Suboxone Addiction: Symptoms, Causes, Effects & Treatment

Suboxone addiction involves compulsive misuse and dependency on Suboxone, a medication containing buprenorphine and naloxone.

Suboxone helps reduce opioid cravings, but misuse leads to addiction and deepens the crisis. In Indiana alone, 2,871 people received buprenorphine in treatment programs during a single-day count in March 2019—up from just 1,178 in 2015. That’s more than double in four years, showing how serious this issue has become.

Signs of Suboxone addiction include physical dependence, compulsive use, and an inability to stop despite harm, indicating a loss of control.

Factors such as mental health disorders, past drug use, and genetics increase your risk of developing suboxone addiction.

Suboxone addiction affects your breathing, damages your liver, and raises the risk of overdose, while also causing anxiety, depression, and clouded thinking, impacting your relationships and daily life. 

Suboxone addiction treatment involves medical detox, therapy, and long-term support, with medications like naltrexone addressing both physical and emotional needs for recovery.

What is Suboxone Addiction?

Suboxone addiction is a substance use disorder characterized by the compulsive misuse of and dependency on Suboxone, a prescription medication containing buprenorphine and naloxone originally designed to treat opioid dependence. 

Despite being used for addiction treatment, Suboxone itself leads to physical dependence, withdrawal symptoms, drug-seeking behavior, and continued use despite negative consequences in health, relationships, and daily functioning. In Indiana, buprenorphine treatment participation has grown significantly, with nearly 2,900 people receiving this medication-assisted treatment in 2019 compared to approximately 1,200 individuals four years earlier.

What is Suboxone?

Suboxone is a prescription medication that combines buprenorphine and naloxone. It is primarily used to treat opioid addiction by reducing withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Buprenorphine is a partial.

Is Suboxone Addictive?

Suboxone is addictive. Suboxone leads to addiction through its impact on the brain’s reward system. As reported by the Center for Substance Abuse Treatment in the 2004 “Clinical Guidelines for the Use of Buprenorphine in the Treatment of Opioid Addiction” from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (US), buprenorphine is susceptible to abuse due to its agonist activity at opioid receptors, although its abuse potential is comparatively lower than that of full opioid agonists.

How Common is Suboxone Addiction?

Suboxone addiction is relatively uncommon, with approximately 690,000 individuals, or 0.2% of the US population aged 12 and older, reporting misuse of buprenorphine products, including Suboxone, in the past year. This data is measured in the 2021 report “Key Substance Use and Mental Health Indicators in the United States: Results from the 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health” by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

What Are The Signs and Symptoms of Suboxone Addiction?

The signs and symptoms of Suboxone addiction include uncontrollable cravings, risky behaviors to obtain the drug, neglect of responsibilities, and withdrawal from relationships. Physical signs manifest through increased tolerance and withdrawal symptoms, while psychological impacts show through isolation and mood swings.

Here are the signs and symptoms of Suboxone addiction:

Behavioral Symptoms

• Cravings for Suboxone: Strong, uncontrollable urges to use Suboxone.
• Inability to Control or Reduce Use: Repeated unsuccessful attempts to cut down or stop using Suboxone.
• Taking Suboxone in Larger Amounts or Over a Longer Period: Consuming more than intended or extending the duration of use.
• Risk-Taking Behavior: Engaging in dangerous activities to obtain or use Suboxone.

Social and Lifestyle Symptoms

• Spending a Lot of Time Obtaining, Using, or Recovering from Suboxone: Significant portions of the day are dedicated to activities related to Suboxone use.
• Neglecting Responsibilities: Ignoring work, school, or home obligations due to Suboxone use.
• Continuing to Use Despite Problems: Persisting in Suboxone use even though it causes social, physical, or psychological issues.
• Financial Issues: Spending excessive amounts of money on obtaining Suboxone.

Physical and Psychological Symptoms

• Developing Tolerance: Higher doses of Suboxone are needed to achieve the same effect.
• Experiencing Withdrawal Symptoms: Suffering from symptoms like nausea, sweating, agitation, and irritability when not using Suboxone.
• Physical Dependence: Reliance on Suboxone to feel normal, leading to withdrawal symptoms when not using the drug.
• Psychological Dependence: Feeling unable to cope with daily life without using Suboxone.
• Isolation: Withdrawing from friends and family to use Suboxone.
• Mood Swings: Experiencing rapid and unpredictable changes in mood.

What are The Suboxone Withdrawal Symptoms?

Suboxone withdrawal symptoms include both early and progressive signs that develop when discontinuing this medication.

Early signs of suboxone withdrawal include anxiety, muscle pain, trouble sleeping, sweating, and repeated yawning. Progressive symptoms of suboxone withdrawal include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, wide pupils, fast heartbeat, and high blood pressure.

Withdrawal starts within two days and lasts about a week. Some symptoms, like anxiety and cravings, last longer. Medical help improves comfort and supports long-term recovery.

According to Varshneya, N. B.’s 2022 study, ‘Evidence of Buprenorphine-precipitated Withdrawal in Persons Who Use Fentanyl, ’ patients administering buprenorphine within the first 24 hours showed a 5.202-fold increased risk of severe withdrawal symptoms. The risk remained elevated even when buprenorphine was taken between 24 to 48 hours, with patients being 3.352 times more likely to experience withdrawal. The data revealed that among those who initiated buprenorphine within the first 24-hour window, 22.19% (152 out of 685 patients) developed severe withdrawal symptoms.

What Are The Causes of Suboxone Addiction?

The causes of Suboxone addiction include untreated mental health conditions, previous drug use patterns, inherited biological factors, and surrounding environmental influences. Individuals develop dependency while seeking relief from emotional distress or managing withdrawal symptoms.

Here are the main causes of Suboxone addiction:

• Underlying Mental Health Disorders: Individuals with mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD are at a higher risk of developing Suboxone addiction. Self-medication leads to misuse and addiction as individuals seek relief from their symptoms.
• History of Substance Abuse: A history of substance abuse is a significant risk factor for Suboxone addiction. According to the 2021 study titled “Trends in and Characteristics of Buprenorphine Misuse Among Adults in the US,” published in JAMA Network, buprenorphine is frequently misused by individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD) to self-treat cravings and alleviate withdrawal symptoms.
• Genetic Predisposition: Genetics plays a crucial role in the development of addiction. Studies have shown that individuals with a family history of addiction are more likely to develop substance use disorders. The heritability of addiction is estimated to be around 50-60%, as reported by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA).
• Environmental Influences: Environmental factors such as peer pressure, exposure to drug use, and stressful life events trigger Suboxone addiction. Socioeconomic status and availability of drugs in the community also contribute to the risk.

What Are The Side Effects of Suboxone Addiction?

The side effects of Suboxone misuse include physical dependence, cognitive impairment, and respiratory depression in the short term, while long-term use leads to brain alterations, liver damage, and severe mental health complications.

Here are the main side effects of Suboxone addiction:

Short-term Effects

• Physical Dependence: Suboxone use quickly causes the body to rely on the drug, leading to withdrawal symptoms like sweating and muscle aches.
• Cognitive Impairment: Suboxone affects focus, memory, and decision-making, disrupting daily functioning.
• Emotional Instability: Mood swings, irritability, and anxiety result from Suboxone’s impact on brain chemistry.
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Suboxone use leads to nausea, vomiting, and constipation, causing discomfort and fluid loss.
• Respiratory Depression: Suboxone slows breathing, increasing the risk of respiratory failure when misused or mixed with other substances.

Long-term Effects 

• Brain Function Alteration: Long-term use changes brain reward systems, reducing pleasure from normal activities.
• Chronic Health Issues: Extended use damages the liver, weakens the lungs, and strains the heart.
• Mental Health Disorders: Depression and anxiety worsen with continued Suboxone use and become harder to manage.
• Social Consequences: Addiction disrupts jobs, relationships, and legal standing, lowering quality of life.
• Tolerance and Dependence: Repeated use leads to higher dose needs, increasing overdose risk, and complicating recovery.
• Sexual Dysfunction: Suboxone lowers hormone levels, reducing libido and causing sexual performance problems.

Is Overdose Possible on Suboxone?

Yes, Suboxone overdose is possible but rare. According to del Pozo, B.’s 2023 study, ‘Buprenorphine involvement in opioid overdose deaths: A retrospective analysis of postmortem toxicology in Marion County, Indiana, 2015-2021.’, analyzing Marion County, Indiana, coroner data from 2015-2021, only 4 cases (7.3%) were attributed primarily to buprenorphine alone, with contributing factors like liver failure or diabetic ketoacidosis. Buprenorphine (the active ingredient in Suboxone) was detected in only 55 of 2,369 fatal opioid overdoses (2.3%). Of these 55 cases, 51 (92.7%) involved other potent substances like fentanyl, benzodiazepines, and amphetamines.

What Are the Types of Treatment for Suboxone Addiction In Indiana?

The types of treatment for Suboxone addiction in Indiana include medical detox programs, inpatient rehabilitation, outpatient care, therapeutic interventions, and holistic treatments. These approaches vary in intensity and duration to match individual recovery needs.

Here are the key treatment options for Suboxone addiction:

Medical Detox

Medical detox is the critical first step in addiction treatment, involving medically supervised withdrawal from substances to ensure patient safety and comfort. This medical detox process addresses potentially severe withdrawal symptoms under professional care.

Inpatient Rehab

Inpatient rehab provides intensive residential treatment in a structured, trigger-free environment that allows individuals to focus entirely on recovery. This level of care is ideal for those with severe addiction requiring comprehensive support and medical supervision.

Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP)

PHP is a structured program providing intensive treatment during the day while allowing patients to return home at night. PHP offers a high level of care without requiring an overnight stay, making it more flexible and less disruptive to daily life. It is used as a step-down from inpatient rehab or for individuals who need intensive support but have a stable home environment.

Outpatient Treatment

Outpatient treatment allows individuals to receive therapy and support while living at home and maintaining their regular daily activities. The main advantage is its flexibility and lower cost compared to inpatient rehab. Outpatient treatment is suitable for those with milder addiction or as a follow-up to inpatient care. 

Telehealth

Telehealth provides treatment through virtual appointments, offering accessibility and convenience, especially for those in remote areas. It allows patients to receive therapy and counseling without the need for in-person visits, making it a flexible option for many.

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

An Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) offers a higher level of care than standard outpatient treatment, with multiple therapy sessions per week. It is ideal for individuals who need more structured support while still being able to live at home and maintain some daily routines.

Therapy

Therapy, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), plays a crucial role in treating Suboxone addiction. Key therapies include:

• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns.
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Helps manage emotions and reduce self-destructive behaviors.
• Motivational Interviewing (MI): Enhances motivation to change addictive behaviors.
• Family Therapy: Involves family members in the recovery process to improve communication and support.

Holistic Treatment

Holistic treatment incorporates alternative therapies such as yoga, meditation, acupuncture, and nutrition counseling. These approaches aim to treat the whole person, addressing physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being to support overall recovery.

Aftercare

Aftercare provides essential ongoing support following initial treatment, including medical monitoring, lifestyle guidance, and peer support networks. Comprehensive aftercare is crucial for maintaining long-term sobriety and preventing relapse.

Does Suboxone Cause Pinpoint Pupils?

Yes, Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone) causes pupils to become smaller or constricted compared to normal pupil size.

According to Comer, S., & Collins, E.’s 2002 study, ‘Self-Administration of Intravenous Buprenorphine and the Buprenorphine/Naloxone Combination by Recently Detoxified Heroin Abusers’, in a 6-week inpatient study with 6 participants, the buprenorphine/naloxone (BUP/NX) combinations were tested at two doses: 2 mg buprenorphine + 0.5 mg naloxone and 8 mg buprenorphine + 2 mg naloxone. The study found that BUP/NX decreased pupil diameter compared to placebo, though there were no significant differences in pupillary response between the two dose levels of the combination.

Is Suboxone A Narcotic?

Yes, Suboxone is classified as a narcotic because it contains buprenorphine, a partial opioid agonist. While it activates opioid receptors like other narcotics, its combination with naloxone creates a safer profile with lower abuse potential than traditional opioids. This unique formulation makes it effective for treating opioid dependence while minimizing risks.

Does Suboxone Cause Memory Loss?

Yes, Suboxone causes memory loss. According to Scott, T. M.’s 2021 study, ‘Neurocognitive, psychiatric, and substance use characteristics in a diverse sample of persons with OUD who are starting methadone or buprenorphine/naloxone in opioid treatment programs.’, a study of 97 adults with OUD starting opioid agonist treatment (OAT) found that 69% of participants exhibited memory impairment within one week of initiating treatment with buprenorphine/naloxone in opioid treatment programs. The research indicates that learning and memory impairment are highly prevalent in persons with OUD starting treatment, though it’s worth noting that these cognitive issues are related to multiple factors beyond just the medication itself.

How Does Suboxone Misuse Affect Social Relationships?

Suboxone misuse significantly strains social relationships, causing conflicts and isolation. Individuals misusing Suboxone exhibit behavioral changes such as irritability, mood swings, and deceitfulness, which create tension and mistrust among family and friends. These changes mirror those seen in Tranxene addiction, where the individual’s focus on obtaining and using the drug overshadows their interpersonal responsibilities and interactions.

Furthermore, Suboxone misuse leads to social withdrawal, where individuals isolate themselves to hide their drug use or avoid confrontation about their behavior. This withdrawal further damages relationships and leads to a lack of social support, which is crucial for recovery.

What Does Suboxone Do To You Mentally?

Suboxone affects you mentally by causing severe mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and mood swings. When you take Suboxone, it does significant damage to your mental state, leading to heightened anxiety and persistent depression. The drug does create mood swings and irritability that are common among users, which exacerbate underlying mental health conditions or contribute to the development of new ones.

What Forms Does Suboxone Come in?

Suboxone comes in sublingual tablets and sublingual films, with tablets dissolving under the tongue and films being strips that dissolve under the tongue or inside the cheek for easy administration and effective absorption.

What Are Other Names for Suboxone?

Other names for Suboxone are buprenorphine/naloxone, Zubsolv, and Bunavail, which are based on its generic components and branded versions.

How Does Suboxone Interact with Benzos?

The concurrent use of Suboxone and benzodiazepines (benzos) like Valium or Xanax significantly increases the risk of severe respiratory depression and death. Both drugs depress the central nervous system, leading to enhanced sedative effects, profound drowsiness, and potential coma. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning in 2017 stating that mixing these substances contributed to a substantial number of overdose deaths, with approximately 30% of opioid overdoses involving benzodiazepines.