Suboxone
Generic Name: Buprenorphine
What is Suboxone?
Suboxone is a narcotic medication used to treat opioid dependence. Suboxone is a federally controlled narcotic with potential for abuse.What is the most important information I should know about Suboxone?
It can be dangerous to mix Suboxone with drugs like alcohol, benzodiazepines, sleeping pills and other tranquilizers, certain antidepressants, or other opioid medications, especially when not under the care of a doctor or in doses different from those prescribed by your doctor. Mixing these drugs can lead to drowsiness, sedation, unconsciousness, and death, especially if injected. It is important to let your doctor know about all medications and substances you are taking. Your doctor can provide guidance if any of these medications are prescribed for the treatment of other medical conditions you may have.Suboxone has potential for abuse and can produce dependence.
Suboxone can cause drowsiness and slow reaction times. This may occur more often in the first few weeks of treatment or when your dose is being changed, but can also occur if you drink alcohol or take other sedative drugs when you are taking Suboxone. Use caution when driving cars or operating machinery.
Suboxone can cause your blood pressure to drop, making you feel dizzy if you get up too fast from sitting or lying down.
Follow up with your doctor regularly for blood tests to monitor your liver before and during treatment with Suboxone.
Who should not take Suboxone?
Do not take Suboxone if you are allergic to any of its ingredients.What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Suboxone?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Suboxone. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have Addison's disease (adrenal gland failure), a history of drug or alcohol addiction, head injury, hepatitis or other liver problems, kidney problems, lung disease, problems with your prostate, or thyroid problems.What is the usual dosage?
The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.Adults: The usual dose is 12-16 milligrams (mg) per day placed under the tongue.
How should I take Suboxone?
Place the prescribed number of tablets under the tongue until they are dissolved. You may place all the tablets at once or alternatively.What should I avoid while taking Suboxone?
Avoid alcohol, anti-anxiety medications such as benzodiazepines, other opioid narcotics, general anesthetics, sedative or hypnotic medications, other tranquilizers and depressants.Avoid driving or other potentially hazardous tasks until you know how Suboxone will affect you.
What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Suboxone?
If Suboxone is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Suboxone with the following: alcohol; antifungals (such as ketoconazole); benzodiazepines; HIV medications (such as ritonavir, indinavir, and saquinavir); antibiotics (such as erythromycin).What are the possible side effects of Suboxone?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.Side effects may include: constipation, headache, nausea, pain in the stomach, sweating, vomiting
Stop taking Suboxone immediately and call your doctor if you have: darker urine, difficulty breathing, low blood pressure, pinpoint pupils, sedation, yellowing of the skin or white parts of the eyes
Can I receive Suboxone if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
The effects of Suboxone during pregnancy are unknown, and it will pass into breast milk. Talk to your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What should I do if I miss a dose of Suboxone?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and return to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once.How should I store Suboxone?
Store at room temperature.
I'm Kristen Dore, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
