If your healthcare provider has recommended Suboxone
® (
buprenorphine and naloxone) for treating opioid dependence, you may be wondering about what this medication is and whether it is an appropriate choice for your particular situation.
This medicine contains
buprenorphine and naloxone. The buprenorphine component is an opioid narcotic, which binds to certain receptors in the central nervous system. The naloxone component mostly helps to prevent abuse of the medication via injection. When taken as directed (dissolved under the tongue), naloxone usually has no noticeable effects. However, when injected, naloxone can cause severe withdrawal symptoms, as it is essentially an antidote to opioids.
Suboxone comes in the form of a tablet or film, which is dissolved under the tongue once daily. Possible side effects may include nausea,
headaches, and
constipation.
(For more information about what this medication is prescribed for, click Suboxone. This full-length article offers a complete overview of this drug, including how it works, safety precautions, and tips on safely using this medication.)
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