What is Suboxone?

Suboxone is a narcotic (e.g., also known as Buprenorphine and Naloxone) used for treating opioid dependency among patients that are addicted to narcotic substances such as Morphine, Heroine, and Codeine.  Suboxone is a partial rather than full opiate that blocks opiate receptors and produces a slightly less euphoric effect than other known opiates.  Nevertheless, Suboxone is highly addictive and can potentially cause death by overdose, so following the prescribed pattern of dosage is imperative in therapeutic situations.  Known to cause drowsiness, impair judgment, and interfere with other cognitive processes, Suboxone can also increase the strength of other drugs when taken in combination.  Since alcohol may increase feelings of sleepiness, it is not recommended to take Suboxone while consuming alcohol, driving, or operating machinery.  Suboxone should only be used if and when a patient is in full withdrawal from other opiates.

Major Side Effects

Major side effects experienced by people taking Suboxone include any number of allergic reactions that result in swelling of the face, lips or tongue, impaired breathing ability, inhibited swallowing reflex, pale yellowish coloring of the eyes and skin (e.g., jaundice condition), cloudy to dark urine, severe abdominal pain and cramping, continuous loss of appetite, dizziness, and disorientation.

Suboxone does not produce the same pain relief as Heroin, Methadone, Morphine and other opiates, but it is as addicting as any narcotic.  Ironically, although Suboxone is much weaker in terms of how it treats pain, it can actually increase the onset of pain for many people.  This reaction is a medical condition known as opioid-induced hyperalgesia.  As is common with opiate withdrawals, Suboxone can cause permanent liver damage if not treated.  Usage of this drug should be avoided completely if pregnant because it can directly impact the growth and health of the unborn fetus.

Suboxone will create severe withdrawal symptoms if usage is discontinued abruptly or prematurely.  For this reason, Suboxone must be carefully monitored by a physician or certified addiction specialist to ensure a safe withdrawal.

Minor Side Effects

Minor side effects from Suboxone include disruption of sleep patterns, joint and bone pain, headache, and increased perspiration.