As the opioid epidemic continues to affect millions of people throughout the nation, it has become more important than ever to find safe and effective ways of treating opioid addiction. One of these options is a medication called Subutex.
If you are struggling with an opioid use disorder, it is important to understand your treatment options. Subutex can be a helpful management tool when recovering from opioid addiction when used under the guidance of a doctor or other professional healthcare provider.
What Is Subutex?
Subutex is the brand name for the medication buprenorphine, a partial opioid agonist commonly used to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). Buprenorphine works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and blocking the effects of other opioids, such as heroin, oxycodone, and morphine.
This can not only help to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms but also decrease the risk of relapse for those in recovery, as they will not be able to experience a high when using other opioids while taking Subutex.
Subutex is typically taken sublingually, which means that it is placed under the tongue to dissolve. It can also be taken as a tablet or film and is typically prescribed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan alongside counseling and other support services.
As a Schedule III controlled substance, Subutex is only available through a valid medical prescription and cannot be purchased over-the-counter. It is also not recommended to acquire this medication through illicit sources or to use it recreationally.
While this medication is considered to be a safe and effective treatment for opioid addiction, it is important to remember that it is still an opioid and can be addictive. This is why Subutex should be taken only as prescribed by your doctor and to avoid taking it with other potentially harmful substances.
Who Offers Subutex Treatment?
While any doctor can prescribe Subutex, it is best to use this medication alongside other treatment forms when recovering from an opioid use disorder. If you are looking to receive comprehensive care that incorporates Subutex into your treatment, your best option will be to seek out a professional addiction treatment center.
Many addiction rehab programs will offer medication-assisted treatment to clients who are recovering from a substance use disorder involving opioids. As an effective and safer option for most medications, Subutex is a commonly used drug in many treatment programs.
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What Other Drugs Are Used to Treat Opioid Addiction?
Subutex is an effective option for many people looking to manage their opioid recovery. Of course, this is not the only medication available to assist in treating OUD. Currently, three main types of medications have been found to be most effective in treating opioid addiction.
Buprenorphine, available as both Subutex and Suboxone (with an added ingredient of naloxone), is the first of the three. Following this medication is Methadone, a long-acting opioid that works by binding to the same brain receptors as other opioids but producing a weaker high and fewer side effects.
The third most common medication used for treating opioid addiction is Naltrexone, an opioid antagonist that works by blocking the effects of opioids on the brain. These medications are all effective in treating OUD by helping people reduce their cravings, prevent relapse, and improve their overall quality of life.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Opioid Addiction?
The opioid epidemic has grown to such an extent that overdoses involving these drugs have grown to be a leading cause of death in the U.S. With the danger opioid addiction poses to the nation, it is important to know how to recognize the signs of this disease.
While each person will vary in the specific symptoms they may express for their addiction, some of the most common signs and symptoms of an opioid use disorder include:
- Taking opioids in a way that is not prescribed by a doctor, such as taking more than the prescribed dose, taking them more often, or taking them without a prescription.
- Doctor shopping (going to different doctors to get multiple prescriptions for opioids)
- Lying about or hiding opioid use.
- Stealing or borrowing opioids.
- Using opioids even when they cause problems at work, school, or in relationships.
In addition to the signs and symptoms listed above, people with opioid addiction may also experience changes in their appearance and behavior. For example, they may lose weight, have poor hygiene, or become isolated from family and friends.
They may also engage in risky behaviors, such as driving under the influence or having unprotected sex. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these signs and symptoms, it is important to seek professional help. Opioid addiction can be deadly, but with the right treatment, recovery is possible.
Opioid Addiction Treatment at Royal Life Centers
At Royal Life Centers, we understand how difficult living with an opioid addiction can be. Our treatment program offers comprehensive and effective care that promotes long-term recovery from your opioid use disorder.
Our compassionate and diverse team of healthcare professionals work with you to build an individualized treatment plan capable of addressing both your addiction and its underlying causes to help you maintain independent sobriety.
Some of the treatment options you will have access to when seeking out help at one of our facilities include:
- Medically-supervised detox
- Residential treatment
- Partial hospitalization
- Intensive and standard outpatient care
- Behavioral and holistic therapies
- Sober living
- Aftercare services
Our extensive treatment options make sure that no matter what your treatment needs may be, we will be able to go above and beyond to meet them. Deciding to get help can be scary, but it will be the first and most important step you make on the path to recovery. Reach out to us now to learn more about how you can get started on your path to sobriety!
No matter the severity of your substance abuse issues or personal treatment preferences, we offer a variety of services to meet each of your care needs. Call us at 877-RECOVERY today to learn more about our treatment programs and how you can get started on the path to recovery today!
