Suboxone is one of the most effective and widely used medications for treating opioid use disorder (OUD). It helps reduce withdrawal symptoms, curb cravings, and support long-term recovery. But like all medications, Suboxone can have side effects. Understanding what’s normal, what’s temporary, and when to seek medical advice is essential for a safe and successful recovery journey.
At Cedar Recovery, we provide Suboxone treatment as part of our evidence-based Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) program. Our goal is to help patients feel better, get better, and stay better—while staying informed about every aspect of their care.
What Is Suboxone?
Suboxone combines two active ingredients: buprenorphine and naloxone.
– Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist that reduces cravings and withdrawal without causing the same “high” as other opioids.
– Naloxone is an opioid antagonist that discourages misuse.
Together, they make Suboxone one of the safest and most effective tools for treating OUD.
Common Suboxone Side Effects
Like many prescription medications, Suboxone can cause mild, short-term side effects as the body adjusts. Most of these fade with continued use as your body adapts to the medication.
Common Suboxone side effects may include:
– Headache
– Nausea or vomiting
– Constipation
– Sweating
– Fatigue or drowsiness
– Insomnia or sleep disturbances
– Mouth numbness or tongue pain (for sublingual film or tablet users)
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), most Suboxone side effects are mild and improve with ongoing medical supervision as the body adjusts to treatment.
Less Common or Serious Side Effects
While less frequent, some patients may experience more persistent or serious effects that require medical attention:
– Breathing difficulties or shallow breathing
– Severe allergic reaction (rash, itching, swelling)
– Confusion, dizziness, or fainting
– Persistent vomiting or severe abdominal pain
– Yellowing of the skin or eyes (possible liver concerns)
If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately or seek emergency care.
Suboxone and Mental Health
Some people notice changes in mood during the early stages of treatment—such as anxiety, irritability, or mild depression. These symptoms often improve as withdrawal stabilizes and therapy begins to help re-balance brain chemistry.
At Cedar Recovery, therapy and peer support are integrated into every MAT plan to address both the physical and emotional aspects of recovery.
Managing Suboxone Side Effects in Recovery
If you experience side effects, don’t stop taking Suboxone without medical supervision. Instead, talk with your provider—they can adjust your dosage, timing, or provide supportive strategies.
Ways to manage side effects may include:
– Staying hydrated to ease headaches or constipation
– Eating small, balanced meals if you experience nausea
– Practicing good sleep hygiene to reduce fatigue
– Reporting any lingering or severe symptoms early
The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) recommends that side effects be managed through individualized dosing, regular follow-up, and integration of behavioral support to improve treatment outcomes.
Remember: Suboxone side effects are typically mild compared to the risks of unmanaged opioid withdrawal or relapse.
Suboxone Misuse and Dependence Concerns
Because Suboxone contains buprenorphine, it can still lead to dependence if misused. However, when taken as prescribed under medical supervision, it is safe, effective, and approved by the FDA for long-term use in treating opioid addiction.
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), patients who remain in MAT programs using buprenorphine are significantly less likely to relapse or overdose compared to those who discontinue treatment early.
Suboxone in Pregnancy
Pregnant patients with OUD can still receive medication-assisted treatment safely. In some cases, Subutex (buprenorphine-only) may be used instead of Suboxone to reduce fetal exposure to naloxone. Cedar Recovery provides specialized addiction treatment during pregnancy to protect the health of both mother and baby.
Common Myths About Suboxone Side Effects
Myth: Suboxone just replaces one addiction with another.
Fact: Suboxone is a treatment medication, not a replacement drug. It stabilizes brain chemistry to support recovery.
Myth: Suboxone damages your liver.
Fact: Liver issues are rare and typically linked to pre-existing conditions or misuse.
Myth: You’ll always feel sick on Suboxone.
Fact: Most side effects are temporary and manageable. Many people report feeling normal once their body adjusts.
Cedar Recovery and MAT Support
At Cedar Recovery, our providers take a whole-person approach to treatment. We:
– Offer personalized dosing to minimize side effects.
– Combine therapy and peer support for emotional balance.
– Provide flexible telemedicine appointments for convenience.
– Support pregnant patients through specialized, compassionate care.
Our mission is to ensure every patient receives medication treatment that’s safe, effective, and stigma-free.
When to Contact Your Provider
If you’re unsure whether a symptom is a normal side effect or something more serious, it’s always best to reach out to your care team. Open communication helps providers make adjustments that keep your recovery safe and comfortable.
Get Help from Cedar Recovery Today
If you or someone you love is struggling with opioid use disorder, help is available. Cedar Recovery provides Suboxone treatment and comprehensive MAT programs designed to meet you where you are—with care that helps you feel better, get better, and stay better.
Reach out today to learn more about treatment options near you.
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. (2022). Suboxone information and side effects. https://www.samhsa.gov/medication-assisted-treatment
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2019). FDA-approved medication guide for Suboxone. https://www.fda.gov
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Opioid use disorder and treatment options. https://www.cdc.gov/opioids/treatment
- American Society of Addiction Medicine. (2020). National practice guideline for the treatment of opioid use disorder: 2020 focused update. https://www.asam.org
