Suboxone is a synthetic version of the unique opioid buprenorphine, approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 2002 as a treatment for opioid addiction. Suboxone treatments, when used as medication-assisted programs, suppress patients’ withdrawal symptoms and opioid cravings while blocking the problematic effects of other opioids previously used, all without causing the euphoric feelings that can lead to dependency.
Suboxone Treatments
Suboxone’s effects last 24 hours or longer, so it only needs to be taken once a day. It is available in two milligrams, eight-milligram tablets, and two milligram and eight-milligram filmstrips. A patient places the tablet under the tongue, where it dissolves completely.
The filmstrip is administered in the same manner but dissolves much faster and has less potential for abuse, making it the preferred method of Suboxone administration.
What Should Patients Do to Prepare For the Treatment?
Patients should not eat, drink, or smoke for half an hour before taking Suboxone, as these activities can interfere with absorption. Chewing or dipping tobacco, in particular, is highly obstructive.
Coverage and use of insurance to cater for the suboxone treatment cost will depend on whether the drug is on the individual plan’s approved medication list or if it is medically necessary.
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