How Long Should You Wait Before Taking Suboxone?

Whatever medication you're taking, there are timelines you should follow to ensure the best results and avoid any potential harm. For example, when you take an antibiotic, you're supposed to finish your course of pills, even if you start feeling better before the end. That is also true for Suboxone, a medication used to treat opioid addiction and manage withdrawal symptoms.

You can't just stop taking Suboxone whenever you feel like it, nor should you continue to take it beyond a certain point. Taking Suboxone for too short or too long of a period may reduce its effectiveness and even pose health risks. You can't start taking Suboxone too soon after stopping your opioid use.

So, how long should you take Suboxone? What happens if you stop too early or continue after the ideal timeline? In this article, we'll answer these questions.

When to take Suboxone?

What Is Suboxone and How Does It Work? Suboxone is a brand name for buprenorphine and naloxone, two drugs combined to treat opioid addiction. 

Buprenorphine, an opioid partial agonist, triggers the same receptors as opioids but with weaker effects. It reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms while avoiding the high experience when taking opioids. 

On the other hand, the opioid antagonist naloxone blocks opioid receptor sites, preventing further opioid use.

You can take Suboxone as a sublingual tablet or film that dissolves under the tongue. Only a doctor can prescribe Suboxone and must have a special license. Suboxone is available in generic and brand-name forms.

Side Effects of Suboxone

Suboxone can cause many side effects, including:

• Sleepiness

• Stomach pain 

• Nausea

• Headache

• Anxiety or irritability

• Constipation

• Difficulty sleeping

It's usually normal to experience them for the first few days, and they should eventually go away. However, call your doctor immediately if side effects worsen or don't improve.

Opioid Withdrawal Symptoms  

Opioids are used as painkillers and treat other medical conditions. Unfortunately, it can be very addictive. Opioid addiction starts with a euphoric feeling that slowly evolves into physical dependence. When you suddenly stop taking opioids, it can cause severe withdrawal symptoms like:

• Muscle aches

• Agitation

• Anxiety

• Nausea 

• Vomiting

• Insomnia or difficulty sleeping

• Diarrhea

• Cold sweats, or fever

That is why going cold turkey isn't recommended, and Suboxone is an important treatment option.

Suboxone helps reduce withdrawal symptoms while also protecting against relapse. The drug works by filling opioid receptor sites, reducing cravings. When you take Suboxone, you'll notice withdrawal symptoms fading away. It's crucial to stick with the recommended dosage and not increase or decrease it without consulting your doctor.

What If I Start Suboxone Treatment Too Early? 

You have to be in withdrawal before you start taking Suboxone. Otherwise, the medication won't have any effect and could even cause severe side effects. Wait until your opioid levels are low enough; otherwise, you can experience severe reactions and precipitated withdrawals.

But is there such a thing as taking it too early? Yes, there is. Not many people know this, but the effects of Suboxone can last for up to 24 hours. Suppose you take it too early, and your opioid levels are still high. You could end up feeling worse than before. It may make the process challenging and cause more severe side effects and painful withdrawal symptoms.

How Long Should You Wait Before Starting Suboxone?  

Your doctor must monitor your withdrawal symptoms to determine how long you should wait before taking Suboxone. Generally, most doctors recommend waiting for at least 12 to 24 hours after your last opioid use before starting the treatment. That is to ensure your body has enough time to withdraw and that your opioid levels are low enough to start taking the medication.

If you take a long-acting opioid, you'll need to wait even longer, up to 24 hours or more. If you use methadone, you might need to wait 72 hours or more. 

When you seek help from a Suboxone clinic, you'll undergo a screening process. The doctor will look at your situation to determine how long you should wait.

You will be monitored closely by your doctor while taking Suboxone. You may need to take regular drug tests and attend counseling sessions with a therapist to ensure you follow the treatment plan correctly. The duration of treatment can vary, but most people stay on it for some time before tapering off slowly.

Why Do I Have to Wait?  

Again, you have to wait because you need your body to go into withdrawal and lower your opioid levels enough before starting Suboxone. You may develop induced withdrawal if you take medicine before experiencing opioid withdrawal symptoms. When some medications, including naxolone, elicit unexpected and severe physical or psychological effects, precipitated withdrawal ensues. Whereas spontaneous withdrawal occurs gradually, triggered withdrawal occurs abruptly.

That is why you should contact a doctor as soon as you realize you have a problem with opioids. They can advise you on the best way to proceed and help you find the right treatment plan. Getting help as soon as possible is best to avoid developing severe side effects or lasting health issues.

Is Suboxone Treatment Right For Me? 

Seeking help is an excellent first step, and talking to a doctor is the best way to determine whether Suboxone treatment suits you. Some people don't feel comfortable taking medications, while others may not be physically ready for them. Your doctor will help you decide if this is the best action for your specific case and will guide you through the process.

Suboxone treatment can effectively treat opioid withdrawal symptoms and help prevent relapse. However, as with any medication, it's essential to follow your doctor's instructions and not exceed the recommended dose. It is also only one part of the treatment. You may also need to attend counseling sessions or other therapies. Taking it in tandem with these treatments can be the best way to maximize its effectiveness and help you get your life back on track.

Reach Out Today

If you think you or someone you know may need help with opioid addiction, don't wait any longer and reach out today. Finding the right treatment plan for your specific case can be overwhelming, so it's essential to consult a doctor specializing in treating substance abuse disorders. With their guidance, you can find the best approach and put yourself on the path to long-term recovery.

SuboxoneDoctor.com can help you find a qualified doctor specializing in treating opioid addiction with Suboxone treatment. Our online directory can connect you with a doctor near you who is experienced and trained in this type of treatment. Contact us or check out our website to get started today.