Trying to quit opioids like OxyContin or Vicodin can be terrifying and isolating, not to mention dangerous. The withdrawal symptoms that long-term opioid users often experience can be excruciatingly uncomfortable and life-threatening. Medication-assisted treatments help ease the discomfort of opioid withdrawal and provide a safe taper for people to detox. Subutex is a popular drug that recovery specialists use in substance abuse treatment programs to help people detox from opioids. However, this drug also carries the risk of abuse and addiction. Buprenorphine addiction treatment can help you overcome this addiction.
You don’t have to struggle with opioid addiction alone. The team at Northpoint Seattle knows the importance of a compassionate, judgment-free environment to start your recovery journey safely. Call us at 888.483.6031 today to learn more about our opioid addiction treatment program.
What Is Subutex?
Subutex, or buprenorphine hydrochloride, is a prescription medication used to treat opioid addiction and dependence. The drug is only available through licensed doctors who have received special certification from the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA).
This medication works by interacting with specific receptors in the brain responsible for relieving pain and creating a sense of pleasure. By binding to these receptors, Subutex can help to block the effects of other opioids and reduce cravings.
The drug can bind to the same receptors as more powerful opioids because it is an opioid itself. However, Subutex is a partial opioid agonist, which means it produces a weaker effect than drugs like heroin or OxyContin.
Side Effects of Subutex
Taking Subutex, even according to the prescription, can cause an allergic reaction. It is vital to recognize the signs of an allergic reaction since it can be a medical emergency. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include hives, facial or throat swelling, and difficulty breathing.
Subutex can cause several side effects, including:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Drowsiness
- Headache
- Dry mouth
- Sweating
- Mood changes
- Sleep problems
Risks of Buprenorphine Addiction
Buprenorphine is a drug that can be addictive if it’s not taken as prescribed by a doctor. The medication carries the risk of abuse, with some users reporting feelings of euphoria or intoxication after taking buprenorphine.
Once you develop an addiction to this drug, it can be hard to stop using it on your own. Buprenorphine addiction treatment often includes tapering off the drug under medical supervision, behavioral therapy, and other support services.
Signs of Buprenorphine Abuse
It’s essential to be aware of the signs of buprenorphine abuse. Abusing the drug can quickly trigger the cycle of addiction, especially in people using the medicine to taper off from other opioids.
Some common signs of buprenorphine abuse include:
- Taking the drug in ways other than prescribed (like snorting or injecting it)
- Struggling with withdrawal symptoms when trying to stop using the drug on your own
- Spending more time thinking about the drug and using it
- Developing cravings for opioids despite being sober
Buprenorphine Overdose
Buprenorphine abuse can quickly lead to an overdose. An opioid overdose occurs when the drug slows down your breathing to the point that it’s not enough to sustain life.
Signs of a buprenorphine overdose include:
- Extreme drowsiness
- Pinpoint pupils
- Cold, clammy skin
- Loss of consciousness
- Slow, irregular, or stopped breathing
If you suspect someone is overdosing on Subutex or any other opioid, call 911 right away.
Buprenorphine Addiction Treatment at Northpoint Seattle
If you or a loved one is struggling with an addiction to Subutex or any other opioid, we can help. At Northpoint Seattle, we offer comprehensive treatment for opioid addiction, including behavioral therapy, relapse prevention, and other support services.
Our programs include multiple levels so you can find the care you need to overcome your addiction and achieve your goals. These include:
- Outpatient program – Our outpatient program provides flexible treatment for those with busy lives. You’ll attend therapy sessions several days a week, but you can still work or go to school during the day. If you need continued addiction treatment but do not require an intense therapy regimen, this may be a good option.
- Intensive outpatient program (IOP) – Our IOP is designed for those who need a more intensive level of care. The program runs three to five days per week, with each session lasting three hours. Our IOP will provide you with the support and guidance you need to successfully overcome your addiction.
- Partial hospitalization program (PHP) – Our PHP is a comprehensive treatment program. You’ll attend five days of therapy each week, with each session lasting a few hours. Through our PHP, you’ll gain the skills and support to develop long-term recovery strategies and achieve lasting sobriety.
- Aftercare – After you complete our treatment program, we’ll provide you with aftercare resources. This may include ongoing therapy sessions and other support services to help you stay on track with your recovery goals.
Your success in sobriety is our primary goal. Working with our compassionate recovery specialists, you can develop a meaningful treatment plan that helps you reach your goals.
Contact us today at 888.483.6031 to learn more about our opioid addiction treatment program. We look forward to helping you overcome addiction and start living a happier, healthier life.