Whether it’s an addiction to heroin or an addiction to prescription opioid medications, overcoming opioid addiction can be incredibly challenging. People who suffer from opioid addiction experience some of the highest rates of relapse, and opioid abuse is rampant across the United States. In 2021, an estimated 2.5 million people over the age of 18 had an opioid use disorder.
Due to the devastating scope of opioid addiction, it’s essential to take advantage of the most effective treatment options available. One evidence-based and clinically proven method for treating addiction is known as medication-assisted treatment (MAT). This approach combines medications with counseling and behavioral therapy to provide comprehensive, whole-person care.
The most widely used MAT medication is Suboxone–a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone. If you or a loved one are interested in opioid addiction treatment with Suboxone in New Jersey, please speak with our dedicated admissions counselors at The Living Room at Princeton today.
What is Suboxone?
Suboxone is a prescription medication that can help people who are dependent on opioids by alleviating withdrawal symptoms and cravings. The FDA approved Suboxone in October 2002, and since then it has proven to be an effective approach to treating opioid addiction.
Suboxone contains two active ingredients: buprenorphine and naloxone.
- Buprenorphine – Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist that works by binding to and activating the same receptors in the brain that opioids affect, helping to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms without producing the same euphoric effects that other opioids do.
- Naloxone – Naloxone is a medication used to rapidly reverse opioid overdose. It works by blocking the effects of opioids on the brain, quickly restoring normal breathing and consciousness in individuals experiencing an overdose. However, it is added to Suboxone to help prevent misuse of the medication. If someone were to try to abuse Suboxone by injecting it, the naloxone would activate, causing sudden and severe withdrawal symptoms.
Suboxone comes in the form of a sublingual film or tablet. It is placed under the tongue where it dissolves and is absorbed into the bloodstream.
Doctors may prescribe Suboxone to individuals trying to overcome a moderate to severe opioid use disorder. Suboxone may be used short-term during detox only or long-term as part of a complete treatment plan. Treatment with Suboxone is most effective when the medication is combined with counseling and behavioral therapy.
Like other medications, Suboxone may cause side effects. Common side effects of Suboxone are:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Sweating
- Numbness in the mouth
- Tingling or painful tongue
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Fainting
- Difficulty concentrating
- Insomnia
- Irregular heartbeat
- Blurry vision
- Back pain
- Drowsiness
As a medication that acts on opioid receptors, Suboxone can cause respiratory depression, characterized by slow and shallow breathing. Respiratory depression is one of the more severe side effects that occurs in 1-10% of individuals who take it. If you experience respiratory depression while taking Suboxone, it is crucial to contact your healthcare provider right away.
What to Expect During Suboxone Treatment in New Jersey
Suboxone is designed to be used alongside a comprehensive substance abuse treatment program.
Detox
Treatment begins with detox, during which individuals are prescribed medications, including Suboxone, to alleviate opioid withdrawal symptoms and manage cravings. Detox typically lasts a couple of days.
Treatment
After detox, individuals transition to an inpatient or outpatient treatment program where they receive a treatment plan designed to address the root causes of their addiction and teach healthy coping mechanisms. Treatment involves:
- Group therapy
- Individual therapy
- Family therapy
- Behavioral therapies (cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and others)
- Holistic therapies (art, yoga, meditation, exercise, nutrition, and more)
- Case management
- Relapse prevention therapy
- Aftercare planning
Treatment also addresses any underlying mental health conditions that you may be struggling with.
Medication Management
While taking Suboxone, it’s important to attend regular check-up appointments with your physician. Medication management refers to working closely with your prescriber to discuss side effects, modify your dosage, and change your treatment, if necessary.
Aftercare
After completing your treatment program, the best way to guarantee long-term recovery is to participate in aftercare. Aftercare may involve:
- Outpatient group or individual counseling
- Sober living
- Alumni program
- 12-Step meetings
- Support networks
- Medication management (for those who continue taking Suboxone or other medications)
Find a New Jersey Suboxone Treatment Program Today
At our alcohol and drug treatment facility, we recognize that some individuals benefit from medication management treatment to support their recovery journey. Our programs combine evidence-based therapies with medications when appropriate, providing a comprehensive approach to overcoming addiction.
If you or a loved one are searching for Suboxone treatment in New Jersey or would like to discuss your treatment options with a professional, please contact our team at The Living Room at Princeton today.