Drug abuse is a problem of prescription medications, especially opiates and opioids. When people get medical detox for opioid addiction, the detox center might prescribe Suboxone to relieve withdrawal symptoms. However, this medication also has a potential for abuse. Those who develop a problem could end up needing treatment for their Suboxone withdrawal.

About Suboxone

Faceless man against wall going through Suboxone withdrawalAs an opioid addiction treatment, Suboxone can reverse the side effects that short-acting opioids cause. The two ingredients in this drug brand, buprenorphine, and naloxone, work together. The naloxone works more to reverse opioid effects on the body.

The buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist that blocks opioid receptors in the body and reduces cravings. The receptors control feelings of pain, pleasure, and respiration. By blocking these receptors, buprenorphine can prevent or at least minimize withdrawal symptoms. It also prevents opioids from binding to these receptors so that the body can’t feel the effects of opioids.

However, people don’t have to visit a detox center to receive Suboxone treatment for opioid addiction. Their primary doctors can write them prescriptions. The problem with that, though, is that Suboxone has a potential for abuse.

Without proper supervision, those who abuse the drug can develop dependence and addiction. When they try to stop using it, they experience Suboxone withdrawal. It’s most likely to happen to those who have a history of abusing narcotics. However, those who don’t understand the possible side effects are also at risk.

Suboxone Withdrawal Symptoms

The withdrawal symptoms that people experience because of Suboxone abuse depend on a few factors. Their dose, frequency of use, the method of use and duration of abuse are several examples.

Pretty much everyone who suffers from withdrawal has cravings for more of the drug. Constipation, dizziness, body aches, flu-like effects, headaches, sleep problems, nausea, sweating and mood swings are common symptoms. A lot of people have low energy, irritability, diarrhea, anxiety, and depression too. Some severe withdrawal effects include:

  • Dark urine
  • Light stools
  • Yellow skin
  • Yellowing of the eyes

The onset and duration of Suboxone withdrawal also differ from person to person. On average, however, the symptoms begin within 12 hours after quitting. They intensify and other symptoms manifest over the following two or three days. After they reach a peak, the symptoms subside by the end of a week.

However, some people experience withdrawal effects for several months longer. These post-acute symptoms include anxiety, fatigue, mental fog, and insomnia. Intense cravings can continue for years.

Complications That Could Occur

Although the symptoms themselves don’t pose a threat during withdrawal, potential complications do. There’s no way for people to predict whether or not they will suffer complications. Because of that, getting medical detox is vital for their safety.

Severe depression is an issue that can lead to suicidal behavior and thoughts. Diarrhea and vomiting can cause dehydration from fluid loss. Dehydration can lead to kidney problems if people don’t get treatment. Vomiting can also cause choking and lung infections if the stomach matter gets into the air passage.

Also, relapse is a common complication during Suboxone withdrawal. Without a medical detox program, the cravings that people experience often get the best of them. They may also give in to relieve other symptoms. However, relapse can lead to overdose, which can be fatal.

How to Get Through Withdrawal

The best tip for getting through withdrawal is to enroll in medical detox. The doctors and nurses at a detox center can administer medicines that relieve the symptoms. Because of that, people are much less likely to relapse. Proper detox also builds a strong foundation for therapy in rehab afterward.

Get Help for Suboxone Withdrawal Symptoms at Serenity House Detox & Recovery

If you’re ready to enroll in a detox program for Suboxone abuse, Serenity House Detox & Recovery can help. We have two detox centers in Florida that provide safe and welcoming atmospheres for drug treatment. During your initial visit, we’ll assess your addiction and medical histories to create a treatment plan.

Serenity House Detox & Recovery offers a range of addiction programs so that we can provide care that meets your needs. We also use several traditional and holistic therapy methods to help you through detox. Some examples include:

Don’t risk complications by trying to detox on your own. Get Suboxone withdrawal treatment at Serenity House Detox & Recovery now. Dial 866-294-5306 for more information about how to live a drug-free life.