Suboxone treats patients addicted to opioid medications, such as morphine, codeine and heroin. According to Drugs.com, an online drug resource, Suboxone is classified as a narcotic analgesic combination medication. This medication consists of a blend of buprenorphine, an opioid drug and naloxone, an antidote for opioid overdose. Suboxone is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Important Facts
Patients taking Suboxone should follow the instructions of the prescribing health care provider closely. According to Drugs.com, an overdose of this medication can lead to death. Stopping this medication too quickly can cause withdrawal symptoms. Patients should avoid activities, such as driving, if this medication causes drowsiness. Alcoholic beverages, antidepressant medication, antihistamines, pain relievers, anti-anxiety medication and muscle relaxants can increase the chance dizziness or drowsiness. Notify the health care provider before taking any other medications including prescription and over-the-counter products. Pregnant and breast-feeding women should not take Suboxone.
Side Effects
According to Drugs.com, notify emergency medical immediately if any of the following life-threatening side effects occur: allergic reaction such as hives, difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, lips or tongue; decrease in respirations, confusion or yellowing of the eyes or skin. Other side effects of Suboxone include headache, stomach or generalized pain, sleeping difficulties, nausea, sweating and constipation.
Administration
A daily dose of Suboxone usually consists of 12mg or 16mg. This medication should be placed under the tongue and allowed to completely dissolve. Patients should not chew or swallow Suboxone. It will take time for an adequate amount of this medication to get into the bloodstream. RxList reports that during this induction period the dose of Suboxone may be increased or decreased depending how the patient tolerates the medication. The primary goal of administrating this medication is to prevent patients from experiencing withdrawal symptoms.
Contraindications
Certain health conditions may prevent some people from taking Suboxone. Drugs.com warns patients to notify a health care provider if any of the following problems exist: lung, brain, liver, gallbladder, kidney, thyroid, bladder, prostate or psychological. Taking other medications along with Suboxone can alter the intended effects of both drugs. Medications known to interfere with Suboxone treatment include benzodiazepines, certain antibiotics, antifungals, rifamycin derivatives and antiseizure medications, such as phenytoin, carbamazepine and Phenobarbital.
Availability
This medication comes in 2mg buprenorphine/0.5mg naloxone and 8mg buprenorphne/2mg naloxone tablets. RxList reports Suboxone requires a prescription from a health care provider meeting specific criteria set by the Drug Addiction Treatment Act of 2000.
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