Symptoms And Timeline Of Suboxone Withdrawal

Long-term use of buprenorphine/naloxone (Suboxone) is usually most effective. According to studies, more than half of buprenorphine users revert to illicit opiate use within one month after stopping therapy.

12/21/20222 min read

"How long should I take it?" and "How long should I take it?" are two of the most often asked questions about drugs. "What happens if I don't take it?" and "What happens if I don't take it?"

Long-term use of buprenorphine/naloxone (Suboxone) is usually most effective. According to studies, more than half of buprenorphine users revert to illicit opiate use within one month after stopping therapy. We normally recommend that patients take buprenorphine/naloxone (Suboxone) on a long-term basis since relapse rates for opiate usage are significantly greater after people taper off than for persons who take it long-term. Of course, this is a personal choice, and your provider will work with you to develop the best personalized plan for you. It's crucial to understand what happens if you stop using buprenorphine/naloxone (Suboxone).

What are the signs and symptoms of Suboxone withdrawal?

Other treatments, like as methadone, have more severe withdrawal symptoms than buprenorphine/naloxone (Suboxone). Suboxone withdrawal symptoms are usually less severe than full opioid withdrawal symptoms since buprenorphine/naloxone (Suboxone) is a partial opioid agonist (e.g., oxycodone, heroin, fentanyl).

The following are some of the signs and symptoms of Suboxone withdrawal:

  • Nausea

  • Headache

  • Anxiety

  • Irritability

  • Insomnia

  • Muscle pain

  • Sweating

  • Diarrhea

  • Cravings for drugs

Suboxone withdrawal timetable - How long does it take to get off Suboxone?

Suboxone withdrawal symptoms can be reduced if buprenorphine/naloxone (Suboxone) is tapered down gradually rather than abruptly stopped. It's best to taper off for at least 4-12 weeks. There are lower relapse rates with a 4-12 week Suboxone taper, and individuals usually experience mild and gradually reducing withdrawal symptoms. We normally do not recommend quitting buprenorphine/naloxone (Suboxone) because relapse rates are higher when people stop taking it, but every person and every case is different, so we encourage you to discuss with your provider as you develop your treatment plan together. It's crucial to note that buprenorphine/naloxone (Suboxone) is a very effective treatment for most people who want to stop using opioids. It's also regarded as a long-term therapeutic option that's considered safe. ‍

Suboxone withdrawal symptoms: how to deal with them

There are various strategies to assist lessen Suboxone withdrawal symptoms for those who choose to taper off buprenorphine/naloxone (Suboxone). Exercising and taking hot showers are two non-prescription options. Ibuprofen and naproxen are NSAIDs that can aid with headaches and muscle aches. Clonidine can aid with anxiety, irritability, perspiration, and a runny nose, while hydroxyzine (Atarax) can help with sleeplessness and anxiety. Tizanidine (Zanaflex) is a drug that helps to relieve muscle spasms. Ondansetron (Zofran) reduces nausea and vomiting symptoms. Loperamide (Imodium) is an anti-diarrhea medication. Bentyl is a medication that assists with gastrointestinal (GI) problems, particularly abdominal cramps.