Let’s take a closer look at two substances commonly used for treatment of opioid dependence: Methadone and Suboxone. Read more to learn about these two medication’s benefits, risks, and how to find the best treatment program for you.
What is Medication-Assisted Detox?
Before we jump into the different types of opioid addiction medication, let’s first take a look at how medication-assisted treatment (MAT) works. MAT uses medication to help alleviate withdrawal symptoms and decrease cravings for the substance.
Before you are prescribed a treatment plan, your detox team will complete an intake assessment. This is a comprehensive evaluation that looks at your drug use history and any underlying physical or mental health concerns. During treatment, you’ll be continuously monitored to ensure you are safe throughout detox. Your team will also adjust your medication if needed.
MAT is often combined with behavioral therapy and counseling as an alternative treatment for opioid dependency, particularly in cases where clients have a significant history of substance abuse and relapse. This helps you to cope with both the physical and psychological effects of drug detoxification. Using therapeutic methods during recovery also helps you set up healthy habits for long-term recovery.
Opioid Addiction Treatment In Nashville, TN
Often, MAT with methadone or suboxone can lead to dependency and you may wish to detox of these medications as well. If you are looking for detox opioid addiction resources, the compassionate team at Brentwood Springs is here for you. We offer detox services in a calm and relaxing environment while we walk with you through every step of your healing journey. Contact us at (615) 695-1668 to learn more about the detox services we offer.
How Does Methadone Treat Opioid Addiction?
When it comes to treating opioid addiction, methadone is a commonly used medication to help treat opioid dependence. It’s been used since the 1950s to ease withdrawal symptoms and reduce opioid cravings during detox.
Methadone is a synthetic opioid agonist. This means that, while it activates opioid receptors in the brain, it does this slower than other opioids. As it eases withdrawal symptoms, it does not create euphoric feelings for those who are already opioid-dependent.
Methadone Dosage For Addiction
If you have been prescribed methadone the amount you take will vary according to your tolerance to opioids.
As your withdrawal symptoms start to subside, the dosage will be adjusted incrementally until it reaches about 40 mg. The methadone dosing will be stabilized for two to three days before it’s gradually reduced. As the dosage decreases, a medical specialist will continue to monitor your withdrawal symptoms.
Methadone Side Effects
Common side effects of taking methadone can include:
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sleepiness
- Sweating
Methadone itself leads to more serious side effects like addiction, seizures, and heart rhythm problems. Withdrawal from methadone is often difficult with potential for significant side effects.
Is Methadone Addictive?
According to the UAMS Psychiatric Research Institute, since methadone is a type of opioid, it is possible to become addicted. This makes it important to take it exactly as prescribed by a medical professional. You will also need to provide a complete health history, along with any other medications you are taking before you are prescribed. Other medications can interact with methadone and cause complications, like heart conditions.
Suboxone For Opioid Addiction
Another medication option for those using MAT to treat an opioid addiction is Suboxone. According to Medical News Today, Suboxone combines two types of medication: buprenorphine and naloxone. Buprenorphine works as a partial opioid agonist that binds to the opioid receptors in the nervous system and helps ease withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings very similar to methadone. In contrast to methadone, buprenorphine is not a full opioid agonist and doesn’t activate the opioid receptors as strongly. The other component of Suboxone, Naloxone is an opioid antagonist, and it blocks the opioid receptors from getting activated. It acts to prevent or minimize the rewarding effects such as feelings of euphoria.
Suboxone Dosing During Opioid Detox
During a medical detox program, your team will work with you every step of the way to make sure that you are receiving the right dosage of medication and that your withdrawal symptoms are appropriately managed.
If you are prescribed Suboxone, you’ll typically start with an initial dosage of 4 to 8 mg/2 mg twice a day of buprenorphine/naloxone. Under close supervision, the dose may be adjusted in increments depending on withdrawal symptoms.
Side Effects Of Suboxone
Common side effects of Suboxone can include:
- Blurry vision
- Constipation
- Fainting
- Faster or slower heart rate
- Lightheadedness and dizziness
- Numbness in mouth
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sleepiness
- Sweating
Is Suboxone Addictive?
If you have been prescribed Suboxone to treat opioid dependence, you may be wondering how likely it is to become addicted to the medication. One important characteristic to note about Suboxone is its “ceiling effect” which means that after a certain dosage, you won’t feel any stronger impacts. Essentially, there are limits to the effects of the drug. With that said, working with a medical professional while taking Suboxone is still key to using the medication correctly and preventing misuse.
A Side-By-Side Glance At Suboxone vs. Methadone
While both Suboxone and Methadone help with opioid addiction treatment, they do so in different ways. Ultimately, your medical provider will work with you to determine the best option for you.
These two medications share many similarities. They both:
- Contain a synthetic opioid
- Ease withdrawal symptoms
- Have the possibility of misuse (but this is less likely than with other types of opioids) ● Are safe to use long term
- Can only be acquired with a prescription
Key differences between the two include:
- Methadone contains one active ingredient while Suboxone contains two (buprenorphine and naloxone)
- Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist while methadone is a full opioid agonist; this causes the chances of overdose to be less likely with Suboxone
- The dosing is much higher for methadone than for Suboxone
Withdrawal From Methadone And Suboxone
It is also important to note that since Methadone and Suboxone are both opioids, those who take them will likely experience addiction and withdrawal effects should they stop them. The severity of withdrawal symptoms vary from person to person. Withdrawal from Methadone can be quite severe and difficult with significant withdrawal symptoms.
Very few centers have expertise in managing withdrawal from Methadone, but the Brentwood Springs Family has a significant successful and extensive record in assisting patients withdrawing from suboxone and methadone. With customized protocols to accomplish this. Likewise, if your goal is to either transition to Suboxone or come off of Suboxone we can help you with this. The Brentwood Springs Family has been successful at detoxing very high maintenance doses of methadone and suboxone. Clients that have been using for long periods of time at high doses are not uncommon for us to treat with our customized protocols.
Withdrawal symptoms can include:
- Diarrhea
- Feeling cold or hot
- Goosebumps
- Insomnia
- Muscle cramps or aches
- Runny nose
- Shaking
- Sweating
- Vomiting or nausea
- Watery eyes
Switching From Methadone To Suboxone
When comparing methadone and Suboxone, you may also be wondering if it is possible to switch from one medication to another – particularly from Methadone to Suboxone. Many studies show that a successful transfer from Methadone to Suboxone is possible.
Benefits of switching from Methadone to Suboxone can include decreased side effects of methadone, feeling less medicated, and potentially having easier access to facilities that prescribe Suboxone than a methadone clinic. Ultimately, you should talk with your provider to find out if this is the right choice for you.
Resources For Opioid Addiction In Nashville, TN
If you’ve decided to take control of your addiction and withdrawal, it’s important to find a treatment facility that provides personalized services to meet your needs. At The Brentwood Springs Detox Family Facilities, we take time to understand your addiction, health history, and long-term goals. Our experienced detox team will tailor a treatment plan for you. They will closely monitor your progress and adjust medication as needed. If you wish to transition from Methadone to Suboxone we have developed customized protocols to accommodate this.
Our facility combines medical detox services with holistic therapies and counseling services to make sure that you can heal in a supportive and safe environment. We also offer aftercare services to help you in your lifelong journey of sobriety. Contact us at (615) 695-1668 to speak with a member of our team and learn more about the detox services we offer.
