Why Use Suboxone?
Taking Suboxone can make all the difference for some people, especially those who are fearful of withdrawal or unable to endure withdrawal without relapse. It’s effective at reducing cravings and discouraging misuse, and it can help people through their early recovery while they undergo treatment.
People who use prescription opioids as directed are still likely to have withdrawal symptoms. Their physician will usually place them on a tapering dose of their opioid, but Suboxone may be used if they cannot follow the prescribed taper.
Suboxone vs. Methadone
Suboxone is at least as effective as methadone but is likely more effective. It has several advantages over methadone:
- Better tolerability, so people are more likely to remain on it
- Can be dosed less frequently (every other day versus daily for methadone)
- It has lower misuse potential
- Suboxone can be reduced and tapered off more rapidly
However, Suboxone is much more costly than methadone.
Subutex vs. Suboxone
Subutex differs from Suboxone in that it does not contain naltrexone. As such, Subutex is the better choice for use in pregnant women or women who may become pregnant.
Zubsolv vs. Suboxone
Zubsolv is similar to Suboxone but is only available in a sublingual tablet.
Vivitrol vs. Suboxone
Vivitrol is an extended-release injectable naltrexone formulation that does not contain buprenorphine. It is often used as a step-down therapy for people after they discontinue Suboxone.