Seeking help for opioid dependence is a courageous step towards a healthier, happier future. With over 15 years of experience, our team at the ARC Recovery Center in Huntsville, North Alabama, can provide you with the support and treatment you or your loved one needs. In this article, we’ll explain what the addiction recovery medication ‘Suboxone’ is, and how we use it at our addiction treatment center to help patients on their journey to a drug-free future.
What is Suboxone?
Suboxone is a prescription medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug
Administration (FDA) to treat opioid dependence. It lessens withdrawal symptoms and
cravings, allowing patients to focus on their recovery.
Suboxone contains two active ingredients:
Buprenorphine
Buprenorphine eases opioid withdrawal symptoms and cravings without producing the intense high associated with full opioids. It binds to the same receptors in the brain, reducing the urge to use opioids.
Naloxone
Added to deter misuse of Suboxone, Naloxone can trigger withdrawal symptoms if Suboxone is abused. It discourages improper use and promotes the medication’s safe and effective administration.
How Do We Use Suboxone for Recovery At ARC Healthcare?
At our clinic, we prioritize a patient-centered approach, addressing addiction’s physical and psychological aspects. Here’s an example of how we might incorporate Suboxone into a patient’s unique comprehensive treatment plan:
Initial Assessment
Your journey begins with a thorough assessment by our medical professionals. We’ll discuss your medical history, addiction history, and overall health to determine if Suboxone is right for you.
Personalized Treatment Plan
We understand that each patient is different, so your treatment plan will be tailored to your specific needs and goals. Our compassionate team will work with you to create a plan that takes into account your life circumstances and supports your recovery.
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
If Suboxone is prescribed for you as part of MAT, our medical staff will carefully monitor your progress. We use Suboxone to help you overcome the challenge of cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making it easier for you to maintain your sobriety.
Is Suboxone Effective for Opioid Addiction?
In a word, yes.
Numerous studies and clinical trials have been conducted to assess the effectiveness of Suboxone as an opioid addiction treatment. Suboxone is considered one of the gold standard medications for opioid use disorder (OUD) treatment.
Here are some key findings from these studies, along with references to reliable sources where you can look them up, if you want to:
Reduction in Opioid Use
Suboxone has been shown to significantly reduce opioid use, including that of heroin and prescription painkillers, among individuals with OUD. Patients on Suboxone experience fewer cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making it easier for them to discontinue opioid use.
Source: “Buprenorphine Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder: An Overview.” - Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
Improvement in Retention in Treatment
Studies have demonstrated that individuals receiving Suboxone treatment are more likely to stay in treatment programs compared to those using non-medication-based approaches. This increased retention contributes to better treatment outcomes.
Source: “Buprenorphine Treatment in Community Settings: Are There Gender Differences in Client Characteristics and Treatment Outcomes?” - National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Reduction in Risk of Overdose and Mortality
Suboxone treatment is associated with a significant reduction in the risk of overdose and mortality among individuals with OUD. This medication’s safety profile and effectiveness in reducing opioid use play a crucial role in saving lives.
Source: “Buprenorphine/naloxone and methadone for the treatment of opioid dependence: the VA TIP study: a randomized controlled trial.” - JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association)
Improvement in Social Functioning and Quality of Life
Suboxone treatment has been linked to improvements in patients’ overall social functioning, employment prospects, and quality of life. It helps individuals regain stability in their personal and professional lives.
Source: “The impact of buprenorphine taper on treatment outcomes for prescription opioid abusers.” - The American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse
Reduction in Illegal Activity
Studies have shown that Suboxone treatment is associated with a decrease in illicit activity and involvement with the legal system among individuals with OUD. This is beneficial for patients and their communities.
Source: “Buprenorphine versus methadone maintenance for the treatment of opioid dependence: a randomized clinical trial.” - JAMA Psychiatry
A Brighter Tomorrow
Recovery is a journey, and ARC Recovery Center is a committed partner on your path to wellness. Our Huntsville Suboxone clinic provides compassionate and evidence-based care. We understand that asking for help can be daunting, but recovery is possible, and a brighter future awaits. If you or a loved one is struggling with opioid dependence, we hope you won’t hesitate to contact us.
Comments