Subutex, a brand name for buprenorphine, is a medication commonly used during the treatment of opioid addiction. It works by binding to the same receptors in the brain as opioids, effectively minimizing cravings and withdrawal symptoms. However, Subutex itself is also an opioid, which means it can be addictive and cause withdrawal symptoms when stopped. Banyan Stuart is exploring the Subutex withdrawal process, detox options, and addiction treatment.
Subutex Withdrawal Symptoms
During withdrawal from Subutex, symptoms will present themselves gradually. The length of these symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the addiction, how long it has occurred, and if there was any polydrug abuse (simultaneously using two or more substances.) A person’s physicality and biological makeup can also play an important role. For instance, someone who is older with a weakened immune system may experience more severe symptoms than a younger addicted individual.
The symptoms of Subutex withdrawal can include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal cramps
- Sweating
- Muscle aches and pains
- Restlessness
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Depression
- Suicidal thoughts
Symptoms can occur as soon as a few hours after the last dose was taken and may last as long as several weeks. Because of the potential intensity of these symptoms, it is not advised to attempt to withdraw from the use by oneself.
The Subutex Detox Process
During this time, one can expect pain and discomfort. However, completing a Subutex detox in a medically monitored environment is the safest and most comfortable way to recover. One may also feel strong urges to use it again. The emotional support you will receive at a drug and alcohol treatment center will greatly benefit you during this process.
At a professional treatment center, the patient can typically expect to be tapered off the drug. This involves gradually reducing the dose of Subutex over a period of time. This approach can help reduce withdrawal symptoms and make the process more manageable. Tapering should be done under the guidance of a medical professional.
The detox process from some drugs may involve the use of additional substances to help manage withdrawal symptoms. The tricky part of using this method to address Subutex withdrawal is the fact that it is already used in the treatment of a different kind of addiction (opioids). This means that receiving this treatment under the guise of a trained professional is crucial. Subutex detox should always be followed up with customized treatment programs and counseling for continued success.
Addressing Subutex Addiction
Subutex addiction treatment should be tailored to the person's needs and preferences. It is essential to work with a healthcare professional to create a treatment plan that works for the individual. As an opioid, prolonged abuse can not only make a person mentally reliant on taking it, but it can even change the physiology of their brain. Once a user reaches this point, it becomes exceedingly more difficult to break away from on one’s own.
There are a number of signs or symptoms that may point to an addiction, including:
- Cravings for Subutex: If a person feels like they cannot function normally without taking Subutex, or if they constantly think about taking the medication, they may be addicted.
- Seeking out the drug through illegal means: Whether a person is securing their fix through doctor shopping or buying it off the street, they may be addicted.
- Continuing drug use despite negative consequences: Another telltale sign of addiction is when a person persists in their substance abuse despite negative consequences such as job loss, family problems, or breakups.
- Tolerance: As with other opioid medications, people may need to take higher doses of Subutex over time to achieve the same effects.
Addiction is a complex disease that impacts every facet of a person's life. As such, it requires treatment that comprehensively addresses all aspects of it. The chances of relapse also significantly diminish when detoxing and recovering from Subutex abuse at a professional treatment center. For those who are ready to take the steps toward healing, Banyan offers sensational options for Florida addiction treatment, with specialized programs for opioid dependency. Patients also have the opportunity to address withdrawal symptoms with our medically monitored opioid detox program.
Call the Stuart, Florida, Banyan Treatment Center today at 888-280-4763 to learn more about the Subutex detox process and how we can help you achieve long-lasting recovery.
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