When exploring treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD), patients often come across two commonly prescribed medications: Subutex and Suboxone. Both are forms of buprenorphine-based treatment, approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), but they are not the same. Understanding their differences is key for patients, families, and providers seeking the most effective path toward recovery.
At Cedar Recovery, we offer Suboxone treatment as part of our evidence-based approach to Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT). For special cases, such as pregnant patients, we also provide tailored programs to ensure the safest care possible.
What Is Subutex?
Subutex is a brand name for buprenorphine monotherapy, meaning it contains only buprenorphine. As a partial opioid agonist, buprenorphine activates opioid receptors in the brain but to a much lesser degree than full opioids like heroin or oxycodone. This reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms without producing the same intense high.
– Approved use: Subutex was one of the first buprenorphine medications approved for opioid addiction treatment.
– Formulation: Contains only buprenorphine, no naloxone.
– Use today: Its use is limited, and it is generally reserved for special populations such as pregnant patients or individuals allergic to naloxone.
At Cedar Recovery, we provide a dedicated program for addiction treatment during pregnancy to support the health and safety of both mother and baby. In some cases, Subutex may be used as part of this specialized care.
What Is Suboxone?
Suboxone is a combination medication containing both buprenorphine and naloxone.
– Buprenorphine: Reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
– Naloxone: An opioid antagonist that deters misuse. If someone attempts to inject or misuse Suboxone, naloxone triggers withdrawal symptoms, reducing its abuse potential.
Because of this safety profile, Suboxone is now the preferred buprenorphine medication in most treatment programs, including Cedar Recovery’s MAT program.
Subutex vs Suboxone: Key Differences (format in table)
| Subutex | Suboxone |
| Buprenorphine only | Buprenorphine + Naloxone |
| No abuse deterrent | Contains naloxone to prevent misuse |
| Limited use (pregnancy, allergies) | Standard of care in most MAT programs |
| Higher risk of misuse | Lower risk of misuse |
Why Suboxone Is Preferred
The addition of naloxone makes Suboxone a safer option with lower risk of diversion and misuse. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), buprenorphine/naloxone formulations like Suboxone are highly effective in reducing illicit opioid use and supporting long-term recovery.
Suboxone is also more widely available and is considered the standard medication in most MAT programs across the U.S.
When Subutex May Still Be Used
Even though Suboxone is more common, Subutex may be prescribed in specific cases:
– Pregnancy: Some research suggests Subutex may be safer during pregnancy because it avoids naloxone exposure. Cedar Recovery offers a comprehensive program for addiction treatment during pregnancy, ensuring that both mother and baby receive the best care possible.
– Allergy or intolerance: Rarely, if a patient has a documented adverse reaction to naloxone.
Outside of these circumstances, most providers—including Cedar Recovery—recommend Suboxone for ongoing treatment.
How Cedar Recovery Uses Suboxone in MAT
At Cedar Recovery, we are committed to offering addiction treatment that works. Suboxone is a cornerstone of our Medication-Assisted Treatment program because it:
– Reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
– Helps patients stabilize and focus on recovery goals.
– Works best when combined with counseling, therapy, and peer support.
– Is accessible through our telemedicine platform and in-person at our clinics.
We also provide specialized care for pregnant women in recovery, ensuring safe, evidence-based treatment for both mother and child.
Cedar Recovery and the Role of Suboxone and Subutex in Opioid Addiction Treatment
Both Subutex and Suboxone can help people recover from opioid addiction, but Suboxone is the safer, more effective choice in most cases. By combining medication with therapy, peer support, and compassionate care, Cedar Recovery helps individuals feel better, get better, and stay better.
If you or someone you love is struggling with opioid use disorder, reach out today to learn more about our Suboxone treatment program or specialized pregnancy addiction care.
References
- National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2021). Medications for opioid use disorder research report. https://nida.nih.gov/publications/research-reports/medications-to-treat-opioid-addiction/overview
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2021). Medications for opioid use disorder. https://www.samhsa.gov/medication-assisted-treatment
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2019). FDA approves new generic versions of Suboxone sublingual film. https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-new-generic-versions-suboxone-sublingual-film
