What Is SUBOXONE® and How Does It Work in Medication-Assisted Treatment?

If you or someone you care about is struggling with opioid addiction, chances are you've heard the name SUBOXONE. But what exactly is it, and how does it fit into modern addiction treatment strategies? SUBOXONE is a prescription medication used in medication-assisted treatment (MAT) programs to help manage opioid dependency. It works by reducing withdrawal symptoms and controlling cravings, giving individuals a stronger foundation for long-term recovery. At Invictus4Core in Lexington, KY, SUBOXONE is a key part of our addiction treatment, offering patients the medical support they need to help reclaim their lives. 

What is SUBOXONE used for? 

SUBOXONE is primarily used to treat opioid addiction, including dependency on heroin or prescription painkillers. It combines two ingredients, buprenorphine and naloxone, that work together to stabilize brain chemistry and block the euphoric effects of opioids. Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist, meaning it binds to opioid receptors in the brain but produces a much weaker effect. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist that helps prevent misuse by triggering withdrawal if the medication is injected. Together, they help minimize cravings and allow people to participate more fully in therapy, counseling, and other essential recovery activities. 

How does SUBOXONE work in the body? 

Unlike quitting "cold turkey," which often leads to intense withdrawal symptoms and relapse, SUBOXONE provides a more balanced approach. When taken as prescribed, it binds to the same brain receptors as other opioids, but without creating a high. This prevents withdrawal symptoms and controls cravings, making it easier for people to focus on behavioral treatment and long-term sobriety. 

SUBOXONE is taken as a film or tablet that dissolves under the tongue or inside the cheek. Because it's long-acting, many patients only need to take it once a day, though each treatment plan is personalized based on the individual's history and progress. 

When should someone take SUBOXONE? 

Timing is critical when it comes to taking SUBOXONE. It should only be started once moderate withdrawal symptoms have begun, typically 12 – 24 hours after last opioid use, to avoid precipitated withdrawal, a rapid and intense reaction caused by taking SUBOXONE too soon. At Invictus4Core, our care team will help guide you through the right timing and dosage, ensuring the safest and most effective start to your MAT plan possible. Once stabilized, patients often continue SUBOXONE treatment for several months, gradually tapering under medical supervision while building life skills and support systems. 

What else is involved in addiction treatment? 

Addiction treatment isn't just about medication. SUBOXONE is most effective when paired with a comprehensive approach that includes therapy, lifestyle coaching, support groups, and regular follow-up care. Our team provides compassionate, individualized treatment tailored to your recovery goals. Our programs address both the physical aspects of opioid dependency and the underlying behavioral patterns that contribute to substance use. Some of the key benefits of combining SUBOXONE with holistic care include:  

• Reduced risk of relapse 
• Improved participation in counseling and recovery programs 
• Better long-term health outcomes 

Ready to take the next step toward recovery? 

If you're exploring options for addiction treatment, our dedicated team at Invictus4Core in Lexington, KY is here to help. We provide personalized care plans that include SUBOXONE treatment, behavioral therapy, and compassionate support at each step. Whether you're wondering what SUBOXONE is used for or how it works, we're ready to provide the answers and the care you need to help move forward. Schedule a confidential consultation today and let us help you take control of your recovery journey with evidence-based solutions that work.