What is Suboxone withdrawal?
Suboxone is a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone. It is used to treat opioid addiction but sometimes people may get addicted to it. In cases when the drug is taken in quantities more than those that have been prescribed or frequent use can cause an addiction. The addiction makes the body dependent on it and the body is unable to cope when suddenly getting off suboxone. This causes the body to react in a particular way known as suboxone withdrawal.
Suboxone Withdrawal Symptoms or Side Effects
- Nausea and vomiting
- Muscle pain
- Lethargy
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Problems in concentration
- Sweating
- Fever
- Chills
- Problems in digestion
- Depression
- Irritation
- Anger
- Craving
Assessment
Assessment should be done by keeping a track on the following conditions:
- Patient’s medical history
- Dosage, frequency & impact of the drug
- Behavioral & mental disorders
- Underlying medical conditions
- Trauma
Treatment or Remedies
Based on the assessment, the doctor is able to decide about a treatment plan that is most effective for the patients according to their conditions. The plan is based on the available resources and length of time. Details of the individual should be observed in every case to ensure that correct assessment is made to allow correct treatment to be carried out.
- Personal therapy – Consulting a therapist personally for the withdrawal treatment as it allows direct interaction.
- Group therapy – Patients benefit from meeting others who are committed to give up their addiction.
- Holistic therapy – Therapies can be designed taking into account activities that the patient enjoys such as meditation, yoga, etc.
- Alternative therapies – Additional therapies can be included according to the area of requirement of the client so that they may be able to move out of their area of comfort and enjoy other experiences.
- Long term after care – The treatment must continue after rehabilitation too in the form of support and encouragement so that the person may be successful in maintaining sobriety.
Prevention
- Avoid suboxone entirely
- Only consume medicines that have been prescribed
- Medicines should be changed in case a pattern of dependence is observed
- Clearly state their medical background to help the doctor decipher a proper treatment plan
Suboxone Timeline
The process of detoxification of suboxone takes about a month. However, out of the entire process, the first 72 hours are the most crucial and painstaking period for the patient. Moreover, after the second week, the patient might start feeling depressed followed by cravings in the subsequent weeks.