Subutex is a synthetic opiod that has buprenorphine as its primary component. It is used in the management of narcotic addiction and alcoholism. It is an effective sedative and painkiller.
This drug must be used upon doctor’s prescription since improper use of this drug may result to fatal reactions. If the tablet is crushed or injected into the vein death may result. This drug must not be taken with other narcotic medications.
Generic name: Buprenorphine
Brand name: Subutex
How is Subutex taken?
Subutex is available in sublingual tablets and generally prescribed in a daily dose of 12mg to16mg.
Effects of Subutex consumption
Subutex decreases the withdrawal symptoms of opiates. It attracts the opiate receptors in the brain thereby decreasing the craving for opiate intake. It is more effective than methadone thus gaining its popularity as the drug of choice.
Subutex is used in drug treatment centers to quickly detoxify addicts from opiates like OxyContin, Oxycodone and other street drugs which are opiate-based. It alleviates the painful process of withdrawal.
Impact on the mind/body and health risks
Subutex is intended for long-term treatment and not merely for intermittent use. Sudden discontinue of drug intake may result to serious complications.
Subutex should not be combined with some substances like alcohol, antidepressants and sleeping pills. Tranquilizer should never be injected with Subutex since it can cause death.
Subutex side effects
- Psychological signs: mood swings and insomnia
- Physical signs: flu-like symptoms, nausea, headaches and sweating. Drowsiness, constipation, drowsiness and weakness can also be noted. Respiratory depression is most likely to occur when any depressant is combined with the drug.
Signs of abuse of Subutex
Continued use of Subutex can result to drug dependence. Due to its addictive nature sudden discontinue of the drugs may result to withdrawal symptoms and relapse.
Serous signs of overdose include yellowing of eyes, blurring of vision, dark urine, liver problems and death.
Subutex addiction is amplified because it is inexpensive and easily obtainable in the black market attributable to lesser restriction in its classification compared to other opiates.
Due to its addictive nature only qualified doctors listed within the DEA can prescribe the said drug.
Common Subutex treatment options
Gradual reduction of Subuxone dosage is fundamental in avoiding severe withdrawal symptoms especially if the drug was used for several weeks already. Some doctors prescribe pain relievers to avert breakthrough pain and to relieve symptoms of opiate withdrawal. Detoxification is a valuable precursor to continuing treatment and will lessen the pain of withdrawal symptoms. Behavioral therapy will also be useful.
Subutex withdrawal/detox symptoms
The following are the signs and symptoms of Subuxone withdrawal:
- Psychological: Anxiety, insomnia or difficulty in having a sound sleep
- Physical: Hypertension, rapid heart rate, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, extreme sweating, diarrhea and dilated pupils.