with respiratory issues or severe breathing problems.
- Individuals currently using other opioid medications without medical supervision. Always consult a healthcare provider to determine if Suboxone is appropriate for you, especially if you have other medical conditions or are taking other medications.
How to Take Suboxone
Proper administration of Suboxone is crucial for its effectiveness:
- Sublingual Tablets and Films: Place the tablet or film under your tongue and allow it to dissolve completely. Do not swallow, chew, or crush it.
- Dry Hands: Handle the medication with dry hands to avoid compromising the film or tablet.
- Consistent Timing: Take Suboxone at the same time each day to maintain stable levels in your bloodstream.
- Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double up doses to make up for a missed one.
What Are the Side Effects of Suboxone?
Suboxone has several potential side effects. Respiratory depression is a significant risk, so you should avoid alcohol and drowsiness-causing medications while taking Suboxone. Refrain from driving or operating heavy machinery during the first month until you know how Suboxone affects you. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience weakness, confusion, or fainting.
Other side effects include possible liver issues and low cortisol levels, which require regular blood tests. Common opioid withdrawal symptoms, such as shivering, sweating, runny nose, watery eyes, diarrhea, and muscle aches, may also occur.
How Much Does Suboxone Cost?
The retail price of Suboxone can cost as much as $600 for a 30-day supply. Using a free RxLess savings card can significantly reduce the cost, with generic prices potentially as low as $34.50 for buprenorphine / naloxone 8 mg-2 mg (14 medicated films) . RxLess coupons can save up to 88% at partnered pharmacies like CVS, Rite Aid, and Walgreens.
Does Medicare Cover Suboxone, and How Much Does It Cost?
Most Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance plans cover Suboxone, although coverage might require participation in drug addiction counseling programs. Even if patients qualify for Medicare, they can still enroll in the RxLess Assurance Plan by downloading our free app, to find the best discount on their prescription.
