Subutex vs. Suboxone: What’s the Difference?

If you or a loved one are struggling with opioid addiction, you may have heard of Subutex and Suboxone. Both medications are commonly used to treat opioid addiction and are similar in many ways as they are both partial opioid agonists. However, there are also some key differences between the two medications that you should be aware of. In this article, we will compare and contrast Subutex vs. Suboxone so that you can make an informed decision about which medication is right for you or your loved one.

What is the Difference Between Subutex and Suboxone?

The main difference between Subutex and Suboxone is that Subutex contains only the active ingredient buprenorphine while Suboxone also contains the active ingredient naloxone. Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist, while naloxone is an opioid antagonist. This enables Suboxone to provide a ceiling effect for opioid addiction treatment, which means that it has a limited potential for abuse.

So, what does this mean? A partial opioid agonist binds to the same receptors in the brain as opioids (such as heroin or prescription painkillers) but does not produce the same “high.” This can help to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. On the other hand, an opioid antagonist blocks the receptors in the brain that opioids bind to. This can help to prevent abuse as it will not produce the desired “high.”

Subutex is typically only used in the short-term (up to two weeks), while Suboxone is meant for long-term treatment. Subutex is also only available in tablet form, while Suboxone is available as a film that dissolves under the tongue. If you are considering Subutex vs. Suboxone for yourself or a loved one, be sure to speak with a doctor or addiction specialist to see which medication is right for you. For instance, consulting with a Suboxone doctor in Vero Beach will help you understand if Suboxone is a good fit as they will be able to answer any questions that you may have. This is similar for Subutex as well; you want to consult with a professional to see if it is the best medication for you.

In addition to this, it is important to note that both medications require a doctor’s prescription and must be taken as directed. They are not meant to be used as a “cure” for addiction but rather as a tool to help you on your journey to recovery. And if you feel any sort of negative side effects, be sure to speak with your doctor right away. You may also check out why is Suboxone making me feel worse and also about Subutex withdrawal symptoms to learn more. Understanding every detail of your medication is key to a successful recovery.

The Bottom Line

With the help of medication-assisted treatment, you can put your opioid addiction in the rearview mirror. So do not hesitate to seek out help if you are struggling. And remember, there is no shame in asking for help. You are not alone in this battle.