Suboxone, the brand name for buprenorphine, is a proven, evidence-based prescription drug used to treat both illegal and prescription opioid addiction. Suboxone is also available under the generic name Buprenorphine-Naxolone. Mission Addiction Treatment can prescribe either Suboxone or the generic Buprenorphine-Naxolone.
Suboxone has become known as the gold standard for opioid use disorder (OUD) medication since its approval by the FDA in 2002 and release to market in 2003. Other highlights for Suboxone include being added to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) List of Essential Medicines due to its 70-80% reduction in overdose deaths among patients.
Suboxone is 1 of 3 medicines approved by the FDA for treating opioid addiction (Methadone and Naltrexone are the others). It is a medication that helps treat opioid addiction and minimize cravings by using a combination of Buprenorphine and Naloxone.
Suboxone works by partially binding to the opioid receptor sites in the brain – a process very similar to how traditional opioids affect the brain.
The combination of Buprenorphine and Naloxone is used for several reasons. Buprenorphine simulates some of a traditional opioid’s effects to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Naloxone is present to prevent misuse or abuse of the drug. The net effect is that you feel physically healthy and remain clear-headed all day long.
Start your recovery >>Suboxone typically comes as an oral film that you place under your tongue, or as a buccal film that you put between your cheek and your gums. The film dissolves easily in your mouth and should not be chewed or swallowed. Suboxone can also be prescribed in pill form.
Suboxone can currently be prescribed by licensed medical providers in any treatment setting and is available at most local pharmacies.
