Two of the most effective medications for opioid use disorder areSuboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone)and methadone.
Main Differences and Similarities
What Is Suboxone?
Suboxone is a prescription medication that treats OUD in adults.
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Its intended to be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes counseling andbehavioral therapy.
Suboxone is a combination medication that contains two active ingredients: buprenorphine and naloxone.
Suboxone comes as a sublingual film or tablet, meaning it dissolves under your tongue.
Generic versions are also available.
The film shouldnt be cut or swallowed whole.
Instead, dissolve it either under your tongue or against your inside cheek.
Suboxone starts working quickly, reaching its full effect within one to three hours.
The usual maintenance dosage is 16 mg/4 mg of buprenorphine/naloxone a day.
Its usually taken long-term or indefinitely.
Zubsolvis a sublingual tablet that works the same way as Suboxone but has slightly different dosages.
Some benefits of Suboxone are:
What Is Methadone?
Methadone (a brand name is Methadose) is a full opioid agonist.
It works by activating opioid receptors in the brain like other opioids but in a more controlled way.
It reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms without causing the intense euphoria (high) associated with other opioids.
Methadone is usually taken as an oral liquid, though it is also available in tablet and injectable forms.
Methadone usually requires daily dosing at a clinic.
Long-term methadone therapy has proven highly effective in lowering the risks of relapse and overdose while improving overall well-being.
Suboxone or Methadone for OUD
Studies show that treatment with medication for opioid use disorder saves lives.
Side Effects
Both Suboxone and methadone come with side effects ranging from mild to life-threatening.
Suboxone is less likely to cause excess sedation, making it a safer option in most cases.
check that your healthcare provider knows if you become pregnant at any time during treatment.
More specifically, taking methadone or Suboxone during pregnancy can cause neonatal abstinence syndrome.
With the right support and treatment plan, recovery from opioid use disorder is within reach.
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Office of Addiction Services and Supports.Medications for the Treatment of Opioid Use Disorder.
