Those addicted to prescription medications may be prescribed another medication to help overcome dependency. Suboxone is one such medication that can be beneficial for those who are attempting to lead a drug free life. Many are not aware that Suboxone is a narcotic and can be habit forming as well. Addiction to this medication is gradual and many do not recognize a problem until it is too late. Addiction to this or any medication is risky due to possible overdose and loss of life. Help comes in many forms, and those who discover a problem should not hesitate to seek help.
Suboxone is an FDA approved medication and has been since 2002. It is used to treat addiction by combining the two meds buprenorphine and naloxone. These two medications work by delivering a mild euphoric feeling and deterring abuse by causing extreme withdrawal symptoms if taken improperly. Those who take this medication long term are exposed to the risk of addiction because it is a narcotic. Most who become addicted to Suboxone take it in a fashion that is not prescribed by a doctor.
Opioids are pain medications prescribed to control mild to severe pain from injuries and sickness. Hydrocodone and oxycontin are powerful narcotics and dependency is a risk. Pain can be excruciating and disruptive to life, so many take too much pain medication and develop a dependency issue. Suboxone is often prescribed because of its ability to give a mild euphoria while the patient slowly detoxifies. The problem occurs when one addiction replaces another and Suboxone is taken improperly and with other medications like sleep aids or alcohol.
Symptoms of Suboxone addiction are similar to the symptoms of opioid addiction. Feelings of dizziness and tremors or shakes are apparent when the medication is not present in the system. It is often when this medication is ceased that the problem is discovered. Withdrawal often means sleeping difficulty, nausea and vomiting, pain and cravings for the drug. Overdose is a very real possibility, especially if not taken properly. Overdose symptoms include passing out, body weakness, hypotension, shortness of breath and possible coma. These are life-threatening side effects of an overdose that require immediate medical attention. Treatment is offered for addiction to Suboxone in many forms.
Treatment starts with detoxification. This process erases the drugs from the body's receptors and decreases the need or cravings for the drug in question. Not taking Suboxone of course eliminates the risk for addiction, but this is not a preferred option for most. Since Suboxone has helped many overcome dependency many opt to take it even if aware of a possible dependency issue. Detoxification is a part of the healing process and something every addict must endure, but there are several ways to make this tolerable.
Detoxification can be slowly or by complete cessation of medication. Both are effective, but slow detoxification with the aid of medications is preferable because it offers the best chance for success. Quick detox means possibly severe withdrawal symptoms, and this can mean failure for some. For many, withdrawal symptoms are too much to deal with, so they quit before detox is complete. Slow detox affords the opportunity to receive medications that aid in the recovery process. Medications to reduce symptoms of pain, nausea, sleeping difficulties and anxiety can be given if needed. Some will opt for sedation while detoxing as this means skipping the most extreme withdrawal symptoms completely. Sedation is done by anesthesia medications, and the patient is put into a voluntary coma where they can sleep through nausea, pain and anxiety.
Follow-up care is important for recovery. This is crucial because it offers counseling and continuing help via medications to manage symptoms. Group therapy means speaking with a professional therapist or others who have an addiction problem. This offers support and the feeling of not being alone. Family therapy is an option, to include family member support and to help them understand and help in the healing process. Learning to avoid tempting situations and environments is a part of counseling. This teaches individuals to refrain from others who are still using drugs or areas where drugs may be purchased.
Recovery from Suboxone addiction is possible with the right help. While it may be difficult to accept that addiction to another drug has occurred, this should not keep anyone from seeking help. Addiction to this medication is dangerous for health and well-being, and may cause death. Help is available in the form of medication, therapy and the willingness to beat dependency. Suboxone was designed to help beat addiction, and if used the right way, it does just that, but for those who develop a dependency, there is help available. A doctor can help best determine the right treatment option for obtaining a drug free existence and ensuring success.