Are Myths About Suboxone Holding You Back?

Suboxone, a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone, is a safe and effective treatment for opioid addiction. Buprenorphine acts as a substitute for opioids, while naloxone helps prevent misuse. Suboxone assists patients in reducing their cravings and withdrawal symptoms, providing a safe path to a more stable life.

The U.S. faces a staggering number of opioid overdoses, with over 80,000 deaths reported annually. In response, Suboxone has become critical in combating this ongoing epidemic. Despite socio-legal factors contributing to stigma, the potential of Suboxone to save lives is a hope in this crisis. In this blog post, let us debunk a few myths about Suboxone treatment to make it more acceptable to users.

Legal Complications Around Suboxone

Medications for opioid use disorder, or MOUD, have been proven to lower the risk of fatal overdoses. It also reduces nonfatal overdoses, explains the American Psychiatric Association, which can still cause significant health problems. This results in MOUDs, including Suboxone, to be tightly regulated. These legal controls often create barriers to access, making it harder for those who need the drug. 

Additionally, mass torts like the Suboxone lawsuit add further complications. While these claims highlight real side effects, they can deter people from seeking this life-saving treatment. 

The Western Journal of Emergency Medicine notes that many advocates emphasize the need for better access to Suboxone. This is needed, especially in emergency rooms and primary care settings. Increasing its availability can make a significant difference in preventing overdose deaths.

The American College of Physicians recently announced that their advocacy led to the removal of a key barrier. The U.S. government has eliminated the waiver requirement for doctors to prescribe Suboxone, simplifying patient access. However, Suboxone use is still shrouded in social stigmas and myths among patients. 

Debunking Common Myths About Suboxone

Despite its proven effectiveness, several myths surround Suboxone, creating barriers to treatment.

Myth #1: Suboxone is easily misused

According to NIH data, Suboxone can be misused. However, it’s far less likely to be abused than other opioids like heroin or oxycodone. That’s because buprenorphine, the active ingredient, is a partial agonist, meaning it produces a less intense high than opioids. In some cases, people misuse Suboxone to manage withdrawal symptoms or to get off more dangerous drugs. The real issue lies in the lack of access to proper treatment, not the drug itself.

Myth #2: It’s very likely to overdose on Suboxone

Suboxone is much harder to overdose on compared to other opioids. UAMS Health explains that being a partial agonist, buprenorphine only partially activates opioid receptors. This creates a ceiling effect, reducing the risk of fatal overdose by limiting its activation. When overdoses involving Suboxone occur, it’s often because the person mixes it with sedatives like benzodiazepines, which can suppress breathing.

Myth #3: Suboxone isn’t effective without therapy

As per American Addiction Centers, Suboxone alone can effectively treat opioid use disorder, though therapy and support remain important. Ideally, patients should have access to therapy, recovery coaching, and other services. Sadly, this is not always possible due to gaps in the healthcare system. Suboxone can still help people stabilize and regain control over their lives, even if therapy isn’t available.

Myth #4 Suboxone Users Can’t Escape Tooth Decay

Using Suboxone is strongly associated with tooth decay. However, TorHoerman Law states this Suboxone side effect mostly occurs with sublingual strips, which may leave residue in the mouth. Moreover, the acidic Suboxone film erodes tooth enamel over time, causing severe dental issues like gum disease. These dental problems have led to numerous lawsuits against the manufacturers, who failed to provide adequate warnings until 2022.

This issue is preventable with proper oral care, such as brushing, flossing, and rinsing after taking the strips. Drinking water after use can also help clear the mouth of residue. Alternatives like tablets or injections may further reduce the risk.

Myth #5: Suboxone should only be used for a short time.

The FDA states that there is no evidence requiring Suboxone to be used only for a limited time. Many individuals continue long-term use to sustain their recovery, a valid and well-supported option. The decision to continue or stop Suboxone should be based on the patient’s preference and what works best for them. Stopping Suboxone can increase the risk of relapse, but continuing it long-term can provide stability for those in recovery.

FAQs

1. Is Suboxone addictive?

Although Suboxone is far safer than other opioids, it can nevertheless lead to dependency. It reduces the risk of abuse by managing addiction without producing the same intense euphoria as other opioids. Moreover, Suboxone is less addictive than full opioid agonists like heroin or oxycodone, thanks to its partial agonist properties.

2. Can dental decay be caused by suboxone?

Although sublingual strips are closely linked to dental decay, proper mouth hygiene can prevent it. The issue occurs because Suboxone has an acidic pH when administered as a sublingual tablet or film. As it dissolves under the tongue or against the cheek, this acidity can erode tooth enamel.

3. Is Suboxone safe during pregnancy?

Suboxone reduces the risk of opioid misuse, which is vital for both maternal and fetal health. It is not the first-line option, as methadone and buprenorphine alone are typically preferred. However, Suboxone is prescribed when the benefits of controlling opioid cravings and preventing relapse outweigh the risks. 

Suboxone is a life-saving drug that aids in the management of opioid addiction in people who need it. Evidence suggests that Suboxone helps lower overdose deaths. Despite ongoing stigma and misconceptions, it enables people to regain control of their lives. Expanded access to Suboxone and MOUD is essential in addressing the opioid crisis. This will help save lives as society adopts a more humane, evidence-based approach.