Suboxone is a prescription medication used to treat addiction. It is often prescribed alongside other medications in order to help ease the withdrawal symptoms that come with quitting opiates. While the use of Suboxone can be very effective, it also comes with risks and side effects that need to be closely monitored. So, how long should you stay on Suboxone?
Every Patient Is Unique
How long should you be on Suboxone? Most people will respond by saying, “until they’re clean.” However, this doesn’t account for individual differences and needs. Some people might only need a few months, while others could require years of treatment before they are able to stop taking Suboxone completely. The best option is always going to be talking about your experience with your physician and coming up with an appropriate plan together.
Signs You Need to Stop Taking Suboxone
There are a few signs that you may need to stop taking Suboxone. If you are experiencing any of the following, it might be time to talk to your doctor about tapering off:
- Drowsiness or fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation
- Slow breathing or heart rate
- Depression or suicidal thoughts
Additionally, if you are pregnant, have liver problems, or are struggling with another addiction, then Suboxone is not the best treatment option for you and should be discontinued immediately.
Should I Stop Suboxone on My Own?
There are a number of risks associated with stopping Suboxone on your own. First, it is important to remember that tapering down too quickly can cause withdrawal symptoms and drug cravings—both the most dangerous aspects about opiate addiction.
Second, if you use other medications or try to detox without medical supervision, then there is always the risk that something will go wrong and result in serious harm.
Lastly, once-off Suboxone, some people report having trouble maintaining abstinence from drugs and alcohol long term so they end up returning to their original addiction path. If you feel you need off Suboxone, get help from your doctor.
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, how long someone stays on Suboxone depends on many individual factors. It is important to monitor your progress closely and discuss any concerns with your doctor to make sure that you are receiving the best care.
If you turned towards illicit or prescription drug use due to chronic pain, know that there are healthier methods of lessening your discomfort. At Midwest Pain Clinics, we offer Suboxone treatment in Omaha, as well as treatments that address the underlying causes of pain and treat them and your discomfort with safe and effective methods.
Need some at-home pain relief methods? Try these 5 Tips to Relieve Sciatica Pain.
