Suboxone’s Powerful Role: Understanding Benefits and Risks
The US is currently facing an unprecedented opioid epidemic, characterized by alarmingly high rates of drug overdose deaths. Tragically, drug overdoses have surpassed other forms of accidental deaths, including those caused by HIV, gun violence, and motor vehicle accidents, making it a critical public health concern. The Drug Addiction Treatment Act of 2000 introduced a provision allowing physicians to obtain a waiver, enabling them to prescribe certain opioids for the treatment of opioid use disorder. As of now, one of the only opioids authorized under this waiver is buprenorphine. Buprenorphine is the opioid in Suboxone. Continue to read more about the uses, benefits, and risks of Suboxone.
Clinically Reviewed by Lauren Barry, LMFT, MCAP, QS
Medically Reviewed by Ali Nikbakht, PsyD
Reviewed / Updated: September 25, 2025 — Editorial Policy | Research Policy | Privacy Policy
By We Level Up | Author Jessica Lewis, PharmD | Editorial Policy | Research Policy
What is Suboxone?
Suboxone is a medication approved by the FDA. It is used to treat opioid use disorder. It combines buprenorphine to reduce cravings and withdrawal. It also includes naloxone to prevent misuse. It is commonly prescribed to help individuals safely manage dependence on opioids like heroin, fentanyl, and prescription painkillers. This works best when used in conjunction with a comprehensive recovery plan. This plan should include counseling and therapy. It provides patients with a safer way to recover in the long term. While effective, it also carries potential side effects and risks if misused. Knowing how this works can help you or your loved one make smart treatment choices. This can lead to important steps in overcoming addiction.
Suboxone Key Takeaways
- This medication is used to treat opioid addiction, containing buprenorphine (a partial opioid agonist) and naloxone (an opioid antagonist).
- Common side effects include nausea, constipation, headaches, and sweating. Rare but serious side effects can include liver damage and trouble breathing.
- Misusing this can lead to overdose, with symptoms like slowed breathing, drowsiness, confusion, and loss of consciousness.
- It has a lower risk of addiction than full opioid agonists. However, long-term use can still cause physical dependence. It is important to use this as directed. Always consult with a healthcare provider.
What Is Suboxone Used For?
Suboxone treats opioid use disorder, which includes prescription pain medication and heroin addiction. It’s a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) that helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms associated with opioid dependence. It contains two active ingredients: buprenorphine and naloxone.
Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist. It connects to the same brain receptors as opioids. However, it causes milder effects. This action helps reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings. It does this without causing the strong high linked to full opioid agonists like heroin or oxycodone. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist that blocks the effects of opioids, preventing misuse of this drug by injection.
When taken as prescribed, it can:
- Reduce opioid cravings and withdrawal symptoms
- Block the effects of other opioids
- Lower the risk of relapse
- Improve treatment retention rates
This drug is usually given as part of a complete treatment plan. This plan includes counseling, therapy, and support groups. This combined approach looks at the physical, mental, and social parts of addiction. It boosts the chances of successful long-term recovery. Your healthcare provider will help you create a personalized treatment plan. This plan will meet your needs and goals.
It’s critical to use this medication only as directed by your healthcare provider. Misusing or abusing this drug can lead to adverse effects and potentially dangerous interactions with other substances. Always follow your prescribed dosage and frequency, and never share your medication with others.
How Does Suboxone Work?
It combines buprenorphine and naloxone to treat opioid addiction. Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist. It attaches to the same receptors as full opioids, like heroin or prescription painkillers. This action reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms without producing the intense euphoria associated with full agonists.
Naloxone, an opioid antagonist, is included in Suboxone to deter misuse. When taken sublingually as prescribed, the naloxone component has minimal effect. If someone tries to use this type of drug, naloxone is activated. This can cause withdrawal symptoms, which discourage abuse.
Suboxone’s unique formulation allows it to provide relief from withdrawal and cravings while minimizing the potential for misuse. It helps stabilize brain chemistry and restore balance to the reward system disrupted by addiction. Over time, it can reduce dependence on opioids and support long-term recovery.
It should be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. This approach gives you the tools and support you need to overcome opioid dependence. It helps you build a strong foundation for lasting recovery.
Buprenorphine vs Suboxone
Buprenorphine is the active ingredient in Suboxone. It’s a partial opioid agonist that binds to the same receptors as full opioids like heroin or prescription painkillers. This binding action reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms without producing the intense high associated with full agonists.
This drug contains both buprenorphine and naloxone. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist that blocks the effects of opioids. It’s included in Suboxone to deter misuse by triggering withdrawal symptoms if the medication is injected.
When taken sublingually as prescribed, the naloxone component has minimal effect. This unique combination of buprenorphine and naloxone helps stabilize brain chemistry. It supports long-term recovery by reducing the potential for misuse.
While buprenorphine alone can be an effective treatment for opioid addiction, Suboxone’s formulation offers additional safeguards. The inclusion of naloxone discourages injection misuse. This makes it a preferred choice for many healthcare providers and people.
Your healthcare provider will determine the most appropriate medication for your specific needs. They will look at factors like how severe your addiction is, your health, and any mental health issues you have. Following their guidance and taking the medication as prescribed is critical for safe and effective treatment.
Skip To:
Learn More:
- Suboxone Withdrawal Symptoms, Timeline & Detox
- Subutex vs Suboxone, What’s The Difference Between Them?
- Suboxone Detox, Withdrawal Symptoms, Timeline & Treatment
- Suboxone Withdrawal Psychosis
- Does Suboxone Raise Your Blood Pressure?
- Suboxone Side Effects Sexually
- Suboxone Half-Life
- Subutex Pill Uses, Withdrawal, Side Effects & Abuse
- How Long Does Subutex Stay in Your System?
- Medication-Assisted Treatment. Medication Assisted Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder, MAT Program for Alcohol, FAQs & Facts.
Get Help. Get Better. Get Your Life Back.
Searching for Accredited Drug and Alcohol Rehab Centers Near You?
Even if you have failed previously and relapsed, or are in the middle of a difficult crisis, we stand ready to support you. Our trusted behavioral health specialists will not give up on you. When you feel ready or just want someone to speak to about therapy alternatives to change your life call us. Even if we cannot assist you, we will lead you to wherever you can get support. There is no obligation. Call our hotline today.
(844) 597-1011Suboxone Effects
In a similar way to methadone, this can decrease cravings and limit opioid withdrawal symptoms. This medication is a long-acting opioid. This means the risks of side effects are lower. The effects are more spread out and less intense. For example, at higher doses, it has a lower risk of breathing problems than some other drugs. This includes methadone, which is also used for opiate addiction management.
The risk is low, but it can increase significantly. This is especially true if this drug is taken with other depressants, such as alcohol or benzodiazepines. These substances, in combination, can lead to:
- Sedation.
- Breathing problems.
- Coma.
- Death.
Long-Term Side Effects
Long-term use of this may lead to several potential side effects. You may experience constipation, as the medication can slow down your digestive system. Dry mouth is another common issue that can increase your risk of dental problems if left unaddressed. Some people report feelings of depression or anxiety, particularly if they have a history of mental health issues.
Liver damage, although rare, can occur with prolonged Suboxone use, especially if you have pre-existing liver problems. Attending regular check-ups with your healthcare provider is essential to monitor for any signs of liver dysfunction.
Sexual side effects, such as decreased libido or difficulty achieving orgasm, may also be a concern for some people. If you have any ongoing or bothersome side effects, talk to your healthcare provider. They can help you find the best solution.
Get Your Life Back
Find Hope & Recovery. Get Safe Comfortable Detox, Addiction Rehab & Dual Diagnosis Trused Care.
7/365 Line (844) 597-1011Suboxone Statistics
MAT programs, including Suboxone clinics, are available across the United States, with varying levels of accessibility in different regions and communities. MAT programs aim to provide treatment for individuals with opioid use disorder. However, the involvement of medications in the program requires the monitoring and supervision of addiction treatment professionals.
2 Million
About 2 million people in the US are aged 12 and older. They reported using Suboxone or buprenorphine for non-medical reasons.
Source: NSDUH
70,630
In 2019, opioid-involved overdose deaths in the United States reached approximately 70,630.
Source: CDC
1.6 Million
In 2019, roughly 1.6 million people aged 12 or older received MAT for opioid use disorder.
Source: SAMHSA
Top 5 Suboxone Studies with Insights
Here’s a patient-friendly chart of the top five Suboxone studies/guidelines.
Here is a helpful list of trusted Suboxone studies and guidance. Each row distills the evidence’s implications for treatment into actionable tips for care teams and admissions scripts. Sources were selected based on their recency, rigor, and relevance to integrated treatment.
| Study | Treatment Implications | Insights for Patients |
|---|---|---|
| Treatment Retention among Patients Randomized to Buprenorphine vs Methadone View Study | Helps compare retention of buprenorphine versus methadone in a randomized setting | You can ask your provider how Suboxone retention compares to other options. You can also ask if switching or combining treatments might work for you |
| Buprenorphine Dose and Time to Discontinuation Among Patients View Resource | Suggests higher buprenorphine doses (e.g., 24 mg) may be associated with longer retention compared to standard doses (16 mg) | If you feel under-dosed, like having cravings or withdrawal, talk to your clinician about adjusting your dose. The right dosage can help you stay in treatment |
| Predictability of Buprenorphine‑Naloxone Treatment Retention Read Article | Identifies predictors of 6‑month retention and helps tailor treatment plans | Your health history, other health issues, and social factors may affect your risk of dropping out. Being open about your challenges can help your team support you better |
| Strategies for Improving Treatment Retention for Buprenorphine Read Study | Discusses structural or programmatic changes (less rigid rules, flexible models) to improve retention | Don’t feel like you have to stick to a strict model. Ask for flexibility, like telehealth or different counseling times, that works for your life |
| Outpatient Low‑Dose Initiation of Buprenorphine in Fentanyl Users Read Review | Reports on challenges in initiating buprenorphine with low-dose / overlap protocols in fentanyl users | Switching from fentanyl can be tough. If you are using fentanyl, starting the process may cause withdrawal or problems. Talk to your provider about safer ways to begin |
Does Suboxone Show Up On A Drug Test?
Yes, it can show up on a drug test, based on the type of test being conducted. It contains buprenorphine, which is an opioid medication. Standard drug tests, such as urine tests, can detect the presence of buprenorphine and its metabolites. If you are taking a drug test for Suboxone, tell the tester about any prescription medications you use. This will help ensure the results are accurate.
How Long Does Suboxone Stay In Your System?
Suboxone’s effects and detection times vary based on factors like dosage, frequency of use, and individual metabolism. Understanding how long this drug remains in your system is critical for those undergoing treatment or facing drug screenings.
Suboxone Withdrawal Timeline
Suboxone withdrawal typically begins within 24-72 hours after your last dose. Symptoms peak around days 3-5 and gradually subside over the next 7-10 days. Physical symptoms like muscle aches, nausea, and sweating are common during this acute phase.
Psychological symptoms, including depression, anxiety, and insomnia, may persist for several weeks or months. This prolonged withdrawal phase, known as post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS), requires ongoing support and management.
The severity and duration of Suboxone withdrawal depend on factors such as:
- Length of Suboxone use
- Average dosage
- Taper schedule
- Overall health
- Co-occurring mental health conditions
Following a structured tapering plan with medical help can reduce withdrawal symptoms. This can improve your chances of a successful recovery. Your healthcare provider can customize a taper schedule based on your unique needs and progress.
Suboxone Drug Interactions
It can interact with various medications, potentially leading to adverse effects or reduced efficacy. It’s important to talk about all medications, supplements, and substances you use with your healthcare provider. This helps ensure safe and effective treatment.
Suboxone and Alcohol
Mixing Suboxone and alcohol can be dangerous. Both substances slow down the central nervous system. When used together, they can cause serious breathing problems, loss of consciousness, or even death. Alcohol can raise the risk of liver damage when taken with this drug. This is especially true if you already have liver problems. To minimize these risks, avoid consuming alcohol while taking this drug. If you have alcohol use disorder, talk to your healthcare provider. They can help you create a treatment plan that works for both issues at the same time.
Fentanyl and Suboxone
Using fentanyl while taking Suboxone can cause relapse. Fentanyl is a potent opioid that can override the protective effects of buprenorphine in Suboxone. If you’ve been using fentanyl, inform your healthcare provider before starting the treatment.
Remember, it helps you overcome opioid addiction. Using fentanyl with it goes against treatment and risks your health and recovery.
How Long Does Suboxone Withdrawal Last?
The length of Suboxone withdrawal depends on several factors. These include the person’s body, how long they used this drug, and the dose they took. Acute withdrawal symptoms usually begin 24 to 72 hours after the last dose. They peak around the third to fifth day. Symptoms gradually improve over one to two weeks. Some people may have long-lasting withdrawal symptoms. These can include mood changes, trouble sleeping, and cravings. These symptoms can last for weeks or even months.
Is Suboxone Addictive?
While Suboxone is an effective treatment for opioid addiction, it’s important to understand its addictive potential. Buprenorphine, a key ingredient in Suboxone, is a partial opioid agonist. It binds to the same receptors in the brain as full opioids like heroin or prescription painkillers. This means that this can produce euphoric effects, especially if misused.
But the risk of addiction is lower compared to full opioid agonists. Buprenorphine has a “ceiling effect,” which means its effects level off at higher doses. This reduces the potential for misuse and overdose. Also, naloxone, the other component in this drug, helps deter abuse. If someone attempts to inject this, naloxone will trigger withdrawal symptoms.
Even though there are safeguards, addiction to this can still occur. Long-term use, even as prescribed, can lead to physical dependence. If you stop taking this drug abruptly, you may experience withdrawal symptoms. These can include anxiety, insomnia, sweating, and muscle aches.
To minimize the risk of addiction, it’s critical to use this as directed by your healthcare provider. They’ll work with you to find the lowest effective dose and develop a tapering plan when you’re ready to stop treatment. Engaging in counseling and behavioral therapy alongside medication can also help address the underlying causes of addiction and promote long-term recovery.
Suboxone Abuse
While Suboxone is an effective medication for treating opioid addiction, it also has the potential for abuse. Misusing this drug can lead to serious consequences, including overdose.
Suboxone Overdose
Suboxone overdose can occur if you take more than the prescribed dose or combine it with other substances that depress the central nervous system, such as alcohol or benzodiazepines.
Signs of an overdose include:
- Slowed or shallow breathing
- Extreme drowsiness
- Confusion
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Slurred speech
- Nausea and vomiting
- Weak pulse
- Cold, clammy skin
- Loss of consciousness
Seek immediate medical attention if you suspect a Suboxone overdose. Naloxone, an opioid antagonist included in Suboxone, can help reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. But it’s important to remember that an overdose can still be life-threatening, especially when combined with other substances.
To prevent Suboxone overdose, always take the medication as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Don’t attempt to alter the dosage or frequency without consulting your healthcare provider first. Store Suboxone securely and keep it out of reach of others who may misuse it.
If you have a history of drug or alcohol abuse, let your doctor know. Also, inform them if you have mental health issues. This is important before starting Suboxone treatment. They can help you create a treatment plan that meets your needs and lowers the risk of overdose.
Suboxone High
Does this drug get you high? When taken as prescribed and directed by a healthcare professional, It is unlikely to produce a significant euphoric high. This is because Suboxone medication contains buprenorphine, which is a partial opioid agonist. It connects to opioid receptors in the brain. However, it has a milder effect than full opioid agonists like heroin or oxycodone.
If it is misused, it can cause feelings of intoxication. This can happen if someone takes higher doses than prescribed or uses it in ways that are not approved. It is important to use this exactly as prescribed. This helps ensure it works well and reduces the risk of misuse or abuse.
If you have a loved one using Suboxone, it is important to know the risk of addiction. You should watch for changes or signs of addiction developing. Some of the most common suboxone addiction signs include:
- Hiding how much Suboxone is being used or engaging in deceptive behavior.
- Taking this from others or seeking out a second doctor for additional prescriptions.
- Running out of this drug before they should.
- Taking more than they should, sometimes noting an inability to control cravings if they do not.
- Losing medications, stealing from others, or doing whatever it takes to get the drug.
In addition, some people feel withdrawal from this drug when they cannot access more substances. That may include slowed breathing, trouble focusing and thinking, feeling tired, or feeling physically ill. These are signs the drug is being overused or, in some cases, abused.
Can this drug get you high? In some cases of misuse, yes. These drugs are very powerful. The sooner you see what is happening, the sooner your loved one can get help to overcome this addiction.
Can You Overdose On Suboxone?
Does Suboxone get you high? Many people wonder if it is even possible to get high using Suboxone. Technically speaking, the inclusion of buprenorphine as an active ingredient allows Suboxone to be classified as an opioid itself. While overdose is not as likely as with other opioids, it is still a problem worth considering. An overdose is possible when the medication is misused or combined with other sedatives.
By design, this drug is intended to be tamper-proof. It contains both buprenorphine and naloxone. Naloxone is often used to reverse opioid overdoses in emergencies. In many ways, Suboxone medication has overdose prevention built right into its chemistry.
Suboxone Overdose Treatment
Like other opioids, you might think that giving naloxone is the best way to stop this drug overdose. This is not necessarily true. Treatment for this drug overdose comes with another level of complexity. After all, naloxone is already present in the medication. Luckily, more doses of naloxone can be given if someone overdoses. However, the person may experience severe withdrawal symptoms when they wake up. The best practice is always to get a suspected overdose victim into the care of trained professionals. With proper care, many Suboxone overdose sufferers get back on their feet and onto the road to opioid recovery.
How To Get Off Suboxone?
If you want to stop taking this drug, talk to your doctor or addiction treatment provider first. They can look at your situation and see if you are ready. They will create a plan to slowly lower your dose and reduce withdrawal effects.
You may need to lower your dose slowly over time. Manage any symptoms that arise. Make sure you have strong support.
First-class Facilities & Amenities
Trusted Integrated Addiction & Mental Health Rehabilitation Treatment
Rehab Centers TourEstablished Addiction Centers. Serene Private Facilities. Inpatient rehab programs vary.
Addiction Helpline (844) 597-1011Comprehensive recovery success experience, backed by a Team w/ History of:
15+
Years of Unified Experience
100s
5-Star Reviews Across Our Centers
10K
Recovery Success Stories Across Our Network
- Low Patient to Therapist Ratio
- Onsite Medical Detox Center
- Comprehensive Dual-Diagnosis Treatment
- Complimentary Family & Alumni Programs
- Alumni Coaching, Recovery & Personal Development Events
How To Taper Off Suboxone?
In most cases, the risk of this drug addiction is significantly less than that of opioid addiction. One reason is that Suboxone is not as sedating as other drugs. This means you are less likely to have strong cravings while using it. However, this drug addiction is still possible for millions of recovering addicts.
Tapering off this drug should be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional. The tapering schedule will vary. It depends on a few factors. These include the person’s dosage, how long they have used Suboxone, and their overall health. The dose is usually lowered slowly over weeks or months. Doctors check for withdrawal symptoms and make changes as needed. A slow and controlled tapering process helps minimize withdrawal discomfort and increases the chances of successful discontinuation.
We Level Up Suboxone Addiction Treatment
Quitting Suboxone cold turkey and doing Suboxone detox at home is not advisable. Some people prefer to quit cold turkey. They believe it is safer and easier than stopping slowly. It is not more accessible and not secure. The known risks of quitting specific medications and drugs cold turkey include loss of tolerance. You will be less able to handle doses you used to take because you are less tolerant. This increases the risk of accidental overdose if you relapse.
Your nervous system gets used to the way some drugs operate. Quitting suddenly can upset the body. Slowly reducing the medication helps ease the tough transition to Suboxone withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can sometimes be severely uncomfortable, increasing the possibility of relapse.
To detox from this drug safely, this includes the use of medications and other medical procedures. During your rehab, the staff will help you find out what caused your addiction. They will teach you skills to change your behavior and challenge the negative thoughts that led to your addiction. Sometimes, the stress and problems in your life make you turn to substances to forget them for a while.
If you or someone you care about is addicted to this drug, help is available. If you are having opioid withdrawal symptoms or have experienced an overdose, just call for help. Professional opioid addiction treatment is necessary for fast and effective recovery. Contact us today at the We Level Up treatment facility. Our team of doctors and medical staff is available 24/7. We provide great care to help you recover fully.
Specialized, Accredited, 5-Star Reviewed, Evidence-based Addiction & Mental Health Programs. Complete Behavioral Health Inpatient Rehab, Detox plus Co-occuring Disorders Therapy.
CALL(844) 597-1011End the Addiction Pain. End the Emotional Rollercoaster. Get Your Life Back. Start Drug, Alcohol & Dual Diagnosis Mental Health Treatment Now. Get Free, No-obligation Guidance by Substance Abuse Specialists Who Understand Addiction & Mental Health Recovery & Know How to Help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Suboxone is a highly effective medication used to treat opioid addiction. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about this drug.
Is Suboxone an Opioid?
Yes, it contains buprenorphine, a partial opioid agonist. It binds to the same receptors as full opioids like heroin or prescription painkillers. But buprenorphine has a “ceiling effect.” This means its effects stop increasing at higher doses. This reduces the risk of misuse and overdose compared to full opioid agonists. It also contains naloxone, an opioid antagonist that deters misuse by triggering withdrawal symptoms if injected.
Does this Show Up on Drug Tests?
It can be detected on certain drug tests, but it may not show up on standard opiate screens. Specialized tests designed to detect buprenorphine are required. The detection window varies based on factors like dosage, frequency of use, and individual metabolism. Urine tests can detect Suboxone for up to 2 weeks, while hair follicle tests may identify it for up to 3 months. Inform your healthcare provider and any testing authorities that you’re taking this drug as prescribed.
How Long Does It Take to Get Addicted to This Drug?
This drug is less addictive than full opioid agonists. This is because it has partial agonist properties and a “ceiling effect.” However, long-term use can still lead to physical dependence. The timeline for developing an addiction is different for each person. It depends on factors like dosage, how often they use, and their history of substance abuse. Following your prescribed treatment plan and engaging in counseling and behavioral therapy can minimize the risk of addiction.
Is this a Controlled Substance?
Yes, this is a Schedule III controlled substance under federal law. This classification shows that it has a medical use. However, there is a moderate risk of abuse and physical dependence. Prescriptions are closely monitored, and possession without a valid prescription is illegal. Strict rules are in place to make sure this drug is used safely. It is part of a complete treatment plan for opioid addiction.
Is this drug a Narcotic?
Technically, yes. The term “narcotic” is often used the same way as “opioid.” It refers to drugs that work on opioid receptors. These drugs help relieve pain and create feelings of happiness. It contains buprenorphine, a partial opioid agonist, and is hence considered a narcotic. Its special formula with naloxone and its “ceiling effect” make it a safer choice than full opioid agonists. This is true when used as directed and under medical supervision.
How Long Do Opiates Stay in Your System? How Long Do Opiates Stay in Urine, Blood, & Body?
Suboxone does not directly speed up the elimination of opioids from the body. Instead, it works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and blocking the effects of other opioids. It helps to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, allowing individuals to taper off opioid use with medical supervision gradually.
But how long do opiates, or opioids, stay in your system? Watch the video below to find out more.
If you or a loved one is struggling with Suboxone addiction or other opioid use disorder(s), call for a FREE consultation 24/7 at (561) 678-0917
Get FREE addiction treatment insurance check – https://welevelup.com/rehab-insurance/
How Long Do Opiates Stay in Your System? Video Transcript.
Welcome to the We Level Up treatment center video series. In today’s video, we will discuss How Long Do Opiates Stay in Your System? How Long Do Opiates Stay in Urine, Blood, & Body? Learn the Hydrocodone, Oxycodone, & Codeine Drug Testing Facts.
The length of time that opiates remain in your system varies depending on the type of opiate, the dosage, and the frequency of use. Generally, opiates can stay in your system for two to four days. However, heavier and chronic users may have residues for up to seven days.
Opiates can be detected in the blood test for up to 24 hours and the urine test for up to three days. Opiates can be detected in the hair follicles for up to 90 days. In chronic users, opiates can stay in the body for up to 30 days.
Opiates often have short half-lives, meaning their effects can linger for several hours even though they swiftly leave the body. Opioids can stay in a person’s bloodstream for hours or days after symptoms go away. This depends on the type of substance used. Urine tests are a common way to check for drug use. They can find opioids in the body for three to four days. Some tests can even detect opioid use for up to three months.
Drugs in the opioid class are used to treat pain. Natural opioids, semi-synthetic opioids made from natural opioids, and synthetic opioids created in a lab are all called opioids. A class of medications known as opioids have opiates, which are organic byproducts of the poppy plant.
The main difference is that “opiate” refers to the substances derived from the opium (poppy) plant. At the same time, “opioids” are all substances that interact with opioid receptors, including those created in the lab.
What are Opioids?
Opioids, sometimes called narcotics, are medications doctors prescribe to treat persistent or severe pain. People use them for many reasons. They help those with constant headaches and high blood alcohol levels. They also aid recovery after surgery. They can ease severe pain from cancer. Adults and kids use them after serious injuries from sports, falls, car accidents, or other events.
A large class of painkillers known as opioids interacts with opioid receptors in your cells to relieve pain. Opioids can be made in a lab, like fentanyl, or from the poppy plant, like morphine. Other examples include Kadian, Ms. Contin, Actiq, and Duragesic.
Your brain cells send signals that lower your pain and boost your feelings of pleasure. This happens when opioid drugs enter your blood and attach to opioid receptors. Opioid addiction can happen after just a week of use. The risk for long-term opioid abuse increases after only five days of taking medicine. Some individuals who only intended to use opioids for a week have continued to do so a year later.
Compared to 2019, the age-adjusted rate of drug overdose deaths rose 31% in 2020. Young people aged 15 to 24 had the largest rise in deaths. Adults aged 35 to 44 had the highest rates of drug overdose deaths. The fight against substance use disorders and the opioid pandemic must continue in all facets.
Opiate Drug Names
There are a variety of opiate drugs, all with different names. Some examples include codeine, morphine, oxycodone, hydrocodone, fentanyl, and methadone. It is important to know the names of opiates when seeking help for addiction. This is because treatment plans may depend on the specific opiates being abused.
The top three opiate drugs most commonly prescribed are Hydrocodone, Oxycodone, and Codeine. Other opiate drugs may also be prescribed, depending on your needs and your doctor’s advice.
Experience Transformative Recovery at We Level Up Treatment Centers.
See our authentic success stories. Get inspired. Get the help you deserve.
Start a New Life
Begin with a free call to an addiction & behavioral health treatment advisor. Learn more about our dual-diagnosis programs. The We Level Up Treatment Center Network delivers recovery programs that vary by each treatment facility. Call to learn more.
- Personalized Care
- Caring Accountable Staff
- World-class Amenities
- Licensed & Accredited
- Renowned w/ 100s 5-Star Reviews
We’ll Call You
Search We Level Up What is Suboxone? Detox, Mental Health Topics & Resources
Resources
Suboxone Withdrawal Psychosis — discusses rare but serious psychotic symptoms during Suboxone withdrawal.
What Is Buprenorphine? Top Medications for Opioid Abuse — overview of buprenorphine, which is a main component of Suboxone.
Suboxone Half-Life Explained: Key Facts For Recovery – How long Suboxone stays in the body; its pharmacokinetics.
Sources
[1] What is Buprenorphine? – Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
[2] Buprenorphine Treatment Practitioner Locator – Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
[3] SUBOXONE® sublingual film – Accessdata.fda.gov US Food & Drug Administration
[4] SUBOXONE (buprenorphine and naloxone) sublingual tablets – Food & Drug Administration (FDA)
[5] Suboxone Settlement – Federal Trade Commission (.gov)
[6] Kumar R, Viswanath O, Saadabadi A. Buprenorphine. [Updated 2023 Apr 29]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459126/
[7] Velander JR. Suboxone: Rationale, Science, Misconceptions. Ochsner J. 2018 Spring;18(1):23-29. PMID: 29559865; PMCID: PMC5855417.
[8] Practice Guidelines for the Administration of Buprenorphine for Treating Opioid Use Disorder – Federal Register (.gov)
[9] Blum K, Oscar-Berman M, Femino J, Waite RL, Benya L, Giordano J, Borsten J, Downs WB, Braverman ER, Loehmann R, Dushaj K, Han D, Simpatico T, Hauser M, Barh D, McLaughlin T. Withdrawal from Buprenorphine/Naloxone and Maintenance with a Natural Dopaminergic Agonist: A Cautionary Note. J Addict Res Ther. 2013 Apr 23;4(2):10.4172/2155-6105.1000146. Doi 10.4172/2155-6105.1000146. PMID: 24273683; PMCID: PMC3835595.
[10] Deyo-Svendsen M, Cabrera Svendsen M, Walker J, Hodges A, Oldfather R, Mansukhani MP. Medication-Assisted Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder in a Rural Family Medicine Practice. J Prim Care Community Health. 2020 Jan-Dec;11:2150132720931720. Doi 10.1177/2150132720931720. PMID: 32507023; PMCID: PMC7278292.