Buprenorphine for Drug Addiction Treatment
Buprenorphine is an FDA-approved addiction treatment medication prescribed to help manage opioid use disorder (OUD). When combined with naloxone, it is commonly known by the brand name Suboxone. Keep reading to learn more about buprenorphine, how it can help you or a loved one recover from OUD, how it works, and how to find drug addiction treatment that meets your needs.1
What Is Buprenorphine?
Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist medication used to treat OUD, or opioid addiction. The term for this type of care is evolving. While formerly called “medication-assisted treatment” (MAT), it is now more accurately referred to as “medications for opioid use disorder” (MOUD). This change in language emphasizes that medications like buprenorphine are a primary, evidence-based treatment, not just an “assist.”1,2
Buprenorphine should be used as part of a complete treatment plan for OUD that includes counseling and psychosocial support.3
What Is Buprenorphine Used For?
Buprenorphine is FDA-approved for use during both the medically supervised withdrawal (detox) and maintenance phases of OUD treatment.3
People with OUD may struggle with various types of opioids, including:5
- Codeine.
- Fentanyl.
- Heroin.
- Hydrocodone.
- Hydromorphone.
- Meperidine.
- Methadone.
- Morphine.
- Oxycodone.
- Tramadol.
During detox, buprenorphine helps minimize withdrawal symptoms and cravings. This makes it easier for people to stay engaged in treatment and decreases the likelihood of a return to opioid use. People can continue to take buprenorphine for as long as it is beneficial for their recovery, with no predetermined time limit.3,6
Types and Formulations of Buprenorphine
Buprenorphine is available in several formulations, often combined with naloxone to deter misuse.1
Common brand names and formulations include:1
- Suboxone: A film containing buprenorphine and naloxone dissolved sublingually (under the tongue) or buccally (against the cheek).
- Zubsolv: A tablet containing a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone tablets for sublingual use.
- Generic tablets and films: Buprenorphine/naloxone combinations are also available as generics.
- Sublocade and Brixadi: Extended-release injections of buprenorphine only, administered subcutaneously (under the skin) by a healthcare provider.
- Generic buprenorphine tablets: Sblingual tablets containing only buprenorphine.
How Does Buprenorphine Work?
Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist. It binds tightly to the brain’s opioid receptors—the same receptors targeted by opioids like heroin and fentanyl. However, it only partially activates them, producing less intense effects.
This mechanism accomplishes two critical things:6
- It blocks other opioids: By occupying the receptors, buprenorphine prevents other opioids from binding, which blocks their euphoric effects.
- It relieves withdrawal and cravings: Its mild opioid effect is enough to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings, helping to stabilize the patient and support their recovery efforts.
This unique action lowers the risk of dependence and misuse compared to full agonists.
Buprenorphine vs. Methadone
Buprenorphine has a high safety profile, particularly when compared to other OUD medications, such as methadone. Its advantages include:6
- A “ceiling effect,” meaning its effects level off once a certain dose is reached, which reduces the risk of misuse and overdose.
- Lower misuse potential.
- Generally milder side effects.
- Fewer drug interactions.
Additionally, unlike methadone, which must be dispensed at various opioid treatment programs, buprenorphine can be prescribed by qualified healthcare practitioners in an office setting, increasing accessibility to care.7
Buprenorphine Side Effects
Like any medication, buprenorphine can cause side effects. Common side effects may include:9
- Headache.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Increased sweating.
- Constipation.
- Trouble sleeping.
- Swelling in arms and legs.
- Pain and itching at the injection site (if taking injectable formulation).
Buprenorphine carries an FDA black box warning regarding the risk of life-threatening respiratory depression when combined with other central nervous system depressants, such as benzodiazepines, sedatives, or alcohol. It is crucial to inform your doctor about all medications and substances you use before starting treatment.9
Suddenly stopping this medication can lead to buprenorphine withdrawal symptoms, which are similar to those of other opioids. Do not stop taking the medication without medical guidance. Your doctor can help you create a tapering plan when or if you are ready.9
Despite potential side effects, buprenorphine is a safe and effective medication for OUD when used as prescribed. Research shows its benefits far outweigh the risks of untreated opioid use disorder, leading to:7
- Increased likelihood of remaining in treatment programs, which can allow people the opportunity to make beneficial life changes and sustain their abstinence.
- Decreased risk of fatal opioid overdose.
- Reduced risk of infections like HIV and hepatitis C, associated with injection drug use.
Drug Addiction Treatment in Riverview, FL
If you’re struggling with OUD or know someone who is, evidence-based treatment can be potentially life-saving.
At River Oaks Treatment Center, we provide expert, compassionate care for OUD. Our Tampa metro area inpatient rehab facility develops personalized treatment plans based on each person’s unique needs, with different levels of addiction treatment designed to help patients start and stay on the path to recovery.
Seeking help can be one of the most important steps you ever take for your health and well-being.
When you’re ready to reach out, call us at to speak with an admissions navigator. We can walk you through the treatment process, our rehab payment options, and insurance coverage for rehab, and help you start treatment today.
You can also quickly confirm your coverage with us by filling out this simple and secure .