Why Suboxone Remains the Most Effective Treatment for Opioid Addiction

 For those who haven’t encountered opioid addiction in their lives or the lives of loved ones, “opioid crisis” may seem extreme. However, in 2021, there were over 100,000 drug overdose deaths in the United States. In 2023, opioid use disorder affected about 3 million Americans.

At New Spirit Health in Mesa, Arizona, John Risi, NP, helps patients overcome addiction through medication-assisted treatment (MAT) along with behavioral therapy. MAT may include Suboxone®, an FDA-approved for opioid detoxification and maintenance. 

A double-sided problem

When it comes to opioid use disorder, two problems exist at the same time. The first is dependence, and the second is addiction. 

When you have opioid use disorder, your body quickly becomes dependent on the substance you use. You experience symptoms of withdrawal when you stop using it. 

Addiction describes how the chemistry in your brain changes to favor using. It’s why you have intense cravings and an inability to control them.

The problem is more complex, but the bottom line is you need to address both parts of opioid use disorder to overcome it. 

Suboxone helps with both

The reason so many people have overcome opioid use disorder with Suboxone is it addresses addiction and dependence. 

Buprenorphine is a chemical that binds to opioid receptors in your brain and reduces the symptoms of withdrawal. Naltrexone prevents you from feeling high. These active ingredients in Suboxone work to help you get better. 

Withdrawal can be brutal, and the physical symptoms drive many people to use again to find relief. Suboxone reduces those symptoms, increasing your chances of getting through those difficult early stages as your body adjusts to not having the opioid in your system. 

If you could feel the effects of Suboxone, you might exchange one addiction for another. But naltrexone is an antagonist that prevents you from feeling the effects of buprenorphine, making it a safe and effective way to get past opioid use disorder. 

Beating dependence and addiction

Taking Suboxone from the start gives you a much better chance of overcoming opioid use disorder. It works within hours to manage withdrawal symptoms and to quiet cravings. 

How long you need to take Suboxone varies from person to person. Whether you need it for a few months, a year, or longer, the ultimate goal is to give you all the tools you need to get past your opioid use disorder and live a healthier, happier life. 

If you have questions about Suboxone or would like to learn more about available treatments for opioid use disorder, schedule an appointment at New Spirit Health today by phone or online. John is happy to answer your questions and suggest a treatment approach.