The Side Effects of Suboxone

The Side Effects of Suboxone
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Suboxone is a brand name in the United States for the generic drugs buprenorphine and naloxone used in combination. It is used in the treatment of withdrawal from opioids such as narcotic analgesics and heroin. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist, the National Institute of Health states, while buprenorphine is an opioid agonist-antagonist. Together, they work to help the addict get through withdrawal with minimum symptoms. However, some of the common side effects of Suboxone can be similar to withdrawal.

Abdominal Side Effects

The combination of buprenorphine and naloxone in Suboxone can affect your abdominal area in several ways. You may, for example, become constipated. You also may experience pain in your stomach from the drug. Suboxone can also cause nausea and vomiting. While all of these common side effects are unpleasant, they are not classified as serious, Drugs.com states. They should be temporary and go away as your Suboxone treatment continues. Tell your physician if they remain after a few days of Suboxone treatment.

Chills and Sweating

Like the withdrawal symptoms from stopping opioids, Suboxone also can cause overall body problems. You may, for example, suddenly become cold and experience the shaking of chills. Your body also may experience hot flashes or flushing. Your skin may get red along with the sensation of warmth and you may break out in a sweat. These are temporary and non-serious side effects in most people.

Sleep and Fatigue Side Effects

Taking Suboxone also may cause some other bodily problems when you first take it. You may feel dizzy or as if you are spinning. You also may get very drowsy, meaning you are more tired than usual and may have problems staying awake. Conversely, Suboxone can cause insomnia. It can make you feel weak and fatigued, also.

References

Article reviewed by demand25069 Last updated on: Mar 23, 2010

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