When you or someone you love is dealing with an addiction to an opiate/opioid, discontinuing its use may seem impossible. No one wants to go through the withdrawal symptoms that are experienced with discontinued use of the drug. However, there is hope. The medication Subutex is available to assist the body and decrease the withdrawal symptoms experienced, during the detoxification process. Subutex can be prescribed by a drug detox facility to help you or your loved one discontinue the use of an opiate/opioid.
Generally, withdrawal symptoms will begin within 24 to 48 hours following the last dose of the opiate/opioid drug. However, those battling chronic addictions may notice withdrawal symptoms much earlier. Withdrawal symptoms are extremely unpleasant, but must be endured to purge the body of the toxins from the substance that was abused. However, with a medical supervised detox, Subutex can be used to lessen the intensity of the withdrawal symptoms that are experienced.
What Subutex is
Subutex is one of the brand names for Buprenorphine, which is an opioid medication. This drug is primarily used to treat an individual who is addicted to or dependent upon an opiate/opioid. Subutex is akin to heroin, morphine or codeine. Subutex is used in combination with narcotic addiction treatment and recovery programs. It is classified as an opioid agonist or partial opiate.
How it Works
Subutex attaches itself to the brain or central nervous system’s receptors, which prevents or alleviates an individual’s withdrawal symptoms during the detoxification stage of his treatment. Subutex is utilized in the treatment of particular narcotics or medication addictions. These addictions include:
- Morphine
- Heroin
- Oxycodone
- Hydrocodone
Subutex as a Recreational Drug
Although there are numerous benefits for those taking Subutex in an attempt to overcome opioid abuse, dependency or addiction, the drug itself is sometimes abused. Subutex is commonly used by recreational drug users.
What to Ask the Physician
When a physician prescribes Subutex for opioid/opiate dependency or addiction, prior to taking Subutex, various things will need to be discussed concerning the following issues:
- Is pregnancy, breast-feeding or becoming pregnant a concern?
- Inform the physician of any OTC medications or herbal products being taken to ensure there are no interactions to contend with.
- Inform the physician of any recent traumas, head injuries, increased pressure on the brain, tumors or a muscle condition like myasthenia gravis.
- The physician needs to know about all previous addiction issues, drug or alcohol abuse and mood or mental problems.
- Inform the physician of any medicine or food allergies.
Current and Past Medical History Need to be Considered, Especially Concerning any of the Following Conditions:
- Bladder or urethra blockage
- Trouble urinating
- Enlarged prostate gland
- Underactive thyroid
- Adrenal gland problems
- Liver or kidney problems
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Problems with blood or electrolytes
- Stomach or gallbladder issues
Subutex May Adversely Interact with Other Medications
If an individual is currently taking any kind of medication, the physician needs to be informed.
Medications that may increase the risk of seizures, severe drowsiness and severe breathing problems:
- Benzodiazepines
- Sodium oxybate (GHB)
- Cimetidine
- Phenothiazines
- Narcotic pain relievers
Medications that increase the side effects of Subutex:
- Azole anti-fungals
- Macrolide antibiotics
- HIV protease inhibitors
Subutex may decrease the effectiveness of naltrexone, methadone and rifampin.
Important Information and Warnings
Using Subutex improperly is dangerous and can cause death. Even those not taking narcotic substances can experience serious side effects. For this reason, following the physician’s order is mandatory.
Do not drink alcoholic beverages while taking Subutex, as this will increase several side effects that are commonly experienced. An overdose of Subutex, while consuming alcohol, can be fatal. When initially stopping the use of Subutex, there may be noticeable withdrawal symptoms.
With help from a reputable drug detox facility, discontinuing the use of opiates/opioids, without suffering horrendous withdrawal symptoms, is possible.
Contact Blue Water Detox Center Today
If you or someone you care for is currently caught up in the destructive grip of addiction, please seek help with Blue Water Detox. We are an addiction treatment provider that understands the struggle. We know the suffering of the addict and the heartache of the families involved.
Call us today at the toll free number at the top of the page. If you are fearful of voicing the problem, please simply fill out our form. Any measure of contact is a step in the right direction.
