Subutex vs Suboxone, What’s The Difference Between Them?

What Is Subutex Vs Suboxone?

Opioid addiction has become a serious epidemic affecting individuals worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it is estimated that globally, 27 million people are struggling with opioid addiction. Over 130 people die daily from opioid-related drug overdoses in the United States alone. As the opioid epidemic continues to be a major public health crisis, healthcare providers must offer effective treatment options to those struggling with opioid addiction.

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) has been proven to be one of the most effective treatment options for opioid addiction. Among the medications used for MAT, Subutex, and Suboxone are two commonly prescribed drugs. Both medications contain buprenorphine, which reduces cravings and alleviates withdrawal symptoms. However, individuals and healthcare providers should be aware of the significant differences between these two drugs.

One of the primary differences between Subutex and Suboxone is the formulation of the medication. Subutex is a single-ingredient medication containing only buprenorphine, while Suboxone combines buprenorphine and naloxone. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist, meaning it can reverse the effects of opioids and prevent overdose. Due to this additional ingredient, Suboxone is generally less prone to abuse and overdose than Subutex.

Suboxone Vs Subutex Difference

Another important factor to consider when choosing between Subutex and Suboxone is their use during pregnancy. While both medications are considered safe during pregnancy, Subutex may be preferred over Suboxone for pregnant individuals. This is because Subutex has been found to have a lower risk of causing neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS). This condition can occur when a baby is born to a mother who used opioids during pregnancy.

The differences between Subutex and Suboxone also extend to their side effects and effectiveness for pain management. While both medications can cause side effects, such as headache, nausea, and constipation, Suboxone may more likely cause withdrawal symptoms in individuals already dependent on opioids. Additionally, while both medications effectively manage pain, Subutex is generally considered a more potent pain reliever than Suboxone.

The decision between Subutex and Suboxone should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider, considering an individual’s medical history, pregnancy status, and other factors. By understanding the differences between these two medications, individuals and healthcare providers can decide which medication best suits each person’s unique needs.

Suboxone Vs Subutex In Pregnancy

Opioid use disorder during pregnancy can pose significant risks to the mother and the developing fetus. However, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) with medications like Subutex and Suboxone can help manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce the risk of relapse.

Both Subutex and Suboxone contain the active ingredient buprenorphine, which is a partial opioid agonist that can help alleviate cravings and withdrawal symptoms. However, some differences between Subutex and Suboxone are worth considering during pregnancy.

One of the primary differences between Subutex and Suboxone in pregnancy is that Subutex contains only buprenorphine, while Suboxone contains both buprenorphine and naloxone. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist that blocks the effects of opioids and can cause withdrawal symptoms if injected. Although the amount of naloxone in Suboxone is insufficient to cause withdrawal symptoms when taken as directed, some healthcare providers may prefer Subutex during pregnancy to avoid potential risks.

Another difference between Subutex and Suboxone is their formulation. Subutex is available as a sublingual tablet, while Suboxone is a sublingual film. The sublingual route of administration is preferred in pregnancy because it avoids the first-pass metabolism in the liver, which can result in a higher concentration of the medication in the bloodstream.

However, the tablet formulation of Subutex may be easier to swallow for some pregnant individuals who have difficulty with the film formulation of Suboxone.

It’s essential to note that Subutex and Suboxone are safe and effective in pregnancy (suboxone vs subutex pregnancy), and the decision to use one medication over the other should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider.

The choice may depend on factors such as the individual’s medical history, opioid use history, and preference for the formulation. Additionally, both medications may have side effects such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, and dizziness. It’s crucial to discuss all options with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for each individual.

Subutex and Suboxone are safe and effective MAT options during pregnancy (subutex vs suboxone in pregnancy). However, healthcare providers may prefer Subutex over Suboxone due to the absence of naloxone.

Additionally, the formulation of the medication may be a consideration for pregnant individuals who have difficulty swallowing pills or have concerns about the concentration of the medication in the bloodstream. It’s important to have an open discussion with a healthcare provider to determine the best approach to MAT during pregnancy.

Learn More:

• Suboxone Addiction
• Suboxone Detox
• Suboxone Withdrawal Psychosis
• Does Suboxone Raise Your Blood Pressure?
• Suboxone Side Effects Sexually
• Suboxone Half Life
• Prescription Pill Detox Program
• Risks of Mixing Prescription Drugs With Alcohol
• Prescription Drugs Addiction
• 10 Most Abused Prescription Drugs In The US

30,135

Emergency department visits related to buprenorphine (the active ingredient in Suboxone) increased from 3,161 in 2005 to 30,135 in 2010.

Source: SAMHSA

21%

A study found that among patients in substance abuse treatment who were prescribed buprenorphine, 21% reported misusing the medication in the past month. Of those who reported misuse, the most common reason cited was to get high.

Source: Journal of Addiction Medicine

Subutex Vs Suboxone Side Effects

Subutex and Suboxone are medications used in the treatment of opioid addiction. While both medications contain buprenorphine as their active ingredient, Suboxone also contains naloxone, an opioid antagonist that can help prevent medication abuse by injection.

As with any medication, Subutex and Suboxone can cause side effects. Here are some of the common side effects of suboxone vs subutex:

• Constipation is a common side effect of opioid medications like Subutex and Suboxone. This can be managed with dietary changes, increased water intake, and over-the-counter remedies like laxatives or stool softeners.
• Nausea and vomiting: Some people may experience nausea or vomiting when taking Subutex or Suboxone. This can be managed with anti-nausea medication or by taking the medication with food.
• Headache: Headaches are another common side effect of Subutex and Suboxone. This can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
• Dizziness: Some people may experience dizziness or lightheadedness when taking Subutex or Suboxone. This can be managed by avoiding sudden movements or standing up slowly.

“Bluelight” refers to a drug-related internet forum where individuals share information and experiences about various substances. It’s important to note that discussing and sharing information about using drugs in this way can be dangerous and should not be used as a substitute for medical advice or treatment.

Some individuals on bluelight have reported using Subutex and Suboxone for recreational purposes, although this is not the intended use of either medication. Some users report that Subutex produces a stronger and more euphoric high than Suboxone, which is likely due to the absence of naloxone in Subutex.

It’s important to note that using Subutex or Suboxone for recreational purposes can be very dangerous, as both medications can cause respiratory depression and other serious side effects when misused. Additionally, using opioids recreationally can lead to addiction, overdose, and other negative consequences. It’s always best to use medications only as prescribed by a healthcare provider and to avoid using drugs recreationally.