Suboxone is an opioid used to treat opioid withdrawal in recovering addicts. Many addicts take it on a long-term basis to prevent withdrawals and help prevent opiate cravings. When used in this manner, it doesn’t give a high but helps you feel normal. However, it is itself an opioid. Thus, if you stop taking it cold turkey, you will experience opioid withdrawal. It’s important to know the suboxone withdrawal symptoms so you can act fast.
Suboxone combines two different medications: buprenorphine and naloxone. Buprenorphine binds to opiate receptors preventing withdrawal symptoms. Naloxone helps block the feel-good effects of opiates. If you relapse while on Suboxone, the naloxone component can keep the high from being enjoyable.
Suboxone withdrawal symptoms are similar to that of other opiates. They can include:
Suboxone is a longer-acting opiate, so the Suboxone withdrawal timeline looks different from that of other opiates. However, Suboxone withdrawal symptoms may be less severe overall. When you stop taking Suboxone, it still takes some time before it is completely out of your system. It usually takes 2-4 days for withdrawal symptoms to develop. They may begin slower than other opioids as well. When it’s completely out of your system, full Suboxone withdrawal symptoms will begin.
Once Suboxone is completely out of your system, the Suboxone timeline begins. In 6-12 hours of Suboxone completely leaving your body, you will experience withdrawal symptoms. This stage is the most physically intense phase of withdrawal. You may experience stomach cramps, nausea, and diarrhea. Flu-like symptoms like fever, sweating, muscle aches, runny nose, and fatigue are also very common. You may experience increased blood pressure and heart rate, as well. Cravings will likely start during this period, as well.
Psychological Suboxone withdrawal symptoms become more apparent in this phase. Severe anxiety, restlessness, or depression may occur. Insomnia is also common. You may notice that your physical symptoms start to decrease around the same time that the psychological symptoms become more apparent. Cravings may get stronger during this time.
At this point in the timeline, your psychical symptoms should be more manageable. You may still experience body and muscle aches, but they should be less severe. Insomnia, anxiety, and cravings are likely still major concerns. Depression may set in or worsen during this period.
Cravings may be at their strongest during this period. Even though the worst of the Suboxone withdrawal symptoms are behind you, cravings often cause relapse during this period. A strong support system is essential. Physical symptoms should be vastly improved. You may be feeling more like “the old you.” Depression and insomnia are still a struggle for some people at this stage.
Cravings can last for months, or even years after stopping Suboxone, so it’s important to have a relapse prevention plan in place. Depression, anxiety, and insomnia can last past the first month in some cases. It’s often difficult to know whether these are the result for Suboxone withdrawal or an underlying condition that was already present.
If you want to visit one of our New England drug rehab centers, please contact us at Granite Recovery Centers. Our experts will work with you to find a high-quality treatment option that meets your needs. We strive to provide a holistic level of treatment with evidence-based care, giving you the help necessary to regain your sobriety for good.
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