Suboxone Treatment in Nashville
Suboxone treatment is a critical approach in treating opioid addiction. Comprising a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone, this treatment not only alleviates the painful withdrawal symptoms of opioid detoxification but also reduces cravings, providing a safer pathway towards sobriety. By acting on the same receptors as other opioids without producing the same “high,” Suboxone offers those struggling with addiction a chance to rebuild their lives in recovery.
At Nashville Treatment Solutions, we offer Suboxone Treatment as part of our outpatient rehab programs in conjunction with other holistic and evidence-based therapies.
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What is Suboxone?
Suboxone is a prescription medication specifically designed to treat opioid addiction. It is a combination of buprenorphine, a partial opioid agonist, and naloxone, an opioid antagonist. The unique properties of buprenorphine allow for relief from opioid withdrawal symptoms and cravings, while naloxone discourages misuse and overdosing on the medication.
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How Does Suboxone Work?
Suboxone’s effectiveness in the treatment of opioid addiction stems from its unique combination of two active ingredients: buprenorphine and naloxone.
Buprenorphine: Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist. This means that while it does activate the opioid receptors in the brain, it does so to a much lesser degree than full opioid agonists like heroin or methadone. By gently stimulating these receptors, buprenorphine can suppress withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings associated with opioid addiction. Because it’s a partial agonist, there’s a “ceiling effect” to its opioid action, making it much harder to overdose on buprenorphine compared to full opioid agonists.
Naloxone: Naloxone acts as an opioid antagonist, meaning it blocks opioid receptors from being activated. Its primary role in Suboxone is to deter intravenous misuse. When Suboxone is taken as prescribed (usually sublingually or as a film under the tongue), naloxone doesn’t have a significant effect. However, if someone tries to misuse Suboxone by injecting it, the naloxone component will rapidly induce withdrawal symptoms, discouraging such misuse.
The synergy between buprenorphine and naloxone in Suboxone provides a dual mechanism of action. Buprenorphine offers the therapeutic effects by decreasing the physical dependence on opioids, while naloxone offers a protective layer against potential misuse.
Additionally, the long half-life of buprenorphine allows for more prolonged relief from withdrawal symptoms and cravings, making it possible for many patients to take Suboxone once daily. Over time, as the body adjusts to decreasing levels of opioids, healthcare professionals can taper down the dosage of Suboxone, aiding the patient’s gradual transition to full sobriety.
Is Suboxone Addictive?
Yes, Suboxone has the potential for addiction because it contains buprenorphine, which is a partial opioid agonist. While the effects of buprenorphine is mild, the drug has a long duration.
According to the National Alliance of Advocates for Burprenorphine treatment, the risk of becoming addicted to Suboxone is low, however Proper medical supervision and adherence to prescribed use are essential to maximize its therapeutic benefits and minimize the potential for misuse and addiction.
Suboxone Side Effects
Suboxone, a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone, is used primarily for the treatment of opioid dependence. Like all medications, Suboxone can cause side effects. Here are some common side effects associated with Suboxone:
Common Side Effects:
- Headache: Many patients report headaches when beginning their Suboxone treatment.
- Constipation: Opioids, including buprenorphine, often lead to constipation.
- Nausea: Some individuals might feel nauseated, especially when first starting the medication.
- Sweating: Excessive sweating can occur for some patients on Suboxone.
- Sleeping difficulties: This includes insomnia or drowsiness.
- Mouth numbness or redness: This is often a result of the sublingual administration of the drug.
- Swollen and/or painful tongue: Can be due to the sublingual tablet.
- Blurred vision: Some patients report changes in their vision.
- Back pain: This is a less specific side effect but has been reported by some individuals.
How Do We Use Suboxone at Nashville Treatment Solutions?
Does Suboxone Show Up on a Drug Test?
Other Services We Provide at our Rehab in Nashville
Beyond Suboxone treatment, Nashville Treatment Solutions offers a range of services to address various facets of addiction and mental health. These services include:
- Vivitrol and Naltrexone: Non-addictive medications used to manage opioid and alcohol dependence.
- Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT): A therapy designed to teach new skills to manage painful emotions and decrease conflict in relationships.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A widely-used method for treating a variety of mental health disorders and addictions by modifying dysfunctional emotions and thoughts.
- EMDR Therapy: A unique therapy used primarily for individuals suffering from PTSD and other traumas.
- Family Therapy: An essential component of addiction treatment that involves the patient’s family in the recovery process.
- Group Therapy: A form of psychotherapy where multiple patients participate, encouraging mutual support and progress.
- Holistic Rehab: Treatment focusing on the patients’ overall well-being, often including practices like yoga, meditation, and nutrition counseling.
- Psychoeducation: Educating patients about their conditions, treatment options, and strategies to maintain their own health.
- Relapse Prevention: Strategies and support systems to prevent a return to substance use.
